Wellenreng · Indonesia · 11D/10N
This 11-day expedition links the Banda Sea with Raja Ampat, sailing from Ambon to Sorong with up to 29 dives planned. After embarkation and a check dive in Ambon Bay, the journey heads into the Banda Sea, setting the stage for a diverse and progressive diving adventure across two iconic regions. The Banda Sea portion includes Nusa Laut, Suanggi, the Banda Islands, Manuk, Hatta, and Koon Island. Expect pristine reefs, dramatic walls, volcanic landscapes, dense schooling fish, and wide-angle diving, with chances of encountering hammerhead sharks. A visit ashore at historic Banda Neira adds a cultural highlight to the underwater exploration. The second half of the trip focuses on Misool in southern Raja Ampat, diving world-class sites in Boo, Yellit, Fiabacet, and Daram. Rich soft corals, manta encounters, vibrant fish life, and colorful walls define the experience, before the journey concludes in Sorong after an exceptional cross-region expedition.
Ambon, Maluku
Upon arrival at Pattimura Airport in Ambon, you will be transferred to the harbor to board the vessel. After a welcome briefing and settling into your cabin, the boat will prepare for an overnight departure towards the Banda Islands.
Banda Islands
The first dives take place in the waters of the historic Spice Islands. The day's exploration targets vibrant walls and pinnacles with a chance to spot large fish, followed by a land excursion to explore the colonial history of Banda Neira.
Dive sites: Lava Flow, Batu Kapal
Suanggi Island / Manuk Island
The journey continues to the remote volcanic islands of the 'Ring of Fire'. Depending on conditions, dives will be at either Suanggi, known for seasonal hammerhead schools, or Manuk, an island famous for its abundance of sea snakes.
Good to know: Dive location is dependent on weather and sea conditions, with hammerhead sightings being seasonal.
Hatta Island & Pulau Run
Diving continues around the outlying islands of the Banda archipelago, such as Hatta and Run. These sites are recognized for their pristine coral-covered walls and the potential to encounter large pelagic species in the deep blue.
Dive sites: Hatta Wall, Nailaka
Banda Sea Crossing
This day is dedicated to crossing the open expanse of the Banda Sea as the vessel navigates towards southern Raja Ampat. Guests can use the time to relax on deck, review photos, and enjoy the oceanic journey.
Good to know: This is a full-day, open-sea crossing with no planned dives.
Misool, Raja Ampat
The boat arrives in the breathtaking maze of islands that comprise Misool in southern Raja Ampat. The first dives in this region explore sites bursting with colorful soft corals, pygmy seahorses, and reef sharks patrolling the vibrant seascape.
Dive sites: Boo Windows, Nudi Rock, Magic Mountain
Fiabacet & Wayil, Misool
Exploration of Misool continues around the famous Fiabacet and Wayil island groups. Dives here are known for massive schools of fish, oceanic manta rays visiting cleaning stations, and some of the world's most vibrant soft coral gardens.
Dive sites: Four Kings, Whale Rock, Wedding Cake
Dampier Strait
An overnight cruise brings the vessel to the nutrient-rich Dampier Strait. The day's diving is characterized by action-packed currents that attract incredible fish biomass, including schooling jacks, barracuda, and cruising sharks.
Dive sites: Cape Kri, Sardine Reef
Dampier Strait
Today's dives focus on the area's renowned manta ray aggregations. Visits to cleaning stations like Manta Sandy offer incredible opportunities to observe these graceful giants, while a dusk dive at Arborek Jetty may reveal fascinating critters.
Dive sites: Manta Sandy, Manta Ridge, Arborek Jetty
Near Sorong, Raja Ampat
Two final morning dives are conducted at productive sites near the port of Sorong. Afterwards, the crew assists with rinsing and packing gear as the boat sails towards its final destination.
Dive sites: Blue Magic, Mioskon
Good to know: Dives are scheduled for the morning to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before flying.
Sorong, West Papua
Following a final breakfast on board, it is time to say goodbye to the crew. You will be transferred to the Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong for your homeward journey or onward travel.