Travel Blogs
Return to False Bay
What an incredible day at sea. It started off overcast and windy, more like a winter day than summer here, and a contrast to the bright sunshine of yesterday. I had forgotten how quickly the weather can change in False Bay and regretted my lack of a waterproof as we left the jetty. We soon perked up at finding a bait ball with common dolphin and gannets dive bombing the fish as we headed out to seal island though. It was the first dolphin sighting of the season and they were wonderful showing us their acrobatics in the early morning light. It is always incredible to see these feeding events and watch the dolphin herd the fish into a ball followed by the elegant gannets diving from on high. The wind picked up as we arrived at the island and it was a slow start waiting for sharks and watching the weather approaching from the south east. I was concerned we wouldn’t have much time if the wind chased us off the water sooner than expected. We often find that storms liven the sharks up however (possibly the change in pressure affecting their behaviour) and after a little while of waiting we had six sharks being lively around the bait that morning!
It was awesome watching one 3.8m female that our skipper is thinking of naming Trixie. She was so agile and liked to twist and turn fast as she approached the bait and then suddenly veered off for the decoy seal and vice versa. She is quite the madam and our guests had incredible dives with her and the other sharks. Everyone also loved the cute little shark that was only 2.8m long.
We also saw three predation events on sick seals close by the island. We don’t generally see the sharks hunting the seals at this time of year as they focus on other prey in the bay (fish and smaller sharks for example). It was like a day I’d expect later in the season with the hunting activity and the number of sharks we saw. Such a treat for us all.
And to top it all off we saw a short tailed devil ray by the bait, cory and sooty shearwaters brought in by the storm and then another bait ball on the way home with dolphin, gannets and seals as well. And I saw a whale breaching on the way to work….
We are hunkered down now as the south east winds blow through. I can’t wait to get back out after the storm and see how it has affected the wildlife behaviour in the bay.
It really is wonderful to be back in South Africa again with these magnificent sharks and Apex Shark Expeditions.
Lumbalumba Resort – Manado is an intimate dive and snorkel retreat nestled in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia—a hidden gem within the world-renowned Coral Triangle, home to the planet’s highest marine biodiversity.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
With only six luxurious chalets (just nine rooms), we provide a cozy, flexible atmosphere where every guest receives the genuine, personal attention they are looking for.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Our philosophy is simple: we can only succeed when you’re truly satisfied. Choosing to stay small allows us to deliver the extra-special, personalized service you seek, making your experience here genuinely unforgettable.
For us, you’re not just another tourist.
For you, we’re not just another dive resort.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Rustique situated in our lush bontanical gardens are 3 different types of accommodation, including a family Chalet.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Enjoy a relaxing dip in our infinity pool, unwind at the bar, and savor mouthwatering dishes from our renowned kitchen—each meal crafted to delight your taste buds in every bite.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Lumbalumba Resort has two different kinds of boat; our inboard powered, custom-made catamaran, Diver III, and Diver IV, our fast outboard-powered dive boat.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Both are very comfortable with lots of space to relax from, to and in between dives.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Experience stunning visibility and vibrant coral reefs teeming with schooling fish. Bunaken is also a haven for marine life, boasting a thriving population of Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles. It’s not uncommon to encounter 15 to 20 turtles on a single dive or snorkeling trip!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
But it’s not just about the big sights and wide-angle views. Close to the resort, you’ll find numerous muck and macro dive sites, reminiscent of the famous Lembeh Strait. And let’s not forget the gem of Lumbalumba—the spectacular House Reef, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Read what what our guests think about us at
Tripadvisor
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And read what our guests think of us at
SCUBAVERSE
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Beyond diving and snorkeling, there’s is much to explore on land as well!
Discover the Tangkoko Jungle, home to fascinating wildlife like the rare Black Macaque, vibrant Hornbill birds, and the world’s smallest primate, the enchanting Tarsius Monkey.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Take a day trip to the Minahasa Highlands to witness active volcanoes, soothing hot springs, bustling local markets, intricate handicrafts, and breathtaking landscapes.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And for thrill-seekers, we offer exciting options like white-water rafting, perfect for those craving an extra dose of adventure!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
We hope this newsletter has provided you with a glimpse into what we have to offer. However, it’s just the beginning—there’s so much more waiting for you!
We offer an incredible combination trip with
Black Sand Dive Retreat in Lembeh
We also offer our
Uncover North Sulawsi program with Pulisan Beach Resort
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
GETTING HERE
The easiest way to reach Manado is by flying with Singapore Airlines via Singapore. There are four direct flights each week, taking just three hours to get to Manado, with departures on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
BOOK NOW!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com
Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974
Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado/
Stay safe and healthy and we look forward to meet you in Manado soon!
Best wishes,
Juud, Roel and the whole Lumbalumba Team
Who We Are
BTM Travel is a boutique dive travel agency based in Munich, Germany, led by a passionate team of seasoned diving professionals.
- Marcel Wilpernig, our founder, has explored nearly every corner of the underwater world and brings over a decade of experience in the diving industry.
- Tim De Deygere, our product manager, made the bold leap from a successful law career to follow his true passion—diving.
- Simona Hlavova is the backbone of BTM Travel, ensuring smooth operations with her expertise in administration and sales.
While a significant portion of our clientele comes from Germany, our reach extends globally—from Bangladesh to California. BTM Travel is closely connected to Behind the Mask, an underwater videography network that inspires us to bring divers to the world’s most breathtaking ocean destinations.
What We Do
BTM Travel specializes in group diving adventures and tailored big animal experiences:
- Group Travel: We organize intimate trips to premier dive spots, led by expert photographers or wildlife guides for an unforgettable adventure. The vibe? Laid-back and adrenaline-filled.
- Tailor-Made Trips: For seasoned divers, we craft bespoke itineraries, offering insider tips on where to go, when to go, and what to expect. Our expertise ensures realistic expectations and unforgettable experiences.
Our focus lies on big animal diving, delivering the thrill of encounters with marine giants. While we love macro and reef diving, we know our true strength lies in providing high-octane experiences for adventurers.
What Makes Us Different
We take a fresh look at traditional diving industry practices, challenging outdated habits to better serve modern-day customers.
- Authenticity First: We only recommend destinations we trust, avoiding overselling places that don’t offer great value or quality.
- Heartfelt Advice: Our honest approach resonates with clients, building lasting relationships and unforgettable journeys.
Our Mission
Helping divers explore the places we love is not just our job—it’s our passion. Our goal is to remain small, authentic, and dedicated to delivering exceptional dive travel experiences.
Find Out More
For more information about itineraries, destinations, and bespoke dive adventures, contact BTM Travel:
Email: marcel@behind-the-mask.com
Call: +49 (0) 176 55771225
Website: www.behind-the-mask.com/group-trips
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