Dive Site: Bunutan

About Bunutan

Bunutan is a notable dive site located in the Amed region, along Bali's northeastern coast. It stands out for its deep profile, often reaching 30 meters, and its characteristic strong drift currents, making it an exciting destination for experienced divers. The underwater topography of Bunutan features impressive hard and soft coral growth, including enormous barrel sponges and glorious sea fans that create a vibrant environment. The site is known for its sloping reefs that attract a diverse array of marine life, from reef dwellers to larger pelagic species. While Amed generally offers calm and clear waters, Bunutan's conditions can be more dynamic due to tidal influences, leading to potentially strong and predictable currents. This makes precise timing essential for an optimal dive. Visibility is typically good, contributing to the enjoyable experience. Diving here usually involves traditional jukung boat rides, adding to the local charm. It is particularly recommended as an exhilarating morning dive, where divers can experience the full force of the currents bringing in schooling fish, while exploring the rich coral structures.

Dive site facts: Bunutan

Depth

Up to 30 m

Current

Strong drift

Visibility

15–25 m

Water temperature

26–29°C

Entry

Jukung boat

Level

Advanced, current experience required

Dive type

Reef, drift, wall

Region / port

Amed, Bali

Coordinates

8.3283° S, 115.6889° E

Conditions & Currents

Bunutan is characterized by generally strong drift currents, which are predictable and tied to tidal movements, necessitating careful dive planning. These currents often bring in larger pelagic species, enhancing the dive experience. While Amed typically has calm waters, Bunutan's currents require divers to have experience with drift diving and good air consumption management, especially given its depth profile. Visibility at the site generally ranges from 15 to 25 meters, but can fluctuate, particularly during the rainy season. Water temperatures are consistently warm, usually between 28-29°C year-round, although slight drops may occur with depth or seasonal changes. Entry to the site is typically via traditional jukung boats.

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

occasional

Sharks

occasional

Jacks

occasional

Reef fish

common

Hawksbill turtles

occasional

Green turtles

occasional

Pygmy seahorse

occasional

Nudibranchs

occasional

Mantis shrimp

occasional

Leaf scorpionfish

occasional

Moray eels

occasional

Ghost pipefish

occasional

Frogfish

occasional

Blue-spotted rays

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Bunutan typically begin with a traditional jukung boat ride from the shore. The site descends to depths of up to 30 meters, often experiencing strong drift currents that can carry divers along the sloping reef. The dive typically progresses with the current, allowing you to observe the enormous barrel sponges and glorious sea fans that adorn the deeper sections. Pay attention to the blue for potential sightings of schooling barracuda, sharks, and jacks. Due to the deep profile and strong currents, careful air management is essential. The dive concludes with a safety stop, often performed while drifting, before surfacing for boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Bunutan offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle shots of immense barrel sponges and vibrant sea fans to capturing schooling pelagics in the blue. A wide-angle lens is ideal for showcasing the impressive topography and coral formations. For capturing larger fish like barracuda or sharks in motion, a fast shutter speed is beneficial. While macro subjects like nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses can be found, the strong currents and deeper profile often make wide-angle photography more rewarding here. Excellent buoyancy control is critical to avoid damaging delicate corals during drifts and to maintain stable shots.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Jemeluk Bay

  A calmer bay with shallow reefs and good macro life, suitable for all levels.

• Pyramid

  Features artificial reefs with concrete pyramids, attracting various marine life and good for gentle drifts.

• Amed Wall

  A dramatic drop-off with abundant corals and potential for stronger currents, similar to Bunutan.

• Japanese Wreck

  A shallow wreck covered in marine life, accessible from the shore or short boat ride.

• Melasti

  A shore entry muck diving site, known for excellent macro photography opportunities.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Bunutan is typically via a traditional jukung boat from Amed, a coastal village located in northeast Bali. Amed is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Bali's main airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Divers can arrange transportation from the airport via rental car, Gojek/Grab apps, or through their dive center. Dive trips to Bunutan are usually part of a full-day excursion from Amed, often including two dives with a break between. There are no specific park fees mentioned for Bunutan itself, but dive centers will include boat fees and guide services in their packages. Many divers combine Amed's sites, including Bunutan, with other East Bali destinations like Tulamben, to experience a wider variety of diving.

Safety & environment

The nearest recompression chamber is located in Denpasar, requiring a significant drive from Amed. In case of a serious diving emergency, evacuation can be complex and time-consuming, highlighting the importance of comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency transport. Bunutan's strong drift currents necessitate that divers possess advanced certification and prior experience with similar conditions. Divers should maintain good air consumption rates due to the deeper profile and potential for longer drifts. Always dive with a surface marker buoy (SMB) for safety during ascents, especially in current-prone areas. Adhere strictly to your dive guide's briefing regarding entry, exit, and dive plan.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Bunutan FAQ

Liveaboards diving Bunutan

These liveaboards may visit Bunutan on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$274/day

Ilike

Indonesia

16 guests40 m

$298/day

Mermaid I

Alor

15 guests28 m

$372/day

Sunshine Liveaboard

Indonesia

10 guests31 m

$191/day

Tiare Cruise

Indonesia

12 guests36.5 m

$419/day