How to Plan Your Diving Trip to Big Fish Country from Sienna Resort
Tuesday, 29 Jul 2025

How to Plan Your Diving Trip to Big Fish Country from Sienna Resort

Big Fish Country is not just a dive site—it’s a rite of passage for any serious diver exploring Indonesia. Located just off the southern tip of Maratua Island, this legendary spot promises fast currents, thrilling drifts, and big marine action. If you're staying at Sienna Resort, you're already halfway to one of Southeast Asia’s most exhilarating underwater experiences.

Why Big Fish Country Is a Bucket-List Dive Site

Also known as "The Channel," Big Fish Country is famous for its powerful currents and pelagic sightings. Divers come here to witness:
  • Massive schools of barracuda form a spiraling tornado
  • Giant trevallies, tunas, reef sharks
  • Occasional sightings of manta rays and whale sharks
It's a high-adrenaline drift dive best suited for experienced divers, and its location on the edge of the continental shelf means every descent brings something unforgettable.

Best Time to Dive Big Fish Country

While the site can be accessed year-round, the best time to dive is during the dry season from April to October. Conditions are ideal during July and August when:
  • Water visibility ranges from 20 to 30 meters
  • Marine life is most active
  • Surface conditions are calm
Avoid diving during stormy or low-current days as the site loses some of its magic.

Staying Close: Why Sienna Resort Is the Smart Base

Sienna Resort Maratua is the perfect launch point for Big Fish Country. Located just 5 minutes away by boat, the resort offers:
  • Daily boat dives with experienced local guides
  • Dive-focused facilities like rinse stations and gear storage
  • Comfortable beachfront accommodation to unwind after an intense dive
No long boat rides or early transfers. You wake up, have your breakfast, and you're ready to dive.

Preparing for the Dive: Gear, Experience, and Safety Tips

Big Fish Country isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s strongly recommended for divers with Advanced Open Water certification or higher. Here’s what you’ll need:
  • Dive computer & reef hook (for hanging in currents)
  • Full gear set (available for rent at Sienna)
  • Buoyancy control experience
All dives from Sienna Resort include a safety briefing and are guided by seasoned professionals who know how to navigate the currents and maximize the marine encounters.

What You’ll See: Marine Life at Big Fish Country

The reason this site has its name is clear the moment you descend:
  • Barracuda tornado
  • Bumphead parrotfish cruising in packs
  • Grey reef sharks and eagle rays
  • Mantas pass through from April to September
  • Macro life: pygmy seahorses, shrimp, and nudibranchs on the walls
Every dive is different depending on current strength, moon phase, and season.

Extend Your Adventure: Nearby Dive Sites to Add

While Big Fish Country is the highlight, Sienna Resort gives you access to other top sites:
  • Kakaban Lake: snorkel with stingless jellyfish
  • Sangalaki Manta Point: glide beside majestic mantas
  • Turtle Traffic: calm dive with guaranteed turtle sightings
  • Light House Reef: perfect for an afternoon reef dive

Book a Dive Package for Maximum Value

Sienna Resort offers seasonal dive package options. You can also enjoy bonus perks like moonlight dinners or complimentary snorkeling trips.

Beach Resort / Dive Package

USD 1,250

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,525

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,800

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 2,080

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 2,350

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 2,620

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,090

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,320

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,550

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 1,780

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 2,020

Resort Package / Dive Package

USD 2,250

Book your stay at Sienna Resort Maratua now and enjoy the unforgettable scuba dive experience to The Channel/ Big Fish Country!