Sep 22 – Sep 30, 2027

Program Disclaimer We wish to show you the best diving possible; however, a number of factors determine which route the Cruise Director and Captain will choose and which dive sites we visit. Weather conditions, tides, currents and the number of other dive vessels at a particular site all play a part in where the boat is heading to. While we attempt to ensure the number of dives we have scheduled is fulfilled, bad weather can hinder the yacht’s ability to reach a specific dive site in our scheduled time. The safety of all on board is paramount and we always do our best to offer diving at alternative sites, should we be unable to visit the sites listed below. A Typical Day The diving day has a typical schedule as follows: ● 06:00 Wake-up call ● 06:30 - 07:00 Light breakfast followed by a briefing and Dive 1 ● 08:30 Full breakfast, relaxation period ● 10:30 Briefing and Dive 2 ● 12:30 Lunch, relaxation period ● 14:30 Briefing and Dive 3 ● 16:00 Snack, relaxation period ● 19:00 Dinner (If we offer a sunset or night-dive, the schedule will be slightly amended.) Trip Overview Dive deeper into the heart of the legendary Banda Sea on this extended 9-day liveaboard expedition. Designed for the serious diver, this journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to answer the call of the wild and the whispers of history. We grant you an extra day at the remote Suanggi seamount, maximizing your chances of witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of schooling hammerhead sharks. From the fiery slopes of active volcanoes and the pristine reefs of Pulau Hatta to the colonial forts of the Spice Islands, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of relentless pelagic action, breathtaking coral landscapes, and profound cultural immersion. This is the ultimate Banda Sea experience, crafted for those who refuse to settle for anything less. What to Expect Maximized Shark Encounters: Two full days dedicated to diving at Suanggi, dramatically increasing your chance to witness schooling hammerhead sharks. Volcanic & Unique Ecosystems: Dive active volcanoes with underwater hot springs at Manuk and experience the pristine atoll reefs of Pulau Hatta. A Journey Through History: Walk in the footsteps of explorers and traders with a guided tour of the historic Banda Islands, including Fort Belgica and a nutmeg plantation. Unforgettable Biodiversity: From the rare critters of Ambon Bay to the pelagic power of tuna, rays, and sharks, and the unique banded sea snakes of Manuk. Embarkation: Ambon, Pattimura Airport (AMQ) Disembarkation: Ambon, Pattimura Airport (AMQ) Detailed Itinerary This is a sample itinerary. The itinerary may be altered based on the weather and sea conditions. Day 1: Arrival in Ambon & check dive in Laha Afternoon: Boarding at Ambon Harbor. After a warm welcome, settle into your cabin and attend the crucial safety and expedition briefing. Late Afternoon: Your underwater adventure begins with a check dive in world-famous Laha Bay. This muck diving paradise is your introduction to the region's incredible biodiversity, offering a high probability of spotting the legendary Ambon scorpionfish, rhinopias, and countless other rare macro wonders. Evening: Welcome dinner as we set sail on our open-water crossing, leaving civilization behind. Day 2: Suanggi - The Hammerhead Quest Begins Full Day (3 Dives): We arrive at the submerged volcano of Suanggi, one of Indonesia's most famed pelagic arenas. Spend the day immersed in the blue, exploring its deep walls and nutrient-rich currents. This is the first of two dedicated days to search for schooling hammerhead sharks. Encounters with eagle rays, dogtooth tuna, and sharks make every descent into the blue a heart-pounding experience. Day 3: Manuk Island - Volcanoes & Sea Snakes Full Day (3-4 Dives): Dive the slopes of another active volcano at Manuk Island. The walls are draped in a kaleidoscope of soft corals and sea fans, attracting immense fish life. The unique thrill here is diving alongside natural geothermal vents that release streams of warm bubbles from the seafloor. Be on the lookout for the abundant and curiously graceful banded sea snakes that call this area home. Late Afternoon: Opportunity to land on the island for a short hike or to relax in a natural hot spring pool. Day 4: Pulau Hatta - The Pristine Atoll Full Day (4 Dives): Discover the remote atoll of Pulau Hatta, an oasis of stunning beauty. Immerse yourself in what feels like a flawless aquarium—spectacularly healthy reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and visibility that seems to have no end. Expect dazzling hard corals, vast schools of fusiliers and snappers, and numerous reef sharks patrolling the vibrant blue. Day 5: Banda Islands - Coral Cathedrals & Colonial History Morning (2 Dives): Dive the exceptional sites around Banda Neira. Experience the pelagic action at Batu Kapal (The Ship Rock) and be humbled by the sheer grandeur of walls draped in giant gorgonian sea fans. Afternoon: Go ashore for a cultural and historical immersion. Trek up to the iconic Fort Belgica for a commanding view of the archipelago, and walk through history in the streets of Banda Neira. A visit to a working nutmeg plantation reveals the spice that once shaped world empires. Late Afternoon (1 Dive): A final afternoon dive in the Bandas, perhaps at the beautiful Lava Flow site. Day 6: Ai & Run Islands - The Forgotten Frontiers Full Day (3 Dives): Explore the less-visited islands of Ai and Run. These sites offer a profound sense of discovery, with incredibly vibrant soft corals, deep walls, and a fantastic diversity of marine life. The remoteness and raw, untouched nature of these reefs are a true privilege to experience. Day 7: Suanggi - The Hammerhead Grand Finale Full Day (3 Dives): We return to Suanggi for a second round of exhilarating shark action. With a full day of diving at this legendary site, your understanding of its currents and pelagic patterns will be deepened, significantly increasing your odds of that ultimate, life-changing encounter with a massive school of hammerheads. This is the grand pelagic finale of your expedition. Day 8: Nusa Laut - A Serene Farewell Morning (2 Dives): Conclude your diving adventure with two relaxed and beautiful dives at Nusa Laut. Known for its crystal-clear, calm waters and stunning coral gardens, this is the perfect place for a reflective and peaceful farewell to the Banda Sea, surrounded by clouds of colorful anthias. Land Excursion: Beach BBQ. We land on a secluded beach for a classic barbecue celebration, a perfect way to reflect on the week's adventures. Evening: Bill Settlement with Cruise Director after dinner Day 9: Disembarkation in Ambon after Breakfast Morning: Enjoy one last delicious breakfast on board. After Breakfast (approx. 9:00 AM): Disembark at Ambon harbor. Transfer to Pattimura Airport (AMQ) for your flight home, carrying memories of hammerheads, volcanoes, and history that will last a lifetime.