NAD-Lembeh Resort

A photographer-run resort on the strait known for very small boat groups, long bottom times on muck sites and a workroom culture built around cameras — individual stations, rinse tanks and staff who understand strobes and diopters. Blackwater diving is a regular offering.

Staying there: Straightforward, comfortable rooms and bungalows a few steps from the jetty; the property is oriented to divers rather than mixed holidaymakers.

Prices: Mid-band packages that undercut the flashier resorts nearby while keeping guiding quality high. Verify group-size policies and rates with the operator.