The short answer
Nest Underwater Sculpture, Gili Meno: what visitors should know first
Visit if you snorkel or dive and like unusual art. It is underwater, so confirm the depth and conditions with your operator, and treat it as an extra on a Meno day rather than a main reason to travel.
Useful facts
Nest Underwater Sculpture, Gili Meno facts at a glance
- Location
- Offshore from Gili Meno
- Artist
- Jason deCaires Taylor
- Installed
- 2017 (Wikipedia)
- Figures
- 48 life-size figures in a circle
- Commissioned by
- BASK, as an artificial reef and dive attraction
- Access
- By boat, snorkel or dive
Why it matters
Why Nest Underwater Sculpture, Gili Meno is worth your time
Nest combines art and reef restoration. The figures are designed to become habitat as marine life settles on them, so the sculpture changes over time. It gives non-diving visitors a reason to look at the marine environment the Gilis rely on.
It also shows how tourism and conservation can overlap, in a place where reef damage from large visitor numbers has been a concern. Choose operators who brief you on reef etiquette.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The circle of figures
Forty-eight figures are arranged in a ring, designed to attract marine life over time.
- 02
Art and reef together
The work doubles as an artificial reef.
- 03
Go with a guide
Currents and depth vary, so use an operator who briefs you.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Nest is an underwater sculpture of 48 life-size figures arranged in a circle on the seabed off Gili Meno. Wikipedia's article on Jason deCaires Taylor says it was installed in 2017, commissioned by BASK as an artificial reef and a dive attraction for visitors and the local community.
Book through a reputable dive or snorkel operator. Ask whether the figures can be seen from the surface on the day, since visibility and depth vary with weather and tide. Experienced divers may find it a rewarding site, while snorkellers should confirm that the trip suits them before going.
As with all reef sites, do not touch the figures or stand on coral. Wear a flotation vest if you are not a strong swimmer, and use reef-safe sun protection.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Ask the operator about depth and current
- Wear a flotation vest if unsure
- Do not touch the figures
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Offshore from Gili Meno
- Time needed
- Half a day with a boat or dive trip
- Best time
- Calm, clear mornings in the drier months
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Reached by boat and swimming or diving, not on foot. Only confident swimmers should go, and currents can be strong; an older traveller should go with a guide and a flotation vest.
- Tickets and access
- Access is through dive or snorkel operators. Ask about depth, visibility and whether the site suits snorkellers before you book.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Nest Underwater Sculpture, Gili Meno
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Reached by boat and swimming or diving, not on foot. Only confident swimmers should go, and currents can be strong; an older traveller should go with a guide and a flotation vest.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Who made Nest?
Wikipedia credits British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, who installed it in 2017.
Can non-divers see it?
Depends on depth and visibility on the day. Ask your operator whether it can be viewed while snorkelling.
Is it safe for seniors?
Only if they swim confidently and go with a guide. The site is offshore with currents.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
