Samambaia · Indonesia · 11 nights
This 11-night liveaboard journey with the MV Samambaia explores the vibrant underwater world of East Flores and the Banda Sea. This itinerary offers a unique blend of diverse marine habitats, from the critter-rich black sands of volcanic islands to the pristine reefs and pelagic encounters of the Banda Sea. Divers can expect a mix of macro photography opportunities and thrilling drift dives, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands and the legendary 'Ring of Fire'. This trip is a provisional itinerary, subject to change based on conditions and guest preferences.
Guests will arrive in Maumere, Flores, where they will be met by the crew at the airport. After transfer to the vessel, embarkation procedures will be completed, followed by a general orientation to the liveaboard and the exciting journey ahead. There are no planned dives on this day.
Following an initial general dive briefing, the day begins with a check dive in the morning, focusing on safety and comfort. Subsequently, two macro-focused dives will be conducted around the small island of Serbete and Adonara, offering opportunities to observe diverse small marine life within its protected reef environment.
Today's diving focuses on the unique black sand environments of Lembata, renowned as a haven for fascinating macro critters. Divers can expect to find a variety of unusual and rare species that thrive in the volcanic sandy beds, making it an excellent day for dedicated underwater photography. Expect one or more dives to explore these specialized habitats.
Two dives are scheduled in the vicinity of Komba, an active underwater volcano known for its unique geological formations and potential for diverse marine life. The area is characterized by dramatic underwater landscapes created by volcanic activity, offering a dynamic backdrop for exploration. Divers should prepare for varying conditions around this active site.
Alor and Pura offer excellent opportunities for exhilarating drift dives, with several sites known for their strong currents and potential pelagic encounters. Dive sites like Oceanic Sunfish, Big Dogtooth Tuna, and Thresher Sharks are renowned for their vibrant reefs and diverse marine ecosystems. Expect to see a variety of schooling fish and larger marine species.
Dive sites: Oceanic Sunfish, Big Dogtooth Tuna, Thresher Sharks, School's Out, Anemone City, The Great Wall of Pantar
Today is dedicated to exploring the macro life and unique ecosystems near the famous Lembata Strait around Beangabang. The area is well-prepared for cold water upwellings, which typically bring in a wealth of nutrients and attract an abundance of small critters. This day focuses on detailed observation and photography of tiny marine inhabitants, with no night dive planned.
Three or more dives are planned around Alor, offering a wide array of choices based on the group's preferences. The diving here can include both active, current-fueled drift dives and focused critter hunting in shallower areas. An afternoon dive at a particularly beautiful wall, known for its rare secrets, concludes the day.
Reong, a small island in the Banda Sea, marks the last stop before heading into the wider Banda Sea. The diving here features vibrant wall dives with numerous small caves and overhangs. These structures provide refuge for nurse sharks and offer opportunities for observation of diverse reef life in the shallow, pristine coral gardens.
Gunung Api, also known as the Snake Islands, is dedicated to encountering large numbers of sea snakes. Two dives are planned around these islands, where Silver Tip Sharks and Hammerhead Sharks are also commonly sighted. The waters here are known for their clarity, offering excellent visibility for observing these fascinating marine inhabitants and larger pelagics.
The Lucipara group of seven islands in the central Banda Sea offers exceptional deep wall dives. The Dutch seafarers named this group the Schilpad Islands, and it is known for having unspoiled nesting grounds for a significant population of sea turtles. Divers will explore vibrant wall ecosystems and potentially see numerous turtles.
Today offers more muck diving opportunities, with Ambon being famous for its unique critter inhabitants. Species like Rhinophias, Frogfish, Ghost Pipefish, Harlequin Shrimps, and the rare Psychedelic Frogfish are often found here. More dives are planned before lunch, and if conditions allow, a land-based excursion in Ambon will be offered before the return to the ship.
On the final day, guests will complete their check-out procedures and transfer to the airport according to their flight schedules. The crew will assist with luggage and ensure smooth departures, offering options for early flights or connecting to other destinations within the Banda Sea region.