Ondina · Indonesia · 9 nights
This unique liveaboard journey through Indonesia's pristine marine ecosystems takes divers from North Sulawesi to the remote Togian Islands. The diverse cross-bioregional frontier offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore wild nature in all its forms, from the smallest, most unusual animals to the vastness of the deep blue. This expedition promises a rich tapestry of marine biodiversity, showcasing its peak.
Upon arrival in Luwuk, guests will embark on the boat and complete check-in procedures. The day concludes with setting up in cabins, followed by a night dive in Lembeh, offering a chance to spot unique nocturnal critters in its renowned muck diving sites.
Today is dedicated to full-day diving around Bangka Island. This region is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, offering opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography. Expect two day dives and a night dive, exploring the rich biodiversity of the area.
Diving continues in the eastern coast of Lembeh Strait, a world-renowned destination for muck diving. The area's volcanic black sands and soft coral reefs create a unique habitat for rare and tiny creatures. Depending on weather conditions, the group may opt for further muck diving or explore the straits around Tanjung Flesko.
Around Tanujung Flesko, known as "the elbow" of North Sulawesi, divers will explore sites such as Batu Mandi, Karang Pelo, and Pulau Pondang. This area often features dynamic currents and diverse topography, making for exciting drift dives and encounters with schooling fish. The day concludes with an overnight sail to Gorontalo.
Dive sites: Batu Mandi, Karang Pelo, Pulau Pondang
The morning is dedicated to diving with whale sharks near Gorontalo, a highlight for many divers seeking these magnificent creatures. Following these memorable encounters, afternoon dives will take place in Olele Marine Park, at sites known for their vibrant reefs and abundant marine life such as Sentinels and Traffic Jam. The night is spent sailing to the Togian Islands.
Dive sites: Sentinels, Traffic Jam
The full day is spent diving in the northern margins of the Togian Islands, specifically in Teluk Tomini. This region is renowned for its majestic vertical walls and hard coral reefs, which often feature schools of fish and a variety of pelagic species. Multiple dives are planned, including a night dive, to fully explore this rich underwater landscape.
Diving continues in the westernmost areas of the Togian Islands, including sites like Una Una, which is famously known for its impressive schools of jacks and barracudas. This area often features strong currents, making for exciting drift dives and abundant pelagic encounters. Expect an exhilarating day of diving with large schools of fish.
Today's dives include an exploration of a B-24 bomber plane wreck, a fascinating historical site. The wreck is often found in a deep channel separating the two groups of Togian Islands, providing unique opportunities for underwater photography and exploration. Afternoon dives will complement the wreck dive, exploring nearby reefs.
Dive sites: B-24 bomber wreck
The day's diving focuses on the eastern coastal area of the central arm of Sulawesi, featuring sites like Batu Tetek and Magic Reef. These sites are known for their vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life, offering excellent opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography. After the dives, the vessel begins its sail back to Luwuk, with preparations for departure the following morning.
Dive sites: Batu Tetek, Magic Reef
Guests will disembark in Bitung after breakfast, concluding the trip. Transfers to the airport or onward travel arrangements will be facilitated.