From 22 June to 2 July 2026, families from around the world gathered in North Sulawesi for an unforgettable adventure during the inaugural Kids Sea Camp at Murex Resorts. Created in partnership with Family Divers, the program combined diving, marine education, conservation, culture, creativity, and family fun, offering young ocean enthusiasts an opportunity to learn, explore, and grow in one of the world’s most biodiverse and beautiful marine environments.

 

Over eleven days, a total of 22 participants (seven children and 15 adults) divided their time between Murex Manado and Murex Bangka, experiencing everything from coral reefs and sea turtles to local traditions and island life. Along the way, kids built their confidence in the water, developed new friendships, and gained a deeper appreciation for the ocean and the communities that depend upon it.

In this article, we recap a few of the highlights from an unforgettable event.

The Adventure Begins in Manado

The camp kicked off at Murex Manado with a welcome orientation that introduced families to the program and the team members who would guide them throughout the week. The evening concluded with a traditional Kolintang music performance, offering an introduction to North Sulawesi’s rich cultural heritage.

 

Over the following days, participants settled into a rhythm of diving, learning, and play. Each morning was dedicated to exploring the underwater world through guided dives and snorkeling activities, allowing children to experience North Sulawesi’s extraordinary marine biodiversity firsthand.

 

Afternoons brought a variety of activities designed to encourage teamwork, creativity, and curiosity. The Kids Sea Camp Olympics featured volleyball, cornhole, and a treasure hunt around the resort grounds, while creative workshops included tote bag painting and a hands-on pizza-making class.

 

Marine education formed a key part of the program. Kids attended presentations focused on sea turtles and coral reefs, helping them to better understand the importance of marine conservation and the role they can play in protecting these fragile ecosystems.

 

Evenings were equally memorable. The families enjoyed a movie and pizza night, karaoke, a beach barbecue, and the magical experience of releasing flying fire lanterns under the stars. These shared moments created a strong sense of community among participants and gave families time to connect away from screens and daily routines.

 

Exploring Beyond the Reef

One of the unique aspects of the Kids Sea Camp is that learning extends beyond diving, by introducing participants to the local culture and traditions of North Sulawesi.

A special perfume-making workshop introduced kids and their parents to local scents and natural ingredients, while a scenic highland tour provided an opportunity to experience North Sulawesi’s landscapes during the transfer from Manado to Bangka.

By combining marine adventures with cultural and land-based exploration, the event offered families a broader understanding of the destination and encouraged them to immerse themselves in nature, culture and local communities.

Island Life at Murex Bangka

The second half of the camp unfolded at Murex Bangka, where white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs provided a spectacular backdrop for continued exploration.

 

Daily diving continued, while a series of new activities added fresh excitement to the program. One highlight was the underwater treasure hunt, which challenged participants to put their diving and observation skills to the test beneath the surface. 

Back on land, children competed in a traditional Bilolo race and visited the nearby village of Lihunu, where a friendly volleyball match brought guests and local community members together.

The camp also included a full-day excursion to Tangkoko Nature Reserve, one of North Sulawesi’s most famous wildlife destinations. Participants explored the forest in search of endemic species while learning about the island’s remarkable biodiversity beyond the reef. A presentation beforehand helped prepare the group for what they might encounter during the visit.

After a full day of exploration, evening trivia sessions and informal gatherings provided further opportunities for families to bond and reflect on their experiences.

An Unforgettable Family Getaway 

One of the greatest strengths of Kids Sea Camp is that it creates meaningful experiences for every member of the family.

 

Children enjoy a structured program that combines diving, education, conservation, creativity, and adventure. Activities focused on developing confidence, curiosity, independence, and environmental awareness while making new friends who share similar interests.

 

Meanwhile, parents were able to participate alongside their children, enjoy their own diving adventures, or simply relax knowing that their kids were engaged in safe, enriching activities led by experienced professionals.

 

The result was a family holiday that went beyond sightseeing or relaxation; Kids Sea Camp 2026 was a chance for shared discovery, lifelong learning, and the development of genuine connection with the ocean.

A Celebration of New Friendships and New Skills

As the camp drew to a close, participants spent an afternoon reflecting on their experiences, preparing poems, and getting ready for the final celebrations. The program concluded with a closing ceremony, family talent show, gala dinner, slideshow, and live music performance that showcased the memories created throughout the journey.

 

By the end of the week, children had gained new skills, earned valuable diving experience, and developed a deeper understanding of the marine world. Perhaps most importantly, they left with lasting friendships and memories that will stay with them long after returning home.

 

We would like to thank all the families who joined us, as well as our partners at Family Divers and the entire Murex team who helped make Kids Sea Camp 2026 such a success.

 

We look forward to welcoming the next generation of ocean explorers back to North Sulawesi for another unforgettable family adventure next year!

 

For more information about next year’s event, and to book your place, please explore the Murex website or get in touch.