West Papua is one of the most common dream destinations on Indonesia’s travel bucket list. While there are undoubtedly a wide variety of majestic places, there is one place that you won’t want to miss out on, which is Doreri Bay.
Sited at the area of Manokwari, Doreri Bay is known for its mesmerising underwater view. Once you explore its splendour, you will be surprised by the unexpected things you will find down there.
Get to Know Doreri Bay Through a Song “Apuse”
Are you familiar with the infamous Papuan traditional song “Apuse”? If so, you have to be aware of the lyrics that mention the term “doreri”.
The first line, “Apuse kokon dao” means “Grandpa, grandma, I want to”. Then, it is connected to the second line, “Yarabe soren doreri”, which means that the subject wants to go to Doreri.
This song alone implies that Doreri is famous and influential enough to be included in a local piece. It is said that Doreri Bay was the entrance of Christian missionaries who aimed to preach in the Manokwari area.
People coming to Papua by the sea must pass the Doreri Bay area. There used to be a port here in Doreri Bay. This automatically makes the Doreri area filled with either anchored ships or ships ready to sail.
Here’s What Doreri Bay Offers
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Doreri Bay offers beautiful scapes with crystal clear water and pale white sand, and treasures hidden beneath the water.
- Shipwreck View Underwater
Based on the fact that this area was a famous former port, there is a reasonable amount of shipwrecks on the floor of Doreri Bay. Reportedly, there are approximately 20 shipwrecks sunk.
The beauty of this “mess” is that the tourists visiting this area can dive into some diving spots to see the sparkling underwater scenery. Each shipwreck tells a different history.
The most interesting one probably comes from the wreckage of a World War II ship that sank beneath Doreri Bay a long time ago. Moreover, there are other historical war shipwrecks, such as Pasir Putih Wreck, Pillbox Wreck, Mupi Wreck, Cross Wreck, dan Shinwa Maru Wreck.
Ultimately, this place is an excellent destination for those who are diving and exploring the depth of underwater scenery with hints of historical past events.
- Coral Reefs and Marine Life
Besides admiring the “mess” underneath the water, you can also observe the diversity of coral reefs preserved in their natural habitat. You can easily spot the colourful coral reefs on the bay floor of Doreri Bay.
On the other hand, there is also an abundance of different marine life waiting to be explored in Doreri Bay. You will be welcomed by fishes and other underwater creatures down there.
- Enticing Local Life
This place is, in fact, more than meets the eyes. If you only aim for its underwater experience, you haven’t fully discovered another beauty from the land of Doreri.
If you come closer to look at the surrounding area of the bay, you will find the uniqueness of the local community. There are markets and farms located near the bay area.
In their markets, you will be able to find a lot of local goodness, from tasty local cuisine to thoughtful local souvenirs that you can grab on the way home.
Doreri Bay indeed has a lot to offer. If you are a traveller who happens to enjoy diving and exploring the beauty of underwater life, this one is a go-to destination to add to your bucket list.
