The Diver’s Dilemma Solved: How to Find Trusted Nannies in Tulamben
The sun is just rising over the rocky beach of Tulamben. The water is flat, the porters are carrying tanks on their heads toward the USAT Liberty wreck, and conditions are perfect.
But instead of checking your air gauge, you’re checking your watch. You’re worried.
Back in the bungalow, your toddler is still asleep. To get in that two-tank morning dive, you need to leave them for at least three hours. And unlike a dinner date where you are just a phone call away, when you are at 25 meters, you are completely unreachable.
This is the “Diver’s Dilemma.” You need more than just a babysitter; you need absolute certainty.
Finding childcare in a remote fishing village like Tulamben is very different from booking a nanny in Seminyak or Canggu. There are no apps, no glossy agencies, and few websites.
Here is your guide to navigating the village network and finding a nanny you can trust, so you can enjoy your surface intervals without panic.
1. Understanding the “Village Network”
The first thing to understand is that Tulamben is not a tourist city; it is a close-knit community. This works in your favor.
In Seminyak, a nanny might be a stranger with a CV. In Tulamben, the nanny is likely the sister of your dive guide, the wife of the resort cook, or the cousin of the security guard.
Reputation is everything here. A local woman will not risk her family’s standing in the village (or her brother’s job at the resort) by doing a poor job with your children. This “social collateral” is your biggest safety net.
2. The Best Strategy: The “Resort Referral”
Do not try to find a freelancer online. The most reliable way to secure a nanny is through your dive resort or accommodation.
Action Step: Email your resort before you arrive (at least 1-2 weeks prior).
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Ask specifically: “We are diving every morning from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Do you have a trusted staff member, or a relative of a staff member, who is available for babysitting?”
Why this works:
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Accountability: The resort manager becomes the de-facto supervisor while you are underwater.
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Familiarity: The nanny is likely already familiar with the resort layout, the kitchen staff, and the safety protocols.
3. The “Surface Protocol”: Mandatory Safety Rules
Since you cannot be contacted underwater, you must establish a clear “Chain of Command” before you descend.
The “Emergency Contact” Rule: Introduce the nanny to the Resort Manager or the Dive Shop Manager (whoever is staying on land).
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Say to the nanny: “If my child cries uncontrollably, gets hurt, or feels sick, do not wait for us. Go immediately to Bli Made (Manager) at the front desk.”
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Say to the Manager: “You are the guardian until we surface. If there is an issue, please authorize any medical help needed.”
The Water Safety Rule: Many village women in East Bali cannot swim, despite living near the ocean.
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The Rule: If the nanny cannot swim, the pool is OFF LIMITS while you are diving. No exceptions. Instruct them to play in the restaurant, the garden, or the room until you return.
4. Managing the “Morning Scramble”
Dive boats and shore entries often happen early (6:30 AM or 7:00 AM) to beat the heat and the crowds.
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Request an early start: Ask the nanny to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled gear-up time.
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The Breakfast Handoff: Offer the nanny breakfast. If your room rate includes breakfast, ask the kitchen to plate one for her, too. A fed nanny is a happy nanny, and it sets a tone of gratitude.
5. Rates & Tipping in East Bali
Tulamben is significantly cheaper than South Bali, but it is also a poorer region. Generosity goes a long way here.
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Standard Rate: Expect to pay between IDR 50,000 – IDR 70,000 per hour.
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The “Early Bird” Tip: If she arrives at 6:30 AM so you can catch the sunrise on the wreck, a tip of IDR 50,000 extra per day is a kind gesture that ensures she will be punctual the next morning.
The Verdict
You can dive the Liberty Wreck and the Drop-Off with peace of mind. By leaning on the community trust of your dive resort and setting strict “dry land” safety rules, you ensure your children are safe—and you can finally focus on that pygmy seahorse you’ve been trying to find.
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