Amaya Explorer

Location: Indonesia

Rating: 4.8/5 (50 reviews)

Amaya Explorer

About Amaya Explorer

Indonesia's diverse marine environments, from coral gardens to deep trenches, are accessible via this 35-meter liveaboard.

The immense water exchange between the Pacific and Indian Oceans shapes the marine geography of the Indonesian archipelago. This constant flow generates powerful currents and nutrient-rich upwellings, particularly within the Coral Triangle, the global center of marine biodiversity. The result is a complex network of underwater environments, from volcanic slopes covered in black sand to vibrant coral gardens and deep-water channels frequented by large pelagic species. The Amaya Explorer was specifically built to navigate these varied waters, providing a dedicated platform for exploring the remote and biologically significant corners of Indonesia. Diving operations are organized for efficiency and safety. Two 40 HP Yamaha tenders transport small groups of divers directly to the action, allowing for precise drop-offs on specific formations and easy pickups in open water. The main dive deck is a spacious, well-designed area for kitting up, with individual gear stations and ample storage. For underwater photographers, a dedicated camera room provides a dry, organized space for equipment preparation and maintenance. Nitrox is available for certified divers to extend bottom times, and all dives are led by experienced local guides who are experts at locating the region's unique marine life. Life aboard the Amaya Explorer centers on comfort and relaxation between dives. The vessel accommodates up to seventeen guests in eight air-conditioned cabins, including Master, Single, and Double Bunk configurations, each with its own private ensuite bathroom. With a total of ten bathrooms onboard, there is ample convenience for all. Social life is split between several well-appointed areas. An indoor lounge with a bar offers a cool retreat from the tropical heat, while a separate interior dining room hosts group meals. Outside, a shaded deck provides an alternative for alfresco dining, and the top-level sundeck is an open space for sunbathing or watching the volcanic island scenery pass by. The culinary program is a key part of the onboard experience. An onboard chef prepares a varied menu of meals, blending international flavors with classic Indonesian cuisine. Most meals are served buffet-style in the main dining area, offering a wide selection to suit different tastes. The crew is happy to accommodate special dietary requirements when notified in advance. Throughout the day, complimentary snacks, fresh fruit, tea, coffee, and drinking water are readily available. After the final dive, guests can gather at the bar to purchase a cold beer or other beverage. Constructed in 2018, the Amaya Explorer is a modern, 35-meter motor yacht designed for long-range cruising. Its 7.5-meter beam contributes to a stable ride across open seas. Power is supplied by a reliable CAT 3406 Ci engine, enabling a cruising speed between 7 and 10 knots to efficiently cover the distances between remote island groups. The vessel is certified to carry 17 guests and is supported by a professional crew. Onboard systems include significant freshwater generation and storage capacity, essential for extended expeditions. Satellite-based WiFi is also available, allowing guests to stay connected while traveling through areas with limited connectivity. The Amaya Explorer operates a rotating schedule of itineraries focused on Indonesia's premier dive destinations. Routes typically follow the seasons, concentrating on Komodo National Park from approximately May to October, with departures from Labuan Bajo. During the winter months, from November to April, the vessel repositions to West Papua to run trips through the Raja Ampat archipelago, operating out of Sorong. This liveaboard is an excellent choice for divers who prioritize a comfortable and functional base for an action-packed dive trip. It appeals to underwater photographers, marine life enthusiasts, and any adventurer looking for a well-organized exploration of Indonesia’s world-class underwater ecosystems.

Vessel Specifications

Cabins

Itineraries

Komodo (Labuan Bajo - Labuan Bajo)

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights

Embarkation: Labuan Bajo

This 6-day voyage explores the renowned Komodo National Park, starting and ending in Labuan Bajo. The itinerary features diving in the park's northern, central, and southern regions, offering encounters with manta rays, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. Besides diving, the trip includes land excursions such as trekking on Padar Island for sunrise and Gili Lawa Darat for sunset views. Max guests on this trip: 17.

Crossing Komodo - Alor (Labuan Bajo - Alor)

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Embarkation: Labuan Bajo

This 9-day, one-way voyage travels from Labuan Bajo to Alor, offering a comprehensive Indonesian diving experience. The journey begins in the renowned Komodo region, featuring a land excursion to see Komodo dragons, before crossing to the islands of Palue and Adonara. The trip culminates with several days exploring the rich and diverse underwater ecosystems of Alor, completing a total of approximately 18 dives. Max guests on this trip: 17.

Alor - Banda Sea (Alor - Ambon)

Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Embarkation: Alor

This 11-day expedition traverses some of Indonesia's most acclaimed marine regions, from Alor to the Banda Sea, ending in Ambon. The journey is designed for experienced divers and highlights a variety of underwater environments, including vibrant reefs, volcanic seamounts, and historical wreck sites. Guests will have opportunities to see everything from tiny macro critters to large pelagic species like hammerhead sharks, complemented by excellent visibility and scenic island excursions.

Banda Sea (Ambon - Ambon)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Tulehu port

This 8-day diving cruise explores the Banda Sea, starting and ending in Ambon. The journey covers historical sites like Banda Neira and offers exceptional diving opportunities, including the chance to witness schooling hammerhead sharks. Guests will be picked up from the airport and transferred to the vessel, embarking on an adventure through the remote and biodiverse waters of the Spice Islands.