Blue Manta · Indonesia · 9D8N
This itinerary explores Indonesia's legendary Banda Sea, also known as the 'Ring of Fire,' on a round-trip from Ambon. The journey offers a spectacular diversity of diving, from the world-class muck sites of Ambon Bay, teeming with rare and unusual critters, to the vibrant, current-swept reefs of the Banda Islands. The remote volcanic islands of Manuk and Serua provide a thrilling highlight, with deep-water diving in search of large schools of scalloped hammerhead sharks. This trip is an adventure into a remote and pelagic-rich environment, combining macro wonders with big-fish action.
Upon arrival at Pattimura Airport in Ambon, or from a local hotel, you will be met by staff and transferred to the awaiting vessel. It is recommended to arrive before midday to allow for check dives in Ambon Bay before the boat departs around 2 PM for an overnight journey.
Today is dedicated to exploring the pristine coral reefs around Saparua and Nusa Laut. These islands are known for their healthy reef systems and diverse marine life. After the dives, the vessel will set sail towards the Banda Islands. Saparua and Nusa Laut boast vibrant coral gardens, vertical walls, and gentle slopes, teeming with reef fish, nudibranchs, and occasional pelagics. These islands are particularly special for their untouched hard coral formations and the possibility of spotting larger fish like trevally and barracuda patrolling the reefs.
The next two days involve diving around the historic Banda Islands, offering excellent visibility, fantastic coral coverage, and an abundance of fish. There is potential for hammerhead shark sightings and a visit to one of the famous Spice Islands.
The next two days involve diving around the historic Banda Islands, offering excellent visibility, fantastic coral coverage, and an abundance of fish. There is potential for hammerhead shark sightings and a visit to one of the famous Spice Islands.
The next three days focus on diving around the volcanic islands and stunning seamounts within the 'Ring of Fire'. This area is known for encounters with numerous sea snakes, large schools of fish, reef sharks, tuna, and other pelagic species, with a primary objective of finding hammerhead sharks.
The next three days focus on diving around the volcanic islands and stunning seamounts within the 'Ring of Fire'. This area is known for encounters with numerous sea snakes, large schools of fish, reef sharks, tuna, and other pelagic species, with a primary objective of finding hammerhead sharks.
The next three days focus on diving around the volcanic islands and stunning seamounts within the 'Ring of Fire'. This area is known for encounters with numerous sea snakes, large schools of fish, reef sharks, tuna, and other pelagic species, with a primary objective of finding hammerhead sharks.
Today includes a visit to Hukurila Cave and Molana for the final dives of the trip. Afterward, the vessel sails back to Ambon for the last night onboard. This allows ample time to wash and dry gear, relax, and make arrangements for early flights the following day.
Dive sites: Hukurila Cave, Molana
After a light breakfast, check-out will take place between 5 AM and 12 PM. You will then be transferred to a local hotel or the airport for your onward journey.