Joe and Mindy
6 months ago
Manta Dive Resort: SSI Certification Success, Resort Disappointment
This review is sharply split between the resort's dive center and the accommodation itself. In short: The dive operation was exceptional; the accommodation and island experience were disappointing.
The Dive Center:
Challenge Accepted
Our primary reason for visiting Manta Dive Resort was to complete my SSI Diver Certification—the first time I attempted scuba. If you think diving is just a relaxing, deeper version of snorkeling, I can confirm that assumption is wrong. This was a genuine challenge, both physically and, even more so, mentally.
The class was professional and thorough. We moved from theory (including a written test) to equipment mastery, pool practice, and finally, hitting the open sea. It was an intense workout! You have to perfect breathing through the apparatus, constantly remember to equalize your ear (clearing pressure so your head won't explode), and master essential safety skills.
The most difficult skill for me was the mask removal—taking it off at the bottom of the sea, letting it float, and then putting it back on. I definitely swallowed a lot of salt water until I nailed that one. The certification culminates in rescue training, including bringing someone safely to the surface, then an exhausting swim around the entire boat. I almost threw in the towel halfway through the final swim, but pushed through and proudly earned the certification.
Verdict on Diving: Fantastic. Professional, challenging, and rewarding.
The Resort & Location:
A Hard Pass
While the diving was top-tier, the resort stay was, regrettably, meh.
We had booked a traditional bungalow but had to change rooms immediately because it was a full-blown mosquito party. We upgraded to a Deluxe Bungalow, which was better but still underwhelming. We felt three nights were too long; two would have been sufficient just for the diving program.
Even the island of Gili Air itself was a pass for us in the future. We found it lacked the "chill" atmosphere we had enjoyed on Gili Trawangan.
Final Takeaway:
If you are going to Manta Dive Resort solely to get certified or participate in their excellent dive program, it's worth it. However, if you are looking for a relaxing, high-quality resort stay or a superior island experience, we recommend staying elsewhere and simply booking your diving with Manta.
