Duration
11 days
Cabins left
12 / 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 will embark on three consecutive cruises that will explore two exceptional regions of the Indonesian archipelago: Misool and Halmahera. These itineraries are totally different from each another, and follow completely different routes. This presentation covers the first trip, Part I, which visits the Misool region of Raja Ampat before making a crossing to explore and dive the sites of south-west Halmahera. Misool Misool is the most southerly of the Four Kings. The islands that stretch out into the Ceram Sea from Misool’s south-east shoreline form a location that avid scuba divers dream about and feature some of the most iconic dive sites to be found anywhere on the planet. This unbelievably scenic area covers close to 2,500 square kilometres and features eye-popping dive sites at every turn. There are spectacular underwater experiences here for every level of diver. These include caves and walls along the northern line and numerous small rocky islets connected by marine ridges in the south. Everywhere, colourful corals combine with an astounding array of marine life to make diving here an unmissable experience. South-West Halmahera The marine biodiversity of Halmahera is also exceptional, and its pristine coral reefs offer exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling; it is a secret gem with so much still to be discovered. Visitors will have the chance to experience some of the best coral gardens that Indonesia has to offer. Dive sites range from ridges, pinnacles, caverns, swim-throughs, muck, and ancient volcanoes, creating a multitude of diverse marine experiences. 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.
There are some fantastic dive sites both inside and outside the Balbulol Island Group, as well as around the Sagof Islands, a short distance further east. The sites offer multi-peaked seamounts, karst islands with undercuts, deep caves, ledges, spectacular reefs, and walls. At times, thick swarms of baitfish collect around this stunning marine architecture. With a little luck, it’s frequently possible to see pelagics on the hunt, chasing these tiny fish in spectacular acrobatic fashion. The north-east corner of Balbulol and two small islets on the east side of the Sagof Group are home to the majority of the popular sites. However, there is plenty of scope for exploration. Seamounts and reefs that rise close to the surface are spread across the seascape. In addition, there are several lesser-known but excellent sites around the Epfian Group. This is another collection of small islands located only two and a half nautical miles east of the Sagof Group.
The large island of Daram marks the easternmost boundary of the Misool region. The vast majority of the dive sites are not located around the island itself, but rather a short distance to the north-west. They are undoubtedly some of the most astonishing and colourful in the entire area. Small collections of karst islets, located along the eastern end of a long island line that extends away from the east side of Misool, are the focal point for most of the site. Many of them boast incredibly abundant coral reefs and jaw-dropping topography. They are also home to so much marine life that, at times, it defies description. The anchorages and sites are vulnerable to adverse sea and weather conditions due to their remote location. However, if the weather and sea conditions are favourable, the diving here is some of the very best that Raja Ampat has to offer. In addition, there are numerous opportunities to find many more new sites around these iconic rocky islands and ridges.
The dive sites in and around Fiabacet and Boo are, without exaggeration, among the most exceptional not only in Raja Ampat and Indonesia, but arguably across the entire planet. This remote corner of the Coral Triangle offers a truly world-class underwater experience that continues to captivate even the most seasoned divers. Beneath the surface, the southern region’s deep ocean floor rises dramatically into a stunning marine landscape - an intricate maze of ridges, seamounts, and channels. This unique topography acts as a natural funnel for the nutrient-rich currents flowing in from the open ocean. As these currents surge over and around the rock and reef formations, they feed the vibrant coral ecosystems, igniting an explosion of life and colour that is nothing short of breathtaking. Each dive site here offers its own distinct wonders, but they all share an extraordinary level of biodiversity. Divers are treated to scenes of immense beauty: clouds of schooling fish so thick they can obscure the reef behind them, kaleidoscopic coral gardens teeming with life, and an ever-present sense of awe. It’s not uncommon to spot grey, whitetip, and black-tip reef sharks weaving through the masses, accompanied by formidable pelagic predators like dogtooth tuna, Spanish mackerel, giant trevally, and the graceful, sweeping forms of mobula rays as they hunt amid the chaos of baitfish. Many of the most celebrated sites cluster around striking karst limestone outcrops and along the rugged shores of Boo and Kalig Islands. Here, the dynamic currents and nutrient-rich upwellings from the Ceram Sea to the south nourish the reefs, sustaining an ecosystem of remarkable abundance and resilience, as well as a magnet for marine life.
The Wayil dive sites are mostly clustered around the western end of Wayilbatan Island. Comprising multi-peaked seamounts, karst island ridges, and exciting passages, they all feature abundant coral growth and a wealth of both pelagic and reef-dwelling marine life. At Wayil, there is something for every level of diver. These include easy and pretty reef sites, majestic open-water seamounts, and gentle drift dives that flow down some of the most otherworldly marine seascapes imaginable. One of the most popular sites is “The Four Kings.” This incredible underwater experience takes place in open water, west of the anchorages, where an astonishing four-peaked seamount rises from the deep sea floor. This massive rocky marine structure acts as a magnet for all manner of marine life, large and small.
The large island of Jef Pele, as well as the nearby Lili and Kepotsol groups, do not suffer from the concentration of divers and yachts that now visit the anchorages and marine attractions further east. However, they do feature some excellent diving opportunities. The north-western edge of Jef Pele is home to Kaleidoscope Ridge, the anchorage’s signature site. This is a fine example of Raja Ampat’s underwater world, with a dizzying array of corals and marine life, both large and small. This impressive coral-covered ridge’s incredible underwater architecture combines with a deeper seamount, attracting some of the larger animals that inhabit the abundant reefs and seas of the Misool region. Jef Pele’s complex coastline, as well as the numerous offshore islands further south, allow for more dive site exploration. The sites at Lili and Kepotsol, just under two nautical miles north of the Jef Pele shoreline, share the same amazing marine life and coral characteristics as those around the more well-known anchorages. The scope for new discoveries is considerable, especially in the Kofani group, situated between Lili and Kepotsol.
The Nampale Blue Water Mangroves are the main focus for visitors that venture up to this remote corner of north-west Misool. The clear water channels that cut through the mangrove forests hide a wealth of marine life as well as provide a very special underwater experience. Not unlike diving in a very colourful and clear river, the coral reefs meet the mangroves to produce a unique marine environment. Undocumented islands and reefs further northeast offer ample opportunity for the discovery of new dive sites in this underexplored region. The Senyu and Masmas Ulit seamounts, which have been on the radar for some time, are two that have undergone some exploration. Both are sprawling coral-topped deep reefs covering large areas that literally buzz with marine life.
Surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, Pisang Island is located out in the Halmahera Sea midway between Misool and Orang Kaya. The island has a circumference of nearly five nautical miles and rises steeply from deep water to an elevation of nearly 400 metres. It is richly coated in dense forest, uninhabited, and features a few small, isolated sandy coves. This remote and pristine location is a hidden gem for scuba diving enthusiasts and renowned for its vibrant marine biodiversity and unspoiled coral reefs. The underwater world around Pisang Island offers a kaleidoscope of colours, with healthy coral reefs forming the backbone of its ecosystem. The island’s dive sites are home to an impressive array of marine species, including reef sharks, turtles, barracudas, dogtooth tunas, Spanish mackerel, humphead parrotfish, Napoleon wrasse, rainbow runners, and schools of vibrant fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and anthias. However, it is the sites around the smaller offshore islands that are the main points of interest for scuba divers. On the south-east side, there is Small Banana, also known as Pisang Kecil. Marked with a lighthouse, this site comprises a very fishy reef that runs to a current-swept point that attracts a lot of schooling fish and some bigger visitors too. The islands of Ayu Intan and Lampu Mata, on the north-west side and also known as Bananarama, are a great favourite with divers. Underwater, these two are connected by a deep ridge reef that is covered with extremely vibrant hard and soft corals. Lampu Mata features a deep wall on the east side that leads to a stunning underwater rock feature and a pretty hard coral garden. In between are two shallow canyon swim-throughs, and extending to the west is a rocky shallow reef that attracts a lot of schooling fish. Over on the big island, macro enthusiasts will also find plenty to marvel at. The fringing reefs and points provide habitats for nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and other fascinating animals. On the north-facing shoreline there is a large bay that is certainly worth exploring. This has a watercourse flowing into it from the island’s high peaks, one of the essential criteria for a stellar critter dive site.
Scuba diving at the Orang Kaya island collection is a rare and exhilarating experience for divers looking to explore untouched waters filled with vibrant marine life. Located close to the southeastern corner of Halmahera, this group of islands and reefs remain largely undiscovered, making it an ideal destination for those seeking pristine underwater environments. The island’s surrounding waters boast excellent visibility, healthy coral reefs, and a diverse range of marine species, making it a dream destination for underwater adventurers. The dive sites around Orang Kaya feature a mix of dramatic drop-offs, coral-covered slopes, and sandy seabeds rich with macro life. The thriving reefs are home to an abundance of tropical fish, including schools of fusiliers, sweetlips, and angelfish. Larger pelagic species such as reef sharks, barracudas, and eagle rays are also commonly sighted, while macro enthusiasts can find nudibranchs, seahorses, and cuttlefish hiding among the corals. The island’s nutrient-rich currents attract migratory species, offering divers a chance to encounter rare marine life in its natural habitat. For divers interested in adventure and exploration, a short distance to the south-east of Orang Kaya is Karang Batu Anyer. At first glance this looks much like any other remote offshore reef in the seas of Indonesia. However, on closer inspection of satellite imagery, it becomes quite apparent that the elongated, surface-breaking, curved reef is in fact part of the caldera of a long-extinct volcano. Completely circular, and with a diameter of 600 metres, this looks to be a location that definitely warrants further attention. The Orang Kaya region’s isolation means fewer divers and a more exclusive experience, allowing for uninterrupted exploration of its underwater treasures. Whether you are a seasoned diver looking for thrilling drift dives or a photographer in search of stunning reefscapes, Orang Kaya offers an unparalleled diving adventure in one of Indonesia’s most untouched marine environments.
Ganone, tucked away on the north-western edge of the Orang Kaya island group near the southeastern tip of Halmahera, is a tiny but captivating island surrounded by deep, pristine waters. Despite its small size, it delivers some of the region’s most memorable diving experiences. The island’s dive sites offer a stunning variety of underwater scenery—from lush coral gardens and dramatic walls that plunge into the blue to sandy slopes alive with hidden treasures. Schools of fusiliers, snapper, and batfish create dazzling displays as they swirl around the reefs, while closer inspection reveals a vibrant world of moray eels, cuttlefish, and brilliantly patterned nudibranchs. For those seeking bigger encounters, Ganone does not disappoint: reef sharks and eagle rays are frequent visitors, and with a little luck, divers may even spot a majestic manta ray gliding gracefully through the currents. Submerged pinnacles rise steeply from the depths, cloaked in soft corals and gorgonian fans, providing refuge for pygmy seahorses and an abundance of reef fish. Beyond these, sandy slopes dotted with bommies reveal countless macro subjects—from ornate ghost pipefish to flamboyant cuttlefish—rewarding divers with endless surprises. Venturing a little further from Ganone, divers will find an equally captivating collection of sites. Tuna and trevally patrol the sweeping coral plateaus of the offshore islands and reefs, their silver flanks flashing in the sunlight. At certain points, currents sweep through narrow channels, drawing in pelagic species and creating thrilling drift dives. This diversity of marine life, paired with the island’s varied underwater terrain and the richness of the surrounding region, makes Ganone and its neighbouring sites an ideal destination for photographers of every style. Whether capturing intricate macro details, dramatic wide-angle seascapes, or the fleeting shadow of a passing pelagic, the area offers endless opportunities to frame the beauty of the marine world.
Diving in the Pantinti Strait, Indonesia, is an extraordinary experience for those seeking vibrant marine biodiversity, strong currents, and dramatic underwater landscapes. Located in North Maluku, the strait separates the islands of Halmahera and Bacan, creating a dynamic marine environment shaped by the powerful flow of nutrient-rich waters. These currents bring an abundance of marine life, making the Pantinti Strait an exciting destination for divers who enjoy high-voltage dives and pelagic encounters. With a collection of islands blocking and confusing the currents in the middle, the strait is always going to produce absolutely stellar dive sites, much like a mini Komodo or Alor. The underwater topography at Pantinti is incredible, featuring steep walls, coral-covered pinnacles, canyons, passages, and sloping reefs teeming with marine life. Divers can expect to see large schools of barracuda, tuna, and trevallies patrolling the deep blue, while reef sharks and rays glide effortlessly through the currents. There are also quiet coves and corners around the complex coastline of the islands featuring healthy and vibrant coral formations. These support an array of smaller creatures such as nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and pygmy seahorses. The remoteness of the region means fewer divers, providing an exclusive and pristine underwater experience. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-filled drift dives or mesmerising marine encounters, the Pantinti Strait offers some of the best diving in Indonesia.
Critter diving at Makian Island, located on the western seaboard of Halmahera Island, offers an incredible experience for macro photography enthusiasts and underwater explorers. Unlike traditional coral reef diving, critter (or muck) diving focuses on the sandy, silty, or rubble-strewn seabed, where bizarre and cryptic marine creatures thrive. The island is actually a volcano, and along with its nutrient-rich waters, a little current, and some patchy habitat, it creates an ideal environment for rare critters to flourish. Divers exploring Makian’s muck sites can expect to encounter a stunning variety of macro life, including flamboyant cuttlefish, mimic octopuses, hairy frogfish, and an array of colourful nudibranchs. The island’s dark volcanic sand provides the perfect backdrop for spotting these elusive creatures, many of which rely on camouflage to blend into their surroundings. Pipefish, mantis shrimp, and ghost pipefish are also commonly sighted, making every dive a treasure hunt for marine oddities. What makes muck diving at Makian Island even more special is its relatively untouched and less-visited dive sites. Unlike more famous muck diving destinations such as the Lembeh Strait and Ambon, Makian remains under the radar. With the keen eyes of Dewi Nusantara’s expert critter spotters, divers can uncover some of the ocean’s most fascinating and peculiar inhabitants, making every dive an adventure filled with unexpected discoveries.
• 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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