Banda Sea liveaboard diving is an adventure which people call off the beaten tracks. Banda Sea, is located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, remotely placed although still relatively easy to reach.
Banda Sea liveaboard diving is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and pristine dive sites but above all divers come here for the chance of spotting the Hammerhead migration. Imagine diving and seeing a wall of hundreds of Hammerhead sharks. It’s worth every minute of the travel.
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Banda Sea Liveaboard Diving Highlights
The Hammerhead migration is what attracts divers from all around the world to visit Banda Sea. Because of the remote location where Banda Sea is found, the only way to experience scuba diving here is by liveaboard.
Cell phone and internet connection is limited here so once you leave the harbour of Ambon, you are literally in the middle of nowhere and completely disconnected from the world, reachable only by satellite internet or satellite phones.
The coral reefs and marine life in Banda Sea are diverse and sharks can be seen all around including Thresher Sharks and different kinds of reef sharks.
Top 4 Places to Dive with Banda Sea Liveaboard
Banda Neira
One of Banda Sea’s most popular dive spots, the town of Banda Neira is situated in the heart of the Banda Sea and is a great place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding dive sites. The waters around Banda Neira are home to numerous species of fish, including barracudas, trevallies, and snappers, as well as colorful coral formations. Hammerheads migration is not seen here but Thresher sharks are often passing by.
Hatta Island
Hatta Island is located in the southern part of the Banda Sea and is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. The Hatta Island is one of the main spots for getting a chance at diving with the Hammerheads. Hatta Island is part of all of the liveaboard operator itineraries.
Manuk Island
Manuk Island, second to Hatta with the chances for the Hammerhead migration, is a small, uninhabited island located in the Banda Sea that is home to a large population of sea snakes. Of course the coral reef of Manuk Island is spectacular and it’s one of the only spots in Banda Sea where there are chances to see Manta Rays.
Suanggi
Suanggi is a big rock in the middle of the ocean and perhaps the one and only best place to see the migration of the Hammerheads. There are 3 underwater pinnacles that moving around against the current will position divers just in front of the Hammerhead shark wall.
There are no other things that can be seen here but often Banda Sea liveaboard choose to do several dives here to maximise the chances for the Hammerheads.
Best Season & Itinerary for Banda Sea Liveaboard
The best time to dive in the Banda Sea is from March to May and September to November but by far the best of the best is September to November and that’s when most of the Banda Sea liveaboard are there. During March to May divers are mainly focused in Komodo liveaboard so there are few options to be able to dive in Banda Sea.
During these months, the water is clear, and the currents are mild, providing optimal conditions for diving.
Itinerary wise, all liveaboards start from the port city of Ambon where the main airport is also found with a typical trip duration of approximately 8 days 7 nights or up to 10-11 days.
At the end of the season all Banda Sea liveaboard perform a beautiful 11 days 10 nights trip from Ambon through Banda Sea crossing to Sorong through Triton Bay and Misool. A truly stunning trip that also provides divers with chances to dive with Whale Sharks.
How To Arrive in Banda Sea
Banda Sea is one of the most distant dive locations in Indonesia and it’s reachable by select flights from Jakarta or Makassar arriving in the airport of Ambon. With different airlines you will find different flights but the best would be to start off from Jakarta although most of the flights will still make a second stop in Makassar.
Preferred airlines to arrive on time for your Banda Sea liveaboard are:
Frequently Asked Questions for Banda Sea Liveaboard
What is Banda Sea?
Banda Sea is a large body of water in Indonesia, located between the islands of Sulawesi, Flores, and Timor. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity and the world-renowned dive sites.
What is an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
An Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea is a boat that takes guests on a diving and exploration journey to some of the most spectacular dive sites in the region, including Banda Islands, Ambon, and more.
What types of activities can I do on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
Activities on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea mainly revolve around diving and snorkeling, as the region is famous for its diverse and pristine underwater world. Other activities may include island hopping, cultural visits, and water sports.
What are the best dive sites in Banda Sea?
Some of the best dive sites in Banda Sea include Gunung Api, Nusa Laut, Hatta Island, and the Banda Islands. These sites are home to a wide range of marine life, including schools of fish, manta rays, and sharks.
What is the accommodation like on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
Accommodation on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea ranges from basic to luxurious, depending on the boat. Most boats offer private cabins with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.
How many people are typically on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
The number of people on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea varies, but most boats can accommodate between 10 and 20 guests.
What is the food like on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
The food on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea is typically a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some boats may also cater to special dietary requirements.
What is the level of service like on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
The level of service on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea is typically high, with a focus on personalized service and attention to detail. The crew may include dive guides, chefs, and other support staff.
What should I bring on an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
You should bring appropriate clothing for the weather and any activities you plan to do, as well as any necessary medications. Many liveaboards in Banda Sea provide diving or snorkeling equipment, but you may want to bring your own if you prefer.
How do I choose an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea?
When choosing an Indonesia liveaboard in Banda Sea, consider factors such as the itinerary, the size and type of boat, the amenities, the level of service, and the price. It's also a good idea to read reviews and ask for recommendations from other travelers or travel agents.