This expedition explores the captivating underwater realms of the West and South West regions of Halmahera, the southern part of Raja Ampat (Misool), and the Banda Sea, concluding in Ambon.
Halmahera, hailed as one of the premier dive destinations in Indonesia, boasts a diverse array of dive sites surrounded by pristine islands adorned with lush tropical forests.
Misool stands as a pinnacle in Indonesian diving, renowned for its vibrant soft corals and prolific marine life. Witness breathtaking scenes of baitfish balls accompanied by Mobula rays and predators, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
As the journey progresses, the Banda Sea, particularly in late September, comes alive with nutrient-rich upwellings. This period is optimal for encounters with hammerhead sharks amidst awe-inspiring drop-offs, walls, seamounts, and hidden gems for critter enthusiasts.
Embarking from Ternate, the itinerary begins with the Goraici islands, where seamounts showcase bommies draped in colorful soft corals, accompanied by the presence of blacktip sharks, tunas, and other pelagic wonders.
Heading further south, we explore another cluster of islands, including Kusu and Sale, situated at the northern edge of the Patientie strait. The strong currents in the strait contribute to the vitality of these dive sites, making them some of the most beautiful in Indonesia. Moving south into the Pantientie strait, the island of Pigajara beckons with a wooden shipwreck and captivating underwater landscapes.
The journey takes a turn towards Pisang islands, nestled between Halmahera and Misool. This secluded haven teems with marine life, featuring millions of triggerfish, schools of surgeonfish, bump head parrotfish, Spanish mackerel, and tunas.
Next on the itinerary is Misool, the southern gem of Raja Ampat, where three days are dedicated to exploring its premier dive sites. Gorgonian forests, adorned with soft corals and teeming with marine life, offer an unforgettable underwater experience.
Continuing the adventure, Koon, located at the eastern tip of Seram islands, reveals the mesmerizing “Too Many Fish” dive site. A drop-off populated by schools of trevallies, surgeonfish, barracudas, and potentially hammerhead sharks awaits exploration.
The expedition then ventures to the historic Banda Islands, central to the spice trade and conflicts of the 16th century. Diving around these islands unveils remarkable sites, including a dive along the lava flow of “Gunung Api” (the fire mountain), showcasing the regrowth of corals and immense sponges since the last eruption in 1988. A land visit to Banda Neira offers insights into the village’s history, featuring a museum and a fort.
Weather permitting, the journey extends south to Serua island, renowned for unparalleled encounters with schooling hammerheads. Two days of exceptional diving around this secluded island in the heart of the Banda Sea await.
The expedition concludes with a return to Suanggi island, a prime location for observing hammerhead sharks and other pelagic wonders. The final day of diving unfolds either on Nusa Laut island or in the Ambon bay, offering opportunities for captivating muck diving.
Throughout the expedition, guests can enjoy enriching land excursions, from brief visits to villages and beaches in Halmahera to a short hike in Misool for panoramic views and the sight of a heart-shaped lagoon. In the Banda Sea, a visit to Banda Neira encompasses exploration of the village, fort, and museum.
On the penultimate day, the last dive takes place around 10 am, and divers are advised to wait 24 hours before flying after their final dive, ensuring a safe and memorable conclusion to this remarkable journey.
More About AmbaiDives: Approximately 42 dives in total
Experience: Advanced Open Water – 30 minimum logged dives required.
Day 1: Ternate (Checkin)
Day 2: Halmahera – Goraichi (3-4 Dives)
Day 3: Halmahera – Goraichi (3-4 Dives)
Day 4: Halmahera – Lilai & Bacan (3-4 Dives)
Day 5: Halmahera – Saleh & Kusu (3-4 Dives)
Day 6: Pisang Island (3 Dives)
Day 7: Misool – Pele & Wayil (3-4 Dives)
Day 8: Misool – Fiabacet (3-4 Dives)
Day 9: Misool – Boo (3 Dives)
Day 10: Koon (2 Dives)
Day 11: Hatta (3-4 Dives)
Day 12: Banda (3-4 Dives)
Day 13: Suanggi (3-4 Dives)
Day 14: Nusa Laut (1 Dive)
Day 15: Ambon (Checkout)
Included: VAT, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Beach BBQ, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Diving Package, Extra Dives, Nitrox, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Snorkeling Guide, Stand Up Paddleboard, Water Ski, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, WiFi internet.
Required Extras: Fuel Surcharge (100-200 EUR per trip), National Park Fees (150-250 EUR per trip).
Optional Extras: Dive Insurance, Gratuities, Alcoholic Beverages, Nitrox Course, Private Dive Guide, Rental Gear, Scuba Diving Courses, Snorkel Gear, Laundry / Pressing Services, Massage (10-15 EUR).
Bitung – Luwuk
34 Dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
30 minimum logged dives required
Sorong – Kaimana / Kaimana – Sorong
36 Dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
30 minimum logged dives required
Sorong – Sorong
36 Dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
30 minimum logged dives required
Sorong – Kaimana / Kaimana – Sorong
33 Dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
30 minimum logged dives required
Komodo Island
21 dives
Certificate: Open Water
20 minimum logged dives required
Komodo Island
30 dives
Certificate: Open Water
20 minimum logged dives required
