Gumi Cenik 1, Bali - Lombok & Gili Islands

L’Ilot, or The Islet, is one of our favourite drifts off Mahé, a proper shot of adrenaline. You're basically getting pulled through a narrow channel between the islet and the main island, which means things move fast. We've seen eagle rays here in crazy numbers, sometimes fifty at once, just gliding along with the flow. If the current is ripping, and it often is, you’ll be whipping past smooth cauliflower coral and huge staghorn formations, eyes peeled for grey reef sharks cruising by. The maximum depth is 17m, making it a great option for advanced open water divers comfortable with a bit of a push. We love dropping in on an incoming tide, ideally in the morning, to catch the best light filtering through the schools of fusiliers. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the vibrant spottail coris darting between the rocks or a dragon wrasse hunting on the sand. This site is a high-octane ride for those who enjoy a speedy tour and the chance of big pelagic encounters.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.108900, 115.316700
Type
drift

Marine Protected Area: KK Buleleng

Best Time to Dive in Lombok & Gili Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Lombok & Gili Islands occur in December, averaging 30.1°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.6°C
  • February: 29.3°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.1°C
  • May: 29.9°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 28.5°C
  • August: 28.3°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 29.3°C
  • November: 30.1°C
  • December: 30.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Lombok & Gili Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Gumi Cenik 1, Bali

Marine Life in Lombok & Gili Islands

Home to 258 recorded species including 153 reef fish, 44 sharks & rays, 37 hard corals, 10 seagrass & algae, 4 other, 3 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Gumi Cenik 1, Bali

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 23 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Gumi Cenik 1 in Bali?
While the typical diving depth isn't explicitly stated, Gumi Cenik 1 has a maximum depth of 18 meters. Divers will find sponges and coral growth in shallow water from 7-10 meters before it transitions to a sandy slope. This suggests a dive profile that explores depths up to the maximum of 18 meters, focusing on the macro life found along the slope.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Gumi Cenik 1, Bali?
Gumi Cenik 1 is a fantastic macro dive site, offering a unique underwater landscape. Divers can expect to explore shallow water with sponges and coral growth from 7-10 meters, transitioning into a sandy slope rich with irregularities. Keep an eye out for fascinating creatures like skeleton shrimps, nudibranchs, harlequin crabs on tube anemones, and occasional frog fish or pipefishes/pipe horses, with rare sightings of harlequin shrimp and mimic octopus. For more on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
Is Gumi Cenik 1 in Bali considered a difficult dive site for beginners?
Yes, Gumi Cenik 1 is considered an intermediate dive site. This means it might present challenges that are not ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should have some experience and comfort with various conditions, especially since it is also a drift dive.
What is the best time of year to dive at Gumi Cenik 1, Bali for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Gumi Cenik 1 for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section. It's always recommended to check with local dive operators for current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required to dive at Gumi Cenik 1, Bali?
The provided data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications typically required for Gumi Cenik 1. However, given its intermediate difficulty and status as a drift dive, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience is often recommended for such sites. Always confirm specific requirements with your chosen dive center.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at Gumi Cenik 1, Bali?
Gumi Cenik 1 is characterized as a drift dive, indicating that divers can expect currents to be present. The average visibility at this site is quite good, typically around 17 meters. This combination allows for enjoyable drift diving while observing the rich macro life.