Kusu Island Resort

Fly internationally to Jakarta or Manado, then connect to Ternate and onward to Labuha. From Labuha the resort takes you by car (20 minutes) and then their speedboat (40 minutes) to the island. Flag your arrival details at booking so the transfer can be arranged.

The protected reefs around Pulau Kusu hold over 3,000 fish species. On a given day you might encounter baby sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, mantas, dolphins and tunas, plus macro subjects like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs in the muck sites. The channels between islands produce drift dives with pelagic action.

At least 40 known dive and snorkeling sites are within 15 minutes of the resort by boat. Many of them run directly along the fringing reef of Pulau Kusu, so surface time between dives is minimal.

Courses run from beginner level through to divemaster and instructor, working with PADI and SSI. Freediving courses are also available on request. Inform the resort at time of booking which course you want to take so instructors can be scheduled.

A limited amount of rental equipment is on site for both diving and snorkeling. Reserve what you need at the time of booking — availability is not guaranteed if you wait until arrival.

Yes. Each Ocean Villa has a large private deck with direct access to the water. The house reef runs right in front of the resort, so you can enter from your deck and be on the coral in a few fin kicks without needing a boat.

The water sports center at the end of the jetty includes a dedicated camera room. The site specifically highlights photography and videography as a strong draw, given the reef quality and macro life on offer.

Meals are served three times a day, plus afternoon tea. After the first morning dive, sandwiches and fresh baked treats are served dockside. If you're doing a night dive, dinner is still prepared fresh on schedule. Private dinners on your Ocean Villa deck are available on request. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if flagged in advance.