Duration
6 days
Cabins left
8 / 8
Capacity
12 divers
Operator
Nomad Archipelago
Included
Mandatory surcharges
Optional extras
Check-in
08:00–10:00
Check-out
05:00–10:00
Located in the far eastern tip of Central Sulawesi, this wild paradise hosts many wonders above and under the sea. The Banggai Archipelago is located to the east of Central Sulawesi Province. It consists of two main islands with a string of small islands to the south that we will explore. Like many paradise islands, this part of Sulawesi is tough to get to, making liveaboards the best way to explore the area. On these small islands live Bugis and Bajau communities, known as sea nomads. Most of these families live permanently on the main islands, but they have built small houses above the lagoon to stay there during the fishing season. We will go meet them, listen to their stories, and share some time with them will be one of the highlights of our trip.
Known for their impressive ability to hold their breath underwater for an impressive period of time due to their larger spleens, the Bajau also possesses a unique traditional way of life. These communities still live a very traditional lifestyle in small villages with houses built on stilts over the sea, and their livelihood depends entirely on the sea. Our Banggai cruise will mostly call at small and remote islands where the Bajau people form the majority of the population. We will take you to some of their villages throughout your trip so that you can get up close and personal with these seafarers, watch them as they demonstrate their supernatural freediving ability, and see how they make their living from the sea. Be prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the Bajau!
Upon arrival at Luwuk Airport, we will transfer to the harbor where we embark on our vessel. While sailing, our cruise director will provide a briefing to familiarize you with the vessel and our safety procedures. In the late afternoon, we will make a stop at a charming beach. As night falls, we will weigh anchor to continue our journey along the picturesque coast.
This day, we'll start the exploration by visiting Peleng Island's famous Paisupok Lagoon, which mesmerizes with its crystal-clear water. Following that, we'll proceed to a stunning white sand beach where you can indulge in swimming, kayaking, or snorkeling activities.
In the morning, we'll check out the Vinisius atolls, which are perfect for snorkeling. The reefs there are full of colorful coral, sponges, and various species of fish, including anthias and fusiliers. We might even encounter some local Bajau fishermen who spend a few days fishing in the area. After lunch, we'll hop on our Zodiac boat to explore more lagoons and visit a Bajau village.
In the morning, we'll reach a small island surrounded by beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Our day will be filled with snorkeling, swimming, and a barbecue on the lovely beach, but first, we will go onshore to meet the local fishermen and buy some seafood for our barbecue. In the afternoon, we'll take a short sail to a tiny island to meet a small Bajau community and enjoy a bonfire with them on the beach as the sun sets.
This day promises exciting exploration with visits to "Bajo" villages, where you'll likely be the center of attention as it's a place rarely visited by foreigners. In the early morning, weather permitting, we'll be on Toropot Island to explore two picturesque Bajau villages. These communities primarily sustain themselves through the octopus trade and seagrass. The highlight of the day will be snorkeling near the mangroves, offering a chance to spot the endemic "Banggai cardinal fish." We'll also go ashore and visit a traditional village in the interior, witnessing fishermen trading their daily catch.
In the northeastern part of Banggai Island, we'll find the most breathtaking beaches in the archipelago. Though we might not get to explore all of them, we'll definitely make a stop under the shade of a tree along the fine sandy shoreline. Here, we can enjoy snorkeling around the superb reef. Additionally, we'll embark on a Zodiac raid to meet the local fishermen. As the sun sets, we'll raise the anchor and head to our final destination, Luwuk.
We will arrive at the harbor of Luwuk in the early morning. After breakfast, we will say farewell to the crew and be transferred to the airport for the return flight to Bali.
Price per person
$1,980
All taxes included
Full charter from $20,400
Select cabin
No payment charged until confirmed.
