How to Get to Bunaken from Manado: Ferry & Private Boat
If you’re planning to visit Bunaken Island in Bunaken National Marine Park, one of Indonesia’s most famous diving spots, your journey will likely start in the city of Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi.
The island of Bunaken offers incredible 10 best things to do including diving and snorkeling spots, stunning nearby islands and opportunities to encounter hundreds of turtles and dolphins. But how do you get there? Let’s explore the two main ways: the public ferry and a private boat.
Manado City
Manado City, with its international airport, is the perfect gateway to start or end your Sulawesi adventure. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring North Sulawesi’s top destinations, including Bunaken, Likupang, Tangkoko, Lembeh, and Tomohon.
We highly recommend using Manado as your home base, allowing you to return between must-see destinations if needed. The city boasts incredible food and a range of high-quality accommodations, from the upscale Swiss-Belhotel to other fantastic options. For a budget-friendly stay, we chose Istanaku 2 Guesthouse and Istanaku Hotel.
Where to Start Your Journey to Bunaken: Manado Port
Manado’s harbor serves as the main gateway to Bunaken Island. Just a short drive from the city center, it offers both public ferries and private boat options.
Budget-Friendly Tip: If you’re staying at Istanaku 2 Guesthouse, you can easily walk to the ferry or take an inexpensive Grab ride. We opted to walk, using the opportunity to explore more of the city.
Public Ferry from Manado to Bunaken
The public ferry is the most budget-friendly way to reach Bunaken. It’s a great option for travelers looking to save money while experiencing local life.
- Departure Location: The ferry departs from Manado’s main harbor, near Celebes Hotel. Here’s the exact location on Google Maps.
- Departure Time: The ferry runs daily (except Sundays), departing Manado at 2:00 PM and returning from Bunaken at 8:00 AM. It’s best to confirm the schedule in advance with your accommodations in both Manado and Bunaken.
- Ferry Ticket: Tickets cost IDR 50,000 (≈3 USD) per person, per way. Payment is typically collected upon arrival as passengers disembark.
- Travel Duration: The journey takes approximately one hour.
Experience on the public Ferry
The ferry is a simple wooden boat with basic wooden benches—functional but minimalistic. You’ll likely share the ride with many locals and a few other tourists. While locals typically sit inside to escape the sun, often playing cards along the way, tourists tend to prefer the outdoor seats, enjoying the fresh breeze and breathtaking views.
On clear days, you can spot the volcanoes of North Sulawesi, including Manado Tua, located within the Bunaken Marine Park, and Mount Klabat, towering on the mainland behind Manado City.
Taking the ferry is a great way to observe local life and connect with fellow travelers. You might even make new friends and plan activities together, such as renting a boat for an island-hopping adventure.
Fun story: On our ferry ride, we met a French couple who had stayed at the same hotel as us in Manado, Istanaku 2 Guesthouse. Coincidentally, they were also heading to the same homestay in Bunaken, El Homestay Bunaken.
Personal Recommendation
We had an amazing experience on the local ferry, thanks in part to our stay at El Homestay Bunaken. A few days before our check-in, Stefen, the homestay owner, reached out to provide us with the ferry schedule and exact departure location, offering assistance with anything we might need.
Stefen even personally informed the ferry captain about our arrival. When we reached the pier, the captain immediately approached us, asking if we were Stefen’s guests. This warm welcome and the seamless coordination made our journey simple and unforgettable.
Pros and Cons of Taking the Public Ferry
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Authentic local experience
Cons:
- Limited schedule
- Crowded at times
- Slower than private boats
Private Boat from Manado to Bunaken
For a more comfortable and flexible journey, consider hiring a private boat. This is a great option if you’re traveling with a group, unable to catch the local ferry, or planning to visit Bunaken on a Sunday when the ferry doesn’t operate. Private boats can be arranged directly at the harbor or booked in advance through your accommodation.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Price: Rates typically start at IDR 500,000 per boat, depending on the size. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better deal.
- Flexible Departure: Private boats operate on your schedule, making it easy to plan around your itinerary.
- Travel Time: The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Privacy: The boat is exclusively yours unless you choose to share it with other travelers.
Pros and Cons of Taking a Private Boat
Pros:
- Flexible timing
- Faster and private
Cons:
- More expensive
Tips for the Ride from Manado to Bunaken
- Bring Snacks and Water: Departure times can sometimes be delayed, so it’s a good idea to come prepared with snacks and plenty of water.
- Sun Protection: If you plan to sit outside or on the roof, be sure to bring sun protection. The tropical sun can be intense, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Contact Your Accommodation: The wooden boats typically arrive at Bunaken’s sandy shores. Many accommodations will send someone to greet you at the dock, so be sure to notify them of your arrival time.
- Avoid Rainy Days: Heavy rain can make the journey rougher, especially on smaller boats, so it’s best to avoid traveling during wet weather.
- The Best Time to Travel: The dry season (May to October) offers calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling and diving.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hopping on the ferry with locals or hiring a private boat, the journey to Bunaken is beautiful and enjoyable, lasting only about an hour. Make the most of your time in Bunaken by staying in one of the best accommodations and experiencing the top 10 things to do on the island.
