Pindito 12D11N

Embark on an unforgettable expedition spanning from Sorong in Irian Jaya to the pristine shores of Manado in North Sulawesi aboard the Pindito Liveaboard. Covering a distance of 650 nautical miles, this epic journey traverses a tapestry of diverse landscapes and seascapes, offering a captivating blend of marine marvels along the way. Beginning amidst the breathtaking coral reefs of Raja Ampat, guests are treated to a glimpse of paradise before venturing southward along the coast of Halmahera.

As we explore the southern coast of Halmahera, prepare for thrilling encounters with big fish amid dramatic walls and exhilarating drop-offs. The surrounding small islands boast vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, offering a mesmerizing spectacle for underwater enthusiasts. As the voyage draws to a close in North Sulawesi, guests are welcomed by pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life, and the renowned critter diving haven of the Lembeh Strait’s black sand.

At Pindito, flexibility is key, and our itineraries are tailored to ensure the best possible experience for our guests. Drawing upon our expertise and intimate knowledge of the region, we adapt our plans based on weather patterns, tides, and currents, ensuring optimal diving conditions at each destination. From renowned sites to hidden gems known only to a select few, every dive promises excitement and discovery, making this journey a truly unforgettable experience for divers of all levels. Embark on a voyage of exploration and wonder with Pindito Liveaboard, where adventure awaits at every turn.

Dives: Approximately 30 dives in total

Experience: Advanced Open Water – 50 minimum logged dives required.

Marine Life: Baracuda Schools, Mantas, Sharks, Hippocampus Denise, Bagibant, Rhinopias, Wonderpus, Mimic Octopus, Nudibranchs.

• KOFIAU
  Diving on several different dive sites from beautiful slopes overgrown with soft corals and seafans to steep walls with big schools of fish. At one spot we have the chance to dive with grey and whitetip reef sharks. One real highlight of Kofiau is a “critter dive” under a small pier by the village of Deer. Diving at dusk you can see wunderpus, mandarin fish, ghost pipefish, and all manner of weird and wonderful creatures.

• JORONGA
  Joronga is a small group of islands to the south of Halmahera with picture postcards and white sand beaches. The reefs in this area boast beautiful hard coral growth from huge, intact table corals to fields of staghorn and other Acropora species. Anywhere with such a diversity of coral species will be home to plenty of reef fish, and cuttlefish can be seen camouflaged in the reef. In the afternoon we reach an inlet on the south coast of Halmahera where the pretty reefs offer many fusiliers, nudibranchs, and more. There is a small pier for muck diving fans where we can hunt for frogfish and other critters.

• MAREGARANO
  In the bay of Maregarano steep walls with excellent soft coral growth, sponges, sea fans, and hard corals are the foreground to schools of barracuda, sharks, eagle rays, and jacks. Humphead parrotfish, sweetlips batfish, and many other species can be seen here. Visibility is often 20 meters plus. For the night dive, we move to a protected bay in southern Mandiolis.

• TIFORE
  The remote island of Tifore lies in between Halmahera and Sulawesi. We will dive into 3 different spots with big fish action guaranteed. On the submerged reef we have a chance to see a big, big school of barracuda, and with a bit of luck, you will watch as they form a barrel above you. Also look out for bigeye trevally, humphead parrotfish, sweetlips, and many more. Really a dive not to miss.

• BANGKA
  Arrival in Bangka / North Sulawesi renowned for its diversity, coral growth, and beautiful underwater scenery. Exciting dive sites with huge boulders and rocks overgrown with black coral. Rich coral gardens provide a habitat for scores of fish. Pygmy seahorses, leaf scorpionfish, ghost pipefish, and frogfish can also be found.

• LEMBEH STRAIGHT
  Here our journey will end, but not before we enjoy the special critter dives on offer here. The last 4 dives will be on different dive sites in the Lembeh Strait. On the black sand, you can find mimic octopuses, hairy frogfish, flying gurnards, Pegasus sea moths, and many kinds of nudibranchs. Muck diving at its best.