Sunshine Liveaboard · Indonesia · 6 nights
This incredible journey takes divers through the rich marine ecosystems of North Sulawesi, exploring dynamic coral formations and vibrant black sand sites. The route begins in Saronde, known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, before heading to the dramatic walls of Bunaken. Divers will also experience the famous soft corals and macro life around Bangka Island, and the unique critter diving in Lembeh's renowned black sand slopes. Expect exhilarating encounters with barracudas, hammerheads, and the opportunity to spot pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs.
Today marks the start of your liveaboard adventure. Guests will meet at the designated port in Saronde for check-in and embarkation. After boarding, the crew will provide a comprehensive safety briefing, and there will be time to set up dive gear. Depending on sea conditions, light diving might be possible in the afternoon as the boat prepares for the journey ahead.
The next five days are dedicated to exploring the diverse dive sites of the region, including the dramatic walls of Bunaken National Marine Park. This area is renowned for its spectacular deep walls, vibrant drift diving, and frequent encounters with various marine creatures. Divers can expect up to four dives daily, which may include night dives, guided by experienced professionals.
Continuing the journey, divers will explore more of Bunaken's rich underwater landscapes and transition to the vibrant reefs around Bangka Island. Bangka is celebrated for its pristine soft corals and abundant macro critters like pygmy seahorses and various nudibranchs. The area also hosts colourful marine ecosystems, providing diverse diving experiences with up to four dives planned for the day, potentially including night dives.
Today focuses on the exceptional diving opportunities around Bangka Island, known for its lush soft corals and thriving macro life. This region is a paradise for underwater photographers and enthusiasts of small, fascinating critters such as pygmy seahorses and various nudibranchs. Divers will experience rich reef environments, with up to four dives scheduled, including the possibility of night dives, guided by expert dive professionals.
The expedition moves to the world-renowned Lembeh Strait, famous for its unparalleled muck diving experiences. This unique environment features black sand slopes that are home to an extraordinary array of bizarre and rare marine creatures, from flamboyant cuttlefish to hairy frogfish. Divers can expect to explore vibrant coral reefs and seek out unique critters in this prolific area, with up to four dives planned, including potential night dives.
The final full day of diving continues in the exceptional Lembeh Strait, a globally recognized hotspot for macro and critter photography. The black sand seabed and diverse range of habitats make it an ideal location for spotting elusive species like the mimic octopus, various frogfish, and vibrant nudibranchs. Divers will complete their diving itinerary with up to four dives, focusing on the incredible biodiversity of this unique region.
After a final breakfast on board, guests will disembark in Bitung. Transfers to the airport or onward destinations will be arranged. It is recommended that divers wait at least 24 hours after their last dive before flying, ensuring a safe end to an unforgettable diving expedition.