First diving trip ever, went to the Philippines because I wanted to see threshers. Decided to try muck diving because I wasn't sure if Id like it, well I found out I love it.

Camera: Sony A7IV

Lens: 28-60mm + WWL1B (wide) | CMC2 (macro)

I agree with you about your take on muck diving. I, too, thought it was similar to diving in a muddy lake—poor visibility and the occasional sighting of a strange creature. But when I visited Bali for the first time, I discovered my love for muck diving. It’s best to always go with a local guide. That way, you get to see the TRULY bizarre creatures that you’d otherwise almost always swim right past. Each dive is different, new creatures you have never seen before at each dive. Just awesome.

Super pics!

I used to manage a dive operation in the Lembeh Straits many years ago. When guests first arrived we’d “warn” them about first impressions: dark, seemingly empty and colourless….. but just to be patient….. I don’t think a single guest ever came away disappointed. Most were captivated and fascinated by the weird and wonderful critters they’d see.

So, yep, totally agree with you both.

10 hours ago, Jens H said:

It’s best to always go with a local guide.

The guides in Dauin were fantastic, without them I would have just been swimmig past so many things. I was pretty lucky that most dives I did were only 2-3 per guide, and the guides get excited about showing you things too. I had a few dives where it was just the guide and myself, and the time cap was supposed to be 60min, but the guide kept pointing things out and we went to 75min.

10 hours ago, TimG said:

I used to manage a dive operation in the Lembeh Straits many years ago.

Lembeh is most likely going to be the next spot I go to, I've been starting the planning process for that and I'm getting excited for it.

I ended up buying a full macro setup with the new sony 100mm f2.8 and have been practicing more macro shots in local waters.

7 minutes ago, rafiqd said:

Lembeh is most likely going to be the next spot I go to, I've been starting the planning process for that and I'm getting excited for it.

Hi Rafiq

If you want some informations... You can read (in french) ma review of our last trip in Lembeh.

Petit séjour plongée à Lembeh du 11 au 21/02/2026 - Compte-rendus de voyages - Plongeur.com - Le site de la plongée sous marine


The Solitude Lembeh is a great resort the best where I was in Lembeh.