Delving into Nudi Falls: One of Lembeh's Macro Marvels

In the vast expanse of the world’s oceans, there are certain pockets of underwater paradise that stand out among the rest. Lembeh Strait in Indonesia is undeniably one such gem, acclaimed as the ultimate macro muck diving destination. For enthusiasts who revel in the intricate beauty of marine life, Lembeh Strait is nothing short of a pilgrimage.

Nestled in North Sulawesi, Lembeh Strait is a narrow channel that separates the mainland from the island of Lembeh. Its unique geography, characterized by a V-shaped underwater channel with sloping sides and a deeper central section, creates an ideal habitat for an extraordinary array of marine creatures.

With over 50 dive sites to explore, each offering a glimpse into the world of macro critters, Lembeh Strait spoils divers with its abundance of underwater marvels. Among these sites, one stands out as a favorite among seasoned divers - Nudi Falls. Legend has it that the site earned its name due to the whimsical sight of nudibranchs gracefully descending from the wall onto passing divers, like a cascade of colorful jewels.

Situated on the mainland side of the strait, Nudi Falls beckons divers with its captivating underwater topography. The dive begins at a shallow depth of just three feet (one meter), gradually descending along a wall that plunges to around 49 feet (15 meters). Here, amidst the rubble, a vibrant ecosystem thrives, teeming with an astonishing variety of marine life.

As divers descend deeper, they are greeted by a landscape adorned with harlequin shrimps, mantis shrimps, and elusive frogfish and wonderpus octopuses. The wall itself serves as a canvas for an exquisite display of nudibranchs, including rare species such as Nembrotha K, Jalonus Sp., and Dotto varieties, showcasing nature’s artistry in its most intricate forms.

At a depth of 46 feet (14 meters) nestled under an overhang, lies a majestic Murcella sea fan, a sanctuary for a community of Hippocampus Bargibanti pygmy seahorses. Depending on the season, up to ten of these diminutive creatures can be spotted occupying the same fan.

Among the sought-after inhabitants of Nudi Falls is the elusive Lembeh sea dragon, a miniature pipefish and a desirable if not frustrating subject for underwater photographers. Along the wall’s edge, divers may also encounter the Pontohi pygmy seahorse, a recently discovered species that adds the site’s allure.

For divers and photographers alike, Nudi Falls dive site embodies the essense of Lembeh Strait - a realm where the smallest of creatures command attention and where every dives promises a discovery waiting to unfold. As divers navigate through its depths, they are reminded of the sheer wonder and diversity that the underwater world holds, reaffirming Lembeh Strait's status as a sanctuary for macro diving enthusiasts and a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of nature's creations.

DIVE DETAILS

Location - Lembeh Strait, mainland side close to the city of Bitung

Depth - Max depth of 72 feet (22 meters), min depth 3 feet (1 meter)

Marine life - A plethora of macro species, don’t expect to see any larger animals

DIVER TIPS

Visibility - Lembeh visibility can be poor, as low as 20 feet (6 meters) but usually in the range of 33 feet (10 meters).

Current - Lembeh itself is not famous for currents, but this site can get one. Dive operators will usually arrange to dive it on a slack tide though for favorable conditions and little to no current

Local guide - The experience of diving in Lembeh is highly elevated by the exceptional knowledge of the local guides who act as spotters and ensure they find you the very best subjects.

Dive season - Lembeh is an all year around destination, the high season is July through to October but the diving is consistent and reliable all year around.

HOW TO GET THERE

The port of entry into Lembeh is Manado international airport, they have regular flights from both Singapore and Jakarta making access easy all year around.

LOCAL OPERATORS

Dive into Lembeh offers an exceptional value with fantastic camera facilities, beautiful beach side bungalows and modern fast boats. They operate a live aboard style resort with you returning to the resort between every dive.

Lembeh Resort offer for the more high end client, very high standard of accommodation and food at the resort for a more luxurious stay and higher price point.

NAD Lembeh is a small family owned resort built and run by underwater photographers for underwater photographers. Located on Lembeh Island the resort prioritizes diving in small uncrowded groups.