Statue Gili Meno Snorkeling

The Gili Islands, situated off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia, are celebrated for their immaculate waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a kaleidoscope of marine life. Snorkeling enthusiasts flock to these paradisiacal islands, eager to explore the rich underwater ecosystems and encounter the abundant sea turtles that grace the surrounding waters. For those seeking a distinctive and enchanting experience, a visit to the Gili Meno statues is a must—a submerged spectacle that not only fulfills mermaid fantasies but also creates a backdrop for truly epic travel photos.

The tale behind the Gili Meno statues, aptly named “Nest,” adds an intriguing layer to this underwater attraction. Commissioned by BASK, an eco-resort that stands proudly nearby, these statues were crafted by the skilled hands of British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. Described as “hauntingly beautiful,” the 48 life-size statues form a circle on the ocean floor, with embracing figures encircling curled-up counterparts. What sets these statues apart is their origin—they were molded from the casts of real people, rendering each sculpture a unique and personal creation.

Jason deCaires Taylor, a renowned underwater sculptor with works spanning the Canary Islands, Mexico, West Indies, and even a temporary exhibit in the Thames in London, designed Nest not just as a visual masterpiece but as an environmental sanctuary. The statues, made from pH-neutral, environmental-grade cement and securely anchored to the seabed, serve as a canvas for coral to flourish, forming a man-made reef. In a world where coral reefs are rapidly deteriorating due to various factors, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change, initiatives like Nest provide a beacon of hope. The statues, acting as a haven for marine life, showcase a sustainable way to contribute to the revival of these vital ecosystems.

The environmental significance of the Gili Meno underwater statues becomes even more apparent against the backdrop of global coral reef decline. The 2018 earthquake and illegal anchoring around the Gili Islands exacerbated the damage to Indonesia’s diverse reefs. Nest, however, stands as a testament to human efforts to reverse this trend, offering a platform for soft corals, sponges, and other marine life to thrive. The statues, over time, will transform into a fully-established reef, demonstrating the potential for human-made structures to support and sustain underwater ecosystems.

For those planning a visit, Gili Meno is conveniently situated between Gili Trawangan to the west and Gili Air to the east, accessible by a short boat ride from Bali. The statues are strategically positioned on the west side of the island, in front of the BASK Resort, which is set to open in 2020.

Given the popularity of the Gili Meno statues, it’s advisable to plan your visit wisely. Peak hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., attract crowds of boats and tourists, potentially diminishing the magical experience. For the best photo opportunities, consider visiting early in the morning (8 a.m. or earlier) or around 1 p.m. when many boat tours are on lunch breaks or returning.

Swimmers approaching the statues from Gili Meno should exercise caution due to sharp coral, and wearing fins is recommended for a safer and closer exploration of the growing coral. Responsible tourism is emphasized, urging visitors to avoid touching or provoking marine life and refraining from feeding the fish, as these actions can disrupt the delicate underwater ecosystem. Additionally, wearing “reef-safe” sunscreen is encouraged, with numerous shops on Gili Trawangan offering suitable options to protect the coral and marine life from harmful chemicals.