Indo Master · Indonesia · 11D/10N
This itinerary involves some long-distance travel, including several overnight cruising periods. While we endeavour to ensure the number of scheduled dives is fulfilled, bad weather and sea conditions can hinder the vessel's ability to reach or remain at specific dive sites and may impact the number of dives possible. Your Cruise Director will schedule up to 3 or 4 dives per day, depending on cruising distances; Typically this will comprise 3 day dives and, depending on the boat's location, either a sunset or a night dive. The following is an example of the 10-night itinerary route, which is only intended as a general indication of the areas covered - the order and time spent at each location may vary from one trip to the next.
Ambon, Maluku
Arrive in Ambon and transfer to the harbor to board the vessel. After settling into your cabin, you will receive a welcome briefing from the crew before dinner.
Good to know: The vessel will remain in port for the first night.
Ambon Bay
The day begins with a check dive to ensure all equipment is in order and to familiarize yourself with the area's conditions. Depending on the schedule, one or two more dives may be offered, exploring the renowned muck diving sites of Ambon Bay before the vessel begins its journey south.
Dive sites: Ambon Bay
Pulau Suanggi
Arrive at the remote island of Suanggi, known for its healthy reefs and excellent visibility. The day's dives will feature colorful walls, interesting swim-throughs, and an abundance of reef fish.
Manuk Island
Explore the volcanic island of Manuk, a habitat famous for its resident olive and banded sea snakes. While diving the submerged volcanic slopes, keep an eye on the blue for passing manta rays or sharks.
Serua & Nil Desperandum
Venture to the exposed, deep-water pinnacles of Serua and Nil Desperandum. The primary focus is seeking adrenaline-filled encounters with schooling scalloped hammerheads, particularly at a dive site known as 'Jackpot'.
Dive sites: Jackpot
Good to know: Diving in this area is highly dependent on weather and current conditions.
Serua & Nil Desperandum
Spend a second day in this pelagic-rich area to maximize opportunities for big animal sightings. The nutrient-rich currents attract not only hammerheads but also large schools of jacks, tuna, and other open-ocean predators.
Manuk Island
Return to Manuk Island to explore a different side of its underwater ecosystem. The focus shifts to muck and critter diving, searching the dark sand for unique macro subjects, with a chance to spot mandarin fish on a dusk dive.
Banda Islands
Arrive at the legendary Spice Islands, where history and diving intertwine. In between dives on vibrant coral gardens and walls, there will be an opportunity for a land tour to explore the colonial-era forts and learn about the region's past.
Good to know: Number of dives may vary to accommodate the land excursion.
Banda Islands
Dedicate a full day to exploring more of the fantastic dive sites around the Banda archipelago. The underwater topography is varied, with sloping reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and large fields of pristine hard corals.
Banda Sea
Enjoy the last two dives of the trip at a spectacular site on the route back towards Ambon. After the dives, rinse your gear and relax as the vessel commences its overnight crossing back to the port.
Good to know: Fewer dives are scheduled to allow for adequate off-gassing time before flying.
Ambon, Maluku
After a final breakfast on board, you will be transferred to the Ambon airport for your onward journey. This concludes the liveaboard expedition.