Bitung – Togean – Gorontalo 8D7N
Bitung-Togean-Gorontalo Liveaboard Diving Expedition
8 Days Across Sulawesi’s Hidden Diving Gems
This 8 Days 7 Nights liveaboard journey from Bitung to Gorontalo showcases the incredible diversity of Sulawesi’s underwater world. From the world-famous muck diving of Lembeh Strait to the untouched coral reefs of the Togean Islands and the surreal sponge landscapes of Gorontalo, this route offers a rare combination of macro, reef, and wide-angle diving in one seamless expedition.
The adventure begins in Lembeh, globally recognized as the “muck diving capital of the world,” before heading north to the vibrant coral reefs of Bangka Island. The journey continues into the remote Togean Islands, where healthy reef systems, dramatic walls, and pelagic encounters await. The final leg in Gorontalo reveals one of Indonesia’s most unique dive environments, highlighted by the iconic Salvador Dali sponge formations and rich macro life. Ideal for divers who want variety without long offshore crossings, this itinerary delivers a balanced and highly rewarding Sulawesi dive experience.
Bitung – Togean – Gorontalo 8D7N (8 Days 7 Nights)
Note: The itinerary below represents a general route. Dive sites and schedule may change depending on weather, sea conditions, and guest experience levels.
Day 1 – Arrival in Bitung (Lembeh Strait)
- Pick-up from Sam Ratulangi Airport (MDC)
- Welcome drink, check-in, and safety briefing
- 1–2 check dives (afternoon / dusk)
- Night dive in Lembeh Strait
Highlights:
Muck diving capital of the world — mimic octopus, hairy frogfish, blue-ring octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish
Overnight cruise north toward Bangka / Sangihe direction
Day 2 – Bangka Island Area
- 3–4 dives
- Mix of walls, pinnacles, and coral slopes
Highlights:
Soft corals, pygmy seahorses, turtles, reef sharks, schooling fusiliers
Evening cruise toward Togean Islands (overnight crossing)
Day 3 – Togean Islands (North / Central)
- 3–4 dives
- Wall dives and pristine coral reefs
Highlights:
Very healthy coral systems, large barrel sponges, schools of jacks and barracuda
Optional sunset beach visit (weather permitting)
Day 4 – Togean Islands (Una-Una Area)
- 3–4 dives
- Seamounts and deeper pinnacles
Highlights:
Pelagic chances: tuna, reef sharks, napoleon wrasse
Excellent visibility and dramatic underwater topography
Overnight cruise toward Gorontalo
Day 5 – Gorontalo (Oleleh Strait)
- 3 dives
- Sloping reefs and unique coral formations
Highlights:
Famous Salvador Dali sponges (giant surreal sponge formations), excellent macro life
Day 6 – Gorontalo Area
- 3–4 dives
- Walls, sandy slopes, and coral gardens
Highlights:
Sea fans, pygmy seahorses, schooling snapper, occasional whale sightings (seasonal)
Day 7 – Gorontalo / Final Diving Day
- 2–3 dives (no diving after early afternoon)
- Relaxed schedule to respect 24-hour no-fly rule
- Evening farewell dinner onboard
Day 8 – Disembark in Gorontalo
Breakfast onboard
Transfer to Djalaluddin Gorontalo Airport or hotel
Dive Conditions (General):
- Water temperature: 27–30°C
- Visibility: 10–30m (area dependent)
- Current: Mild to moderate
- Experience level: Advanced Open Water recommended