Weekly Dive Log #7: An Unexpected Sighting of Omura's Whales in South Halmahera

Aug 19, 2026

Omura's Whale of South Halmahera | Wallacea Dive Cruise

Approaching the Halmahera season, it is an understatement to say that our boat was full of anticipation. South Halmahera is definitely one of our favorite destinations to visit, with its pristine waters, untouched reefs, and incredible marine life bringing something unique to every dive. And this time, Mother Nature was eager to surprise us even more.

The Sunset Guest

As the sun began to set on the horizon, everyone was looking forward to a calm ending to another memorable day at sea. The light slowly softened across the water, painting the surroundings in warm shades of orange and gold as we relaxed on board.

Suddenly, something moving just a few meters from the boat caught our attention.

At first, it was difficult to figure out what we were seeing. A shape appeared at the surface before disappearing once again beneath the water. Everyone quickly turned their attention toward the same spot, waiting to see if it would return.

Then it surfaced again.

To our amazement, the majestic creature beside us was none other than an Omura’s Whale.

For a moment, the atmosphere on board completely changed. Seeing such an incredible animal so close to the boat was something none of us had expected, especially at the end of what had already been an unforgettable day.

Once in a Lifetime

Experience Aboard Ambai | Wallacea Dive Cruise

The visit came as a complete surprise. We might have expected to see beautiful corals and countless schooling fish; South Halmahera has always been famous for those. But meeting the Omura’s Whales was not in our bingo. Sightings of these whales have previously been reported in areas such as Raja Ampat, making our encounter farther south in the Moluccas even more exciting for everyone on board.

Experiences like this remind us why exploring remote destinations can be so rewarding. No matter how many times we return to the same waters, the ocean always seems capable of showing us something new.

This short but memorable experience with the Omura’s Whale was the perfect reminder that when exploring the waters of Indonesia, you never truly know what might appear next.

And for that evening in South Halmahera, the ocean gave us a surprise we will never forget.

Until the next tide,
South Halmahera, August 18th, 2026
Wallacea Dive Cruise Team

Weekly Dive Log #7: An Unexpected Sighting of Omura's Whales in South Halmahera

The Sunset Guest

Once in a Lifetime

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