May 2011 Archives

Some of our critter encounters from 1st half of May 2011:

Halimeda Ghost Pipefish, Three Seamoths, Mandarin Fish, Mimic Octopus, Yellow Seahorse, Goby, Flamboyant Cuttlefish, Electric Clam, Spiny Devilfish, Pygmy Seahorse, Spider Crab, Winged Pipefish, Nudibranchs, Hermit Crab, Coral Shrimp, Jawfish, Blenny, Snake Eel


Critter Focus:  Spiny Devilfish




Spiny Devilfish (Inimicus didactylus) have upturned snouts and round bulging eyes set on top of the head. They are usually solitary animals but also can be found in pairs amongst the silt, rubble and sand of 'muck' dive sites.





This photo was taken by Christian using our rental Canon S95 camera, which you can hire from 'The Digital Centre', whilst diving at either of our dive centres at Kima Bajo or at Lembeh Cottages.

The first ever Oceania Dive Expo takes place in Brisbane, Australia, this October.

In connection with this special event, an Australasia-wide Shoot-Out, 2011 Underwater Festival, is taking place with the showcase and awards ceremony happening during ODEX on 07-09 October. This is the world's richest shootout with over $150,000 in prizes.

If you're interested in entering the competition, there are full details here

As major sponsors of 2011 Underwater Festival, Eco Divers, Kima Bajo Resort, Lembeh Cottages and The Digital Centre want to assist Shoot-Out entrants to gain the very best chance of winning in the competition.

Which is why we've decided to run a completely FREE photo workshop in Manado and Lembeh between 02 - 11 September. World-renowed underwater photographers will be on-hand to dive with you and to share their secrets of success.

There's literally nothing extra to pay; just come and stay for as little or long as you like around those dates. Want to shoot wide-angle? Dive Bunaken by staying at Kima Bajo. More interested in macro? Then Lembeh Cottages is for you. Entering the portfolio competition? Maybe do a combo of Bunaken and Lembeh.

Book today and be in with a shot - info@eco-divers.com

Paul Gillingham lives in Singapore. Here he shares his recent experience of staying and diving with us at Lembeh Cottages Resort & Spa.




"Back again for my second trip this year already, Lembeh Cottages is fast becoming my 2nd home from home. The accommodation great, the staff great, the boat crew/guides great, the managers great oh and the diving!! Of course is great!"

Read a whole lot more here

Or visit Lembeh Cottages and see what it is that Paul so loves about diving here.

This shootout competition is one of the main highlights of Celebrate the Sea 2011. Competitors stand the chance to win prestigious medals for Outstanding Achievement, Merit of Excellence awards and the coveted title for the 'Most Influential Underwater Shoot Out Photographer 2011 with cash and holiday prize of USD 5000.

Joining the panel of speakers & judges, you will discover the splendour of underwater North Sulawesi. Oceanic walls, soft coral canyons, extensive coral meadows and intriguing muck dive locations offer unparalleled photographic opportunities found nowhere else in the world.

Join Eco Divers for our SHOOT OUT PACKAGE from 19-23 September. You can choose from a single location in either Bunaken or Lembeh or get the best of both worlds with a Combo Package for both.

Prices start from just USD 692 per person per double/twin room and includes 4 nights accommodation in air-conditioned room, 3 days diving, with 11 dives as follows - 6 morning dives, 3 afternoon dives, 2 night dives , breakfast, lunch & dinner, tea, coffee, water & snacks, internet access, permits/entrance fees, tax & service and airport transfers. Note: The Combo Package offers a different dive combination.

Book your place today - it's going to be a superb experience - email info@eco-divers.com