La Galigo · Indonesia · 9 nights
Embark on an incredible 10-day journey beyond the famous Komodo region, focusing on the chance to encounter majestic whale sharks. This route explores the rich waters of Indonesia, where divers can expect vibrant coral gardens teeming with diverse fish life, from schooling barracuda to graceful sharks. Prepare for breathtaking underwater landscapes and the possibility of unforgettable encounters with gentle giants in their natural habitat. The itinerary combines remote diving areas with visits to cultural sites and scenic waterfalls.
Upon arrival in Labuan Bajo, guests will be welcomed aboard and shown to their cabins. After a safety briefing, the vessel will cruise towards the calm waters of Sebayur Kecil. Here, a check dive offers an introduction to the vibrant coral gardens, schooling fish, and the occasional turtle that inhabit the reef. The day concludes with a scenic sunset over Palau Kalong, known for its display of Flying Foxes.
Today's dives explore the central Komodo National Park, particularly Tatawa Besar, where fields of orange soft corals thrive. The area is known for strong currents that provide nutrient-rich waters supporting a diverse marine ecosystem. Additionally, a dive in Batu Balong showcases a majestic pinnacle rising from deep blue waters, bustling with marine life and covered in colorful corals.
The journey continues through the Central Komodo region, passing various islands like Padar, Pengah Kecil, and Mawon. Divers will explore vibrant coral reefs and rock formations. In the afternoon, a trek up Padar Island offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands, followed by an evening dive at Padar Kecil, known for its interesting macro life and potential for unique encounters.
Today focuses on the southern waters of Komodo, particularly Manta Alley, a cleaning station where numerous reef manta rays gather. The strong currents here often provide exceptional opportunities for close encounters with these majestic creatures. In the afternoon, the boat heads towards Komodo Island, with a chance to spot the Komodo Dragons before an evening dive at a site known for its diverse macro life and interesting reef inhabitants.
The day is spent exploring the northern areas of Komodo, with dives around Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, and Golden Passage. These sites are renowned for their strong currents and abundant pelagic life, including swirling schools of trevallies, fusiliers, and patrolling reef sharks. The afternoon offers a chance to visit Batu Monco for a peaceful night dive, revealing the reef's nocturnal inhabitants.
The vessel arrives at Sangeang Island, an area known for its geothermal activity that creates a unique underwater landscape. Dives at Hot Rocks, Lighthouse, and Deep Purple feature bubbles rising from the seabed amidst colorful coral gardens. In the afternoon, a visit to Kampung Bontoh offers a traditional Phinisi boat building experience, followed by a night dive to spot unique critters like Spanish Dancers and Bobtail Squid.
The first dive at Satonda Island offers a beautiful coral slope teeming with schooling fish, sea fans, and occasional turtles. Depending on conditions, a second dive might be held at Tanjung Brenti, known for its diverse reef life and pelagic sightings. In the afternoon, guests hike to a crater lake formed by a major volcanic eruption. The day concludes with a night dive at Satonda Reed, revealing a world of shrimps, crabs, and tiny nocturnal fish.
Moyo Island offers dives at sites like Little Angel and Angel Reef, where extensive coral fields and diverse reef sharks can be found. A short jungle walk to Mata Jitu Waterfall provides a refreshing freshwater swim. The day typically includes dives in the shallow waters near the village, an enchanting site with tiny nocturnal creatures and macro treasures, ideal for photographers.
Today marks one of the most unforgettable moments of the journey, with a chance to meet the gentle giants of the sea. The boat will gather in the calm waters of Saleh Bay, a location where traditional Indonesian fishing platforms, known as Bagans, attract both fishermen and whale sharks. This offers an incredible opportunity for unique encounters with these magnificent creatures.
After breakfast, guests say goodbye to the crew and prepare for disembarkation in Sumbawa Besar. The journey concludes, leaving guests with memories of whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs. Divers are recommended to wait for 24 hours before flying after their last dive.
No departures scheduled for this route right now.