Banda Sea

Indo Master · Indonesia · 8D/7N

Duration
8D/7N
Embarkation
Ambon
Disembarkation
Ambon
Dives
19

About this route

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 7-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.

Day-by-day plan

  1. Day 1: Embarkation in Ambon

    Ambon, Maluku

    You will be met at the Ambon airport and transferred to the harbor to board the vessel. After settling into your cabin, you will receive boat and safety briefings before dinner as the vessel prepares for its departure.

    Good to know: It is highly recommended to arrive the day before embarkation to account for potential domestic flight delays.

  2. Day 2: Diving Pulau Suanggi

    Pulau Suanggi

    The first day of diving begins at Pulau Suanggi, a small island featuring vibrant coral reefs. After an initial check dive, you'll explore the area's impressive walls and swim-throughs teeming with colorful fish.

    Dive sites: Pulau Suanggi

    Good to know: A typical day includes three day dives and one sunset or night dive.

  3. Day 3: Manuk, the Snake Island

    Manuk Island

    The journey continues to volcanic Manuk Island, nicknamed 'Snake Island' for its resident olive and banded sea snakes. Dives here offer chances to see these curious reptiles, with the possibility of spotting larger pelagics in the blue.

    Dive sites: Manuk Island

  4. Day 4: Hammerheads at Serua & Nil Desperandum

    Serua & Nil Desperandum

    Today's dives are in the open ocean at Serua Island and the submerged atoll of Nil Desperandum. The focus is on sites like 'Jackpot', a seamount known for attracting schooling hammerhead sharks in the deep, clear water.

    Dive sites: Jackpot, Nil Desperandum

    Good to know: Hammerhead sightings are seasonal and depend on oceanic conditions.

  5. Day 5: Macro Life of Manuk

    Manuk Island

    Returning to Manuk, the focus shifts from pelagics to macro life, exploring a different side of the island. Muck diving enthusiasts can search the slopes for cryptic critters, with a dusk dive offering a chance to find mandarin fish.

    Dive sites: Manuk Island

  6. Day 6: Historic Banda Islands

    Banda Islands

    The vessel arrives at the historic Banda Islands, the original 'Spice Islands'. Dives here are characterized by vibrant coral gardens and a high density of marine life, set against a backdrop of rich colonial history.

    Dive sites: Banda Islands

    Good to know: A land tour may be offered to explore the local history and culture.

  7. Day 7: Ambon Bay Muck Diving

    Ambon Bay

    The final day of diving takes place in the famous Ambon Bay, a world-class muck diving destination. The last dives of the trip are dedicated to finding rare and unusual critters on the dark, sandy bottom.

    Dive sites: Ambon Bay

    Good to know: Fewer dives are scheduled to allow for sufficient off-gassing before flying.

  8. Day 8: Disembarkation

    Ambon, Maluku

    Enjoy a final breakfast on board with fellow guests and the crew. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the Ambon airport for your onward flight.

Upcoming departures

  • 2026-10-22 – 2026-10-29from 4,144 USDBook
  • 2027-10-07 – 2027-10-14from 4,025 USDBook
  • 2028-10-06 – 2028-10-13from 4,025 USDBook
  • 2028-10-14 – 2028-10-21from 4,025 USDBook
  • 2029-10-11 – 2029-10-18from 4,200 USDBook

All routes of this liveaboard

Back to vessel: Indo Master