Hatiku · Indonesia · 12D/11N
Hatiku Liveaboard invites you on an exhilarating 12-day journey through the Indonesian archipelago, exploring the legendary Ring of Fire. This remote and biodiverse region, renowned for its active volcanoes and seismic activity, promises a dynamic underwater adventure. Guests can anticipate encountering vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine ecosystems, and a rich array of pelagic life. Please note that dive sites may be subject to change due to weather and local conditions.
Day one begins with guests arriving in Kalabahi Bay before noon. After lunch and settling into cabins, the afternoon features a check dive in the vibrant coral reefs of Kalabahi Bay. This initial dive allows guests to adjust their gear and get comfortable in the water, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. The evening concludes with dinner onboard.
The day's highlight is a morning dive or snorkeling excursion around Pulau Sika, actively searching for the famed resident dugong, 'Mawar,' in its vast seagrass habitat. This area is known for its rich seagrass beds, providing an ideal environment for these gentle marine mammals. After this unique encounter, the Hatiku will begin a 15-hour overnight cruise towards Reong Island.
Dive sites: Pulau Sika
Today offers a deep dive into the underwater wonders around Reong and Wetar Islands. Reong Island provides rich marine ecosystems to explore, with opportunities to encounter a variety of unique underwater species amidst vibrant coral gardens. Following this, the itinerary includes a dive at Wetar, known for its pristine reefs and diverse fish populations, before setting sail towards Nyata Island.
Dive sites: Reong Island, Wetar
Today features two thrilling dives at Nyata Island, famed for its spectacular underwater landscapes and diverse marine life. Divers can expect to explore vibrant coral formations and encounter various reef species. Later, the boat moves to Kital Island for an additional dive, focusing on its intriguing underwater habitat. The day concludes with a cruise towards Terbang Island, promising more exciting adventures.
Dive sites: Nyata Island, Kital Island
Terbang Island offers diverse diving experiences, starting with a dive at North Terbang Island to showcase its vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. The expedition then continues to South Terbang Island for two more exhilarating dives, exploring the rich marine biodiversity of the area, which often includes pelagic species. The day concludes with a relaxing cruise to the remote Desperandum Atoll.
Dive sites: North Terbang Island, South Terbang Island
Hatiku explores the remote Nil Desperandum atoll, offering three dives that highlight its deep slopes and beautiful shallow reefs. This isolated atoll is known for its pristine conditions and abundant marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of reef fish and potentially larger pelagic species as they explore diverse underwater topographies.
Dive sites: Nil Desperandum Atoll
Today, three dives are scheduled at Serua Island, a remote volcanic island located in the middle of the Banda Sea. This isolated site is known for its pristine reef walls and vibrant marine ecosystems. Divers can expect to see a variety of reef fish, schooling pelagics, and potentially larger species that frequent these undisturbed waters.
Dive sites: Serua Island
Manuk Island, also known as 'Snake Island,' is a must-visit dive site in the Banda Sea, with three dives scheduled for the day. This active volcano is renowned for its numerous sea snakes, which are a common sight. Divers will explore its vibrant reefs and observe diverse marine life, including schools of pelagic fish attracted to the nutrient-rich waters.
Dive sites: Manuk Island
Today combines two dives around Hatta Island, known for its healthy reefs and diverse marine inhabitants, with a historically significant land visit. After exploring the underwater beauty, guests will visit Fort Belgica in Banda Neira, a well-preserved colonial fortress offering insights into the region's rich spice trade history. This provides a balance of cultural immersion and underwater exploration.
Dive sites: Hatta Island
Suanggi Island is the last remote island on the itinerary with high chances of encountering schooling hammerhead sharks. Three dives are planned around this isolated island, located a few hours north of Banda Neira. The deep waters and strong currents often attract large pelagics, making it a thrilling dive site for shark enthusiasts. After the dives, the Hatiku sails towards Nusa Laut.
Dive sites: Suanggi Island
Nusa Laut offers two dives set against its beautifully preserved coral reefs, providing excellent opportunities to spot sea turtles and diverse macro species. The healthy reef systems boast a rich variety of marine life, from colorful nudibranchs to schooling reef fish. This day offers a tranquil yet vibrant diving experience before an afternoon cruise back towards Ambon Harbor.
Dive sites: Nusa Laut
Today marks the conclusion of the Ring of Fire adventure. Guests will enjoy a final breakfast onboard before checking out and disembarking at Ambon Harbor, taking with them unforgettable memories of their extraordinary journey.