We run our Banda Sea trips from end September to End November, when the sea and diving conditions are optimal.
While the Galapagos Islands and Malpelo are renowned for their schools of majestic Great Hammerhead sharks, the Banda Sea also offers a rare and extraordinary diving experience with these magnificent creatures and other pelagic species in the vibrant waters of Indonesia. Our Banda Sea Liveaboard cruises will take you to these remote and pristine locations, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.
Dive sites include many walls and drop offs, sea mounts and pinnacles, beautiful coral gardens and some critters spots. Above the water you will enjoy remote, cone-shaped volcanic islands with thousands of birds, probably come across whales, immerse in the spice islands history in the Banda Islands.
The Hammerheads season:
During the South East winds, June to September, some upwellings develop: the surface waters get colder and a bit more turbid, which also means more productive. This is when we can see the hammerhead sharks. The waters then warm up again towards November and December. this means that the occurrence of hammerheads is bigger during September and October, and generally getting less towards November.
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The currents in the Banda Sea are generally low to moderate, making for comfortable diving conditions. However, in some areas, particularly around straits and deeper drop-offs, currents can be stronger, attracting larger pelagic species. These currents bring nutrient-rich waters, supporting abundant marine life and vibrant coral growth. Our guides always assess currents before the dive briefings.
DIVE AREAS
Embark on an epic journey to the Banda Sea, where legendary spice islands rise from abyssal depths to offer the world's most thrilling underwater adventures.
Nusa Laut boasts vibrant coral reefs and clear waters, making it a heaven for marine life. Macro lovers will enjoy spotting colorful critters, while pelagic encounters with schooling fish and larger species add excitement. With its rich biodiversity and varied dive sites, Nusa Laut offers a thrilling and well-rounded diving experience.
Suanggi is a small rocky island, home of thousands of seabirds. The dive sites include a wall and an underwater plateau with boomies. All around the island is a great fish life, but what truly sets it apart is the thrilling chance to encounter schooling hammerhead sharks, often the highlight of any dive here. Their presence makes Suanggi a must-visit for adventurous divers seeking unforgettable underwater encounters.
Banda Neira offers a spectacular mix of history and marine life, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with schooling fish, reef sharks, and occasional hammerheads. The volcanic seabed supports healthy coral gardens, while you can explore the Fort Belgica, perched above Banda Neira, a well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fortress offering stunning views of the island and its volcanic landscape.
The waters of Manuk, a volcanic island only inhabited by visiting fishermen and thousands of birds, are famous for their thriving Olive sea-snake population. They are almost blind and navigate detecting movement, sometimes following water disturbance made by diver's fins. With frequent sighting of tunas, hammerheads and reef harks, Manuk offers an unforgettable diving experience.
Diving around Serua Island in the Banda Sea is an exhilarating experience, especially for those seeking encounters with schooling hammerhead sharks. This remote and rarely visited island features deep walls and nutrient-rich waters that attract large pelagic species. Divers can explore dramatic underwater topography adorned with vibrant corals, abundant fish life, and occasional sightings of other sharks, tunas, and rays
"Nil Desperandum," meaning "Do Not Despair," possibly refers to a ship that was wrecked centuries ago on this large reef far from any coast. It consists of a large atoll with beautiful sloping reef and deep walls supporting plenty of fish life where he currents attract pelagic species and large predators. With abundant marine life and the chance to see hammerheads, Nil Desperandum promises an unforgettable adventure.
Dai-Dawera is a secluded and little-visited destination in the Banda Sea, offering a rare blend of pristine natural beauty and untouched marine biodiversity. Tucked away from the main tourist routes, this remote area rewards adventurous divers and liveaboard travelers with a true sense of exploration.
The underwater world around Dai-Dawera features vibrant coral reefs, steep walls, and clear, deep waters teeming with life, from schools of reef fish to occasional pelagic visitors.
The Forgotten Islands, Babar, Dai, Tanimbar, and Dawera feature untouched reefs and crystal-clear waters, offering dramatic underwater landscapes. Known for thrilling encounters with pelagics and vibrant marine life, their currents and deep waters make them an exhilarating dive destination, perfect for those eager to explore Indonesia’s hidden marine treasures.
HOW TO GET THERE
We’ve outlined the best travel routes to help you arrive smoothly, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey to this breathtaking destination.
GALLERY
Discover the stunning beauty of Banda Sea's diverse marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes, all captured on our dive cruises.
The Banda Sea, accessible by our top-tier dive vessels, offers exceptional diving across the Ring of Fire and forgotten islands. The best time to visit aligns with the hammerhead season, perfect for scuba divers seeking adventure.
Our itineraries can combine the Banda Sea with Raja Ampat or Triton Bay. The Banda Sea diving liveaboard experience is ideal for exploring remote islands, while Wallacea Dive Cruise ensures a comprehensive adventure for all divers.
