Banda Sea

Upon boarding Solitude Adventurer, a welcome from the rest of our crew awaits you. Orientation including a safety briefing followed by lunch. There may even be a possibility for a check dive at one of the famous macro sites of Laha, Ambon, where the black sand slopes are home to strange and interesting marine critters which awaits you. During the night we will sails to the Banda Sea. 

Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives.

Today, we find ourselves awakened within the enchanting realms of the Banda Sea. As the day unfolds, you will embark on a captivating journey to behold the exquisite magnificence of the Banda Sea, specifically around the islands of Suanggi and Run. Immerse yourself in the mesmerising sight of flourishing corals and colossal sponges, while the reefs and walls teem with an abundance of vibrant marine life, including the thrilling possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks. Our voyage continues through the night, guiding us towards the captivating shores of Manuk Island. 

Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives.

Upon awakening, our eyes are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of a solitary volcano nestled in an isolated expanse. Overhead, various species of sea birds gracefully soar, completing the picturesque scene. Prepare to embark on a remarkable diving expedition surrounding Manuk Island, where you will be captivated by the breathtaking display of vibrant corals and a diverse array of fish species. As you delve into the depths, you will have the thrilling opportunity to swim alongside numerous sea snakes, earning Manuk Island its renowned moniker of Snake Island. A mix of anticipation and excitement fills the air, heightened by occasional wafts of sulphur scent, while the sight of smoke ascending from the active volcano transports you to an era reminiscent of the Jurassic period, resembling scenes from an exhilarating action movie in which you play the lead role. 

Our journey continues as we set sail overnight towards the enchanting island of Serua. 

Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives.

Our attention today in Serua is directed towards the exhilarating quest for hammerhead sharks. The shallow reef summits gradually transition into sloping reefs and dramatic walls that vanish into the depths below. The surrounding waters of the island teem with a profusion of vibrant coral formations, colossal sponges, and bustling schools of fish like trevally, surgeonfish, and fusiliers. As you navigate through the open blue expanse, remain vigilant for the captivating sight of hammerhead sharks swimming in groups. Additionally, the area is frequented by sea snakes, adding to the allure of the underwater realm. The currents in this region can be robust and exhilarating, enhancing the thrill of the experience. 

Our voyage continues through the night, guiding us towards the enchanting Hatta Reef. 

Our day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Hatta Reef and Hatta Island through immersive diving experiences. Here, a multitude of dive sites awaits, each brimming with abundant schools of fish and captivating coral formations. Prepare to be enthralled by the presence of walls, sloping reefs, and a vibrant array of marine life, including turtles and fascinating macro critters. Hatta presents yet another promising opportunity to encounter the majestic hammerhead sharks, adding an extra level of excitement to our underwater exploration. 

Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives each day and a land tour on one day. 

For the following two days, our expedition takes us on a captivating exploration of the vibrant reefs and picturesque islands that encompass Banda Neira. Prepare to be enthralled by the diverse underwater topography, which includes tunnels, coral gardens, mini walls, and striking pinnacles. Upon completing the third dive on either day six or seven, an optional land tour awaits, inviting you to visit a Dutch fort and a small museum that sheds light on the Dutch occupation of the Banda Islands, renowned as the ‘Spice Islands’. Here, a flourishing ecosystem thrives, showcasing an abundance of coral formations, intriguing macro critters, bustling schools of reef fish, and majestic palegics. 

As the late afternoon arrives and day seven commences, we will embark on an overnight sailing journey towards the captivating Nusa Laut. 

Gives the opportunity of a possible 2 dives.

On this final day of our diving adventure, we have the pleasure of embarking on two invigorating morning dives, which will be followed by a satisfying lunch. The first dive presents us with a captivating sloping wall adorned with a stunning coral reef, bustling with vibrant schools of fish. The second dive takes us to a remarkable macro site, where we will encounter a diverse array of fascinating marine creatures, including numerous species of nudibranchs, enchanting pygmy seahorses, and a plethora of other captivating critters. 

After the conclusion of our last dive, take the opportunity to relax and unwind while our dedicated crew tends to your equipment, washing and carefully hanging it up for you. As we gracefully cruise back to Ambon, indulge in the tranquillity and reflection of the memorable experiences we have shared throughout our journey. 

During the evening please make preparations for the scheduled 11:00 check-out in the morning. At this time, you will receive a briefing regarding your check-out bills so that you can arrange for payment. We accept cash in USD, IDR, credit card, or WISE payments (please inform us in advance if you plan to use a credit card or WISE, noting that a facility fee applies). Kindly inform the cruise directors about your preferred payment method. 

Following a light continental breakfast, there will be an appreciation briefing, followed by the final disembarkation for our guests schedule for 11:00. 

Regrettably, we are unable to accommodate late check-out requests as we need to prepare for the upcoming cruise. 

Please be aware that the itinerary and planned route may be altered due to unfavourable weather conditions, sea conditions, and, or restrictions imposed by local authorities.