Apr 26 – May 7, 2027

Historic Banda Rising majestically from the depths of the Banda Sea, the legendary Banda Islands exude an irresistible allure, unmatched by any other destination in the Indonesian archipelago. While their rich and tumultuous history as the epicentre of the global spice trade is well known, it is their extraordinary marine environment that is now taking centre stage. The Banda Sea plunges to staggering depths, and within this vast expanse lies a secluded chain of islands perched atop an underwater mountain range. At the heart of this cluster are Banda Neira, Lontar, and the awe-inspiring Gunung Api volcano. These three islands form the core of the Bandas, offering world-class critter diving, particularly for those eager to spot the elusive and dazzling mandarin fish. Venturing beyond lie the islands of Run, Ai, Hatta, and the stunning Skaru Reef. Further still, the remote outcrop of Suangi stands as a beacon for marine life. Here, dramatic drop-offs, sheer walls, and vibrant coral gardens flourish in crystal-clear waters, teeming with a kaleidoscope of reef fish and frequented by larger pelagic species, including majestic hammerhead sharks. Diving in the Banda Islands is nothing short of spectacular, offering a rare blend of macro and pelagic encounters. Beneath the waves, every dive promises a discovery - whether it’s the intricate beauty of a tiny nudibranch or the exhilarating presence of schooling barracuda. Above the surface, the islands’ historical charm adds yet another layer of magic to the Banda experience, making every moment in this remote paradise truly unforgettable. Ambon & The Lease Islands Sitting below the vast landmass of Ceram, in the deep waters of the Banda Sea, the Lease Islands - Haruku, Saparua, Nusa Laut, and Molana - offer a spectacular and diverse scuba diving experience. Located in Indonesia’s Central Maluku province, these islands are known for their stunning coral gardens, dramatic underwater topography, and thriving marine ecosystems, making them a top destination for divers seeking adventure and beauty beneath the waves. These islands feature an array of dive sites with breathtaking coral gardens, steep drop-offs, and vibrant marine biodiversity. Schools of colourful reef fish, turtles, and even reef sharks can often be spotted gliding through the crystal-clear waters. The reefs here are adorned with impressive steep slopes lined with cup corals, soft corals, giant sea fans, and towering sponges. The sheer diversity of coral formations creates a dazzling marine seascape. One favourite site is the reef at Ameth, on the north-east tip of Nusa Laut, considered one of the finest dive spots in the area. Its pristine condition and extraordinary biodiversity make it a must-visit for serious divers. When combined with the stellar critter or muck diving at Laha, diving in the Lease Islands promises an exciting array of marine life encounters. Divers can expect to see reef sharks patrolling the depths, graceful turtles drifting through the currents, and a whole host of smaller critters hiding among the corals and rubble. The nutrient-rich waters also support an incredible variety of reef fish, adding to the vibrancy of this underwater paradise. Get On-Board with Dewi Nusantara The team that conceived and constructed Dewi Nusantara in 2007 was among the original group of early pioneers that purpose-built liveaboard yachts to explore the seas of the Indonesian archipelago in the mid-90s. With thousands of miles already under her keel, the Goddess of the Archipelago continues to gracefully glide over the azure water that makes this country so unique. Begin your next scuba adventure on board the Indonesian archipelago’s premier liveaboard and experience the very best that Indonesia has to offer, along with Dewi Nusantara’s outstanding service, exceptional facilities, and her highly experienced crew.

Namatote & Mauwara

If Namatote Island is known for one thing, it’s the extraordinary, up-close encounters with majestic whale sharks. Separated from the West Papuan mainland by a narrow strait, this island is home to numerous traditional fishing platforms, or bagans, which are strategically positioned at both the northern and southern ends of the waterway. These intricate wooden structures, suspended with wire and rope, are used by local fishermen to attract vast schools of anchovies, sardines, and sprats. By illuminating the waters with powerful lights, they draw in the baitfish before hauling up their nets to secure the catch. Over time, this practice has captivated the region’s whale shark population, which now frequents the area in search of an easy meal. In a remarkable display of coexistence, the fishermen have embraced these gentle giants, considering them symbols of good fortune. Today, divers and snorkellers have the incredible opportunity to swim alongside these awe-inspiring creatures, witnessing their graceful movements first-hand. As an added thrill, the surrounding waters teem with marine life drawn to the commotion - expect to spot pods of dolphins, schooling tuna, and even the occasional sailfish or marlin slicing through the currents. Whether you’re diving beneath the surface or simply observing from above, Namatote Island offers an unforgettable marine spectacle unlike anywhere else. Mauwara Island, located just two nautical miles east of the Namatote Strait and separated from the West Papua mainland by a narrow 30-meter channel, is a hidden paradise for divers and adventurers alike. This jungle-clad island rises nearly 200 meters at its highest point, boasting a rugged and intricate coastline with numerous inlets, points, and sheltered bays. A couple of sturdy wooden stairways lead explorers to breathtaking viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands, the Iris Strait, and Aiduma Island to the south. Beneath the surface, Mauwara Island is a diver’s paradise. The reefs and channels around the island are teeming with marine life and feature numerous excellent diving opportunities. Crystal-clear waters reveal an array of vibrant coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs, and deep walls that provide a sanctuary for everything from reef fish to pelagic species. For topside adventurers, the island’s sheltered bays are ideal for kayaking, while the shallow reefs extending from the pristine beaches offer excellent snorkelling opportunities. Whether descending into the depths or gliding along the coastline, Mauwara Island delivers an unforgettable experience for watersports enthusiasts of all kinds.

South Aiduma & Dramai

South Aiduma and the nearby Dramai Island, situated at the southern tip of the Iris Strait, offer a breathtaking seascape that is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. This untouched marine haven boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, while its nutrient-rich waters nurture vibrant soft corals, extensive hard coral gardens, and towering seamounts, all densely packed with an astonishing variety of marine life, creating a dazzling underwater spectacle. The rocky outcrops and reefs surrounding Dramai Island and South Aiduma are full of surprises, promising thrilling discoveries for adventurous divers. With so much left to explore, this hidden gem remains an exciting frontier for those eager to uncover its underwater wonders. A small rock island called Pulau Maunus, better known as The Last Frontier, is one of the area’s typical sites. This is a magnificent dive that rivals the very best at Komodo and Raja Ampat. The underwater architecture is mind-blowing; it even features a swimthrough, and the reef fish are strangely unafraid of divers. Excellent soft and hard corals cover the rocky sides of the island, giving way to scattered fields of house-sized boulders and rocky ledges. The action usually takes place on the ridges that extend from each end, where schools of baitfish are often under the furious attack of the huge giant trevallies that patrol the site. Another standout dive is Batu Jeruk, located at the southern tip of Aiduma Island. This site is renowned for its orange soft coral coverage, offering a unique and visually stunning diving experience. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including schooling fish and macro life, making it a must-visit spot for underwater photography enthusiasts. Exploring the waters around South Aiduma and Dramai Island provides a sense of discovery, as the region is remote and difficult to travel to, preserving its natural beauty and teeming reefs.

The Momon Headland

Scuba diving along the rarely travelled coastline of the Bomberai Peninsula is legendary, and the sites at Momon are no exception. The reefs surrounding the small islands around the headland are proving to hide some prolific dive sites, as well as some very unusual marine life sightings. One such site, the spectacular Batu Cantik, is centred around a set of small rocky islands that run parallel with the mainland shore. As well as being a great site for critter spotters, Batu Cantik has also produced some wonderful, and rare, marine life sightings, such as guitar sharks and absolutely huge groupers. For open water excitement, six nautical miles directly to the west, lies a vast marine mountain that rises up to within 10 metres of the ocean’s surface. Stretching for hundreds of metres before sloping off into the depths, it is possible to encounter several different species of shark, manta rays, and huge schools of fish over the dense, undulating coral fields that cover the northern edges of the seamount. When it comes to scenic topside attractions, Momon is hard to beat. The star of the show is the spectacular Kiti Kiti waterfall that thunders directly into the sea from the high forest above. This natural wonder stems from a fast-flowing river that originates up in the Bomberai highlands before terminating in glorious fashion amongst towering trees and primordial rocks at the shoreline. Easily spotted from miles offshore, the falls can be approached with a tender. Explorers who are feeling adventurous can then jump into the ocean and swim to the plunge pool for a refreshing cold shower. The water pouring over the edge creates a transparent curtain of fresh water. Tucked in behind is a small, protected rock ledge; swimmers can enter this space and take photographs through the screen of rushing water for an unusual image of the ocean beyond. Swimming out from behind the waterfall is like swimming down a white-water river. A word of warning, though: the water plunging down from the falls is significantly cooler than the ocean it flows into. The forest above the falls can be a little tricky to explore upriver as there are no trails to follow, but there are some spooky caves and tree-shrouded lakes. It is also possible to spot some unusual wildlife, such as endemic tree kangaroos and flightless cassowary birds.

Teluk Sebakor

Teluk Sebakor extends deep into the western coastline of the Bomberai Peninsula, framed by Tanjung Turkanggur to the north and Tanjung Tongerai to the south. This vast bay is a stunning mosaic of shallow reefs, winding waterways, and dense mangrove forests that transition into the untamed interior of Papua. Scattered within its waters, the islands of Karas, Taburuasa, and Faur hold immense potential for new dive site discoveries. However, the standout sites at Sebakor lie offshore - its spectacular seamounts. Recently discovered, these underwater mountains rival Indonesia’s most renowned dive sites. West of Karas Island, which acts as a natural barrier for the bay, two remarkable seamounts - Great Expectations and Lucky Thirteen - have quickly gained recognition. Towering from the depths, they attract massive schools of fish and frequent visits from larger pelagic species, offering breathtaking encounters for divers. Closer to Karas Island’s shoreline, Knucklehead delivers equally thrilling underwater experiences, featuring swirling columns of barracuda, impressive Napoleon wrasses, and an abundance of macro life for critter enthusiasts. Further south, the Tongerai headland reveals an uncharted diving frontier where oceanic manta rays, whale sharks, and even the elusive Omura whale have been spotted gliding above vibrant reefs. The surrounding karst islands create a maze of narrow waterways, concealing secluded sandy coves backed by lush rainforest - an unspoiled paradise both above and below the surface. Back up in the northern reaches of the bay, inside the Turkanggur headland, a true topside highlight is the shoreline bat cave. Bordered by two fine white and beaches, this magnificent rocky cathedral offers easy access for tenders to glide over its shallow blue waters. Inside, a colony of screeching bats clings to the walls and ceiling, while at the cave’s mouth, a striking blue hole plunges 50 metres into the rocky sea floor - a mesmerising sight for explorers above and below the surface. With its pristine reefs, diverse marine life, unexplored dive sites, and exciting topside excursions, Teluk Sebakor stands as one of Indonesia’s most exciting new frontiers for scuba divers seeking adventure in truly untouched waters.

The Koon Archipelago

The remote, sandy isles of the Koon Archipelago are dotted with sparse vegetation and just a handful of small villages, offering a secluded and untouched paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Koon Island is the easternmost of a collection of three small, sandy coral cays - along with Nukus and Grogus - that stretch nearly eight nautical miles from west to east. Extending into the depths of the Ceram Sea, these islands boast an astonishing mix of shallow reefs, deep drop-offs, and sandy terra firma. The crystal-clear waters surrounding them create the perfect playground for snorkelling and swimming, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just beneath the surface. Kayakers and paddleboarders can glide through tranquil blue lagoons, exploring hidden coves and winding waterways. On land, the islands offer opportunities for beachcombing and birdwatching, with stretches of soft sand, swaying coconut palms, and flocks of seabirds soaring overhead. Although the entire group is ideal for various watersports, Koon is best known for scuba diving. The focal point is a site called “Too Many Fish” - a name that perfectly captures what awaits beneath the surface. Located at the eastern tip of the mini-archipelago, this site plunges into much deeper water. Centred around a ridge with a deep wall on the north side and a steeply sloping reef on the south, it offers multiple entry points for divers. It is not uncommon to spot zebra and hammerhead sharks on the reef and along the north wall, along with the countless fish that give the site its name. Additionally, there is great potential for exploration along the deep-water drop-offs and sparkling reefs surrounding the three islands. Whether above or below the waterline, the Koon Archipelago promises a serene and immersive escape into nature’s untouched beauty.

The Historic Banda Islands: A Timeless Treasure

Far out in the remote, shimmering expanse of the Banda Sea - nestled to the south of the great island of Ceram - lies a small but remarkable cluster of islands: the Banda Islands. Scattered like emeralds across the deep blue waters, this archipelago once stood at the very heart of the global spice trade, fiercely contested by empires for its precious nutmeg and mace. Today, the Banda Islands resonate with echoes of their extraordinary past, where crumbling colonial fortresses and ancient plantations reveal stories of ambition, exploration, and cultural exchange. Set against a dramatic backdrop of a soaring volcanic peak, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical forests, the Banda Islands offer a rare and captivating blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty - a destination as unforgettable as it is remote. A Window into a Distant Past The principal island, Banda Neira, transports visitors back in time to an era when these islands were among the most significant in the world. European remnants of this bygone age still grace the streets - quaint churches, a charming post office, a rustic museum, and street lamps (though no longer in operation) stand as echoes of colonial influence. Towering above it all is Fort Belgica, an imposing 17th-century stronghold that offers panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s tumultuous history. Wandering through Banda Neira’s narrow streets and alleyways is nothing short of spellbinding. A Land of Contrasts Just across from Banda Neira’s bustling harbour, the striking 600-metre-high volcano island, Banda Api, looms over the seascape. Though its last eruption was in May 1988, the rugged terrain continues to captivate adventurers who take on the demanding trek to its summit, guided by seasoned locals. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a tranquil stroll through the fragrant nutmeg groves of Lontar Island offers a peaceful alternative. Adventures on Land and Sea While the inner islands boast pleasant snorkelling spots, the real thrill for visiting yachts comes in the form of a friendly yet fierce rowing competition between islanders and crew members. Racing in traditional kora-kora longboats, the islanders almost always claim victory, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience and their rowing crews exhausted. Beneath the waves, the Banda Sea reveals its true magic. These islands, the peaks of an immense underwater mountain range, are surrounded by deep, pristine blue waters teeming with marine life. From vibrant coral walls to rare critter dives, the Banda Islands offer some of the most exhilarating scuba diving experiences in the world, making them a dream destination for underwater explorers. Safe Haven in a Remote Paradise For visiting yachts, the most favoured anchorage lies in the sheltered waterway between Banda Neira harbour and the towering Banda Api volcano. Here, amidst the serene beauty of the islands, sailors find a perfect haven to rest, explore, and immerse themselves in the extraordinary blend of history, adventure, and natural splendour that defines the Banda Islands. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or a diver seeking untouched underwater realms, the Banda Islands promise an experience unlike any other - an enchanting journey through time and nature in one of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations.

Hatta & Skaru Reef

Located just over 10 nautical miles south-east of the central harbour of the Banda Islands at Banda Neira, Hatta Island offers scuba divers an unparalleled underwater adventure. With its crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, the island is a haven for divers seeking both beauty and biodiversity beneath the surface. From dramatic drop-offs and thriving coral gardens to arches and mysterious underwater caves, Hatta Island’s seascape is as diverse as it is stunning. The vibrant ecosystem teems with colourful tropical fish, graceful turtles, reef sharks, and even occasional encounters with majestic manta rays and playful dolphins. For those seeking a truly exhilarating experience, the deeper waters around the island are known to attract schools of hammerhead sharks, offering an unforgettable and rare diving spectacle. Just two nautical miles south, the awe-inspiring Skaru Reef (Karang Hatta) awaits. This towering marine mountain, that barely breaks the ocean’s surface at low tide, features a network of shimmering shallows that plunge into the deep, creating thrilling big fish dive sites. The reef’s unique topography and nutrient-rich waters attract pelagic species, making it a must-visit for those hoping to encounter sharks, barracudas, and other ocean giants in their natural habitat. Whether you’re an adventurous diver chasing adrenaline-fuelled drift dives or a nature enthusiast eager to witness marine life in its pristine habitat, Hatta Island promises an extraordinary diving experience like no other.

Banda Neira

During our time in the Banda Islands, Dewi Nusantara has explored the outer island of Hatta and the magnificent reef plateau of Skaru. Now, it’s time to venture into the heart of this stunning archipelago. A variety of diverse dive sites await, beginning with the remarkable critter dive at Mandarin Hotel. At first glance, this stretch of rocks and sand - nestled along the border of the colonial Molana Hotel’s picturesque gardens - may seem unassuming. However, beneath the surface, it reveals an extraordinary spectacle. In the shallow waters, a vibrant population of mandarin fish, some impressively large, engage in their intricate mating displays at dusk. Unlike in coral-rich environments, these mesmerising creatures must perform their ritual in the open, making them exceptionally photogenic for underwater photographers. Towering 600 meters above the surrounding waters, the volcanic Gunung Api dominates the skyline of Banda Neira, the principal island. Its most recent eruption in 1988 sent a dramatic lava flow cascading into the sea on the mountain’s northeast side. In the years since, this once-barren expanse has transformed into a thriving coral garden, a breathtaking testament to nature’s resilience and the rapid regrowth of marine ecosystems. This dive site is a must-visit, offering a rare opportunity to witness the astonishing speed at which coral reefs can recover after a volcanic eruption. Beyond the protective embrace of Banda’s natural harbour, even more exhilarating dive sites beckon. One standout is Batu Kapal, an offshore seamount teeming with marine life. Here, honeycomb moray eels weave through the reef, while immense schools of fish move in perfect synchronicity - a truly unforgettable underwater experience.

Run & Suanggi

Diving around the breathtaking island of Run and its smaller, remote neighbour, Suanggi, offers an extraordinary underwater adventure that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty, and exhilarating marine encounters. Located in the northern reaches of the Banda Sea, over 100 nautical miles south-east of Ambon, Suanggi is a rugged, rocky outpost that stands as a gateway to the Banda Islands. Despite its small size and isolated position, this hidden gem is rapidly making a name for itself as one of the Indonesian archipelago’s top diving destinations. It is one of the few places where divers have the thrilling opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of schooling hammerhead sharks — a bucket-list experience for any underwater enthusiast. Meanwhile, the dive sites surrounding Run Island boast an astonishing variety of marine life and topographical wonders. Vibrant coral gardens flourish alongside sheer, dramatic drop-offs, creating an awe-inspiring seascape teeming with biodiversity. Schools of brilliantly coloured reef fish dart through the reefs, while graceful pelagic species glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters. And, just like Suanggi, Run offers divers the exhilarating chance to encounter the elusive hammerhead sharks in their natural habitat. With visibility often exceeding 40 metres, the waters surrounding Run and Suanggi provide an exceptional environment for underwater photography, allowing divers to capture the rich marine life in stunning detail. Adding to the allure of this extraordinary diving destination is Run Island’s fascinating history. Once a crucial hub in the global spice trade, the island’s past is intertwined with tales of explorers, merchants, and colonial powers, lending an intriguing cultural dimension to every dive. Whether you are a seasoned diver seeking new thrills or a beginner eager to explore an untouched marine paradise, the waters of Run and Suanggi promise an unforgettable experience — one where history, adventure, and the wonders of the deep come together in perfect harmony.

Nusa Laut

Nusa Laut, the easternmost jewel in the Lease Islands archipelago - which also includes Saparua, Haruku, and Ambon - offers an unspoiled paradise both above and below the sea’s surface. The island’s landscape is lush with a high-rising interior, fringed by picturesque bays and dotted with small fishing villages that exude charm and tranquillity. The northern bays, in particular, provide a sanctuary for dugongs - the elusive Southeast Asian relatives of the manatee - adding to the island’s natural allure. A testament to the power of community-led conservation, the villages of Ameth and Akon on Nusa Laut’s northeast coast stand as shining examples of grassroots environmental stewardship. Captains of visiting yachts are required to report to the village head in Ameth, a minor formality in exchange for experiencing one of the region’s most well-protected marine environments. The vigilant efforts of the local community in safeguarding their coastline from illegal fishing have resulted in thriving fish populations and pristine coral reefs, making the waters of Nusa Laut a paradise for visiting divers. Beneath the surface, the island boasts spectacular wall and reef dives, but the true highlight lies in the vibrant reef on its northwestern coast. Here, stunning coral formations and abundant marine life create a mesmerising underwater landscape. Adding to the thrill, divers sometimes encounter schools of majestic hammerhead sharks in the deep blue beyond the reef - an unforgettable sight for any underwater explorer. For those seeking even more adventure, a breathtaking underwater arch at Akon on the island’s eastern side awaits, just beneath the surface, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of Nusa Laut’s marine wonders. With its thriving ecosystems, dedicated local guardians, and world-class diving opportunities, Nusa Laut is a hidden treasure in the heart of Indonesia’s Maluku region, inviting travellers to experience nature at its most pristine.

Laha (Ambon)

Not far from Ambon airport, along the northern shore of the Ambon Inlet, the village of Laha is renowned for hosting some of the most extraordinary muck diving sites in the world. Most of the dive points are clustered fairly close together, with names such as Middle Point, Mandarin City, Rhino City, and the one that started it all, the aptly named Twilight Zone. This legendary dive site, located close to as well as underneath the fishing boat piers, is a haven for macro photographers and critter enthusiasts seeking rare and unusual marine life. What makes The Twilight Zone so exceptional is the unique interplay of natural and human elements. Over time, local fishing activities have contributed organic debris to the sandy, silty, and gravel-strewn seabed, inadvertently creating an ideal microhabitat for an astonishing variety of marine species. Divers venturing into these waters are rewarded with encounters with some of the ocean’s most bizarre and captivating creatures, making every expedition a true treasure hunt for the weird and wonderful. In recent years, the discovery of additional dive sites a little further afield along this thriving stretch of shoreline has further cemented Ambon’s reputation as a world-class muck diving destination. Notably, it was here that the psychedelic frogfish, one of the rarest and most visually striking marine species, was first documented - an extraordinary testament to the area’s biodiversity. With ongoing exploration, there is no doubt that more ground breaking discoveries await. For those seeking a contrasting yet equally thrilling dive experience, the Duke of Sparta shipwreck offers an entirely different underwater adventure. Resting in deeper waters further into the bay, closer to the city, this massive and remarkably intact wreck invites divers to explore its hauntingly beautiful remains - a striking juxtaposition to the critter-filled world of The Twilight Zone.

Cruise Notes

• Flexible Itineraries: Our cruise routes are intentionally adaptable. Throughout the journey, the captain and cruise director continuously assess sea conditions, weather, and tides to ensure the best possible experience. Guest preferences for specific dive sites are always considered whenever feasible. • More Than Is Listed: The locations featured in these itineraries represent only a portion of what’s possible. Numerous additional anchorages and activity options are available along the way, making each voyage truly unique. • Simplified for Clarity: The destinations shown in our presentations are not necessarily listed in the order they will be visited. They are organized for clarity and to help guests visualize the overall routing. • Extended Stays: If a particular anchorage offers exceptional experiences, guests may opt to linger a bit longer. The captain and cruise director have the flexibility to accommodate such preferences, provided they align with the overall cruise schedule. • Overnight Passages: To maximize daylight hours at our most spectacular destinations, longer transits between anchorages are typically conducted overnight. • Escape the Crowds: With the exception of embarkation and disembarkation points, our itineraries are carefully crafted to avoid congested areas and busy commercial ports, allowing for a more tranquil and immersive experience. • Beyond the Dive: Many of our anchorages offer more than just diving and snorkelling. Guests can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and occasional visits to local villages and cultural sites — adding even more richness to the journey.