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 sets sail on a one-of-a-kind itinerary, venturing through some of Indonesia’s most iconic and exhilarating dive destinations. This journey spans a breathtaking range of dive sites, each offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse marine wonders that make these waters truly unforgettable. Laha (Ambon) Laha’s sublime critter diving is a well-known hotspot for underwater image makers. The sand and gravel slopes, piers, and coral heads of Laha are home to some of the planet’s most sought-after photographic subjects. On these sites, the weird and wonderful psychedelic frogfish was discovered. Who knows what other cryptic wonders these sites might hide? The Lease Islands In addition to having a rich history of the spice trade, the islands of Ambon, Haruku, and Saparua, otherwise known as the Lease Islands, are also home to some of Indonesia’s best diving. Their southern shores, as well as the smaller island of Nusa Laut, offer a wide range of wonderful sites. The Banda Islands Now firmly on any tropical diver’s wish list, the remote Banda Islands are a sparkling oasis that rises out of the deep blue Banda Sea. Aside from a remarkable topside history, this region boasts some of the world’s finest diving, ranging from critter havens in the harbour to the magnificent walls and reefs of the outer islands of the group. Koon The most well-known dive site at Koon is “Too Many Fish,” and this title gives you a clear idea of what can be seen under the water. It is located where the Koon island line finishes and the deep sea starts. Centred around a ridge that has a deep wall on the north side and a steeply sloping reef on the south, this is an excellent site. It is not uncommon to see leopard and hammerhead sharks accompanying the “too many fish” that school around this amazing site. Misool After a stop at the south-west corner of Ceram Island at Koon, we now enter the mythical dive destination of Misool, the most southerly of the famed Raja Ampat islands. As many of our guests already know, Misool is overflowing with some of the world’s most iconic and well-known dive sites. Get On-Board with Dewi Nusantara Begin your next scuba adventure on board the Indonesian archipelago’s premier liveaboard and experience the best that Indonesia has to offer, along with Dewi Nusantara’s outstanding service, exceptional facilities, and her highly experienced crew.
Not far from Ambon airport, along the northern shore of the Ambon Inlet, the village of Laha is renowned for hosting some of the most extraordinary muck diving sites in the world. Most of the dive points are clustered fairly close together, with names such as Middle Point, Mandarin City, Rhino City, and the one that started it all, the aptly named Twilight Zone. This legendary dive site, located close to as well as underneath the fishing boat piers, is a haven for macro photographers and critter enthusiasts seeking rare and unusual marine life. What makes The Twilight Zone so exceptional is the unique interplay of natural and human elements. Over time, local fishing activities have contributed organic debris to the sandy, silty, and gravel-strewn seabed, inadvertently creating an ideal microhabitat for an astonishing variety of marine species. Divers venturing into these waters are rewarded with encounters with some of the ocean’s most bizarre and captivating creatures, making every expedition a true treasure hunt for the weird and wonderful. In recent years, the discovery of additional dive sites a little further afield along this thriving stretch of shoreline has further cemented Ambon’s reputation as a world-class muck diving destination. Notably, it was here that the psychedelic frogfish, one of the rarest and most visually striking marine species, was first documented - an extraordinary testament to the area’s biodiversity. With ongoing exploration, there is no doubt that more ground breaking discoveries await. For those seeking a contrasting yet equally thrilling dive experience, the Duke of Sparta shipwreck offers an entirely different underwater adventure. Resting in deeper waters further into the bay, closer to the city, this massive and remarkably intact wreck invites divers to explore its hauntingly beautiful remains - a striking juxtaposition to the critter-filled world of The Twilight Zone.
Nusa Laut, the easternmost jewel in the Lease Islands archipelago - which also includes Saparua, Haruku, and Ambon - offers an unspoiled paradise both above and below the sea’s surface. The island’s landscape is lush with a high-rising interior, fringed by picturesque bays and dotted with small fishing villages that exude charm and tranquillity. The northern bays, in particular, provide a sanctuary for dugongs - the elusive Southeast Asian relatives of the manatee - adding to the island’s natural allure. A testament to the power of community-led conservation, the villages of Ameth and Akon on Nusa Laut’s northeast coast stand as shining examples of grassroots environmental stewardship. Captains of visiting yachts are required to report to the village head in Ameth, a minor formality in exchange for experiencing one of the region’s most well-protected marine environments. The vigilant efforts of the local community in safeguarding their coastline from illegal fishing have resulted in thriving fish populations and pristine coral reefs, making the waters of Nusa Laut a paradise for visiting divers. Beneath the surface, the island boasts spectacular wall and reef dives, but the true highlight lies in the vibrant reef on its northwestern coast. Here, stunning coral formations and abundant marine life create a mesmerising underwater landscape. Adding to the thrill, divers sometimes encounter schools of majestic hammerhead sharks in the deep blue beyond the reef - an unforgettable sight for any underwater explorer. For those seeking even more adventure, a breathtaking underwater arch at Akon on the island’s eastern side awaits, just beneath the surface, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of Nusa Laut’s marine wonders. With its thriving ecosystems, dedicated local guardians, and world-class diving opportunities, Nusa Laut is a hidden treasure in the heart of Indonesia’s Maluku region, inviting travellers to experience nature at its most pristine.
Far out in the remote, shimmering expanse of the Banda Sea - nestled to the south of the great island of Ceram - lies a small but remarkable cluster of islands: the Banda Islands. Scattered like emeralds across the deep blue waters, this archipelago once stood at the very heart of the global spice trade, fiercely contested by empires for its precious nutmeg and mace. Today, the Banda Islands resonate with echoes of their extraordinary past, where crumbling colonial fortresses and ancient plantations reveal stories of ambition, exploration, and cultural exchange. Set against a dramatic backdrop of a soaring volcanic peak, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical forests, the Banda Islands offer a rare and captivating blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty - a destination as unforgettable as it is remote. A Window into a Distant Past The principal island, Banda Neira, transports visitors back in time to an era when these islands were among the most significant in the world. European remnants of this bygone age still grace the streets - quaint churches, a charming post office, a rustic museum, and street lamps (though no longer in operation) stand as echoes of colonial influence. Towering above it all is Fort Belgica, an imposing 17th-century stronghold that offers panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s tumultuous history. Wandering through Banda Neira’s narrow streets and alleyways is nothing short of spellbinding. A Land of Contrasts Just across from Banda Neira’s bustling harbour, the striking 600-metre-high volcano island, Banda Api, looms over the seascape. Though its last eruption was in May 1988, the rugged terrain continues to captivate adventurers who take on the demanding trek to its summit, guided by seasoned locals. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a tranquil stroll through the fragrant nutmeg groves of Lontar Island offers a peaceful alternative. Adventures on Land and Sea While the inner islands boast pleasant snorkelling spots, the real thrill for visiting yachts comes in the form of a friendly yet fierce rowing competition between islanders and crew members. Racing in traditional kora-kora longboats, the islanders almost always claim victory, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience and their rowing crews exhausted. Beneath the waves, the Banda Sea reveals its true magic. These islands, the peaks of an immense underwater mountain range, are surrounded by deep, pristine blue waters teeming with marine life. From vibrant coral walls to rare critter dives, the Banda Islands offer some of the most exhilarating scuba diving experiences in the world, making them a dream destination for underwater explorers. Safe Haven in a Remote Paradise For visiting yachts, the most favoured anchorage lies in the sheltered waterway between Banda Neira harbour and the towering Banda Api volcano. Here, amidst the serene beauty of the islands, sailors find a perfect haven to rest, explore, and immerse themselves in the extraordinary blend of history, adventure, and natural splendour that defines the Banda Islands. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or a diver seeking untouched underwater realms, the Banda Islands promise an experience unlike any other - an enchanting journey through time and nature in one of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations.
Located just over 10 nautical miles south-east of the central harbour of the Banda Islands at Banda Neira, Hatta Island offers scuba divers an unparalleled underwater adventure. With its crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, the island is a haven for divers seeking both beauty and biodiversity beneath the surface. From dramatic drop-offs and thriving coral gardens to arches and mysterious underwater caves, Hatta Island’s seascape is as diverse as it is stunning. The vibrant ecosystem teems with colourful tropical fish, graceful turtles, reef sharks, and even occasional encounters with majestic manta rays and playful dolphins. For those seeking a truly exhilarating experience, the deeper waters around the island are known to attract schools of hammerhead sharks, offering an unforgettable and rare diving spectacle. Just two nautical miles south, the awe-inspiring Skaru Reef (Karang Hatta) awaits. This towering marine mountain, that barely breaks the ocean’s surface at low tide, features a network of shimmering shallows that plunge into the deep, creating thrilling big fish dive sites. The reef’s unique topography and nutrient-rich waters attract pelagic species, making it a must-visit for those hoping to encounter sharks, barracudas, and other ocean giants in their natural habitat. Whether you’re an adventurous diver chasing adrenaline-fuelled drift dives or a nature enthusiast eager to witness marine life in its pristine habitat, Hatta Island promises an extraordinary diving experience like no other.
During our time in the Banda Islands, Dewi Nusantara has explored the outer island of Hatta and the magnificent reef plateau of Skaru. Now, it’s time to venture into the heart of this stunning archipelago. A variety of diverse dive sites await, beginning with the remarkable critter dive at Mandarin Hotel. At first glance, this stretch of rocks and sand - nestled along the border of the colonial Molana Hotel’s picturesque gardens - may seem unassuming. However, beneath the surface, it reveals an extraordinary spectacle. In the shallow waters, a vibrant population of mandarin fish, some impressively large, engage in their intricate mating displays at dusk. Unlike in coral-rich environments, these mesmerising creatures must perform their ritual in the open, making them exceptionally photogenic for underwater photographers. Towering 600 meters above the surrounding waters, the volcanic Gunung Api dominates the skyline of Banda Neira, the principal island. Its most recent eruption in 1988 sent a dramatic lava flow cascading into the sea on the mountain’s northeast side. In the years since, this once-barren expanse has transformed into a thriving coral garden, a breathtaking testament to nature’s resilience and the rapid regrowth of marine ecosystems. This dive site is a must-visit, offering a rare opportunity to witness the astonishing speed at which coral reefs can recover after a volcanic eruption. Beyond the protective embrace of Banda’s natural harbour, even more exhilarating dive sites beckon. One standout is Batu Kapal, an offshore seamount teeming with marine life. Here, honeycomb moray eels weave through the reef, while immense schools of fish move in perfect synchronicity - a truly unforgettable underwater experience.
The remote, sandy isles of the Koon Archipelago are dotted with sparse vegetation and just a handful of small villages, offering a secluded and untouched paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Koon Island is the easternmost of a collection of three small, sandy coral cays - along with Nukus and Grogus - that stretch nearly eight nautical miles from west to east. Extending into the depths of the Ceram Sea, these islands boast an astonishing mix of shallow reefs, deep drop-offs, and sandy terra firma. The crystal-clear waters surrounding them create the perfect playground for snorkelling and swimming, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just beneath the surface. Kayakers and paddleboarders can glide through tranquil blue lagoons, exploring hidden coves and winding waterways. On land, the islands offer opportunities for beachcombing and birdwatching, with stretches of soft sand, swaying coconut palms, and flocks of seabirds soaring overhead. Although the entire group is ideal for various watersports, Koon is best known for scuba diving. The focal point is a site called “Too Many Fish” - a name that perfectly captures what awaits beneath the surface. Located at the eastern tip of the mini-archipelago, this site plunges into much deeper water. Centred around a ridge with a deep wall on the north side and a steeply sloping reef on the south, it offers multiple entry points for divers. It is not uncommon to spot zebra and hammerhead sharks on the reef and along the north wall, along with the countless fish that give the site its name. Additionally, there is great potential for exploration along the deep-water drop-offs and sparkling reefs surrounding the three islands. Whether above or below the waterline, the Koon Archipelago promises a serene and immersive escape into nature’s untouched beauty.
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 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 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 reefdwelling 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 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
• 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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No payment charged until confirmed.
