Where is the Celebes Sea Located?

The Celebes Sea also known as the Sulawesi Sea (Click here to see map) is a deep, biodiverse basin in the western Pacific Ocean, bordered by:

• Philippines (Mindanao) to the north
• Indonesia (Sulawesi) to the south
• Malaysia (Sabah) to the west
• Sulu Archipelago to the northeast

It connects to the Philippine Sea via the Mindanao Strait and the Sulu Sea through the Sibutu Passage. Known for its rich marine life, deep trenches, and strategic location, the Celebes Sea is a vital part of Southeast Asia’s maritime ecosystem.

Which Countries Surround the Celebes Sea?

The Celebes Sea is bordered by:

• Indonesia (Sulawesi Island)
• Philippines (Mindanao and Sulu Archipelago)
• Malaysia (Sabah, Borneo)

Click here to see map

It serves as a critical maritime zone for trade and biodiversity.

Is the Celebes Sea Part of the Pacific Ocean?

Yes, it is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean, linked to:

• The Philippine Sea (via the Mindanao Strait)
• The Sulu Sea (via the Sibutu Passage)

Biodiversity & Marine Life

• Home to coral reefs, whale sharks, and sea turtles
• Part of the Coral Triangle, the most diverse marine habitat on Earth
• Key diving spots like Lembeh Strait (Indonesia) and Tubbataha Reef (Philippines)

How Deep is the Celebes Sea?

• Average depth: ~5,000 meters (16,400 ft)
• Deepest point: Celebes Deep (~6,200 meters / 20,300 ft)
• Contains underwater trenches and volcanic activity

Can You Visit the Celebes Sea?

Best Places to Explore

1. Lembeh Strait (Indonesia) – Famous for muck diving & rare marine species
2. Tubbataha Reef (Philippines) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
3. Sipadan Island (Malaysia) – One of the world’s top diving destinations

How to Get There?

• Fly to Manado (Indonesia) or Davao (Philippines)
• Liveaboard diving trips are popular for remote areas

Economic & Strategic Importance

Is the Celebes Sea Part of Major Trade Routes?

• Used for shipping lanes between Asia and Australia
• Historically part of the spice trade route

Are There Territorial Disputes?

• Overlapping EEZ claims between Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
• Piracy and smuggling have been occasional concerns

Why the Celebes Sea Matters

The Celebes Sea is a vital marine ecosystem, a key trade route, and a paradise for divers. Its location between Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia makes it a strategic and ecologically significant region worth exploring.