Dive Site: Timur 1 & 2

About Timur 1 & 2

Timur 1 & 2 are prominent dive sites located on the eastern side of Bunaken Island, within the acclaimed Bunaken Marine Park. These sites are considered among the best in the area, offering a rich and diverse underwater experience. The location benefits from nutrient-rich currents flowing in from deep water basins to the north, fostering exceptional coral growth and marine life. The topography begins with a gently sloping reef near the shoreline, transitioning into dramatic vertical walls. These walls plunge to depths of 40 meters, featuring impressive undercutting overhangs and varied terrain from steep slopes to sheer drops. The shallower slope is particularly rich in hard corals and a multitude of reef fish, while the deeper wall reveals a complex ecosystem. The marine environment at Timur 1 & 2 is sustained by strong currents, especially on the eastern and western sides of Bunaken Island. These currents bring a constant supply of nutrients, nourishing extensive formations of hard and soft corals, along with diverse sponges. This supports a wide variety of reef inhabitants and attracts passing pelagic species. Diving here offers a blend of vibrant coralscapes and encounters with both small and large marine creatures. The sites are best enjoyed when the morning sun illuminates the wall, enhancing the colors of the corals. Late afternoons are also rewarding as fish become more active for feeding, making it a dynamic experience for divers of all levels.

Dive site facts: Timur 1 & 2

Depth

5–40 m

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

15–40 m

Entry

Boat

Level

Intermediate to Advanced

Dive type

Wall, drift, coral garden, pelagic

Region / port

Bunaken Marine Park, North Sulawesi

Coordinates

4.6025° S, 123.7266° E

Conditions & Currents

Timur 1 & 2 are situated in an area influenced by the strong northeast current of the Indonesian Throughflow, which can be quite pronounced on the eastern side of Bunaken Island. These currents are a primary factor in the sites' high biodiversity, delivering essential nutrients to the corals and marine life. Divers should anticipate a mild to moderate current, which typically dictates a drift dive profile, allowing divers to move along the wall with minimal effort. While the current can be strong, it generally provides excellent opportunities for pelagic sightings and observing schooling fish. Visibility remains good despite the current, often extending to 30 to 40 meters, thanks to the deep basins and lack of sediment-carrying rivers. Divers should be proficient in current diving techniques and possess good buoyancy control to fully enjoy these sites and navigate the wall features safel

Marine life & sighting chances

Green turtle

common

Hawksbill turtle

common

Napoleon wrasse

occasional

Eagle ray

occasional

Reef shark

occasional

Butterflyfish

common

Triggerfish

common

Lionfish

common

Scorpionfish

common

Moray eel

common

Sea snake

occasional

Nudibranch

common

Harlequin shrimp

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Timur 1 & 2 typically begins with a boat entry, often as a negative entry to quickly descend onto the wall. The initial part of the dive explores the sloping reef, rich in hard corals and reef fish, extending from the shoreline to about 5-10 meters. As you continue, the reef transitions into a dramatic vertical wall, which is the main feature of the dive. Divers typically drift along this wall, observing the diverse coral formations, undercutting overhangs, and a variety of marine life. Depths can extend to 40 meters, but most of the dive is conducted between 10 and 30 meters to maximize bottom time and light penetration. The dive often concludes with a safety stop near the shallower parts of the wall or the reef slope, before ascending to the surface for boat pickup. The current largely dictates the direction and pace of the drift, providing a dynamic experience.

Underwater photography

Timur 1 & 2 is an excellent site for both wide-angle and macro photography, especially during mid-morning when the sun brilliantly illuminates the wall. For wide-angle shots, a fisheye or wide-angle rectilinear lens will capture the grandeur of the vertical coral walls, their extensive soft and hard coral coverage, and any passing pelagics like sharks or eagle rays. Consider strobes to bring out the vibrant colors in deeper sections or under overhangs. Macro photographers will find ample subjects on the reef slope and within the crevices of the wall, including nudibranchs, harlequin shrimp, and other small invertebrates. A strong focus light is beneficial for spotting critters. Maintaining excellent buoyancy is crucial to avoid touching the delicate corals and to manage drift in the current.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Fukui Point

  A sloping reef on the southwest side of Bunaken, known for its tremendous biodiversity.

• Lekuan 1, 2 & 3

  A series of popular wall dives on the southeast side of Bunaken Island, famous for visibility and larger species.

• Sachiko’s Point

  A deep, vertical wall on the northeast side of Bunaken, with frequent pelagic sightings due to currents.

• Manado Tua

  A majestic dormant volcano visible from Manado, with dive sites around its base.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Timur 1 & 2 typically begins with arrival at Manado's Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC). From the airport, resorts like Cocotinos Manado offer transfers to their location within Wori Bay, about a 25-minute drive. From these resorts, Timur 1 & 2 are accessible via a 25-minute boat ride. Dive packages often include up to three boat dives per day. A Bunaken Marine Park Entry Permit, costing approximately USD $100 and valid for one calendar year, is required for all divers. Typical trips range from 4 nights to a week or more, combining diving at Bunaken's walls with other nearby sites in the marine park or muck diving locations on the mainland.

Safety & environment

Diving at Timur 1 & 2 requires careful attention to safety protocols due to potentially strong currents and depth. Divers should be experienced in drift diving and possess excellent buoyancy control. Always follow your guide's instructions, especially regarding entry and exit points and current management. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Manado, typically accessible via a boat transfer from Bunaken Island followed by land transport. Comprehensive dive insurance, including evacuation and recompression coverage, is highly recommended. Ensure your equipment is well-maintained and that you plan your dive with conservative no-decompression limits, especially when multiple deep dives are scheduled.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Timur 1 & 2 FAQ

Liveaboards diving Timur 1 & 2

These liveaboards may visit Timur 1 & 2 on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$274/day

Ecopro Duyung Baru

Indonesia

6 guests27 m

$361/day

Jaya

Indonesia

14 guests23 m

$280/day

Wellenreng

Indonesia

9 guests25 m

$427/day

Komodo Aggressor

Komodo, Indonesia

16 guests29 m

$312/day

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

Mari

Indonesia

14 guests32.2 m

$329/day

Situju7

Komodo, Indonesia

10 guests32.7 m

$362/day

Pindito

Indonesia

16 guests37.79 m

$533/day

Mermaid II

Komodo, Indonesia

18 guests

$356/day

Pearl of Papua

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

14 guests30 m

$303/day

Putri Naga

Komodo, Indonesia

6 guests25 m