Lembeh Strait
Lembeh Strait is a 12 km long stretch of water separating
Lembeh Island and the mainland. Bitung is actually the half way point along the
shores of Lembeh Strait. This
pristine section of water in North Sulawesi is
home to many unique sea animals which include the pygmy seahorse, mimic octopus,
ghost pipefish, as well as other larger
species. It is a fantastic dive area for
underwater photographers and the diversity of smaller creatures ensures many
memorable photo opportunities. There are several
undeveloped beaches on the
shoreline of Lembeh Strait which are excellent for swimming and snorkelling.
The port town of Bitung with its fine natural harbour protected by the adjacent
island of Lembeh is the centre for shipbuilding and maintenance as well as
commercial
fishing. Also, since the harbour in Manado silted up, large ships now
all call into Bitung, including some of the magnificent passenger cruise-liners.
The town itself has
a quaint provincial charm and is distinguished by its 12m
replica of the Eiffel Tower at one of the roundabout intersections leading into
town. Apparently the unusual
monument was built by a previous mayor who had
studied in Paris in his earlier years, and was built as a testament of his love
for the "City of Lights".
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