TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
Classic
Up to 5km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2026
27 May - 02 Jun
1 Space
2027

MORE DEPARTURE DATES >

In a group of 5 or more? We'll help you to plan your trip GROUP TRAVEL SERVICE >

Tour Highlights

  • Swim and snorkel to uncover the biodiversity of Bunaken Marine Park – a colourful megacity of ocean life at the heart of the Coral Triangle. You can even snorkel at night!

  • Cross from the mainland to the many-tiered Bunaken reefs, crowded with around 500 different types of coral and over 1500 species of reef fish

  • Seek out the local abundance of green sea turtles, grazing among the coral and over seagrass meadows below you

  • Explore the northeast coast of Sulawesi and swim to the island of Manado Tua with its extinct volcano, covered in trees and shrubs

Manado is the capital of North Sulawesi, forever tied in the minds of travellers with the Bunaken Marine Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here, at the heart of the Coral Triangle, large areas of protected habitat are coloured by 500 different types of coral and over 1500 fish species.

In fact, there’s a megacity of marine life below the surface, populated by fish, molluscs, reptiles, and more. Bunaken hosts 7 of the world’s 8 species of giant clams, as well as green sea turtles, which thrive in growing numbers. The turtles graze on seagrass plains, spanning the seafloor, as well as roaming the coral reefs that sprawl in tiers, like tangled skyscrapers.

What better place for us to swim in groups, meeting wildlife and discovering the wonders of the Coral Triangle? Not only is there an abundance of life in the tropical waters, but there are so many forested coastlines to follow, scattered with white sand beaches and overlooked by the volcanoes that give this region an almost prehistoric feel.

During the trip, we stay at the Murex Manado Resort, tucked among tropical water gardens on the seafront. We’re located near a small village away from the bustle of Manado, where you’ll experience the kind of warm-hearted hospitality North Sulawesi is known for. From the moment you arrive, the resort’s staff with make you feel like part of the family.


Who is this trip for?

This trip is ideal for those looking for varied and exciting swims, but want to relax at the end of the day in a comfortable and welcoming resort, without having to worry about a thing. It is also ideal for those searching for an opportunity to snorkel amongst some fantastic marine life. This trip is also ideal for non-swimming partners and friends looking to scuba dive, snorkel or just relax.

Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.

The average swim distance is around 2.5km. The average daily swim distance is around 5km (split over a minimum of two swims). Please be aware the actual distance covered may be slightly more during current assisted swims.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

If you wish to explore what Sulawesi has to offer at a more leisurely pace then take a look at our Short Swims trip based on the nearby island of Bangka. Or if you are after more or an adventure, why not combine the two trips and make use of the resort's Passport to Paradise package. Ask our customer team for more information (please note you will be required to book the connecting night at your own expense)


Are you a Pioneer?

Our Sulawesi Explorer in Manado trip is brand new for 2026. Our first departures will be Pioneer Departures. These are perfect for those who want to get out first to experience the relatively unexplored waters that await us.

You will have the opportunity to explore the destination in-depth with an amazing group of swimmers, opening our eyes to the possibilities for future trips.


What's included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
  • Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
  • Six nights' accommodation
  • All breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • Guided introduction to snorkelling
  • Snorkel equipment and night snorkel excursion
  • Group return airport transfer
  • Visitor tourist tax
  • Bunaken National Marine Park entrance fee
  • Full ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the trip (outside of the group transfer)
  • Drinks
  • Any additional excursions

Group of 5 or more?

If you're travelling with a group of friends, family or swim buddies, speak to our Group Travel team to get tailored advice, special pricing and discounts, and early access to new trips and departures.

GROUP TRAVEL SERVICE>


Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Manado Airport for Group Transfer (MDC)

Start Time: 19:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Murex Resort, Manado

Finish Time: 12:00 on Day 7

Manado

Day 1

We meet at the airport for those who wish to take the complimentary group transfer. Once we arrive at the hotel, we will carry out a welcome meeting and briefing before our first dinner together. This is an opportunity for our team to answer any of your questions for the week ahead.

Manado

Day 2

Today, we rise for a morning acclimatisation swim before breakfast. We then head out across the water to Bunaken National Park. We explore the calm waters of the eastern side for our first swim before returning to lunch at the resort.

After a relaxing lunch we head back to the water, but this time for a snorkel session along the house reef. This is a chance to build confidence, learn how to snorkel (for those who haven't before) and to get comfortable with the equipment so you have the freedom to use it throughout the week. Later, we will explore more of the reefs in the National Park.

Manado

Day 3

In the morning we head back out to Bunaken and swim the northern fringes of the reef. Again, this is a pleasant and protected swim, offering you the chance to stretch out over the distance. Once completed, we return back to the resort for lunch, followed by a local coastal swim along the mainland of Manado.

Manado

Day 4

We start earlier as this is a day of crossings! We swim from the mainland of Manado across to the National Park for more Bunaken exploration - a perfect start to the morning.

We have a short break and snacks on the boat as we motor round to Siladen island, where we complete our second, but shorter crossing from the island to Bunaken. To reward our efforts, we return to the resort for a hearty lunch and afternoon off. You can relax by the pool, take a short trip to the vanilla farm or even jump on a scooter into Manado if you wish.

We then have an optional night snorkel, led by the local and experienced guides before a group dinner.

Manado

Day 5

After breakfast, we head back out on boats to Manado Tua where we discover the extinct volcano. We start our swim on the southwestern coast and make our round with a semi-circumnavigation of the volcano. We stop at a midpoint for lunch and rest before completing the southern swim and finishing towards Bunaken. We motor leisurely back to the resort in time for you to relax before dinner.

Manado

Day 6

On our final day, we return to familiar Bunaken for more snorkelling and swimming among the marine life that crowd the southern reaches of the island. We travel with the current to uncover the local abundance of sea turtles, as well as countless varieties of fish and colourful coral.

We anchor up and take lunch on the boat, admiring the view of the mainland and volcano before continuing our snorkel and swim for the afternoon. A local guide will join you in the water to ensure you do not miss any opportunities to spot your favourite fish. During our return transfer, the guide will also share details of the animals you saw underwater.

Back at the resort, we regroup for our final dinner together and a chance to reminisce on the week.

Manado

Day 7

We wake for a short farewell swim over the house reef, outside the hotel, before breakfast. Finally, we say our goodbyes before leaving the resort.

Accommodation

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Murex Resort - Manado

Murex Manado Resort is nestled on the volcanic beachfront just outside Manado. From the moment you arrive, the warm and welcoming team will make you feel like part of the family—setting the tone for a truly memorable getaway. The mixture of high quality rooms, beautiful surroundings and plenty of tasty and traditional food makes the resort the perfect place to relax, enjoy the adventures of the water or have a go at scuba diving, with it's house reef located directly out the front.

TRIP INFORMATION

Location Summary

Manado

Manado is the capital of the Indonesian province of North Sulawesi. The town itself is full of bustle, circled on the northern tip of Sulawesi by lush rainforests, volcanoes and clear waters. This is an ideal adventure location for those wanting to explore more of what Indonesia has to offer.

Bunaken

Bunaken National Park sprawls at the heart of the Coral Triangle. It was one of Indonesia’s first protected marine areas, resulting in a fantastic variety of healthy marine life and coral spread across the five islands in the park. Diving, swimming and snorkelling is done with highest consideration for the environment, and the currents that run here offer the perfect ride to enjoy moving scenes below.

Manado Tua

An extinct volcano sits perched on an island off the coast of Manado. The stratovolcano rises out of waters, which are enriched by its minerals and volcanic ash. The local dive sites are very popular with both scuba divers and snorkellers.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distances Swim Distances
Bunaken Timur - Panggalisan 2½km
Sachiko’s Point – Mike’s Point 3km House reef 2km
Manado – Bunaken Crossing 3.5km Siladen – Bunaken Crossing 1.5km
Manadotua Coastal 2.5km Manadotua Coastal 2.5km
Alung Banua – Lekuan 3km Lekuan 3 – Lekuan 1 2km

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures, however if you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Please also be aware that there can be strong currents around the islands we swim, whilst our guides and boat safety crew will do our best to select the route to swim with the current, it may change a points during the swim, so ensure you listen to the instructions given.

Walking Conditions

While there aren’t any significant planned walks, any walks that we do undertake will take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces and care should be taken in these areas.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
May 28-30°C 82-86°F
June 28-30°C 82-86°F
October 29-30°C 84-86°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Trip Information

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip varies each day depending on the type of swim but includes two larger vessels piloted by local crew and supported from kayaks. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

In line with the requests of the national park, please note the importance of wearing rash vests for sun protection and using only reef safe sun block where required. For your essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

Getting There

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don’t currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to travel to Manado is to fly to the Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado (MDC) and join the group transfer. During this pioneer year and whilst we are working with our suppliers, we understand that our dates may not align perfectly with your most favourable but it is a fantastic place should you wish to extend your stay. Our partners also offer an amazing opportunity to explore more of North Sulawesi via their Passport to Paradise scheme. Take a look at their website for more information Passport to Paradise.

Joining the Group Transfer

A transfer is included in your package (for 2 or more individuals). You will be asked to provide your flight details to our customer team who will liaise with the resort to schedule a transfer. If you are a solo traveller and wish to arrange a private transfer then there will be a surcharge for this and please contact the resort directly.

As you exit the airport terminal you will see a member of the Murex Resort team with a SwimTrek sign. They will escort you to the vehicle and take you to the resort. The journey from the airport to the resort takes around 60 minutes.

Travelling Independently

If you do not wish to join the group transfer, you can arrange your own transfer with the hotel directly at an extra charge if you are a solo traveller, or take a taxi from the airport. Apps such as GRAB or Gojek are easy and quick to use and can be done once you have landed with a short wait time.

Return Transport

For those returning on the day of the trip, a return group transfer is included. If you are staying longer, the team at the hotel will be able to assist with organising a transfer at your own expense.

Food and Drink

  • Breakfast: All buffet breakfasts are included in your package and will be taken at the hotel. They will include hot and cold food as well as a help yourself tea and coffee station.
  • Lunches: All lunches are included in your package and will either be taken at the resort or on the boat.
  • Dinners: All dinners are included in your package and will be taken at the resort.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

The local currency in Indonesia is Indonesian rupiah (IDR) but the resort accepts all major cards. Please note that all bills are subject to 11% tax and 5% service charge. Most cards are free to use, but there is an extra 3.25% charge for using an Amex card.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture – in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides, but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip. The resort will also present you with an envelope at the end of your stay should you wish to share a tip with the staff.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

All passports must have at least 6 months validity remaining after departure from Indonesia. Citizens of all EU member states, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand travelling to Indonesia for tourism purposes may travel within the visa exemption policy entering without a visa for up to 30 days at certain ports of entry.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the common areas of the hotel and in your hotel room.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.


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