Miguel's Diving

The equatorial waters of Gorontalo contain incredible marine diversity. The area contains over 500 species of hard coral alone. Seasoned divers are typically astonished at the dense, diverse corals here. Another distinctive is giant sponges, some as large as two meters. The highly carved surface of Salvador Dali sponges (Petrosia lignosa) is unique to Gorontalo. The ever-growing list of new or undescribed species includes the beautiful Orangeback Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis, 1999), which is endemic to Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. As the pioneer of diving here, Miguel’s Diving staff has discovered new species. Coleman’s coral shrimp (Vir colemani) was described in December 2003 and has only been found in Papua and Gorontalo. Divers can usually see most of the new/undescribed species here during three days of diving. With waters plunging below four kilometers, cetaceans swim past the coral walls every season.

Miguel’s Diving uses a custom-built speed boat for easy diving. Dive sites begin within ten minutes of the boat dock with the farthest sites less than hour’s travel time. In addition to spectacular walls, Gorontalo also has multiple pinnacles, shallow coral gardens, muck, caverns and two wrecks, including a 1942 Japanese cargo vessel. Guests usually request two or three dives per day. Over 20 dive sites are currently offered.

New dive equipment is available for rent. Because of limited capacity, dive trips can be full, so advance bookings are strongly recommended. Dive season is November to April because of local wind conditions. Divers can fly to Gorontalo from Jakarta or Manado.

Boat Description:

custom-built speed boat

Sites Visited:

Dramatic coral walls, steep slopes, multiple pinnacles, shallow coral gardens, muck, caverns & two wrecks

Facilities:

• Own Boat(s)
• Diving seven days

• Scuba hire