Ondina · Indonesia · 10 nights
This immersive journey connects three of Indonesia's most iconic dive destinations: Raja Ampat, Halmahera, and Lembeh. The itinerary traverses diverse ecosystems, from the vibrant coral reefs of Raja Ampat and Halmahera to the unique muck diving sites of Lembeh Strait. Guests can anticipate a dynamic blend of wide-angle reef photography and macro critter hunting, offering contrasting underwater experiences. This trip caters to divers seeking both pristine coral landscapes and the thrill of discovering rare, unusual marine life.
Upon arrival in Sorong, guests will be transferred to the vessel where a warm welcome and cabin assignments await. After settling in, there will be time to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. An afternoon check-in dive is scheduled in the waters around Sorong, followed by an overnight cruise to Dampier Strait.
Today's dives focus on the famed reefs of Dampier Strait, known for their exceptional biodiversity and strong currents attracting pelagic action. Specific sites like Sardine Reef, Blue Magic, and Mioskon offer vibrant coral gardens and schooling fish. An additional night dive is planned at Saporkren, a renowned spot for observing the blacktip reef shark breeding beach at Yillet.
Dive sites: Sardine Reef, Blue Magic, Mioskon, Saporkren
The day is dedicated to diving in the 'Family' area, which encompasses the western end of Dampier Strait. Dive sites like My Reef, Melissa's Garden, and The Lagoon are explored, showcasing the spectacular coral formations and abundant marine life. The area is known for its diverse hard and soft corals and a wide array of reef fish, culminating in an evening sail towards Misool.
Dive sites: My Reef, Melissa's Garden, The Lagoon
Exploration of Misool continues with dives at classic sites such as Fiabacet, Whale Rock, Pulau Boo, and Shadow Reef (also known as Magic Mountain). These iconic locations are celebrated for their dramatic topography, vibrant soft coral gardens, and the sheer abundance of marine life. This region is a highlight for many divers, offering breathtaking underwater scenery.
Dive sites: Fiabacet, Whale Rock, Pulau Boo, Shadow Reef (Magic Mountain)
Two morning dives are scheduled around Waylibatan, Four King, or Wedding Cake, famous for their pristine reefs and rich biodiversity. In the afternoon, a third dive is dedicated to Kaleidoscope Ridge on Pele Island. The Misool region is widely regarded for its healthy coral ecosystems and the incredible density of marine species, offering unforgettable diving experiences.
Dive sites: Waylibatan, Four King, Wedding Cake, Kaleidoscope Ridge (Pele Island)
Today's diving centers around Pulau Pisang, where three day dives will explore its soft coral gardens, schools of horse mackerel, and surgeonfish. The area is known for its vibrant reef life and impressive schooling fish formations. Following the dives, an overnight cruise will take the vessel to Patintie Strait, preparing for the next leg of the journey.
Dive sites: Pulau Pisang
Diving today occurs in areas heavily influenced by strong currents within the Patintie Strait, presenting exciting drift dive opportunities. Sites such as Proco Channel, Batu Jabu, and Ric's Rock are explored. These currents often bring nutrient-rich waters, attracting a variety of pelagic species. A night dive in a sheltered bay precedes the onward journey towards the Goraici group.
Dive sites: Proco Channel, Batu Jabu, Ric's Rock
The day features three daytime dives around the Goraici group, visiting sites like Reenie's Rock, Pulau Goweba, and Terumbu Gora. This region typically offers diverse reef systems with a good mix of macro and wide-angle subjects. Following the dives, an overnight navigation will take the vessel towards Pulau Tifore, continuing the journey through these rich Indonesian waters.
Dive sites: Reenie's Rock, Pulau Goweba, Terumbu Gora
Two morning dives are scheduled at Pantai Sago, featuring a wall dive known for large schools of barracudas. An afternoon dive will explore a hard coral garden on the northern coast of the island. This day promises exciting encounters with schooling fish and beautiful coral landscapes. The night navigation will then proceed to Lembeh, transitioning towards the final segment of the trip.
Dive sites: Pantai Sago
Today is dedicated to the renowned muck diving in Lembeh Strait, a globally famous destination for macro photography and critter hunting. Four dives are planned, allowing ample opportunity to search for rare and unusual creatures inhabiting the volcanic black sand. This unique environment offers a completely different diving experience compared to the vibrant coral reefs encountered earlier in the trip.
Dive sites: Lembeh Strait
The morning begins with two final dives in Lembeh, offering one last chance to discover its unique macro wonders. In the afternoon, guests will visit the Tangkoko Nature Reserve, a terrestrial excursion to see tarsiers, small nocturnal primates endemic to the region. This visit provides a fascinating contrast to the underwater world before preparations for departure begin.
Dive sites: Lembeh Strait