MV Ambai

This trip visits the very best dive sites of the South Part, Misool, and the center Raja Ampat in Dampier Strait. It also goes through Fam and up to Kawe island.

Our usual 10 days trip is an unforgettable experience: outstanding Scuba diving into one of the planet’s best spots, sea kayaking into a constellation of sapphire blue-water lagoons fringed by rainforests, bird watching opportunities, hiking to stunning viewpoints and finally encounters with the local inhabitant of these islands.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong as well where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING:

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on three different dive sites.

The Wallacea typical “Raja Ampat south and center” 9-days trip covers Misool in the South and the Dampier Strait. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 27 dives is offered during the trip, including at least 5 night dives.

SNORKELING:

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES:

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) will be offered. In Farondi, we will use the dinghies to navigate inside some hidden lagoons and go for a walk into a cave.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indone- sia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few tempo- rary storms, and sometimes light swell in the northern parts. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20 meters, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

Raja Ampat is well known for its consistent currents that bring incredible life. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these sites. We pay close attention to diving in the right places at the right time, to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. Distances are not long: there are only two overnight crossings, the other navigations are taking place between dives or in the early morning. We usually start the trips by going South and then making our way up to the North.

MISOOL :

Misool is excellent for taking wide angle shots, encounters with mantas, and massive schools of fish. The under- water topography is predominantly rocky with ridges and rock formations. The colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are plenty as well: pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life are everywhere.

FAM - PENEMU :

We spend one day on these islands between the North and the South area. The dives include the site “Melissa garden” which has the best coral garden of the Raja Ampat and “My reef” well known for its barracuda school and numerous Wobbegongs.

DAMPIER STRAIT :

We usually spend one or two days there to visit its famous dive sites around Kri with their impressive amount of fish.

DIVE ORGANISATION ON MV AMBAI

Due to the large number of dives performed during the trip and the remoteness of the location, we urge divers to stay within no-deco limits, to not exceed a maximum depth of 35 meters, and to perform a safety stop at the end of every dive.

Depending on the guests’ dive experience, interests (photography, macro, etc), and use of Nitrox (free for certified divers), the Cruise Director will arrange the diving groups. These groups are made of up to four divers maximum and a dive guide. The dive guides are rotating on a daily basis. Each diver is given a dive tank (DIN & INT available, no need for adapters) and their own dive station for the duration of the cruise.

A briefing will be conducted by the Cruise Director or one of the guides before each dive. It will describe the site topography, depths, currents, and potential hazards, as well as the marine life we expect to encounter.

The staff carries your tank between the MV Ambai and the dinghies. Onboard the dinghies, the tanks are placed into slots and the guide will help you to gear up just before you back-roll into the water.

Identification books of flora and local fauna are available on board, and the dive guides will always help you identify the animals you have seen during the dives.

Some dive equipment are available for rent on board. However, all sizes are not necessarily available, so please book it prior to the cruise.

* Our cruises are open to divers with a Padi Advanced Open Water or equivalent with at least 30 logged dives. Less experienced divers can also participate

with special supervision that needs to be arranged before the cruise.

* Insurance covering medical evacuation and diving accidents is highly recommended. Divers will be filling out a statement of medical fitness for dive activities onboard.

VISAS & USEFUL INFORMATION

Most countries are eligible for a 30 days visa on arrival (VOA) for IDR 500 000 (or the equivalent in ! or USD) payable in cash at the airport. This visa can be extended once inside the country for an additional 30 days. You can pre-register and pay online beforehand to avoid waiting on arrival. List of countries eligible for VOA & application for VOA registration & payment here:www.idnonline.vfsevisa.id

A 60 days visa can be requested, type B211A. Wallacea Dive Cruise can arrange it for you.

YOUR PASSPORT MUST HAVE A 6 MONTHS VALIDITY AT LEAST FROM THE DATE YOU WILL EXIT INDONESIA.

Universal electrical sockets (EU, USA, AUS, UK, CN)

Camera Room for charging and assembly of cameras and accessory

devices with many outlets.

Towels are provided: bath towel (cleaned and replaced every 3 days) and

a “deck/ beach” towel. After each dive a warm towel will be available for each guest on the dive deck. The cabin bathroom is furbished with a hair dryer, organic liquid soap and shampoo as well as toothpaste.

2 complimentary Kayaks are available on board.

WIFI is available on board through our GSM modem. However, depending on the trip area, the GSM coverage may be not permanent.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

Our usual 11 days trip, which offers a visit to the entire Raja Ampat area, is an unforgettable experience: outstanding Scuba diving into one of the planet’s best spots, sea kayaking into a constellation of sapphire blue-water lagoons fringed by rainforests, bird watching opportunities, hiking to stunning viewpoints and finally encounters with the local inhabitant of these islands.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong as well where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on three different dive sites.

The Wallacea typical “Raja Ampat ultimate” 13-day trip covers the whole Raja Ampat area: Misool in the South, up to Wayag in the North, and the Dampier Strait. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 30 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 5 night dives.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) will be offered. In Farondi, we will use the dinghies to navigate inside some hidden lagoons and go for a walk into a cave.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indone- sia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few tempo- rary storms, and sometimes light swell in the northern parts. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20 meters, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

Raja Ampat is well known for its consistent currents that bring incredible life. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these sites. We pay close attention to diving in the right places at the right time, to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. Distances are not long: there are only two overnight crossings, the other navigations are taking place between dives or in the early morning. We usually start the trips by going South and then making our way up to the North.

MISOOL

Misool is excellent for taking wide angle shots, encounters with mantas, and massive schools of fish. The under- water topography is predominantly rocky with ridges and rock formations. The colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are plenty as well: pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life are everywhere.

FAM - PENEMU

We spend one day on these islands between the North and the South area. The dives include the site “Melissa garden” which has the best coral garden of the Raja Ampat and “My reef” well known for its barracuda school and numerous Wobbegongs.

THE NORTH

The iconic Wayag lagoons composed of hundreds of rocky quartz limestone islets, are a marvel to explore with dinghies or onboard kayaks. We also recommend a short hike to a summit to admire the surrounding areas. Mantas and black tip sharks are swimming around. Kawe island has some of the finest diving in the area, with a good population of fish and regular manta encounters. The Aljui bay, a 20 kilometres long indentation, provides some of the best Raja Ampat’s macro dive site locations.

DAMPIER STRAIT

We usually spend one or two days there to visit its famous dive sites around Kri with their impressive amount of fish.

DIVE ORGANISATION ON MV AMBAI

Due to the large number of dives performed during the trip and the remoteness of the location, we urge divers to stay within no-deco limits, to not exceed a maximum depth of 35 meters, and to perform a safety stop at the end of every dive.

Depending on the guests’ dive experience, interests (photography, macro, etc), and use of Nitrox (free for certified divers), the Cruise Director will arrange the diving groups. These groups are made of up to four divers maximum and a dive guide. The dive guides are rotating on a daily basis. Each diver is given a dive tank (DIN & INT available, no need for adapters) and their own dive station for the duration of the cruise.

A briefing will be conducted by the Cruise Director or one of the guides before each dive. It will describe the site topography, depths, currents, and potential hazards, as well as the marine life we expect to encounter.

The staff carries your tank between the MV Ambai and the dinghies. Onboard the dinghies, the tanks are placed into slots and the guide will help you to gear up just before you back-roll into the water.

Identification books of flora and local fauna are available on board, and the dive guides will always help you identify the animals you have seen during the dives.

Some dive equipment are available for rent on board. However, all sizes are not necessarily available, so please book it prior to the cruise.

* Our cruises are open to divers with a Padi Advanced Open Water or equivalent with at least 30 logged dives. Less experienced divers can also participate

with special supervision that needs to be arranged before the cruise.

* Insurance covering medical evacuation and diving accidents is highly recommended. Divers will be filling out a statement of medical fitness for dive activities onboard.

VISAS & USEFUL INFORMATION

Most countries are eligible for a 30 days visa on arrival (VOA) for IDR 500 000 (or the equivalent in ! or USD) payable in cash at the airport. This visa can be extended once inside the country for an additional 30 days. You can pre-register and pay online beforehand to avoid waiting on arrival. List of countries eligible for VOA & application for VOA registration & payment here:www.idnonline.vfsevisa.id

A 60 days visa can be requested, type B211A. Wallacea Dive Cruise can arrange it for you.

YOUR PASSPORT MUST HAVE A 6 MONTHS VALIDITY AT LEAST FROM THE DATE YOU WILL EXIT INDONESIA.

Universal electrical sockets (EU, USA, AUS, UK, CN)

Camera Room for charging and assembly of cameras and accessory

devices with many outlets.

Towels are provided: bath towel (cleaned and replaced every 3 days) and

a “deck/ beach” towel. After each dive a warm towel will be available for each guest on the dive deck. The cabin bathroom is furbished with a hair dryer, organic liquid soap and shampoo as well as toothpaste.

4 complimentary Kayaks are available on board.

WIFI is available on board through our GSM modem. However, depending

on the trip area, the GSM coverage may be not permanent.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS CRUISE

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

Our usual 12 days trip, which offers a visit to the entire Raja Ampat area, is an unforgettable experience: outstanding Scuba diving into one of the planet’s best spots, sea kayaking into a constellation of sapphire blue-water lagoons fringed by rainforests, bird watching opportunities, hiking to stunning viewpoints and finally encounters with the local inhabitant of these islands.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong as well where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs. the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on three different dive sites.

The Wallacea typical “Raja Ampat ultimate” 12-day trip covers the whole Raja Ampat area: Misool in the South, up to Wayag in the North, and the Dampier Strait. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 33 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 5 night dives.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) will be offered. In Farondi, we will use the dinghies to navigate inside some hidden lagoons and go for a walk into a cave.

The most northern point of our trip is the iconic Wayag Lagoon that we will visit with the dinghies throughout the hundreds of quartz islets. A short hike to the viewpoint of “mount Pindito” will allow us to admire the entire lagoon. In Dampier Strait, we will visit one or several villages in the late afternoon. An early morning short hike into the rainforest to a bird of paradise mating tree is also proposed.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indonesia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm with sometimes light swell in the northern parts. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20 meters, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C).

CURRENTS

Raja Ampat is well known for its consistent currents that bring incredible life. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these sites. We pay close attention to diving in the right places at the right time, to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving condition

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION:

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. Distances are not long: there are only two overnight crossings, the other navigations are taking place between dives or in the early morning. We usually start the trips by going South and then making our way up to the North.

MISOOL:

Misool is excellent for taking wide angle shots, encounters with mantas, and massive schools of fish. The under- water topography is predominantly rocky with ridges and rock formations. The colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are plenty as well: pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life are everywhere.

FAM-PENEMU:

We spend one day on these islands between the North and the South area. The dives include the site “Melissa garden” which has the best coral garden of the Raja Ampat and “My reef” well known for its barracuda school and numerous Wobbegongs.

THE NORTH:

The iconic Wayag lagoons composed of hundreds of rocky quartz limestone islets, are a marvel to explore with dinghies or onboard kayaks. We also recommend a short hike to a summit to admire the surrounding areas. Mantas and black tip sharks are swimming around. Kawe island has some of the finest diving in the area, with a good population of fish and regular manta encounters.

DAMPIER STRAIT:

We usually spend one or two days there to visit its famous dive sites around Kri with their impressive amount of fish.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

This 12 days/11 nights trip combines the two diving hot spots of West Papua: the magic Raja Ampat and the magnificent Triton Bay area. An unforgettable experience that offers outstanding scuba diving into some of the planet best spots, sea kayaking, lagoons fringed by rainforest and hiking to some stunning view points.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Kaimana where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING:

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...In triton Bay rocks are covered with large stands of soft corals forming an unique seascape.

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on different dive sites, and in Triton Bay, you will experience diving with whale sharks under the fishing platforms

The Wallacea typical “Sorong-Kaimana” 13-day trip covers the south of the Raja Ampat area with all the famous sites of Misool, the Triton Bay area, and epic dive sites in between. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 33 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives.

ACTIVITIES:

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Triton bay, we propose a ride with the dinghies into the lagoons at dawn. The bay offers a labyrinth of shallow lagoons between quartz islets covered with rainforest, where inhabits thousands of birds. Turn of the boat engine and listening to the bird songs in the early morning is a truly moving experience. In the channel between Namarote island and the mainland is a cliff which was probably, a long time ago, a cave that is now open and reveal ancient art rocks paint- ing. We stop there and look at them from the boat.

In Momong, on the coast of Papua, we take the time for a short afternoon trek in the rain forest where, if we are (very) lucky, we may sight some tree-kanga- roos. In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) is also scheduled.

Guests are welcome to ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indonesia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few temporary storms. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20m, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another. In Sabuda and Momong the water is clear. In Triton Bay, the visibiity is an average 10 meters and can be lower in case of heavy rainfalls.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, and there’s always the possibility to do the dive in a current protected are. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to -the-minute diving conditions

SNORKELING:

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. There are 4 overnight crossings on the trip, otherwise, we navigate between dives or in the early morning.

MISOOL :

Excellent for wide-angle pictures, mantas, and massive schools of fish. The underwater topography is dominantly rocky, with ridges and rock formations. The very colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are abundant as well, with the four kinds of pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life all over. We need one night of navigation to reach the next island of Sabuda.

SABUDA & MOMON :

Halfway between Misool and the coast of Papua, Sabuda is a very scenic group of islands with beautiful lagoons and white sand beaches. The diving is interesting with big schools of fish (surgeons, trevallies, barracudas) and eventually mantas rays. Another night of navigation brings us to Momon, which has magnificent landscapes. The mountainous coast is covered with primary forest and a river from the highlands ends up into the sea as a large glorious waterfall (we go to swim and play there). We dive on a seamount outside the coast: huge schools of jacks, napoleon wrasse, maybe mantas, and even whale sharks. A small islet has thousands of bats flying out at sunset, which is a good macro dive. A third night of navigation is necessary to reach Triton bay.

TRITON BAY :

The development of soft corals there has little equivalent in the world. On most of the dives we generally find the soft corals in the shallows (0-5m) on rock and boomies, then come the black and tubastrea corals with lot of sweetlips and snappers. Below 12-15m the bottom is mostly sandy or rubble with interesting critters (nudibranchs, frogfish...). Some spots can have a lot of baitfish, eventually attracting devil rays and other predators. The “bagans” are platforms for baitfish fishing at night, eventually attracting the whale sharks. We dive there in the morning, in small groups of 4 guests turning on 30 minutes shifts.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

This 12 days / 11 nights trip combines the two diving hot spots of West Papua: the magic Raja Ampat and the magnificent Triton Bay area. An unforgettable experience that offers outstanding scuba diving into some of the planet best spots, sea kayaking, lagoons fringed by rainforest and hiking to some stunning view points.

Our adventure will begin in Kaimana where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING:

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc... In triton Bay rocks are covered with large stands of soft corals forming an unique seascape.

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on different dive sites, and in Triton Bay, you will experience diving with whale sharks under the fishing platforms

The Wallacea typical “Kaimana-Sorong” 13-day trip covers the Triton Bay area, the south of the Raja Ampat area with all the famous sites of Misool, and epic dive sites in between. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 33 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives.

SNORKELING:

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES:

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Triton bay, we propose a ride with the dinghies into the lagoons at dawn. The bay offers a labyrinth of shallow lagoons between quartz islets covered with rainforest, where inhabits thousands of birds. Turn of the boat engine and listening to the bird songs in the early morning is a truly moving experience. In the channel between Namarote island and the mainland is a cliff which was probably, a long time ago, a cave that is now open and reveal ancient art rocks paint- ing. We stop there and look at them from the boat.

In Momong, on the coast of Papua, we take the time for a short afternoon trek in the rain forest where, if we are (very) lucky, we may sight some tree-kanga- roos. In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) is also scheduled.

Guests are welcome to ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indonesia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few temporary storms. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

In Triton Bay, the visibiity is an average 10 meters and can be lower in case of heavy rainfalls.

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20m, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another. In Sabuda and Momong the water is clear.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, and there’s always the possibility to do the dive in a current protected are. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to -the-minute diving conditions

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. There are 4 overnight crossings on the trip, otherwise, we navigate between dives or in the early morning.

TRITON BAY :

The development of soft corals there has little equivalent in the world. On most of the dives we generally find the soft corals in the shallows (0-5m) on rock and boomies, then come the black and tubastrea corals with lot of sweetlips and snappers. Below 12-15m the bottom is mostly sandy or rubble with interesting critters (nudibranchs, frogfish...). Some spots can have a lot of baitfish, eventually attracting devil rays and other predators. The “bagans” are platforms for baitfish fishing at night, eventually attracting the whale sharks. We dive there in the morning, in small groups of 4 guests turning on 30 minutes shifts.

MOMON & SABUDA :

Momon is a very special place for it’s magnificent landscape. The mountainous coast is covered with primary forest and a river from the highlands ends up into the sea as a large glorious waterfall (we go to swim and play there). A small islet have thousands of bats flying out at sunset. We dive on a seamount outside the coast: huge school of jacks, napoleon wrasse, eventually manta and even whale shark. The bat islet is a good macro dive.

One night navigation brings us to Sabuda, at mid-way between Misool and the coast of Papua. It is a very scenic group of islands with beautiful lagoons and white sand beaches. The diving is interesting with big schools of fish (surgeon fish, trevallies, barracudas), eventually mantas rays. A second night of navigation is necessary to reach Misool.

MISOOL :

The 5 last days of the trip are in the South of Raja Ampat, around Misool and its satellites islets. Excellent for wide angle pictures, mantas, and massive schools of fish... The underwater topography is dominantly rocky, with ridges and rock formations. The very colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are abundant as well, with the four kinds of pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life all over. The last dive of the trip is at 8 AM on the penultimate day, and we reach Sorong before 4 AM on the last day.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

For those who know us, this is a kind of "back home" cruise in an area that we very well know because we started our operation, in early 2000, in these areas of Sulawesi. Departing From Bitung, the "central Sulawesi" visits the East coast of Sulawesi and the Togian Islands.

Beautiful dive sites of the East coast in the areas of Ratatotok, Tanjung Flesko, and Gorontalo (fabulous walls and whale sharks). We then dive the best spots of the Togian islands, especially around the islands of Una Una. The two last days are spent in the Tompotika area where Wallacea recently set up a dive resort, Tompotika Dive Lodge , just because we found there, spots that are among the best dive sites of Sulawesi. The cruise ends in Luwuk...but you can also choose to stay in Tompotika.

NB: 10% off our published rates for those who combine a cruise with one of our liveaboards with a stay at the Tompotika Dive Lodge!

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

Our adventure begins in Saumlaki and ends in Sorong.

We organize your pick and drop off at the airport or at your hotel in those cities.

THE DIVING:

The Banda Sea is one of the best Indonesian dive destinations. It offers a great variety of dive sites among beautiful tiny islands and large reefs. Many of the dive sites are steep drop off with impressive hard corals, huge sponges of all kinds, pastel black corals bushes and an intense fish life. Tunas, Spanish mackerel, giant trevallies, schools of barracudas and other pelagic fish are part of the show, together with the occurrence of the hammerheads, either in small groups or in big shoals. Some other dives sites inside bays or on fringing reefs are more critters oriented.

Misool is among the hottest spot of Indonesian diving. The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers and balls of baitfish that attract predators like tunas, trevallies and barracudas; schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bumphead parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc. Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobegon is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glassfish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often seen on three different dive sites.

A minimum of 36 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 7 night dives. The last dive is the Penultimate day at 8 am.

SNORKELING:

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES:

Banda islands were at the centre of the spices trades during the XVI century. They were the original Spice Islands and the most coveted destination on earth, particularly by the Dutch and Portuguese who colonized the islands and exported the indigenous nutmeg and cloves. We will stop on the island of Banda Neira and visit the village, the fort and the museum for a glimpse of the Banda history.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short trek to the view point of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in shape of a hearth!) will be offered. We may also visit a cave near Farondi.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored.

All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

End September marks the end of the South east monsoon, but we may experience some remaining SE winds. As we are very close to the equator, a few showers are always probable.

VISIBILITY

Misool: Average to good Banda Sea: Average to good

SEA TEMPERATURE

The sea temperature will be 27° to 29°C (80 to 84°F) in the Band Sea, and should be closer to 29°C /84°F in Misool

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, but yes there will be some consistent currents in some occasions. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to -the-minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

From Saumlaki to Banda

Starting from Saumlaki on the Tanimbar island, we will reach first the island of Dai. This granite island, part of the Babar island group, offers fantastic dive sites with great fish life. Going North we will reach Serua which consists in two small islands lost in the middle of the Banda Sea. We will spend two fabulous diving days around those islands where the schooling hammerheads often show up on the drop offs. In order to maximise the chances of encounter, we dive very early in the morning and a bit late in the afternoon. The depth is about 35 meters max. At the West of Serua lays a big reef without any land, with the attractive name of “Nil desperandum”. This is another spot for hammerheads and a fantastic drop off.

North is Manuk island, a small volcanic island where a lot of sea birds come for nesting. Underwater the sulphur traces of volcanic activity can be seen. The diving signature is the abundance of sea snakes, both Aipysurus sp and Laticauda. Hammerheads are also roaming around, but generally in small groups only. Our next step are the Banda islands, where the diving is very rewarding. One of the highlight is a dive along the lava flow of the “Gunung Api” (the fire mountain); the last eruption was in 1988 and we can see how the corals and huge sponges did grow back since then. We will stop in Banda Neira, for a land visit. The island of Suanggi, about 20 NM from Banda, is another hot spot for hammerheads schools.

From Banda to Sorong

We’ll then head for the East tip of Seram islands, where is the famous dive site named “too many fish”. This long drop off is well known for its fish life: schools of barracudas , trevallies, large tunas passing by, and eventually schooling hammerheads. The shallower part, a sandy slope with boomies, is home to many huge groupers and schools of batfish.

Misool

We then reach the island of Misool at the Southern part of Raja Ampat. We spend the last 3 and half days of the trip there and dive all the best spots. Gorgonian forests, lot of soft corals, and an intense fish life are the signature of this fantastic area.

DIVE ORGANISATION ON MV AMBAI

Due to the large number of dives performed during the trip and the remoteness of the location, we urge divers to stay within no-deco limits, to not exceed a maximum depth of 35 meters, and to perform a safety stop at the end of every dive.

Depending on the guests’ dive experience, interests (photography, macro, etc), and use of Nitrox (free for certified divers), the Cruise Director will arrange the diving groups. These groups are made of up to four divers maximum and a dive guide. The dive guides are rotating on a daily basis. Each diver is given a dive tank (DIN & INT available, no need for adapters) and their own dive station for the duration of the cruise.

A briefing will be conducted by the Cruise Director or one of the guides before each dive. It will describe the site topography, depths, currents, and potential hazards, as well as the marine life we expect to encounter.

The staff carries your tank between the MV Ambai and the dinghies. Onboard the dinghies, the tanks are placed into slots and the guide will help you to gear up just before you back-roll into the water.

Identification books of flora and local fauna are available on board, and the dive guides will always help you identify the animals you have seen during the dives.

Some dive equipment are available for rent on board. However, all sizes are not necessarily available, so please book it prior to the cruise.

* Our cruises are open to divers with a Padi Advanced Open Water or equivalent with at least 30 logged dives. Less experienced divers can also participate

with special supervision that needs to be arranged before the cruise.

* Insurance covering medical evacuation and diving accidents is highly recommended. Divers will be filling out a statement of medical fitness for dive activities onboard.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

This 13 days/12 nights trip combines the two diving hot spots of West Papua: the magic South Raja Ampat and the magnificent Triton Bay area. An unforget- table experience that offers outstanding scuba diving into some of the planet best spots, sea kayaking, lagoons fringed by rainforest, hiking to some stunning view points and encounters with the friendly inhabitants of those areas.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Kaimana where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...In triton Bay rocks are covered with large stands of soft corals forming an unique seascape.

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on different dive sites, and in Triton Bay, you will experience diving with whale sharks under the fishing platforms

The Wallacea typical “Sorong-Kaimana” 13-day trip covers the south of the Raja Ampat area with all the famous sites of Misool, the Triton Bay area, and epic dive sites in between. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 36 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Triton bay, we propose a ride with the dinghies into the lagoons at dawn. The bay offers a labyrinth of shallow lagoons between quartz islets covered with rainforest, where inhabits thousands of birds. Turn of the boat engine and listening to the bird songs in the early morning is a truly moving experience. In the channel between Namarote island and the mainland is a cliff which was probably, a long time ago, a cave that is now open and reveal ancient art rocks paint- ing. We stop there and look at them from the boat.

In Momong, on the coast of Papua, we take the time for a short afternoon trek in the rain forest where, if we are (very) lucky, we may sight some tree-kanga- roos. In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) is also scheduled.

Guests are welcome to ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indonesia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few temporary storms. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20m, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another. In Sabuda and Momong the water is clear. In Triton Bay, the visibiity is an average 10 meters and can be lower in case of heavy rainfalls.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, and there’s always the possibility to do the dive in a current protected are. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to -the-minute diving conditions

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. There are 4 overnight crossings on the trip, otherwise, we navigate between dives or in the early morning.

MISOOL :

We spend the 5 first days of the trip in the South of Raja Ampat, around Misool and its satellite islets. Excellent for wide-angle pictures, mantas, and massive schools of fish. The underwater topography is dominantly rocky, with ridges and rock formations. The very colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are abundant as well, with the four kinds of pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life all over. We need one night of navigation to reach the next island of Sabuda.

SABUDA & MOMON :

Halfway between Misool and the coast of Papua, Sabuda is a very scenic group of islands with beautiful lagoons and white sand beaches. The diving is interesting with big schools of fish (surgeons, trevallies, barracudas) and eventually mantas rays. Another night of navigation brings us to Momon, which has magnificent landscapes. The mountainous coast is covered with primary forest and a river from the highlands ends up into the sea as a large glorious waterfall (we go to swim and play there). We dive on a seamount outside the coast: huge schools of jacks, napoleon wrasse, maybe mantas, and even whale sharks. A small islet has thousands of bats flying out at sunset, which is a good macro dive. A third night of navigation is necessary to reach Triton bay.

TRITON BAY :

The development of soft corals there has little equivalent in the world. On most of the dives we generally find the soft corals in the shallows (0-5m) on rock and boomies, then come the black and tubastrea corals with lot of sweetlips and snappers. Below 12-15m the bottom is mostly sandy or rubble with interesting critters (nudibranchs, frogfish...). Some spots can have a lot of baitfish, eventually attracting devil rays and other predators. The “bagans” are platforms for baitfish fishing at night, eventually attracting the whale sharks. We dive there in the morning, in small groups of 4 guests turning on 30 minutes shifts.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

Our « Raja Ampat » cruise departures are from Sorong (SOQ). That city is well served with some daily flights from the main Indonesian International Airports such as Jakarta, Manado, Makassar, and Denpasar.To reach the departure of our cruises

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

Our usual 13 day trip, which offers a visit to the entire Raja Ampat area, is an unforgettable experience: outstanding Scuba diving into one of the planet’s best spots, sea kayaking into a constellation of sapphire blue-water lagoons fringed by rainforests, bird watching opportunities, hiking to stunning viewpoints and finally encounters with the local inhabitant of these islands.

Our adventure will begin in Sorong where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong as well where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

THE DIVING

The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons, and much more.

The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers that attract predators like tunas and trevallies, barracudas, schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bump head parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc...

Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or Wobbegong is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often spoted on three different dive sites.

The Wallacea typical “Raja Ampat ultimate” 13-day trip covers the whole Raja Ampat area: Misool in the South, up to Wayag in the North, and the Dampier Strait. We then choose the dive sites according to the prevailing conditions during the trip.

A minimum of 36 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) will be offered. In Farondi, we will use the dinghies to navigate inside some hidden lagoons and go for a walk into a cave.

The most northern point of our trip is the iconic Wayag Lagoon that we will visit with the dinghies throughout the hundreds of quartz islets. A short hike to the viewpoint of “mount Pindito” will allow us to admire the entire lagoon. In Dampier Strait, we will visit one or several villages in the late afternoon. An early morning short hike into the rainforest to a bird of paradise mating tree is also proposed.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indone- sia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few tempo- rary storms, and sometimes light swell in the northern parts. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20 meters, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

Raja Ampat is well known for its consistent currents that bring incredible life. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these sites. We pay close attention to diving in the right places at the right time, to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION:

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. Distances are not long: there are only two overnight crossings, the other navigations are taking place between dives or in the early morning. We usually start the trips by going South and then making our way up to the North.

MISOOL :

Misool is excellent for taking wide angle shots, encounters with mantas, and massive schools of fish. The under- water topography is predominantly rocky with ridges and rock formations. The colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are plenty as well: pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life are everywhere.

FAM - PENEMU :

We spend one day on these islands between the North and the South area. The dives include the site “Melissa garden” which has the best coral garden of the Raja Ampat and “My reef” well known for its barracuda school and numerous Wobbegongs.

THE NORTH :

The iconic Wayag lagoons composed of hundreds of rocky quartz limestone islets, are a marvel to explore with dinghies or onboard kayaks. We also recommend a short hike to a summit to admire the surrounding areas. Mantas and black tip sharks are swimming around. Kawe island has some of the finest diving in the area, with a good population of fish and regular manta encounters. The Aljui bay, a 20 kilometres long indentation, provides some of the best Raja Ampat’s macro dive site locations.

DAMPIER STRAIT :

We usually spend one or two days there to visit its famous dive sites around Kri with their impressive amount of fish.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. Seahorse crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

This 13 days / 12 nights multi destination trip runs along the so called “ring of Fire” and visits the best dive sites of the Banda Sea. It offers outstanding diving and is a perfect itinerary for encounters with the Schooling hammerhead sharks that roam the Banda Sea during this season.

Our adventure begins in Ambon and ends in Saumlaki.

We organize your pick and drop off at the airport or at your hotel in those cities.

THE DIVING

The Banda Sea is one of the best Indonesian dive destinations. It offers a great variety of dive sites among beautiful tiny islands and large reefs. Many of the dive sites are steep drops off with impressive hard corals, huge sponges of all kinds, pastel black coral bushes and an intense fish life. Tunas, Spanish mackerel, giant trevallies schools of treval- lies and barracudas and other pelagic fish are part of the show, together with the occurrence of the hammerheads, either in small groups or in big shoals. Other types of dive sites include great critters, especially in the Bay of Ambon and beautiful fringing reefs.

The hammerheads

The hammerheads are in the Banda Sea from September to the end of November. Their presence is related to the upwellings that cool the upper layers of the Banda Sea. Those upwellings themselves depend on the SE winds that occur in Indonesia from June to September. Therefore the best chances to see the Hammerheads is when the water is the coolest, mid-September to mid-October. But the September rich nutrients cold waters also mean more turbid waters due to plankton, and eventually remaining winds for the S.E.monsoon creating a choppy sea. The more we get off September, the more chances to get a flat sea and good visibility are high, but also the chances to see the schooling hammerheads diminish.

A minimum of 36 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives. The last dive is the Penultimate day at 8 am.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Banda islands were at the centre of the spices trades during the XVI century. They were the original Spice Islands and the most coveted destination on earth, particularly by the Dutch and Portuguese who colonized the islands and exported the indigenous nutmeg and cloves. We will stop on the island of Banda Neira and visit the village, the fort and the museum for a glimpse of the Banda history.

We will also visit some other small villages on the islands. The guests are always welcome to use the dinghies (with a boatman) to go on shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it.

Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

End September marks the end of the South east monsoon, but we may experience some remaining SE winds. As we are very close to the equator, a few showers are always probable.

VISIBILITY

Banda Sea: Average to good

TEMPERATURE

The sea temperature will be 26° to 28°C (80 to 84°F) in the Band Sea.

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, but yes there will be some consistent currents in some occasions. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents.

Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

On the arrival day, we will have a check dive in the bay of Ambon.

Our first destination are the Banda islands. The diving around those islands is very rewarding. One of the highlight is a dive along the lava flow of the “Gunung Api” (the fire mountain); the last eruption was in 1988 and we can see how the corals and huge sponges did grow back since then. We will stop in Banda Neira, for a land visit.

The island of Suanggi, about 20 NM from Banda, is another hot spot for hammerheads schools.

Overnight navigation to Manuk island, a small volcanic island, where a lot of seabirds comes for nesting. Under- water the sulphur traces of volcanic activity can be seen. The diving signature is the abundance of sea snakes, both Aipysurus spand Laticauda. Hammerheads are also roaming around, but generally only individuals or small groups.

Going South we will reach Serua, which consists in two small islands. Two days of fabulous diving around those islands lost in the middle of the Banda Sea. One drop off offers high chances to find the schooling hammerheads. In order to maximise the chances of encounter, we dive very early in the morning and a bit late in the afternoon.

At the West of Serua lays a big reef without any land, with the attractive name of “Nil desperandum”. This is another spot for hammerheads and a fantastic drop off.

Our last day of diving is on Dai island. This granite island, part of the Babar island group, offers fantastic dive sites with great fish life.

DIVE ORGANISATION ON MV AMBAI

Due to the large number of dives performed during the trip and the remoteness of the location, we urge divers to stay within no-deco limits, to not exceed a maximum depth of 35 meters, and to perform a safety stop at the end of every dive.

Depending on the guests’ dive experience, interests (photography, macro, etc), and use of Nitrox (free for certified divers), the Cruise Director will arrange the diving groups. These groups are made of up to four divers maximum and a dive guide. The dive guides are rotating on a daily basis. Each diver is given a dive tank (DIN & INT available, no need for adapters) and their own dive station for the duration of the cruise.

A briefing will be conducted by the Cruise Director or one of the guides before each dive. It will describe the site topography, depths, currents, and potential hazards, as well as the marine life we expect to encounter.

The staff carries your tank between the MV Ambai and the dinghies. Onboard the dinghies, the tanks are placed into slots and the guide will help you to gear up just before you back-roll into the water.

Identification books of flora and local fauna are available on board, and the dive guides will always help you identify the animals you have seen during the dives.

Some dive equipment are available for rent on board. However, all sizes are not necessarily available, so please book it prior to the cruise.

* Our cruises are open to divers with a Padi Advanced Open Water or equivalent with at least 30 logged dives. Less experienced divers can also participate

with special supervision that needs to be arranged before the cruise.

* Insurance covering medical evacuation and diving accidents is highly recommended. Divers will be filling out a statement of medical fitness for dive activities onboard.

THE BOAT:

MV ambai is an ironwood boat of 32m x 7.5m custom-built in 2012, for smooth navigation with focus on spaciousness and convenience for diving activities. With its 3 fiberglass dinghies, confortable dive deck and camera room, the boat is suitable for avid and pro divers, UW photographers & videographers. Kayaks, paddle board and waterski are also available onboard.

THE CABINS:

There are 8 comfortable cabins onboard, all equipped with individually-controlled air-conditioning. Each cabin has a private bathroom with hot shower and ample storage for personal belongings. Every bathroom has a separate toilet and shower, with ample water pressure for everyone!

There are 2 sea view cabins with double bed (upper deck 10 m2), 4 cabins with double bed and a single bunk bed (double/ twin bed, lower deck 12 m2), and 2 cabins with twin bunk beds (lower deck, 10 m2).

COMMON AREAS:

MV Ambai is designed to make guests comfortable during long trips with 2 outdoor lounges, one on the main deck and one on the upper deck. There is plenty of space where guests can mingle and socialize under the shade, but also enough space for them to relax on their own to read their books or take a nap outdoor.

There is a smoking area at the back of the upper deck where guests can also get to know the crew.

The air-conditioned restaurant on the main deck also serves as the place to brief divers before each dive and is equipped with a TV in the middle of the room. The restaurant includes a bar.

SERVICE:

Behind the MV Ambai’s success, there is a professional, discreet, smiling, and very friendly crew. Our team will treat you with special attention, assist you with whatever you need, and of course carry your tank & gear. Most of our crew have been working with us for many years.

THE CUISINE:

Mixing eastern and western specialties, our cuisine is a “fusion" of the best of both that will never let you go hungry.

Should you have specific requests, or a particular dietary need, (vegetarian or allergy, for example), our chefs will adapt the meals for your greatest pleasure.

THE TEAM AT YOUR SERVICE:

• 1 cruise director / diving instructor

• 17 crew members including 4 dive guides

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

This 13 days/12 nights trip combines the two diving hot spots of West Papua: the magnificent Triton Bay area and the magic South Raja Ampat. An unforgettable experience that offers outstanding scuba diving into some of the planet best spots, sea kayaking, lagoons fringed by rainforest, hiking to some stunning view points and encounters with the friendly inhabitants of those areas.

Our adventure will begin in Kaimana where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

The legendary Raja Ampat area has long been thought of as the “last frontier”.

A sense of peacefulness surrounds you when exploring the area: one of the last, rare untouched places on earth.

This 13 days/12 nights trip combines the two diving hot spots of West Papua: the magnificent Triton Bay area and the magic South Raja Ampat. An unforgettable experience that offers outstanding scuba diving into some of the planet best spots, sea kayaking, lagoons fringed by rainforest, hiking to some stunning view points and encounters with the friendly inhabitants of those areas.

Our adventure will begin in Kaimana where you are awaited on our vessel before 12 noon, and will end up in Sorong where we will disembark before 12 noon. We organize your pick up and drop off at the airport or at your hotel.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Triton bay, we propose a ride with the dinghies into the lagoons at dawn. The bay offers a labyrinth of shallow lagoons between quartz islets covered with rainforest, where inhabits thousands of birds. Turn of the boat engine and listening to the bird songs in the early morning is a truly moving experience. In the channel between Namarote island and the mainland is a cliff which was probably, a long time ago, a cave that is now open and reveal ancient art rocks paint- ing. We stop there and look at them from the boat.

In Momong, on the coast of Papua, we take the time for a short afternoon trek in the rain forest where, if we are (very) lucky, we may sight some tree-kanga- roos. In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short hike to the viewpoint of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in the shape of a hearth!) is also scheduled.

Guests are welcome to ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, even during the "dry" season, in this part of Indonesia, rain showers often happen. The sea is generally calm, with a few temporary storms. Temperatures are around 30 °C.

VISIBILITY

In Triton Bay, the visibiity is an average 10 meters and can be lower in case of heavy rainfalls.

Raja Ampat's waters are dense with life and visibility can be limited. It is typically in the range of 10-20m, depending on the local condition that can vary from one dive to another. In Sabuda and Momong the water is clear.

TEMPERATURE

The ocean temperature all year long is between 28° and 30°C (82°-84°C). .

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, and there’s always the possibility to do the dive in a current protected are. Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents. Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to -the-minute diving conditions

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION:

The map shows the general cruise itinerary. It can slightly vary depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility, and tides. There are 4 overnight crossings on the trip, otherwise, we navigate between dives or in the early morning.

TRITON BAY:

The development of soft corals there has little equivalent in the world. On most of the dives we generally find the soft corals in the shallows (0-5m) on rock and boomies, then come the black and tubastrea corals with lot of sweetlips and snappers. Below 12-15m the bottom is mostly sandy or rubble with interesting critters (nudibranchs, frogfish...). Some spots can have a lot of baitfish, eventually attracting devil rays and other predators. The “bagans” are platforms for baitfish fishing at night, eventually attracting the whale sharks. We dive there in the morning, in small groups of 4 guests turning on 30 minutes shifts.

MOMON & SABUDA:

Momon is a very special place for it’s magnificent landscape. The mountainous coast is covered with primary forest and a river from the highlands ends up into the sea as a large glorious waterfall (we go to swim and play there). A small islet have thousands of bats flying out at sunset. We dive on a seamount outside the coast: huge school of jacks, napoleon wrasse, eventually manta and even whale shark. The bat islet is a good macro dive.

One night navigation brings us to Sabuda, at mid-way between Misool and the coast of Papua. It is a very scenic group of islands with beautiful lagoons and white sand beaches. The diving is interesting with big schools of fish (surgeon fish, trevallies, barracudas), eventually mantas rays. A second night of navigation is necessary to reach Misool.

MISOOL:

The 5 last days of the trip are in the South of Raja Ampat, around Misool and its satellites islets. Excellent for wide angle pictures, mantas, and massive schools of fish... The underwater topography is dominantly rocky, with ridges and rock formations. The very colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonians. Macro subjects are abundant as well, with the four kinds of pygmy seahorses, tiny crabs, nudibranchs, and other rare photogenic life all over. The last dive of the trip is at 8 AM on the penultimate day, and we reach Sorong before 4 AM on the last day.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

This 13 days / 12 nights multi destination trip, East to West, visits the south of Raja Ampat (Misool), the west coast of Halmahera and ends in Lembeh Strait. It offers outstanding diving and is a perfect itinerary for both fish life and critters.

Our adventure begins in Sorong and ends in Bitung.

We organize your pick and drop off at the airport or at your hotel in those cities.

THE DIVING

Misool, South Raja Ampat Misool is among the hottest spot of Indonesian diving. The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonishing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons and much more. The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers and balls of baitfish that attract predators like tunas, trevallies and barracudas; schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bumphead parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc. Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or wobegon is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish.

Halmahera is one of the best Indonesian dive destinations. It offers a great variety of dive sites among beautiful islands still largely covered with tropical forests.

Many of the dive sites are sea mounts with a rocky substrate and plenty of boomies covered with soft corals in all different colors. The fish life is intense: as an Halmahera signature, black tip sharks are seen patrolling around on most of the dives. Tunas, Spanish mackerel, giant trevallies and other pelagic fish are part of the show. Other type of dive site includes great critters dives and beautiful fringing reefs

The last days of the trip will be in Sulawesi, in the Lembeh strait and eventually Bangka islands. Lembeh strait is well known as critter and muck diving Meca. Black sands are home for many kind kind of frogfish, rhinopias, flamboyant cuttlefish, mimic octopus and many more. Bangka is a mix of critters and beautiful reefs dives, with colorful soft corals.

A minimum of 36 dives is offered during the trip, including at least 6 night dives.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters. We offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

ACTIVITIES

Besides the diving, we offer some activities along the trip according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short trek to the view point of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in shape of a hearth!) will be offered. We may also visit a cave near Farondi.

In Halmahera we can visit some of the local village, and experience some hot springs.

In Sulawesi, on the last afternoon, we visit the National Park of Tankoko, a preserved forest where we can see macaques and Tarsiers.

During the trip you are welcome to ask a boatman to bring you to shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our complementary kayaks are also available to go on shore and to visit the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions and to the planned daily schedule.

WEATHER

The weather is variable, with some sunny days and a few showers. The sea is generally calm, with eventually a bit of wind under the showers. Temperatures are around 27-30 °C.

VISIBILITY

Generally good in Misool ,excellent in Halmahera and good in North Sulawesi.

TEMPERATURE

The sea water temperature is between 28° and 30°C (80°-84°C)

CURRENTS

Some of the dives can have consistent currents. However Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these sites and we pay close attention to diving in the right places at the right time, to avoid difficult or dangerous currents.

Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up-to-the-minute diving conditions. If the currents are too strong on a site, we wait or shift to an alternative dive site.

ITINERARY AND NAVIGATION.

The below map shows the planned itinerary. It can varies, depending on weather conditions, currents, visibility and tides.

Leaving from Sorong, we go directly to Misool, where we spend 3-4 days depending on the conditions. Intense fish life, great soft corals and gorgonians.

From Misool, we head to the small islets of Pisang for one day of diving. This isolated island with a few satellite rocks is home to intense underwater life: millions of trigger fish, schools of surgeonfish, bump head parrotfish, Spanish mackerels and tunas passing by.

We then reach the South of Halmahera on the following day. We will dive the South tip of Bacam, then enter the Patiniente Strait between Bacan and Halmahera. The diving take place around the islands of Kusu and Saleh, where the water in forced in narrow straits bringing an intense fish life. We then start cruising north to the Goraichi islands. Stunning coral reefs, amazing macro, billions of reef fishes and lots of reef sharks inhabits these areas.

At mid- way between Halmahera and Sulawesi lays the islands of Tifore, where we spend one day. The dive site is famous for it’s huge school of barracudas.

In North Sulawesi, we will dive the Lembeh strait and it’s legendary muck dive sites -and eventually a few sites around Bangka islands, offering a mix of critters and reef dives-.

We disembark in Bitung and transfer to Manado airport by a 45 minutes road trip.

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.

DEPARTURE PORT: TERNATE / ARRIVAL PORT: AMBON

This 15 days / 14 nights multi destination visits the West and South West part of Halmahera, Misool in Raja Ampat and the best of the Banda Sea before ending in Ambon.

Our adventure begins in Ternate and ends in Ambon, both cities have direct flights from/ to Jakarta. We organize your pick and drop off at the airport or at your hotel in those cities.

A minimum of 42 dives (3 dives per day) is offered during the trip, including at least 7 night dives. The last dive is the Penultimate day at 8 am.

THE DIVING

Halmahera is one of the best Indonesian dive destinations. It offers a great variety of dive sites among beautiful islands still largely covered with tropical forests. Many of the dive sites are sea mounts with a rocky substrate and plenty of large soft coral covered boomies in all different colors. The fish life is intense: as an Halmahera signature, black tip sharks are seen patrolling around on most of the dives. Tunas, Spanish mackerel, giant trevallies and other pelagic fish are part of the show. Napoleon wrasses, bumphead parrotfish, groupers, schools of surgeon and spadefish are also well represented. Other type of dive site includes great critters dives and beautiful fringing reefs.

Misool is among the hottest spot of Indonesian diving. The abundance of sea life, both fixed fauna such as corals and gorgonians along the lush reef, as well as the stunning quantity and diversity of fish swimming above is just astonish- ing. The dive sites’ underwater topographies are also varied and interesting, filled with dramatic pinnacles, long ridges, walls, hidden caves, rock formations, azure lagoons and much more. The fauna ranges from the tiny Pygmy Seahorse to the oceanic manta ray. Raja Ampat’s signature are the huge schools of fish: clouds of fusiliers and balls of baitfish that attract predators like tunas, trevallies and barracudas; schools of the inquisitive spadefish, schools of sweetlips, groups of bumphead parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, etc. Reef sharks are very much present on the reefs; the carpet shark or wobegon is ubiquitous, laying on a coral or under a rock behind a cloud of glass-fish. The walking shark (Epaulette shark) can often be seen during night dives. Mantas are often seen on three different dive sites.

The Banda Sea offers a great variety of dive sites among beautiful tiny islands and large reefs. You will dive on steep drop off with impressive hard corals, huge sponges of all kinds, pastel black corals bushes and an intense fish life. Tunas, Spanish mackerel, giant trevallies schools of trevallies and barracudas as well as other pelagic fish, together with the occurrence of the hammerhead sharks, either in small groups or in big shoals. Other type of dive site includes great critters dives and beautiful fringing reefs. End of September marks the end of the South East Monsoon, and the upwellings have driven a lot of nutrients and it is the best time for encounters with the schools of hammer- head sharks and a great fish life. The bay of Ambon at the very end of the trip will be an unique opportunity for fantastic critter diving.

ACTIVITIES

In Misool, we will visit the ranger’s station and snorkel in front of their beach in a natural shark nursery where small black tips are swimming around in one meter of crystal clear water. A short trek to the view point of the “love lagoon” (a lagoon in shape of a hearth!) will be offered. We may also visit a cave near Farondi. Banda islands were at the centre of the spices trades during the XVI century. They were the original Spice Islands and the most coveted destination on earth, particularly by the Dutch and Portuguese who colonized the islands and exported the indigenous nutmeg and cloves. We will stop on the island of Banda Neira and visit the village, the fort and the museum for a glimpse of the Banda history.

You can also ask a boatman to bring you a shore at any time, as long as the schedule allows it. Our four complementary kayaks and paddles are also available to go on shore or in the lagoons whenever the boat is anchored. All these activities are subject to weather conditions as well as the planned daily schedule and itinerary.

SNORKELING

Our trips are open to snorkelers. Most of the dive sites offer great snorkeling opportunities with a lot to see in shallow waters, and we offer specific guidance for snorkelers.

WEATHER

End September marks the end of the South east monsoon, but we may experience some remaining South East winds. As we are very close to the equator, a few showers are always probable.

VISIBILITY

Halmahera: Good to excellent Misool: Average

Banda Sea: Average to good

TEMPERATURE

The sea temperature will be 26° to 28°C (80 to 84°F).

CURRENTS

On this itinerary the currents are generally moderate on most of the dive sites, but yes there will be some consistent currents in some occasions.

Wallacea Dive Cruises has a long experience diving these dive sites and always pays attention to dive in the right places at the right time to avoid difficult or dangerous currents.

Before each dive, our guides conduct current checks so that our briefings will always inform you about the up - to - the - minute diving conditions.

ITINERARY & NAVIGATION :

From Ternate to Misool

Starting from Ternate, we first reach the group of Goraici islands where many seamounts offer gorgeous dive sites: bommies covered with colorful soft corals, blacktip sharks, tunas and other pelagics. Going more South came another group of islands (Kusu isl, Sale isl.), at the very North of Patientie strait. The strait currents forced around the islands brings an intense life to those dive sites which are definitely among the most beautiful of Indonesia. The next stop is at Pisang islands, an isolated island with a few satellite rocks, home to intense underwater life: millions of trigger fish, schools of surgeonfish, bump head parrotfish, Spanish mackerels and tunas passing by.

Misool

We then reach Misool in Raja Ampat for three days to see gorgonian forests, lot of soft corals, intense fish life.

From Misool to Ambon

Then we head to Koon, at the eastern tip of Seram islands. The dive site there have been named “too many fish”. A drop off with schools of trevallies, surgeonfish, barracudas, and hopefully hammerhead sharks. On the upper part there is a sandy slope with coral boomies, some huge groupers and schools of spadefish.

Next step are the Banda islands. The diving there is very rewarding. One of the highlight is a dive along the lava flow of the “Gunung Api” (the fire mountain); the last eruption was in 1988 and we can see how the corals and huge spong- es did grow back since then. We will do a land visit to Banda Neira, visiting the village, the museum and the fort.

If the weather forecast and sea conditions are good enough the trip will go down south until Serua island, the best place for encounters with schooling hammerheads. Two days of fabulous diving around this tiny island lost in the middle of the Banda Sea. From Serua we will be back to Suanggi island, a few miles away from the Banda islands it is also a great spot for hammerhead sharks and other pelagics. Our last day of diving is on the island of Nusa Laut or in the bay of Ambon for some muck diving.

DIVE ORGANISATION ON MV AMBAI

Due to the large number of dives performed during the trip and the remoteness of the location, we urge divers to stay within no-deco limits, to not exceed a maximum depth of 35 meters, and to perform a safety stop at the end of every dive.

Depending on the guests’ dive experience, interests (photography, macro, etc), and use of Nitrox (free for certified divers), the Cruise Director will arrange the diving groups. These groups are made of up to four divers maximum and a dive guide. The dive guides are rotating on a daily basis. Each diver is given a dive tank (DIN & INT available, no need for adapters) and their own dive station for the duration of the cruise.

A briefing will be conducted by the Cruise Director or one of the guides before each dive. It will describe the site topography, depths, currents, and potential hazards, as well as the marine life we expect to encounter.

The staff carries your tank between the MV Ambai and the dinghies. Onboard the dinghies, the tanks are placed into slots and the guide will help you to gear up just before you back-roll into the water.

Identification books of flora and local fauna are available on board, and the dive guides will always help you identify the animals you have seen during the dives.

Some dive equipment are available for rent on board. However, all sizes are not necessarily available, so please book it prior to the cruise.

* Our cruises are open to divers with a Padi Advanced Open Water or equivalent with at least 30 logged dives. Less experienced divers can also participate

with special supervision that needs to be arranged before the cruise.

* Insurance covering medical evacuation and diving accidents is highly recommended. Divers will be filling out a statement of medical fitness for dive activities onboard.

THE BOAT

MV ambai is an ironwood boat of 32m x 7.5m custom-built in 2012, for smooth navigation with focus on spaciousness and convenience for diving activities. With its 3 fiberglass dinghies, confortable dive deck and camera room, the boat is suitable for avid and pro divers, UW photographers & videographers. Kayaks, paddle board and waterski are also available onboard.

THE CABINS

There are 8 comfortable cabins onboard, all equipped with individually-controlled air-conditioning. Each cabin has a private bathroom with hot shower and ample storage for personal belongings. Every bathroom has a separate toilet and shower, with ample water pressure for everyone!

There are 2 sea view cabins with double bed (upper deck 10 m2), 4 cabins with double bed and a single bunk bed (double/ twin bed, lower deck 12 m2), and 2 cabins with twin bunk beds (lower deck, 10 m2).

COMMON AREAS

MV Ambai is designed to make guests comfortable during long trips with 2 outdoor lounges, one on the main deck and one on the upper deck. There is plenty of space where guests can mingle and socialize under the shade, but also enough space for them to relax on their own to read their books or take a nap outdoor.

There is a smoking area at the back of the upper deck where guests can also get to know the crew.

The air-conditioned restaurant on the main deck also serves as the place to brief divers before each dive and is equipped with a TV in the middle of the room. The restaurant includes a bar.

SERVICE

Behind the MV Ambai’s success, there is a professional, discreet, smiling, and very friendly crew. Our team will treat you with special attention, assist you with whatever you need, and of course carry your tank & gear. Most of our crew have been working with us for many years.

THE CUISINE

Mixing eastern and western specialties, our cuisine is a “fusion" of the best of both that will never let you go hungry.

Should you have specific requests, or a particular dietary need, (vegetarian or allergy, for example), our chefs will adapt the meals for your greatest pleasure.

THE TEAM AT YOUR SERVICE:

• 1 cruise director / diving instructor

• 17 crew members including 4 dive guides

Check in from 6 am to 12 noon. AMBAI crew are standing by to Welcome you onboard. Cabin allocation and ship orientation, safety Briefing and crew Introduction will take place before departing.

*Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

Check out from 6 am to 12 noon. Group photos with the crew before farewell. Disembarkation after breakfast. Transfer to airport or hotel.