Oct 4 – Oct 14, 2026

Banda Sea to Raja Ampat Expedition Ambon – Sorong | 11 Days / 10 Nights A rare voyage across the legendary Banda Sea, linking remote volcanic islands with the pristine reefs of Misool in southern Raja Ampat. This expedition combines pelagic encounters, untouched reefs, and dramatic island landscapes, culminating in one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth. -------- Day 1 – Ambon After boarding Adelaar in Ambon, you will settle into life on board while we begin our cruise eastward into the heart of the legendary Banda Sea. The first day is dedicated to introductions, safety briefings, and enjoying the comfort of the vessel as we make our way overnight toward our first remote dive destination. -------- Day 2 – Manukang (4 dives) Our first stop is Manukang, a remote volcanic outcrop that, according to Moluccan folklore, is said to be haunted. While we cannot confirm the legends, what we do know is that the island attracts an impressive number of pelagic visitors. Underwater ridges draped in giant barrel sponges create the perfect habitat for schooling hammerhead sharks, which patrol these deep blue waters. Expect thrilling dives in a dramatic oceanic setting. -------- Day 3 – Hatta (4 dives) The easternmost island of the Banda Archipelago, Hatta is named after Indonesia’s first vice-president, who spent time here in exile. Diving here is primarily dedicated to one unforgettable encounter: schooling hammerhead sharks. Groups can range from a handful of individuals to literally hundreds of these majestic animals, a spectacle that makes the Banda Sea one of the most sought-after pelagic diving destinations in the world. -------- Day 4 – Watubela (3 dives) The remote Watubela Archipelago also attracts regular visits from schooling hammerheads. Yet these islands offer more than pelagics alone. Their vibrant reefs teem with schooling fish and marine life, while pristine white sandy beaches provide the perfect setting for a relaxing sunset after a rewarding day underwater. -------- Day 5 – Koon (3 dives) If you enjoy diving surrounded by enormous schools of fish, Koon Island will not disappoint. This site is famous for its incredible fish density — from barracuda and fusiliers to snappers and trevallies moving in massive formations. Nearby, a unique surface adventure awaits: depending on the tide, we can enter a hidden labyrinth of marine lakes and narrow canals for a memorable snorkel trek. At the end of the trail, you may be greeted by enthusiastic children from the nearby village. -------- Day 6 – Misool – Balbulol Lagoon (3 dives + 1 night dive) Today we enter the spectacular limestone landscape of Misool, exploring the turquoise waters of Balbulol Lagoon. Towering karst formations surround vibrant reefs where sites such as Two Tree Island, Plateau, No Contest, and Love Potion offer steep drop-offs, schools of reef fish, and exceptional coral coverage. Between dives we may take a scenic boat tour through the lagoon’s dramatic rock formations. A night dive will reveal a completely different side of the reef. -------- Day 7 – Misool – Wayilbatan (3 dives) The seamounts and limestone outcroppings of Wayilbatan rank among the finest dive sites in Raja Ampat. Spectacular underwater topography and pristine coral coverage support an abundance of reef fish, macro life, and occasional pelagic visitors attracted by the surrounding blue water. -------- Day 8 – Misool – Fiabacet, Wayil & Pele (3 dives) Another day exploring Misool’s legendary reefs. Possible dive sites include Nudi Rock, Tank Rock, Whale Rock, and Gorgonian Passage, each offering a vibrant mix of soft corals, schooling fish, and reef predators. There may also be opportunities to revisit famous sites such as Boo Windows, Magic Mountain, or Four Kings. A special surface adventure awaits as well: Love Lake, one of Raja Ampat’s most iconic viewpoints. A short early-morning hike reveals a heart-shaped lagoon surrounded by emerald limestone islands. Access is tide-dependent, so the schedule may adjust accordingly. -------- Day 9 – Misool – Wagmab (3 dives + 1 night dive) The reefs of Wagmab are famous for their dazzling display of soft corals and black corals, forming a kaleidoscope of colors underwater. Hidden among them are fascinating critters such as nudibranchs, frogfish, boxer crabs, and blue-ringed octopuses. This area is also one of the best places to encounter Raja Ampat’s famous walking shark during a night dive. Nearby lagoons and marine lakes — some filled with stingless jellyfish — offer wonderful snorkeling opportunities. -------- Day 10 – Daram (2 dives) The morning is dedicated to the vibrant reefs of Daram, where iconic sites such as Warna Berwarna, Andiamo, and Candy Store showcase spectacular soft corals and dramatic underwater scenery. Clouds of fusiliers swirl in the blue, often attracting larger predators. After completing two morning dives, Adelaar begins her 14-hour crossing back to Sorong, sailing through the heart of Raja Ampat. -------- Day 11 – Sorong & Farewell We arrive in Sorong early in the morning. After breakfast, the crew will assist with transfers to the airport or local hotels, marking the end of a memorable journey through some of Indonesia’s most remote and extraordinary diving destinations. (Actual itinerary may vary depending on weather and sea conditions.)