Duration
11 days
Cabins left
16 / 18
Capacity
18 divers
Operator
Dewi Nusantara
Included
Mandatory surcharges
Optional extras
Certification
OWD or equivalent
Min. dives
20 logged
Check-in
12:00–12:00
Check-out
09:00–09:00
Dewi Nusantara embarks on an unforgettable journey of exploration to unveil the breathtaking wonders of the Flores Sea. This expedition takes us from the vibrant port of Maumere, on the northern coast of Flores, to the dynamic city of Makassar in South Sulawesi. Along the way, we will dive into some of the region’s most remote and pristine underwater realms, immersing ourselves in the rich marine biodiversity of these unspoiled waters. Our adventure begins the moment we set sail, with immediate access to the stunning dive sites of Maumere Bay. Here, steep underwater walls and flourishing coral reefs lie just an hour from port, offering a spectacular introduction to the voyage ahead. From Maumere, we journey to the secluded waters of Kalaotoa Island and the nearby Karompa Atoll for exploratory dives, followed by a visit to the remote outpost of Kakabia Island - an untouched gem in the open sea. Sailing westward, we arrive at the renowned Taka Bonerate National Park, home to the world’s third-largest atoll. Its name, meaning “coral islands over sand,” perfectly captures its unique geological formation. Spanning more than 5,300 square kilometers, this marine sanctuary is a diver’s paradise, teeming with vibrant coral reefs, large groups of black tip reef sharks, turtles, and an astonishing variety of fish species. Its extraordinary biodiversity makes it both a vital conservation area and a dream destination for marine enthusiasts. Next, we explore Selayar Island, a hidden treasure where dramatic coral reefs, sheer underwater cliffs, and unspoiled landscapes converge. Azure waters lap against white sandy beaches, while lush coconut groves stretch along the coastline. Inland, rolling hills and dense forests shelter traditional villages, where local communities proudly uphold time-honoured customs and craftsmanship. As our voyage nears its conclusion, an overnight journey along Selayar’s eastern coastline brings us to the Selayar Strait and the Bira Peninsula, where we discover secluded reefs and islands seldom visited by divers. Finally, we complete the adventure with our final dives at Dayan Dayang before reaching our destination in the bustling port of Makassar. This journey through the Flores Sea is more than an expedition - it is an invitation to explore remote frontiers, witness extraordinary marine ecosystems, and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Indonesia’s island heritage. 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.
Our journey takes us from Maumere, the largest town on the north Flores coastline, up to Makassar, the principal city of South Sulawesi. Along the way we will visit the remote outpost of Kakabia, Taka Bonerate, the planet’s third largest atoll, and the island of Selayar. This route covers a total distance of over 500 nautical miles and navigates a large amount of open sea. This is further than we would usually cover during a cruise. We may lose some dives if sea and weather conditions become difficult, and as a consequence, our transits take longer than expected. Exploration Diving There are a huge number of reefs, walls, and pinnacles at these destinations. Some of them are well known, while others are off the beaten track with a good deal of potential. It is our aim on this trip to experience some of the more popular sites and mix them with some exploration of exciting undiscovered locations to add to our growing list of underwater adventures. While we always endeavour to make every dive a special experience, the very nature of exploration diving means that sometimes dive sites can be a hit or a miss. Weather & Sea Conditions On any trip out at sea, whether it is close or far, captains and crews always have to take into consideration the prevailing weather and sea conditions. We will try and keep to this published itinerary; however, should this not be possible, it may be necessary to modify this routing.
Diving in Maumere Bay, located on the north Flores coastline, is a must-see destination for underwater enthusiasts. Known for its rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and magnificent muck dives, Maumere offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of Indonesia’s more well-known dive destinations. The bay, which was greatly affected by a massive earthquake and tsunami in 1992, has since seen significant reef recovery, making it a fascinating example of how a marine ecosystem can thrive after such dramatic and damaging cataclysmic events. One of the biggest features of Maumere Bay is its diverse dive sites, catering to all levels of divers. From shallow coral gardens teeming with macro life to deeper walls and slopes where pelagic species roam, the bay has something for everyone. Sites around Pulau Besar, Dambilah, the low-lying sandy island of Pangabatang, and the Flores mainland feature stunning coral formations and a wide range of marine species, including reef sharks, turtles, rays, and a host of macro subjects. The wide open spaces of the bay are also used as a playground and feeding area by a number of whale and dolphin species, too. Maumere’s critter diving scene is also a highlight, making it an excellent spot for macro photographers. The volcanic black sand slopes along the Flores coastline are home to rare critters such as frogfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, and ghost pipefish. Night dives here are particularly rewarding, revealing bioluminescent plankton and nocturnal marine life in action. Close by to some of these wonderful critter sites at Wai Terang is the wreck of a Japanese freighter from World War II, adding a sense of mystery and history to the underwater adventure. Beyond the water, Maumere offers a rich cultural experience. There is the opportunity to include visits to traditional villages at Sikka on the Flores mainland, where travellers can witness local weaving techniques and experience Flores’ warm hospitality. Further afield are the astonishing three coloured volcano crater lakes at Keli Mutu. With its laid-back charm, spectacular diving, and cultural richness, Maumere Bay is a perfect destination for divers looking to explore Indonesia’s lesser-known underwater treasures.
Located just 15 nautical miles north of Maumere Harbour, this collection of dive sites is among the finest in the region, offering breathtaking underwater landscapes and rich biodiversity. The Pomana Besar and Kecil island group stand in contrast to the nearby Gosong Bone atoll, with distinct topside features. However, beneath the surface, both locations share remarkable similarities, characterized by vibrant, shallow reef tops that give way to dramatic drop-offs into the deep waters of Maumere Bay. Divers can explore stunning wall dives adorned with towering barrel sponges, delicate sea fans, and intricate coral formations. The 1992 earthquake, while causing some damage to the bedrock, also reshaped the reefs and walls, creating an intricate network of cracks and crevices that have since become thriving habitats for a variety of marine life. These natural formations provide shelter for an array of reef fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates, making each dive an exciting exploration of hidden underwater worlds. The interplay between the shallow reefs and the deep ocean creates unique currents that act as natural gathering points for marine species. These nutrient-rich waters attract schools of pelagic fish, including tuna, trevallies, and barracudas, while eagle rays and even reef sharks are occasional visitors. Meanwhile, the coral-covered flats and vertical walls are a macro diver’s paradise, teeming with elusive critters such as pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs - just a few of the treasures that make Indonesia one of the world’s top diving destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of drifting along dramatic drop-offs or the excitement of spotting rare marine creatures, these dive sites promise an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Located 80 nautical miles north of Maumere, across the Flores Sea, Kalaotoa Island, the expansive Karompa Atoll complex, and their smaller neighbouring islands mark the next destination on our itinerary - dedicated to exploration and discovery. This remote region offers an abundance of exciting new dive site opportunities, featuring a diverse underwater landscape of dramatic walls, gentle slopes, vibrant coral gardens, atoll passes, barrier ridges, and tranquil lagoons. Divers can expect an extraordinary array of marine life, from reef sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles to vast schools of barracuda and fusiliers. For macro enthusiasts, the reefs conceal pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and expertly camouflaged octopuses among their intricate coral formations. Adding to the area’s intrigue, this region is also believed to be the final resting place of a British East India Company vessel that sank in 1797. Scuba diving in the Karompa Atoll and around Kalaotoa Island provides a truly remarkable experience, offering pristine coral reefs, exceptional biodiversity, and crystal-clear waters. The warm, tropical waters of Karompa Atoll boast outstanding visibility - often exceeding 30 meters - making it an ideal destination for divers of all skill levels. The currents flowing through the atoll’s pass create exhilarating drift dives, allowing divers to glide effortlessly past spectacular coral walls teeming with marine life. Meanwhile, Kalaotoa Island impresses with its dramatic underwater topography and thriving reef ecosystems, home to a stunning variety of hard and soft corals that shelter countless marine species. With their untouched beauty, sense of seclusion, and opportunities for both daytime exploration and mysterious night dives, Karompa Atoll, Kalaotoa, and their surrounding islands promise an unforgettable diving adventure in one of the ocean’s true frontiers.
Kakabia Island, a remote and unspoiled paradise in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a hidden treasure for scuba diving enthusiasts. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs, the island offers an extraordinary underwater experience for those seeking adventure and serenity. The dive sites around Kakabia are teeming with marine life, from vibrant reef fish such as damselfish and fusiliers to larger species like barracudas, reef sharks, and manta rays. The island’s rich biodiversity and exceptional water clarity make it a favorite destination for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts alike. The underwater terrain at Kakabia Island is as diverse as it is stunning. Divers can explore colourful coral gardens, steep walls, and sandy slopes that serve as habitats for unique critters like nudibranchs, frogfish, and pygmy seahorses. The remote location ensures minimal human interference, preserving the pristine condition of the marine ecosystem. With its tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking underwater scenery, and the feeling of exploring an untouched paradise, scuba diving at Kakabia Island is an unforgettable experience for divers looking to immerse themselves in Indonesia’s unparalleled marine wonders.
Taka Bonerate, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a diver’s dream come true. Known for hosting the third-largest atoll system in the world, Taka Bonerate boasts an underwater paradise that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. The crystal-clear waters and extensive coral reefs are home to over 500 species of coral and more than 300 species of fish, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. Divers are treated to a kaleidoscope of colours as they swim alongside vibrant reef fish, graceful sea turtles, and even majestic manta rays. The atoll’s shallow lagoons and abundant marine life make it a prime destination for divers of all levels. The underwater landscape of Taka Bonerate is nothing short of spectacular. It features a variety of dive sites, including coral gardens, vertical walls, and underwater caves. Advanced divers can explore the deeper drop-offs, where encounters with larger pelagic species like reef sharks, barracudas, and occasionally whale sharks add an extra thrill. The visibility often exceeds 30 meters, providing crystal-clear views of the reefs and their inhabitants. Macro enthusiasts will also find plenty to admire, from tiny nudibranchs to elusive pygmy seahorses hiding in the coral. With such diversity, every dive at Taka Bonerate feels like a unique adventure. What sets Taka Bonerate apart is not only its natural beauty but also its sense of serenity. The remote location and limited access ensure that dive sites are uncrowded, offering a tranquil environment for exploration. Local communities play an active role in conserving the marine park, adding a sense of stewardship to the experience. Whether you’re an experienced diver seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination or a beginner eager to explore one of the world’s most extraordinary marine environments, Taka Bonerate promises an unforgettable underwater journey.
Nambolaki Island, a hidden gem in the heart of tropical paradise, is a dream destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine ecosystem provide an unforgettable underwater experience. Divers are greeted by colourful coral reefs teeming with life, from schools of playful clownfish darting through anemones to majestic sea turtles gliding gracefully through the currents. The island’s diverse underwater terrain, including dramatic drop-offs, intricate caves, and gentle sandy slopes, caters to divers of all skill levels. With visibility often exceeding 30 meters, exploring Nambolaki’s underwater wonders feels like swimming through a living aquarium. For those seeking adventure, Nambolaki Island offers more than just serene coral gardens. Advanced divers can explore shipwrecks encrusted with marine life or encounter thrilling pelagic species like reef sharks and manta rays. Night diving is also a highlight, revealing a completely different world where bioluminescent plankton light up the dark waters and nocturnal creatures like octopuses and lobsters emerge from their hiding spots. With its pristine environment, welcoming dive operators, and a sense of untouched beauty, scuba diving at Nambolaki Island is a must for anyone eager to connect with the ocean’s wonders.
Belang Belang, situated on the north side of the Taka Bonerate National Park in Indonesia, is a haven for scuba divers seeking pristine marine ecosystems and unparalleled biodiversity. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve boasts the third-largest atoll in the world, making it a magnet for marine life and an unforgettable diving destination. The waters around Belang Belang are crystal-clear, offering exceptional visibility that reveals vibrant coral gardens, intricate underwater structures, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. From the gentle sway of soft corals to the darting movements of butterflyfish, parrotfish, and even the occasional sea turtle, the area’s rich biodiversity enchants every diver. For those who crave a touch of adventure, Belang-Belang’s underwater seascapes include dramatic walls, steep drop-offs, and hidden caves that promise thrilling explorations. The region is also known for its seasonal appearances of larger marine creatures such as reef sharks, manta rays, and even whale sharks. Night dives here unveil a mesmerizing world of glowing bioluminescence and rare nocturnal species. With the combination of a vibrant ecosystem, the warmth of local hospitality, and the sense of diving in one of the most unspoiled marine environments on Earth, Belang Belang along with the rest of Taka Bonerate atoll delivers an extraordinary experience for both novice and seasoned divers.
Located off the southwestern tip of Sulawesi, Selayar Island our next point of call on our journey. With its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and breathtaking underwater topography, the sites of the Batulaia Peninsula are one of the regions scuba diving hotspots. One of Selayar’s most striking features is the mountain range that runs along its eastern side, towering 600 meters above sea level before plunging over 2,500 meters into the abyss. This dramatic underwater landscape creates ideal conditions for wall diving, with stunning visibility and an abundance of marine life. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island host a dazzling array of marine species, from vast schools of fish to larger pelagic creatures like sharks and rays. Drift diving is a popular activity in these waters, with strong currents sweeping divers past lush coral formations and teeming schools of fish. The diversity of marine life is astounding, with encounters ranging from graceful sea turtles and eagle rays to smaller critters such as nudibranchs, shrimp, and exotic crabs. The reefs are alive with activity, making each dive an ever-changing experience filled with new discoveries. Beyond its stunning walls and coral gardens, Selayar’s waters also provide an excellent opportunity to observe predators in action. Various species of reef sharks, along with large barracudas and hunting trevallies, can often be seen patrolling the depths. Meanwhile, the sandy slopes and reef ledges offer shelter to a wide range of critters, such as camouflaged leaf fish, vibrant anemones, and delicate sea fans. The island’s diverse dive environments cater to all levels of divers, from beginners marvelling at shallow coral gardens to advanced explorers descending into the blue in search of rare marine encounters. Whether drifting along a wall, navigating intricate reef formations, or simply enjoying the mesmerising movements of a bustling underwater ecosystem, Selayar offers an unforgettable experience beneath the waves.
Well known as a thriving hotspot for traditional Indonesian pinisi boatbuilding, the Bira Peninsula and the offshore islands of Liungkalu and Sarontang in the Selayar Strait also have quite a reputation as a hotspot for scuba diving, offering a wide variety of excellent sites. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Bira offers some of the best diving experiences in the region. With warm water and excellent visibility, divers can explore everything from gentle coral gardens to dramatic underwater walls teeming with life. One of the main highlights of diving in Bira is the incredible biodiversity. The region is home to a variety of marine species, including reef sharks, turtles, barracudas, and even the elusive hammerhead shark, which can sometimes be spotted in deeper waters. The reefs are filled with colourful soft and hard corals, creating a thriving habitat for macro critters. Some of the most popular dive sites include Shark Point, where divers have the chance to see blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, and Cape Bira, which offers strong currents and exciting drift dives. The Bira Peninsula and Selayar Strait are also known for their dramatic underwater topography, which includes steep walls, caves, and pinnacles. Experienced divers can enjoy thrilling wall dives, while beginners can explore shallower sites with abundant coral and marine life. Additionally, the laid-back atmosphere of Bira, with its beautiful white-sand beaches and friendly local community, makes it an excellent destination for topside adventures.
Located at the southern end of South Sulawesi’s Spermonde Archipelago, Dayan Dayang is a captivating destination for scuba divers seeking untouched beauty and tranquil waters. Just a short cruise from Makassar, and known for its rich marine biodiversity, the island offers an array of underwater experiences, from vibrant coral gardens to encounters with unique species. The dive sites surrounding the island are known for their healthy coral reefs, which flourish in the warm, nutrient-rich waters. Hard and soft corals create an intricate underwater landscape, providing shelter to schools of reef fish, sea turtles, and an assortment of macro critters. Divers can spot everything from clownfish darting in and out of anemones to nudibranchs, shrimp, and pygmy seahorses hiding among the coral branches. The island’s waters are also frequented by larger pelagic species such as eagle rays and, on lucky days, reef sharks. One of the highlights of diving at here is its excellent visibility, often reaching 20–30 metres, and calm currents that make it accessible to divers of all experience levels. The island’s underwater topography includes sandy patches, coral bommies, and sloping reefs, offering diverse habitats to explore. For macro photography enthusiasts, the shallow reefs are a treasure trove of small, fascinating creatures, while those who prefer a more dynamic dive can explore deeper waters teeming with life. Beyond its underwater attractions, Dayan Dayang Island itself is a picturesque haven, with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing between dives. Its remote location ensures a peaceful, crowd-free experience, allowing divers to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty of South Sulawesi.
• 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.
Price per person
$8,599
All taxes included
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