Diving in Pulau Weh, Indonesia, remains my top underwater experience together with the dive in Apo Reef in the Philippines. Pulau Weh Island lays at a ferry ride from Banda Aceh at the top of Sumatra and is a paradise for divers. Feauturing  more than 20 different dive sites and prices that will make your wallet happy. Be ready to spot fan corals, reef sharks, turtles, rays, red lion fishes, dolphins, mantas, stone fishes, and much more. You will also encounter currents while diving, so look for professional orientation for your dive. At the same time, this is a perfect chance to learn how to dive in a variety of currents. I dove with the staff of two diving centers, which I recommend. Always remember to check your equipment in advance 😉

For tips about the other ways to enjoy your stay in the beautiful Pulau Weh, apart from diving, check my other article: Things to do in Pulau Weh.

Feather duster worm

DIVING IN PULAU WEH’S GAPANG BEACH: MONSTER DIVERS DIVE CENTER

To reach the Monster Divers, head to Gapang Beach. The shop was founded by 3 men from Barcelona and an Indonesian woman. The crew is friendly and welcoming. You want to dive here if you are looking for an easy-going community which will make you feel at home and share wifi and even tea or coffee in the morning. They will also help you find a budget accomodation, if there’s one available. Monster Divers provide diving certifications up to dive master. This is the dive center for you, if you’re looking for a sense of community.

DIVING IN PULAU WEH’S LONG BEACH: STEFFEN SEA SPORTS DIVE CENTER

This diving center on the quiet, romantic sands of Long Beach is run by a Malaysian diver with extensive knowledge of the island and the sea. You want to dive with Steffen if you are looking for relaxation above all. Right in front of the center is one of the most popular diving sites of the island, “Batee Tokong”, where strong, circular currents attract white and black tip sharks, barracuda, and rays.  Steffen has accommodations too, and a restaurant. If you’re diving with Steffen, you want to consider to stay at the next door’s Italian café Bixio and resort.

DIVING IN PULAU WEH’S IBOIH BEACH: RUBIAH TIRTA DIVERS

The dive center in the most touristic spot in Pulau Weh. This is in the middle of a shopping street with lots of cafes, restuarants, and accommodation. Head here if you are very lazy and want to stay close to everything, and feel social. And right in front of you, you’ll see the spectacular Rubiah Island.

Still considering whether diving in Pulau Weh is a match to your bucket list? Have a look at the amazing photos that Abu Scoth took in Pulau Weh‘s astounding underwater world with his GoPro Hero.

Giant morey

Snapper

Sea pineapple

Porcelain crab

Clownfish

Starry puffer

Catfishes

Squid

Frog fish

Cuttlefish

Stone fish

Beautiful reds

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