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Wakatobi’s Shallow Water Freedom
Snorkelers are special
Wakatobi’s House Reef is just one of many sites that are available to snorkelers. Many of the other sites are also excellent for those who remain on the surface. Snorkelers are always welcome aboard the resort’s fleet of custom-built dive boats, which feature spacious, sheltered decks and large bathrooms complete with full freshwater showers.
Wakatobi’s boats can moor or stay close to the shallows, allowing divers to swim a short distance to depth, while providing snorkelers immediate access to the top portions of the reef. Photo by Walt Stearns
At a typical dive site, the boat can moor or stay close to the shallows, allowing divers to swim a short distance into the depths while providing snorkelers with immediate access to the top portions of the reef. At the site, assigned snorkel guides provide a full briefing that includes tips for snorkeling and marine life sightings.
Those wanting a bit more personal attention, or who are new to snorkeling, can enlist more guidance and assistance. Guides will lead the way during snorkel excursions, providing assistance, and also pointing out all the small and elusive creatures that lie hidden among the corals. “We learned so much from our guide,” said Stephen Hodgin. “The underwater whiteboard he used to communicate was also very helpful. There is not enough room to comment on the beauty of the corals and the abundance of fish. We were very pleased with the expertise of the staff and the time they took to make sure our experiences were exactly what we wanted,” said Tom Frots. “Our guide was exceptional and made my wife feel very comfortable. We felt really special with all the personal attention. What a fantastic finale for our honeymoon.” ~Tom Frots
Sharing the experience
In addition to being a perfect destination for youngsters, families, and those who snorkel but don’t dive, Wakatobi is ideal for couples and groups that include both divers and snorkelers. This was the case for Gary and Jan Beard, who searched for a destination that allowed him to dive while she snorkeled. “In the past, it was challenging to find a destination that suited us both, but after discovering Wakatobi, we didn’t need to search any further,” Gary said.
“We were able to go out on the boats together, and even though Jan was snorkeling and I was diving we had common experiences to share once we got back on the boat.” ~Gary Beard
One of the Beards’ favorite sites was Zoo, which is close to the resort. Here the shallow portion of the reef is rich in fish life and hides a variety of unique creatures that include frogfish, ghost pipefish, mantis shrimp, and hairy squat lobsters. “Jan was able to snorkel with the guide on the shallow reef while I dove, Gary says. “Then, we met up in the shallows, and she was able to watch me as I took an image of a cuttlefish on the reef crest. It was really something special to be able to share these experiences.”
At sites like Zoo the shallow parts of the reef is rich in fish life, and shelters numerous creatures for snorkelers to find. Photo by Mathis Weatherall
Calm clear waters, colorful reefs rich in life, easy access, attentive guides, and a magnificent setting. For these reasons and more, Wakatobi may well be one of the finest snorkeling destinations in the world. That’s what many of our guests have told us, and we invite you to visit and discover why.
Contact our office at office@wakatobi.com or complete a quick trip inquiry at wakatobi.com.