Queenesia II · Indonesia · 8D/7N
Embark on an extraordinary diving expedition through Indonesia, delving into the captivating depths over 18 meticulously planned dives. Your adventure commences with an eastward journey, immersing you in the vibrant marine ecosystems of the region. Prepare for exhilarating drift dives along a dynamic drift channel, where the brisk currents propel you past an explosion of colorful reef life. You'll then navigate through stunning rock formations and intricate coral gardens, encountering diverse coral species. Throughout this sub-aquatic exploration, keep a keen eye out for the majestic whale sharks, a truly awe-inspiring sight in their natural habitat, alongside playful dolphins and graceful manta rays. The itinerary promises a consistent rhythm of day and night dives, offering varied perspectives of the underwater world in this spectacular destination. Each day unfolds with new opportunities to witness the rich biodiversity, from teeming schools of fish to the elusive smaller critters hidden within the coral formations. This journey is designed to deliver an intense and fulfilling diving experience, showcasing the pristine beauty of Indonesia's underwater realm.
Ambon, Maluku
Guests are transferred from Ambon's airport to the vessel for boarding. Following a welcome briefing and an introduction to the crew and safety procedures, the boat will prepare for its overnight departure.
Ambon Bay
The day is dedicated to exploring the black sand slopes of Ambon Bay, a world-famous location for muck diving. The focus is on finding rare and unusual macro life, with opportunities to spot critters like frogfish, ghost pipefish, and various nudibranchs.
Dive sites: Laha, Twilight Zone
Good to know: Night dive is often available to witness the area's nocturnal creatures.
Nusa Laut
After a crossing, the journey pauses at the island of Nusa Laut for the day's dives. The clear waters here host incredibly healthy and dense hard coral reefs that support a vibrant population of reef fish. Later, the vessel continues its journey east.
Dive sites: Amet Garden, Lein Laha
Good to know: An overnight cruise takes the vessel to the central Banda Islands.
Banda Islands
Wake up in the heart of the historic Spice Islands. Diving takes place around the volcanic island of Gunung Api, where a past eruption created a unique reef of fast-growing Acropora corals, now a massive, thriving coral garden.
Dive sites: Lava Flow, Pohon Miring
Banda Neira & Hatta Island
Today's dives explore the outer walls of the Banda archipelago, particularly around Hatta Island. These deep drop-offs offer the chance to see larger pelagic life, including tuna and occasionally schooling hammerhead sharks. In the afternoon, guests can go ashore to explore the historic town of Banda Neira.
Dive sites: Hatta Island Wall, Batu Kapal
Good to know: Land excursions often include a visit to a 17th-century Dutch fort and a local nutmeg plantation.
Manuk Island
The vessel travels to the remote Manuk Island, an active volcano renowned for its resident population of sea snakes. Divers can safely observe dozens of banded sea kraits and olive sea snakes hunting amidst volcanic bubble streams and thriving fish life.
Dive sites: Snake Pit, Hot Rocks
Good to know: This is an offshore open-ocean island, so the visit is dependent on favorable weather and sea conditions.
South Ambon
The final dives of the trip explore the dramatic topography of Ambon's southern coastline. Sites here feature impressive archways and caverns covered in soft corals. After the morning dives, the vessel begins its cruise back to port.
Dive sites: Pintu Kota, Hukurila Cave
Good to know: Guests will have the afternoon to wash and dry their equipment while cruising back to Ambon.
Ambon, Maluku
After a final breakfast on board, guests disembark from the vessel. A transfer is provided to the local airport for flights home or to a next destination.