Diving with Eco-Divers/Tasik Ria Resort in
Indonesia/Bunaken in 2003/05:
an Instant Reader Report

 Most major dive places in the Pacific, Indian Ocean (eastern part), and
Caribbean 

Dive Conditions

Had to follow the dive guide and stay in groups.  1 hr time limit.  No
gloves allowed  

Only a couple small camera rinse tanks on boats with up to 18 divers
aboard.  Not lots of camera work room.  OK if there's not lots of
photographers.  E6 processing available on shore. LOTS of fish life
including a few of the more unusual ones.  

Overall Rating

Generally a very healthy reef system with good vis and LOTS of fish life. 
A couple locations, Sahaong off Bangka Island and Pangilugan off Manado
Tua, are among the best fish dives I've ever seen -- several LARGE schools
of fish off the reef overhead, blocking out the sun, with large jacks, tuna
and schools of barracuda checking them out.  At other locations lots of
schools of reef fish, esp. pyramid butterfly, longfin bannerfish,
unicornfish, red-tooth triggers, ... Currents can be strong here tho
generally we didn't have too much, but heard stories of such.  Hard corals
seem to dominate here over other parts of Indonesia and not so many
invertebrates, but good diving nonetheless.  Side trip available to Lembeh
Strait (do it) to see the wierd critters -- always worth it, despite the 2
hr bus ride each way.  3 hr boat ride to Bangka well worth it at least for
the one dive we did -- lots of colorful, soft corals here, great vis and
fish life.

The dive operation was well run but more geared to taking care of divers,
and not giving as much freedom as I'm used to and prefer.  This is
understandable with sometimes very strong current conditions present, but
not for some of us.  Offered 3 dives/day. Good, fast boats tho and staff
helpful, competent and friendly.  Bring some anti-sting stuff for hydroids
particularly -- this area has some nasty ones.  

The resort resembles more a fancy beach resort compared to what I'm used
to -- huge swimming pool, large manicured garden area, good-sized clean and
comfortable rooms.  Food plentiful and OK but not to write home about.

I'll go back to this area for the diving but probably search out a dive op
offering more bottom-time and freedom.   

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