The Banda Sea lies near the Maluku Island in Eastern Indonesia. The Banda Sea is one of four seas that surrounded by hundreds of islands. It is part of the western South Pacific Ocean. The remote islands of the ‘Ring of Fire’ have largely avoided the advances of modern civilization, preserving their pristine status as a hidden gem for avid divers seeking untouched marine haven in Asia.
The Banda Sea is split into two basins by an underwater ridge. The northern basin of the Banda Sea is around 19,000 ft or 5800 m deep. The Southern Basin has a depth of 17,700 ft or 5400 m. The seismically active Gunung Api emerging from the ocean floor. This volcano rises from around 4,500 meters below sea level to a height of 670 meters above sea level in the southern basin. These untouched outposts boast unspoiled coral reefs, abundant marine life, and majestic creatures like hammerhead sharks.
Scuba Diving in The Banda Sea
The Banda Sea diving trip is one in a lifetime experience to do in Indonesia. The marine life has remained largely untouched by human activities. It has one of the most exciting diving sites where you can encounter schooling hammerhead sharks. These gentle giants create awe-inspiring moments for divers. This special moment only happened twice a year.
The Banda Sea well known for its incredible macro life like seahorses, sea snakes, cuttlefishes, and elusive rhinopias. Manuk islands is special dive sites here, offering divers the opportunity to get up close with huge of sea snakes that live in this area. It is one of the best places to observe schooling hammerhead sharks. Here are the best dive sites in the Banda Sea:
Karang Hatta
Situated in the heart of the area, Karang Hatta is a dive site that showcases the area’s biodiversity. Divers can explore its stunning coral formations, encounter schools of fish, and even spot reef sharks gliding gracefully through the currents.
Koon
Located in the southern part of the area, Koon is a dive site renowned for its pristine coral gardens and breathtaking walls. Expect encounters with barracudas, turtles, and an array of vibrant reef fish as you navigate through its crystal-clear waters.
Batu Kapal
Batu Kapal or “ship rock,” features impressive pinnacles adorned with sea fans, gorgonians, and colorful fish like snappers, moray eels, gobies, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and anemonefish. Keep an eye out for grey reef sharks amidst the captivating scenery.
Pombo Boi
Pombo Boi is a dive site where lucky divers may see dugongs and dolphins. The area is filled with shrimps, triggerfish, butterflyfish, gobies, and lobsters. The vibrant sponges and diverse corals make it a great spot for beginners to appreciate the underwater beauty.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to plan your liveaboard trip to visit here is in March to April and September to November. These periods offer optimal diving conditions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the underwater marvels that the region has to offer.
Getting Here
To reach the Banda Sea, you’ll need to make your way to Indonesia. Most liveaboard trips to the Banda Sea start from Ambon, a city in the Maluku province. You can fly into Ambon’s Pattimura International Airport from various major cities in Indonesia (Jakarta/Bali). From Ambon, you’ll embark on the liveaboard vessel that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the Banda Sea.
Embarking on a liveaboard trip to the Banda Sea is a dream come true for diving enthusiasts. Contact us now and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
