RAJA AMPAT & NORTH OF MAR DE BANDA

From 4100€

RAJA AMPAT & NORTH OF MAR DE BANDA

What to know?

Essential information for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest:

28/10/2027
07/11/2027
11 days
2 to 3 a day
Life on board
Indonesia
Indonesian, English
Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)

What to know?

Essential information for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest:

Indonesia
11 days
Indonesian, English
Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)
Life on board
2 to 3 a day


Between Chasms, Reefs and Legends

Raja Ampat is one of the world’s last unspoiled paradises: remote, almost inaccessible and teeming with life. At the western end of the Pacific, its strong currents and nutrient-rich tides feed reefs that are home to more than 1,400 species of fish and 537 species of coral. With pastel-hued soft corals and multicoloured gorgonians, this region is home to more than 75% of the reef-building coral species known to science, making it a true underwater sanctuary.

After exploring Raja Ampat, the expedition continues to Banda Neira, an island with a fascinating history linked to the spice trade. Today, its volcanic landscapes and spectacular seabed offer unforgettable dives among gardens of sponges and pelagic fish. The Banda Sea, one of the deepest in the world, generates an exceptional ecosystem that attracts large species such as the impressive hammerhead sharks. In November, these formidable animals gather here, providing a natural spectacle as impressive as it is unforgettable.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (28 October, Thursday)

Arrival at Sorong airport. Assistance and transfer to the boat, welcome drink and accommodation. Afternoon check dive at one of the nearby reefs. Overnight sail to Misool.

Day 2 (29 October, Friday)

Three day dives on the colourful reefs of the Daram Islands, including dive sites such as Andiamo, Candy Store and Warna Berwarna. Night dive to the south of Misool.

Day 3 (30 October, Saturday)

Dive the iconic Boo sites: Pulau Boo, Shadow Reef (Magic Mountain), Yilliet or Romeo. Afternoon visit to the blacktip shark breeding beach at Yilliet and optional night dive.

Day 4 (31 October, Sunday)

Last day of diving in Misool, with dives at Tank Rocks, Boo Windows and Wayilbatan. Overnight sail to Pulau Koon.

Day 5 (1 November, Monday)

Three dives in the strategic Pulau Koon channel, famous for its explosive mix of reef and pelagic life. Overnight sailing to the Banda Islands.

Day 6 (Tuesday, 2 November)

Dives in the Banda Islands: Batu Kapal, Karang Hatta and Lava Flow, vibrant reefs in waters steeped in history. Night sailing to Bandaneira.

Day 7 (3 November, Wednesday)

Full day in Bandaneira. Cultural visit to the Dutch fort, colonial houses and spice plantations. Diving at nearby sites such as Pohon Pintu and Banda Jetty. Extra night on board in Bandaneira.

Day 8 (Thursday, 4 November)

Last dives in the area of Banda or Run Island. In the afternoon, sailing to Nusa Laut.

Day 9 (5 November, Friday)

Two morning dives at the famous Ameth’s Wall reef, with excellent coral health and good numbers of large fish. Sailing to Ambon.

Day 10 (Saturday, 6 November)

Muck diving in Ambon, at sites such as the Twilight Zone. Rare critters, unique creatures and perfect scenery for macro photography lovers. Preparing for disembarkation.

Day 11 (7 November, Sunday)

Breakfast, check out and transfer to Ambon airport for return flight.
End of services provided.

SERVICES INCLUDED

  • Sorong Airport – SMY Ondina round trip transfers.
  • 11 days / 10 nights on board the yacht SMY Ondina in shared double cabin with a/c and private bathroom.
  • Full board regime on board. Includes mineral water, tea, coffee, snacks during the day and soft drinks.
  • 3 to 4 dives per day. Night dives almost every day, unless the conditions or the long sailing distance do not allow it. Check dives and night dives on the arrival day, and two morning dives on the last day.
  • Nitrox for certified divers.
  • Shore excursions as per program.
  • 12-litre tank with air and weights.
  • Spanish speaking guide.
  • Travel and diving assistance insurance.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

  • Domestic and international flights.
  • Local taxes 300€ to be paid on board.
  • Visa (approx. €35).
  • Diving equipment rental.
  • 15-litre bottle (available upon request).
  • Alcoholic beverages.
  • Personal expenses and tips.
  • Cancellation insurance (Check price).
  • Any concept not mentioned in “Services included”.

Download the complete program

Life on board

S.M.Y. ONDINA

Sailing on a “phinisi”, a typical Buginese schooner built using traditional techniques from tropical wood, through the seas of this route is a unique, romantic and adventurous experience. Having the chance to explore this diving destination, with virtually unexplored areas on board the SMY Ondina, is something exceptional.

 

It was built in South Sulawesi by the seafaring Bugis tribes and custom-built under the direct supervision of Operations Director Ricard Buxó: “by a diver for divers”.

 

It’s spacious interiors comfortably accommodate 16 passengers in 8 double cabins, each with air conditioning and private bathroom, of which the two forward cabins have two single bunk beds each, while the remaining six cabins are equipped with a double bed and a single bunk above.

From 4100€
Download the program

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