Escape the ordinary at Alycastre Eco Dive Resort, a hidden gem nestled on pristine Penama Island just 40 minutes by boat from Maumere, Flores. This boutique eco-resort combines authentic Indonesian architecture, sustainable practices, and world-class diving in one of Indonesia’s most unspoiled locations. Perfect for adventurous souls seeking both comfort and exceptional underwater experiences.
Why We Love Alycastre Eco Dive Resort
What makes Alycastre Eco Dive Resort truly special is its harmonious blend of luxury and authenticity. With just five exclusive villas spread across a private beachfront, you’ll experience a level of serenity rarely found in today’s busy world. The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends from its bamboo architecture to its farm-to-table dining concept.
For divers, the surrounding waters offer some of Flores’ most exciting and underexplored sites, with abundant reef sharks, fascinating macro life, and vibrant coral ecosystems – all just minutes from your doorstep.
Accommodation
Alycastre Eco Dive Resort offers 4 villas, with three distinct styles, each thoughtfully designed to connect you with nature while providing modern comforts:
Ocean Beach Villa Pendek
This elegant beachfront villa features carved antique wood from Java and Bali, combining traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with contemporary design. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular ocean panoramas, while a spacious veranda invites you to unwind to the sounds of gentle waves. Can accommodate two adults and one child.
Ocean Beach Villa Tinggi
Similar in style to its sister villa but with a unique layout, the Ocean Beach Villa Tinggi showcases beautiful antique wood elements and offers stunning elevated views of the ocean. Its thoughtful design provides both privacy and seamless connection to the coastal environment. Can accommodate up to 2 people and one child.
Bambu Villa
A triumph of sustainable bio-architecture, the Bambu Villa features soaring ceilings and innovative design that keeps spaces naturally cool. This airy, light-filled accommodation surrounded by swaying palms offers direct sea views and represents the resort’s commitment to eco-friendly luxury. Can accommodate 2 people and one child.
Beach Suite Joglo
Perfect for families or small groups, this traditional Javanese house accommodates up to 4 adults and 2 children. This spacious 120m² beachfront suite features intricate wood carvings, two modern bathrooms, and a generous living area complete with comfortable furnishings. The Beach Suite Joglo sits directly on the beach, offering uninterrupted ocean views from its 20m² terrace.
Diving Adventures at Alycastre
Alycastre Eco Dive Resort is a diver’s paradise with sites suitable for all experience levels. What sets diving here apart is the remarkable variety within short boat distances:
Incredible Marine Diversity
- Shark enthusiasts will love « Shark Point, » where numerous blacktip and whitetip reef sharks are regularly spotted in a single dive
- Macro photographers can focus on pygmy seahorses, specialized crabs, and rare cephalopods including the elusive blue-ringed octopus
- Wide-angle opportunities abound with vibrant coral walls, sea fans, and occasional visits from mantas and Jenkins rays
Professional Dive Operation
The resort’s dive center is equipped with:
- Two new BAUER compressors
- 40 recently acquired Luxfer tanks
- Premium Aqualung and Mares equipment
- Experienced English-speaking guides from Indonesia’s top diving regions
Dive Schedule & Packages
- Morning two-tank dives depart at 8:00 AM
- Afternoon single dives available at 3:00 PM
- Night diving opportunities at 6:00 PM
- Flexible arrangements for experienced divers
Culinary Delights
At Alycastre Eco Dive Resort, dining is a highlight, not an afterthought. The resort’s French owners bring their gourmet expertise to create dishes that blend European techniques with Indonesian flavors. The open-air bamboo restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views while you enjoy:
- Fresh-caught seafood delivered daily by local fishermen
- Organic vegetables from nearby farms
- Homemade bread and pastries baked each morning
- Thoughtfully prepared international and local specialties
All stays include full-board dining, with dietary preferences happily accommodated when arranged in advance.
Beyond Diving
While diving may be the main attraction, Alycastre Eco Dive Resort offers numerous other ways to connect with Flores’ natural beauty:
- World-class snorkeling directly from the beach
- Kayaking along the scenic coastline
- Island hopping to nearby Blue Atoll or Pulau Kambing
- Village tours offering authentic cultural experiences
- Massage services for post-dive relaxation
Rates & Practical Information
Accommodation Rates
- Starts from 90 USD per night per person (contact us for current seasonal rates and group offers)
- All stays include full board meals, water, coffee, tea, and taxes
Diving Rates
- 2 morning dives: 1,400,000 IDR
- Extra/third dive: 700,000 IDR
- Single dive: 800,000 IDR
- Night dive: 1,000,000 IDR
- Equipment rental: 300,000 IDR per day
- Dive computer rental: 70,000 IDR per day
Activities
- Snorkeling with dive boat: 200,000 IDR per person
- Local boat rental for snorkeling: 400,000-500,000 IDR
- Speedboat trips to special locations: ~500,000 IDR per person
Transfer Information
- Car and speedboat transfer from/to Maumere: 4,500,000 IDR round trip (total cost per boat)
- Transfers take approximately 40 minutes each way from Maumere
When to Visit
Alycastre Eco Dive Resort offers excellent diving year-round, but the April to November dry season typically provides the best conditions with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November often combine great diving conditions with fewer visitors.
