Not a morning person? Well, here’s one reason to become one. You won’t regret trading in that extra hour of shut-eye to experience a sunrise dive in Tulamben, Bali. Your reward for waking up early? The possibility of an up-close encounter with dozens of bumphead parrotfish!
Easily recognizable due to their big toothy grins and bulging foreheads, these distinct fish are a delightful surprise to scuba divers and underwater photographers. The largest species of parrotfish, bumpheads are often found munching on coral reefs or resting in sheltered habitats such as caves or wrecks.
A resident school of bumphead parrotfish makes Tulamben’s Liberty wreck their sleeping quarters each night. In the early morning, the fish congregate around the ship before heading out and about for the day. By getting a jumpstart on your day, you may be able to spend some time with these fascinating creatures before they are off on their way. There are only a few other diving locations in the world where large bumphead schoolings can be seen, so this is definitely one adventure to check off your list. And of course, even if you aren’t lucky enough to spot the bumpheads, you will still be able to see all the other fish that frequent the site!
One added bonus of the sunrise dive? As you probably guessed, getting in the water at the crack of dawn means you’ll kick off your morning with a spectacular sunrise. Since Tulamben is located on the northeast coast of Bali, you’ll get a front row seat to one of the best sunrise views on the island. You will thank yourself as you watch the sun light up the horizon as you wade out to sea. And the show doesn’t stop once you’re underwater. The bewitching glimmer of sun rays beaming down through the water is a remarkable sight in itself. So when you’re in Tulamben, be sure to set that alarm just a little earlier and wake up with the sun to make your diving experience one you’ll surely remember.
P.s. Here’s a fun video from an early morning dive with the bumpheads:
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