Oct 19 – Oct 27, 2028

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 Venture beyond the map on a 9-day expedition to the "Forgotten Islands" (Kepulauan Tenggara), one of Indonesia's last true frontiers. This remote archipelago, stretching southeast of the Banda Sea, remains shrouded in mystery, its pristine ecosystems untouched by mass tourism. Our journey begins in Ambon and plunges directly into this isolated world, where traditional villages cling to ancient ways of life, and the reefs thrive in spectacular isolation. We'll dive virgin walls teeming with fish, explore islands rarely visited by outsiders, and feel the raw power of the open ocean. This is not just a dive trip; it's a genuine exploration for adventurers seeking to write their own chapter in the story of one of the world's last undiscovered marine wildernesses. What to Expect True Exploration & Seclusion: Dive sites that see perhaps a handful of visitors each year, offering a profound sense of discovery and untouched beauty. Pristine Coral Reefs & Walls: Experience reef ecosystems in their most virgin state, with spectacular coral health, immense fish biomass, and a high likelihood of shark encounters. Raw Pelagic Encounters: The remote location and deep water channels are highways for pelagics, including sharks, tuna, mackerel, and majestic rays. Unique Cultural Immersion: Visit traditional villages in the Sermata and Babar island groups, witnessing cultures that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. A Journey Through Isolation: Traverse a chain of remote islands, each with its own unique character and underwater landscape, from dramatic drop-offs to serene lagoons. Advanced Adventure: This expedition is designed for seasoned divers seeking to escape the beaten path and embrace the spirit of true exploration. Embarkation: Saumlaki , Saumlaki Airport (SXK) 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 Saumlaki & Tanimbar Check Dive Afternoon: Board the vessel in Ambon. After a comprehensive safety and expedition briefing, we set sail towards the northwest. Late Afternoon (1 Dive): A check dive at a sheltered site to ensure all gear is functioning perfectly and to acclimatize to the water. Evening: Welcome dinner as we begin our journey into the remote wilderness. Day 2: The Tanimbar Approach – Larat & Fordate Full Day (3-4 Dives): Explore the northern reaches of the Tanimbar Islands. These sites showcase a unique blend of marine life from both the Banda and Arafura Seas, influenced by diverse currents. Evening: Settle in as we cruise toward the more isolated southern island groups. Day 3: The Southern Frontier – Marsela & Wetan Full Day (3-4 Dives): Arrive at the Marsela and Wetan groups. These are among the most remote islands on the route, offering truly exploratory diving on pristine reefs that rarely see human visitors. Day 4: Babar Archipelago – Atolls & Culture Morning (2 Dives): Dive the stunning reefs surrounding the Babar Islands, a large volcanic archipelago fringed by vibrant atolls. Afternoon (Land Excursion): Visit a traditional village on Babar Island, renowned for its unique architecture and strong, preserved cultural identity. Late Afternoon (1 Dive): An evening dive to observe the transition of marine life as nocturnal hunters emerge. Day 5: The Heart of the Forgotten Islands – Dawera & Dawelor Full Day (4 Dives): Discover the islands of Dawera and Dawelor. This area is celebrated for its complex reef systems, dramatic coral formations, and incredible visibility. Prepare for exhilarating drift dives. Day 6: Sermata Archipelago – Walls & Villages Full Day (3-4 Dives): Dive the uncharted walls of the Sermata Islands. Due to the lack of fishing pressure, the coral growth is breathtaking and shark sightings are a frequent highlight. Afternoon (Cultural Visit): Go ashore to a traditional village in the Sermata group to experience the authentic and welcoming culture of these remote islanders. Day 7: Deeper into the Banda Sea – Suanggi or Manuk Full Day (3-4 Dives): We reach the dramatic "Gateway" sites. We dive either the submerged volcano of Suanggi in search of hammerhead sharks, or the active slopes of Manuk Island, famous for its geothermal vents and resident sea snakes. Evening: Enjoy the final sunset at sea as we make our final transit toward the Ambon bay. Day 8: Ambon’s Hidden Gems & Grand Finale Morning (2 Dives): Conduct your final dives near the entrance of Ambon Bay, a final farewell to the incredible underwater biodiversity of the region. Beach BBQ: Land on a secluded beach for a classic barbecue celebration to reflect on the week’s expedition. Evening: Bill settlement with the Cruise Director after dinner. Day 9: Disembarkation in Ambon Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast on board as the vessel docks. After Breakfast: Disembark at Ambon. Transfer to Ambon Airport (AMQ) for your flight home, marking the end of an unforgettable journey from the edge of the map.