Sep 12 – Sep 19, 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 Embark on an epic 8-day voyage tracing the path of ancient explorers from the historic Spice Islands to the breathtaking biodiversity of Raja Ampat. This point-to-point expedition begins in Ambon, diving immediately into the legendary Banda Islands, where colonial forts and nutmeg plantations tell tales of a tumultuous past. We then sail east, exploring the remote underwater volcanoes and pristine reefs of the Banda Sea, before culminating in the heart of the Coral Triangle—Raja Ampat. Prepare for a journey that blends world-class muck diving, pelagic encounters on vibrant seamounts, and the sheer, unforgettable spectacle of Raja Ampat's coral gardens.1 What to Expect Legendary Muck Diving: Search for rare critters in Ambon Bay, the global capital of muck diving.1 Rich History: Walk through the Spice Islands, exploring Fort Belgica and nutmeg plantations.1 Pristine Reefs & Seamounts: Experience the remote beauty of Pulau Kun and the vibrant coral ecosystems of Fiabacet.1 Iconic Raja Ampat Landscapes: Hike to breathtaking viewpoints and dive in the heart of the Coral Triangle.1 Diverse Marine Life: From tiny pygmy seahorses to reef sharks, wobbegongs, and immense fish schools. 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: Board the vessel in Ambon Bay. Settle in with a welcome drink and attend the essential safety and itinerary briefing. • Late Afternoon: Begin your adventure with a check dive at Laha Bay, Ambon's world-famous muck diving site. This is your introduction to the region's incredible biodiversity, with a high chance of spotting the legendary Ambon scorpionfish, rhinopias, and a host of other rare macro life. • Evening: Welcome dinner as we prepare for our open-water crossing. Day 2: Suanggi - The Hammerhead Shark Search • Full Day (3 Dives): We spend the day at the submerged volcano of Suanggi. This is one of Indonesia's most famous sites for encountering schooling hammerhead sharks. The deep, blue-water walls and strong currents create the perfect pelagic conditions. Be prepared for adrenaline-filled dives where eagle rays, dogtooth tuna, and (with luck) large shark congregations are the reward. • Evening: Recover from the day's excitement as we navigate towards Manuk Island. Day 3: Manuk Island - The Volcano & Hot Springs • Full Day (3-4 Dives): Dive another active volcanic island. Manuk's walls are covered in a stunning array of colorful soft corals and sea fans, attracting immense fish life. The unique draw here is the chance to dive in natural hot springs on the seafloor, where bubbles and warmer water create a unique environment. Keep an eye out for sea snakes, which are abundant in the area. • Late Afternoon: A chance to land on the island for a short hike or to soak in a natural hot spring pool on land. Day 4: Pulau Hatta's Pristine Paradise • Full Day (4 Dives): Discover the remote atoll of Pulau Hatta (formerly known as Rosengain). Immerse yourself in what feels like an untouched aquarium. The reefs here are spectacularly healthy, with crystal-clear visibility, dazzling white sand slopes, and dramatic drop-offs. Expect pristine hard corals, vast schools of fusiliers and snappers, and numerous reef sharks patrolling the blue. Day 5: Banda Islands - History & Coral Cathedrals • Morning (2 Dives): Dive the exceptional sites around Banda Neira. Explore Batu Kapal (The Ship Rock), a pinnacle that acts as a magnet for pelagic fish, and the stunning walls draped in giant gorgonian sea fans. • Afternoon: Go ashore for a cultural and historical tour. Trek up to the iconic Fort Belgica for a panoramic view of the islands, and learn about the Spice Wars that once made this tiny archipelago the center of the world. Visit a local nutmeg plantation to understand the history firsthand. • Late Afternoon (1 Dive): A final afternoon dive in the Banda Islands, perhaps at a site like Lava Flow. Day 6: Ai & Run Islands - Untouched Beauty • Full Day (3 Dives): Explore the less-visited islands of Ai and Run. These sites offer a sense of true discovery, with incredibly vibrant soft corals, deep walls, and a fantastic diversity of marine life, from tiny nudibranchs to passing tuna and sharks. The feeling of remoteness and raw nature is palpable. Day 7: Nusa Laut - A Gentle Farewell • Morning (2 Dives): Conclude your diving adventure with two relaxed dives at the beautiful reefs of Nusa Laut. Known for its clear, calm waters and stunning coral gardens, this is a perfect place for a farewell dive, reflecting on the week's incredible experiences among colorful anthias and anemone gardens. • Beach/Top-deck BBQ(can be adjusted due to the weather condition): 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 8: Return to Ambon & Check Out • Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 AM at Ambon harbor. Transfer to Pattimura Airport (AMQ) for your flight home.