Tulamben Diving USS Liberty Shipwreck Scuba Dive

If you’re considering a scuba adventure in Bali, one of the standout options is the tour that takes you to the famous USS Liberty wreck near Tulamben. This experience has gained rave reviews for its accessibility, expert guides, and incredible marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious beginner, this trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bali’s underwater magic.

What makes this particular tour attractive? First, the convenience of hotel pickup from Ubud and parts of South Bali ensures you avoid long, stressful commutes. Second, the all-inclusive package covers equipment, guiding, and even an authentic Indonesian lunch—no hidden costs here. Third, the private nature of the tour means you get personalized attention, making the experience comfortable and tailored to your pace.

A potential drawback? The long drive—around 2 hours 15 minutes from Ubud—might test the patience of travelers staying farther afield, like Seminyak or Canggu. Still, many find the journey worthwhile for the quality of the diving and the seamless logistics.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers: from first-time divers eager for safe, guided underwater exploration to seasoned snorkelers wanting to see one of Bali’s top marine attractions. It’s particularly ideal if you appreciate comfort, clear communication, and value for money.

Key Points

Convenient transfers from Ubud and South Bali make it easy to reach Tulamben.
All-inclusive pricing covers equipment, guides, and lunch, offering great value.
The private tour format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
Two dives give ample underwater exploration, suitable for both beginners and certified divers.
Marine biodiversity is impressive, with coral-covered wrecks and a vibrant fish population.
Flexible booking with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

Why This Tour Stands Out for Bali Divers

The USS Liberty wreck is a must-see for anyone interested in Bali’s underwater scenery. Originally a World War II transport ship, it rests quietly on the seabed near Tulamben. Over the years, it’s become a thriving habitat full of colorful corals, schools of fish, and even the chance to spot turtles or a reef octopus—something many reviewers mention with enthusiasm.

What truly elevates this tour is how it balances quality and convenience. The pickup service makes your morning smooth—no need to worry about organizing transport or navigating Bali’s busy roads. Once at the site, you’re not thrown into a large group but instead enjoy a private experience that encourages comfort and confidence, especially for beginners or those nervous about their skills.

Guides like Ketut and Oleg receive consistent praise for their professionalism and friendliness. Numerous reviews mention how these guides put nervous divers at ease, offering clear instructions and helpful tips. For instance, Rafiat_O shared how Ketut “put my mind at ease” and was “friendly and professional,” which makes a huge difference when you’re in unfamiliar surroundings or feeling a bit apprehensive.

What to Expect on the Tour

Pickup and Transfer

The day begins with hotel pickup—most guests are picked up from Ubud, with some options extending to other parts of South Bali. The drive, roughly two hours, offers a scenic glimpse of Bali’s landscape, and many find the long ride a good time to relax, chat, or enjoy the countryside views. The driver, often praised for being punctual and friendly, ensures a smooth start to your day.

Arrival at Tulamben

Once at Tulamben, you’ll meet your diving guide—many guests commend the professionalism and attentiveness of guides like Oleg, who stands by your side throughout the dives. The dive center is well-equipped, with gear fitted and checked before heading to the water.

The Underwater Highlights

The main attraction is the USS Liberty wreck itself—a fully covered ship with an intriguing structure that offers countless photo opportunities. It’s not just a sunken ship but an ecosystem teeming with marine life. Reviewers mention corals covering the wreck and the presence of around 400 species of fish, including snappers, Frogfish, Ribbon Eels, and Scorpionfish.

For many, the highlight is the abundance of sea creatures and the contrast between the industrial relic and the vibrant corals. Some reviewers like Simon describe the experience as “outstanding,” citing the “kind and generous team” and the overall safety measures.

Coral Garden and Additional Spots

Besides the wreck, the tour includes visits to Coral Garden, a spot known for its soft corals and diverse marine life. It’s perfect for a relaxed exploration, with sightings of turtles, octopus, and trumpetfish. Rafiat_O appreciated how guides “made sure I was fed and had my tRead more,” emphasizing the personal touch.

The Lunch Break

A hallmark of this experience is the authentic Indonesian lunch provided after the dives. Many guests praise the meal as “delicious” and flavorful, a satisfying end to their underwater adventure. It’s a good chance to unwind, swap stories, and review photos.

Return and Flexibility

After the second dive and lunch, your driver will take you back to your hotel, often with some happy exhaustion and plenty of memories. The tour’s flexibility, including the option to cancel up to 24 hours before, means you can plan with confidence.

Analyzing the Value

At $64 per person, this package offers notable value. It includes transportation, equipment, guides, and lunch, which would cost more if booked separately. The reviews reflect strong satisfaction with the quality of guides and the marine environment, which many say exceeded their expectations.

Some guests, like Kayla_K, mention additional costs for photos/videos—roughly 500K IDR—so if capturing memories is important, budget accordingly. Others note that the long drive might be a downside if you’re staying far from Ubud, but many are willing to accept this for the quality experience.

From a beginner’s perspective, the guides’ patience and clear instructions make this tour very accessible. Rafiat_O highlighted how Ketut eased her fears, making her first open water experience enjoyable. Certified divers appreciate the chance to revisit a spectacular site with professional support.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 10 hours, so prepare for a full-day outing.
• Group Size: Private tour, so it’s just your group with a guide—great for tailored attention.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness recommended; you should be comfortable in water and able to handle some walking on rocky beaches.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, waterproof camera or phone (note the extra cost for photos), and cash for extras like photos.
• Best Time to Go: Confirmed weather-dependent; your guide will advise if conditions are unsuitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention guides being friendly and patient, making it accessible for first-time divers.

Are diving equipment and guides included?
Absolutely, the package covers all diving gear and a professional guide for safety and support.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s roughly a 10-hour experience, including pickup, travel, diving, lunch, and return.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, offering flexibility.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Ubud and parts of South Bali, with most guests praising the punctuality.

What marine life might I see?
Expect to spot corals, hundreds of fish species, turtles, octopus, and sometimes larger marine creatures around the wreck.

What is the best way to book?
Booking online in advance is recommended; most guests book about 23 days in advance, ensuring availability.

Are there options for non-divers?
This tour is primarily for divers, but snorkelers might enjoy the same sites with different arrangements.

What about photos and videos?
They are available for an extra fee (around 500K IDR), which many guests find worth capturing their underwater memories.

Final Thoughts

This Tulamben USS Liberty Shipwreck diving tour stands out for combining great value, personalized service, and access to one of Bali’s most iconic underwater sites. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free, guided experience that balances safety, scenery, and marine life.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the underwater world, the guides’ friendliness and professionalism make this trip accessible and memorable. The inclusion of a delicious Indonesian lunch and hotel transfer further enhances its appeal, making it a full-day adventure worth considering.

If you’re in Bali and hungry for a mix of history, vibrant sea life, and expert support, this tour could be your perfect underwater highlight. Just be prepared for the scenic drive and long day—your underwater memories will be worth it.

This tour offers an excellent blend of convenience, professionalism, and underwater spectacle, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to tick off Bali’s top wreck site with ease and confidence.