Take a Cheng Ho Liveaboard Private Charter on an 8D7N trip through the ancient Spice Islands. You’ll start in Ambon, a place known for its muck diving, and end in Banda, an archipelago with lots of reefs. This private charter is only for picky divers and history buffs who want the best of both worlds: world-class critter hunting and stunning wall diving, all in one smooth, personalized trip. Your group will have a custom itinerary that lets you spend days looking for Ambon’s famous rare species, like the psychedelic frogfish and rhinopias at Laha Bay. Then you’ll cross the famous Banda Sea to see the colorful coral walls, exciting drifts, and pelagic action at places like Banda Neira and Ai Island. The famous Cheng Ho, known for its traditional charm and unmatched space, becomes your private luxury expedition vessel. A dedicated crew, private chef, and expert dive guides will cater to your schedule, making sure you have the perfect mix of diving, cultural exploration, and relaxation.
An 8-day private charter gives you the extra time you need to really see and do everything in these two very different areas without feeling rushed. It also gives you more freedom and depth than a conventional group trip. With this longer time frame, your group may really get to know each place: wait for the right conditions and tides at important muck sites, arrange several dives on Banda’s beautiful reefs, and even add special land trips to see old Dutch forts and nutmeg plantations. The Cheng Ho’s large teak decks and sturdy design make it the perfect place for underwater photographers to set up their gear and for everyone to unwind in luxury after days of exploring. If you want to see both macro wonders and pelagic creatures on the same trip, this is the best liveaboard experience for you. Ask us today to plan your own trip on a real Indonesian maritime historical icon.
More about Cheng HoDives: Approximately 18 dive in total
Experience: Open Water – 30 minimum logged dives required.
The Sea Safari crew will transfer the Guests from Ambon Airport or the Hotel to the ship. After a nice welcome briefing by the Cruise Director, cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place – before embarking on Ambon. Guests can familiarize themselves with the vessel, set up equipment, and get comfortable.
3-4 dives daily, including a night dive if possible. When crossing only 2 dives a day can be scheduled.
The final day of diving with 1-2 scheduled dives – sailing towards Banda.
After breakfast and check-out, start preparing for disembarkation in Ambon. Say goodbye to the guests and wish them farewell! The Sea Safari crew will organize the transfer to the Airport.
Included: VAT, Fuel Surcharge, Port Fees, Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Diving Package, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Snorkeling Guide, Stand Up Paddleboard, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, WiFi internet.
Required Extras: National Park Fees (25-35 USD per day).
Optional Extras: Gratuities, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks, Nitrox, Nitrox Course (250 USD), Rental Gear, Scuba Diving Courses (60-570 USD), Laundry / Pressing Services.
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Certificate: Advanced Open Water
30 minimum logged dives required
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We had a great time diving with manta rays and saw a lot of sea species we had never seen before. The five master was a real “master” who helped us navigate the changing underwater circumstances.
