Banda Islands & Ambon (10 Days / 9 Nights - 25 Dives)
Trip highlights: turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Ambon, Suanggi, Banda Islands: Run, Ai, Nailaka, Pulau Hatta, Gunung Api. A land tour on Banda Neira to visit historic sites like Fort Belgica, the nutmeg plantations, and the old colonial town.
Day 1
This liveaboard diving adventure into the Spice Islands begins with a morning rendezvous at Ambon Harbour. After a warm welcome and a short transfer to the Jelajahi Laut, you'll be greeted with a refreshing drink and a comprehensive introduction to the vessel and crew. Once you've settled into your cabin, a light lunch will be served. Your underwater adventure commences in the afternoon with a check dive on the iconic volcanic sand slopes of Laha, offering a thrilling preview of Ambon's legendary macro life. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy dinner on the main deck.
Core Days
This cruise contrasts 2 distinct worlds: the muck-diving paradise of Ambon Bay and the pristine, pelagic-rich ecosystems of the remote Banda Sea. It’s a journey from the cryptic to the colossal, offering unparalleled diversity.
The Jelajahi Laut begins in the world-class muck diving world of Ambon Bay. The dark sand slopes of sites like Laha and Rhino City are a living treasure hunt, home to an incredible array of rare critters, including the famed rhinopias, flying gurnards, and the elusive mimic octopus. After a final morning exploring these unique habitats, the liveaboard sets sail on an overnight voyage east, crossing the deep Banda Sea.
Arriving in the legendary Spice Islands, the focus shifts to dramatic walls, thriving reefs, and pelagic action. The first dives are on Suanggi, where upwellings create the potential for breathtaking encounters with schooling hammerhead sharks. We then spend several days exploring the heart of the archipelago. You'll witness the remarkable coral regeneration on the Lava Flow of Gunung Api and drift along the vibrant, fish-dense walls of Pulau Hatta. Sites like Batu Kapal and Karang Hatta consistently deliver action with patrolling reef sharks, tuna, and massive schools of snapper.
A topside excursion on Banda Neira offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial history with a visit to Fort Belgica and the historic nutmeg plantations. The Jelajahi Laut liveaboard continues through Banda to the pristine reefs of Run and Ai islands, where eagle rays and turtles are commonly sighted.
As you sail back to Ambon, you can enjoy a final series of dives. This is an opportunity to revisit favourite macro sites for one last critter hunt or explore different spots like the beautiful coral archway at Pintu Kota, ending the diving portion of the trip on a high note.
Day 10
After a final breakfast, prepare for one last memorable dive. Upon returning to the boat, you'll have time to rinse and pack your gear. A farewell lunch is served, providing a final opportunity for group photos with the crew before disembarking in Ambon harbour, concluding your remarkable Banda Sea liveaboard voyage with the Jelajahi Laut.
Banda Sea, Ambon & Halmahera (14 Days / 13 Nights - 34 Dives)
Trip highlights: turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Ternate, Halmahera: Goraici, Tifore, Patinti Strait; Forgotten Islands: Nil Desperandum, Serua, Manuk; Nusa Laut, Banda Islands: Gunung Api, Pulau Ai; Amon: Ambon Bay, Pintu Kota. Land tour of Banda Neira to visit historic sites like Fort Belgica, nutmeg plantations, and old colonial town.
Day 1
This epic transit trip begins with a morning assembly at Ternate Harbour and charts a course through the very soul of the Coral Triangle, offering a spectacular progression from volcanic island reefs to pelagic highways and culminating in one of the world's most celebrated muck-diving capitals. A refreshing welcome drink awaits once you board the Jelajahi Laut liveaboard, followed by a comprehensive safety briefing and vessel orientation. After settling into your cabin and enjoying a light lunch, your underwater adventures commences begin with a check dive. This first dive could be at a site like Jikomalamo, renowned for its schools of mackerel, or one of the area's historic wrecks, setting the stage for the cruise ahead. The evening concludes with dinner on the main deck.
Core Days
Sailing south into the Halmahera Sea, you will explore some of Indonesia's most untouched reefs. The Patinti Strait offers exhilarating drift dives where reef sharks, tuna, and manta rays are frequent visitors. At Pulau Tifore, submerged reefs come alive with massive schools of barracuda, while the Goraici Islands present a diverse playground of submerged pinnacles and slopes that are full of marine life, showcasing Halmahera's reef health at its most pristine.
Venturing into the deep, open waters of the Banda Sea, we target its legendary submerged seamounts. Remote pinnacles like Nil Desperandum and Serua are gathering points for schools of scalloped hammerhead sharks, offering a chance for an unforgettable encounter. The active volcanic cone of Manuk Island provides a dramatic backdrop for dives amidst its prolific population of sea snakes, and the walls of Nusa Laut boast exceptional visibility and rich marine biodiversity.
Once the Jelajahi Laut arrives at the fabled Spice Islands, you will dive into both natural and historical wonders. You'll explore the remarkable coral regeneration on the Gunung Api lava flow, drift along the stunning walls of Pulai Ai, and witness the staggering fish densities at Sjahrir. A topside tour of Banda Neira offers a cultural interlude, visiting Fort Belgica and the historic nutmeg plantations that once shaped world history.
The grand finale of this liveaboard safari unfolds in the muck-diving mecca of Ambon Bay. The black sand slopes of Laha are a critter-lover's dream, home to stargazers and countless octopus. Rhino City lives up to its name as a haunt for rare rhinopias, while Pintu Kota offers a beautiful rock arch and a final taste of vibrant reef life.
Day 14
After a final breakfast, prepare for one last memorable dive. Upon returning, you'll have time to rinse and pack your gear. A farewell lunch is served, followed by the opportunity for group photos with the Jelajahi Laut crew, before disembarking from the liveaboard in Ambon harbour.
Halmahera & Morotai (8 Days / 7 Nights - 20 Dives)
Trip highlights: hammerhead sharks, shark action, manta rays, dugongs/manatees, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track
Dive sites and activities: Halmahera: Patinti Strait, Pulau Tifore, Goraici, Ternate, Morotai
Day 1
Your North Maluku adventure begins with a morning gathering at Ternate Harbour to board the Jelajahi Laut liveaboard. A refreshing welcome drink awaits as you are introduced to the crew and given a comprehensive safety and vessel orientation. Once you've settled into your cabin, a light lunch is served. Your underwater exploration commences with a check dive on Ternate's unique volcanic sand slopes, offering a first glimpse of the region's macro life. The evening is yours to relax; enjoy dinner on the main deck and raise a glass to the tour ahead with sunset drinks.
Core Days
This liveaboard expedition is a deep dive into the unspoiled heart of the Coral Triangle. By focusing on the remote reefs and historical channels of Halmahera in North Maluku, Jelajahi Laut offers a truly exploratory experience far from the beaten path, where biodiversity thrives in spectacular isolation.
The liveaboard journeys south to the dynamic waters of Central Halmahera, where nutrient-rich currents fuel an explosion of marine life. Pulau Tifore is a magnet for pelagics, often encircled by schooling barracuda and patrolled by bigeye trevally. Prepare for an exhilarating drift dive through a narrow passage in the Patinti Strait, known for encounters with reef sharks, tuna, and the occasional manta ray. Explore the diverse archipelago of the Goraici Islands, featuring submerged pinnacles and vibrant sloping reefs teeming with fish.
Jelajahi Laut also visits the northern reaches of Halmahera in Morotai, combining stunning reefscapes with a touch of history. Here divers will discover the ghosts of WWII that rest peacefully alongside thriving coral ecosystems. The island is renowned for its collection of accessible wartime wrecks, including planes and ships, which now serve as artificial reefs encrusted with corals and home to schools of tropical fish. Beyond these historical monuments, Morotai's pristine reefs boast exceptional visibility, dramatic drop-offs, and a staggering density of marine creatures, from tiny, colourful shrimps to patrolling sharks and manta rays, creating a dive experience that is little-visited yet exhilarating.
The Jelajahi Laut returns to the waters around Ternate for the final dives, revisiting favourites and discovering new sites beneath the volcanic peaks. Jikomalamo is a celebrated site known for its massive schools of fusiliers and a stunning backdrop of a white-sand beach.
Day 7
After a final healthy breakfast, suit up for one last memorable dive. Afterwards, you'll have time to rinse and pack your gear, enjoy a farewell lunch, and capture group photos with the crew before disembarking the liveaboard in Ternate for your onward journey.
Halmahera & North Sulawesi (12 Days / 11 Nights - 33 Dives)
Trip highlights: hammerhead sharks, shark action, manta rays, dugongs/manatees, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: North Sulawesi: Lembeh Strait, Bunaken, Bangka Island; Halmahera: Goraici, Tifore, Pisang, Tidore, Ternate
Day 1
Your scuba adventure begins at the port in Bitung, Manado, where you will board the Jelajahi Laut liveaboard. A refreshing welcome drink awaits as you meet the crew and fellow guests during a brief introduction. This is followed by a safety briefing and a tour of the vessel. After settling into your cabin, a light lunch is served, soon to be followed by a first check dive at a classic Lembeh Strait site like Hairball or Jahir. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind. Enjoy dinner on the main deck, sip a sunset drink, and rest up for the days of exploration ahead.
Core Days
This Jelajahi Laut diving expedition charts a course through the very heart of the Coral Triangle, showcasing a stunning contrast of marine environments. You will begin in the world's most famous muck diving destination before transitioning to the vibrant coral gardens and dramatic walls of the region's iconic marine parks, culminating in the remote and exploratory waters of the Halmahera Sea.
The liveaboard expedition begins in the legendary Lembeh Strait, the undisputed global epicentre for muck diving and macro photography. Here, the volcanic black sand slopes may seem barren at first glance, but they are a living tapestry of the ocean's most bizarre and fascinating creatures. With the expert eye of your guide, you'll embark on a treasure hunt for exotic critters, from the masterfully coconut octopus and stargazers to a breathtaking array of crustaceans.
Serving as a beautiful bridge between Lembeh's muck and Bunaken's walls, Bangka Island offers pristine coral gardens in crystal-clear waters. This island is a kaleidoscope of colour, with slopes and reefs blanketed in vibrant soft corals, gorgonian sea fans, and healthy hard corals. The topography is as engaging as the marine life, with pinnacles, slopes, and gentle drifts that are home to a fantastic diversity of reef fish.
A short journey with the Jelajahi Laut takes you to the world-renowned Bunaken National Park, a sanctuary of marine biodiversity. The main attraction here is the spectacular wall diving, where vertical drop-offs plunge hundreds of metres, covered in gigantic barrel sponges and colourful sea fans. As you drift along these sheer walls, you are likely to be escorted by numerous sea turtles and may spot dugongs, eagle rays, or sharks cruising the blue. The park's rich nutrient flow supports a staggering density of life, making every dive an awe-inspiring spectacle.
As the liveaboard crosses the Halmahera Sea, you enter a realm of true exploration. This vast and remote area is dotted with small, volcanic islands and seldom-visited reefs. The scuba diving here is raw and unpredictable, offering a sense of adventure around every corner. You might find yourself drifting along pristine coral slopes teeming with fish life one moment, and watching schooling barracuda or hunting trevally the next. The Halmahera Sea is a frontier for divers seeking both wide-angle scenes of untouched reefs and the thrill of discovering what secrets its remote pinnacles and passages hold.
The trip concludes at the historic and volcanic island of Ternate, a gateway to the Spice Islands of North Maluku. The diving here reflects the island's dramatic volcanic origins, with reefs that are both vibrant and geologically fascinating. As you take your final dips in these rich waters, you are diving in the shadow of a majestic, active volcano - a powerful reminder of the geological forces that shaped this entire archipelago.
Day 12
Enjoy one final morning dive at Tidore before Jelajahi Laut cruises to the port in Ternate. After saying your farewells to the crew, a transfer will be provided to a local hotel or Ternate's Sultan Babullah Airport. Breakfast and lunch will be served during the day.
Please note that this liveaboard itinerary sometimes runs in reverse; be sure to check your specific port information.
Lembeh Strait & Togian Islands (12 Days / 11 Nights - 33 Dives)
Trip highlights: turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Central Sulawesi: Tomini Bay - Banggai Islands, Tompotika, Togian Islands, Gorontalo; North Sulawesi: Lembeh Strait
Day 1
The diving safari begins at the waterfront in Luwuk, where you will board the Jelajahi Laut liveaboard. After a warm welcome with a refreshing drink, you'll receive a safety briefing and a tour of the vessel. Settle into your cabin as the crew prepares the dive deck. A light lunch will be served, followed by your first sample of the underwater world with a check dive in the Banggai area. The evening is yours to relax; enjoy dinner on the main deck and sunset drinks before retiring for the night.
Core Days
This Jelajahi Laut expedition showcases the incredible diversity of marine habitats in Central and North Sulawesi. You will sail from the remote island archipelagos of the south, through the heart of Tomini Bay, past dramatic continental walls, and culminate in the world's most famous muck diving destination.
Your liveaboard adventures begin in the secluded Banggai Archipelago and the nearby Tompotika peninsula, a region of breathtaking island scenery and phenomenal biodiversity. These remote waters are a haven for explorers, featuring submerged pinnacles, ridges draped in vibrant soft corals, and reefs teeming with fish life. The area is a macro photographer's dream, but its crown jewel is the chance to encounter the endemic and beautifully patterned Banggai cardinalfish in its natural habitat. Diving here feels like discovering a well-kept secret, offering a sense of untouched adventure with every dive.
Cruising north into the sheltered waters of Tomini Bay, the liveaboard will reach the idyllic Togian Islands. This archipelago is a diver's paradise, boasting everything from lush coral gardens and submerged seamounts to the dramatic slopes of an active volcano. The reefs are vibrant and healthy, attracting huge schools of pelagics like barracuda and reef sharks. Adding a touch of history to the natural beauty, you can explore the B-24 Bomber wreck, a remarkably preserved WWII relic that has been transformed into a thriving artificial reef, resting peacefully in shallow water.
As the Jelajahi Laut continues north, the underwater landscape transforms into the dramatic, sponge-covered walls of Gorontalo. These near-vertical drop-offs are a spectacle, adorned with unique, spiral soft corals and massive sponges that create a vibrant tapestry of colour and texture. The region is renowned for its unusual marine life, but the most awe-inspiring encounter is the possibility of swimming alongside the ocean's largest fish. Gorontalo is one of the few places where you have a genuine chance to meet resident whale sharks.
The liveaboard tour ends in the Lembeh Strait, the undisputed capital of muck diving. This is where the bizarre, the rare, and the masters of camouflage come to life on black sand slopes. While the previous destinations offered grandeur and pelagics, Lembeh is a treasure hunt for critters. Prepare to be amazed by an endless variety of exotic life, from the comical mimic octopus and flamboyant cuttlefish to a stunning array of nudibranchs and crustaceans. It is the perfect finale for underwater photographers and macro enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the ocean's most unusual creatures.
Day 12
Savour one final morning dive in the famous muck of the Lembeh Strait. Afterwards, Jelajahi Laut will cruise to port where you'll say your farewells. A transfer from the liveaboard will be provided to a local hotel or Manado Airport. Breakfast and lunch will be served during the day.
Note: This itinerary operates in both directions. Please check your specific trip departure details.
North Sulawesi & Sangihe (10 Days / 9 Nights - 25 Dives)
Trip highlights: dolphins, dugongs/manatees, great macro life/ marine diversity
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Bunaken Marine Park, Bangka Island, Sangihe Islands, Lembeh Strait
Day 1
This liveaboard adventure with the Jelajahi Laut is a comprehensive exploration of North Sulawesi's most celebrated marine environments. From breathtaking walls and vibrant reefs to volcanic seascapes and the world's best muck diving, this itinerary offers an unparalleled diversity of underwater experiences.
The cruise begins at the jetty in Manado in the morning. After a welcome coffee or tea, you'll be transferred via speedboat to the Jelajahi Laut. Onboard, enjoy a fresh juice or coconut while receiving a welcome introduction, safety briefing, and boat tour. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a light lunch before heading out for your first check dive in the legendary Bunaken Marine Park. The evening is yours to relax. Enjoy dinner on the main deck and toast the start of your liveaboard trip with sunset drinks.
Core Days
Your introduction to North Sulawesi's wonders begins at the world-renowned Bunaken Marine Park. This area is famous for its spectacular vertical wall dives, which plummet hundreds of meters into the deep blue. As you drift along these sheer drop-offs, you'll be surrounded by immense sponges, giant gorgonian fans, and vast schools of bannerfish and pyramid butterflyfish. The park is also a sanctuary for sea turtles, which are commonly seen gliding effortlessly along the reef. The clear waters and incredible biodiversity set a high bar for the liveaboard trip, offering a classic, awe-inspiring reef experience that is both dramatic and serene.
With Jelajahi Laut sailing east from Bunaken, you'll discover the pristine coral gardens of Bangka Island. This region offers a different charm, with stunning slopes and bommies blanketed in a kaleidoscope of soft and hard corals. The water is typically exceptionally clear, allowing sunlight to illuminate the vibrant hues of the reefs, which are teeming with anthias and schooling fusiliers. Bangka provides a perfect balance to Bunaken's dramatic walls, with dive sites that invite you to slow down and appreciate the intricate beauty of a healthy, flourishing coral ecosystem, all set against a backdrop of idyllic island scenery.
The cruise then ventures north to the remote and wild Sangihe Islands. This archipelago is a frontier for adventure diving, dominated by dramatic volcanic landscapes. The highlight is diving on an active underwater volcano at Mahengetang, where you can witness bubbles of volcanic gas rising from the seafloor, nurturing a unique and thriving ecosystem. The reefs here are pristine and less explored, offering a sense of discovery. The nutrient-rich waters support not only stunning coral growth but also a higher likelihood of encountering pelagic species, making every dive an exciting prospect in this raw and powerful environment.
The grand finale of your Jelajahi Laut liveaboard expedition is the legendary Lembeh Strait. This is where the focus shifts from the grand and colourful to the rare, unusual, and masterfully camouflaged. The volcanic black sand slopes may seem barren at first glance, but they are a thriving habitat for an incredible concentration of macro life. With the help of expert guides, you'll hunt for critters like the wonderpus, Banggai cardinalfish, stargazers, and a bewildering array of sea slugs. Lembeh is a paradise for underwater photographers and anyone fascinated by the ocean's most bizarre inhabitants, providing a mind-bending and unforgettable conclusion to your journey.
Day 10
Enjoy one final dive in Lembeh. After breakfast and lunch onboard the liveaboard, the Jelajahi Laut cruise to port. Say your farewells to the crew and fellow guests before receiving a transfer to a local hotel or Manado Airport.
Note: This itinerary sometimes runs in reverse. Please check your specific departure details.
Raja Ampat National Park North & Central
Trip highlights: shark action, manta rays, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, caverns, drift diving, healthy reefs, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: from Raja Ampat - Mioskon, Dampier Strait: Cape Kri, Sawandarek village jetty, Yenkoranu Jetty, Arborek, Manta Sandy, Penemu, Jef Fam Islands, Kawe, Aljui Bay, Yangeffo, Gam. Viewpoint hike, bird of paradise jungle trek, village visit.
Day 1
This is the beginning of an unmatched diving adventure in the heart of biodiversity. Guests board the Jelajahi Laut at Waisai and immediately receive a warm welcome and essential ship orientation. Following this, divers move to their cabins and ready their crucial underwater gear. The excitement builds with an afternoon check dive on the coral slopes of Mioskon Island. The first dinner of the week is served as the vessel journeys away, positioning itself for a week of unparalleled exploration.
Core Days
The Central region is dominated by the Dampier Strait, where immense tidal currents fuel some of the most concentrated marine life on Earth. We explore legendary sites such as Cape Kri, which holds world records for fish species count, and Manta Sandy, a crucial stop for observing oceanic and reef manta rays at their cleaning stations. The Jelajahi Laut liveaboard positions you perfectly for these high-energy environments, where schools of barracuda, trevally, and blacktip reef sharks patrol the reefs of Gam and Yangeffo.
Moving between islands, we balance wide-angle action with rewarding macro dives around local settlements. The village jetties at Sawandarek, Arborek, and Yenkoranu offer unexpected opportunities for critter spotting, including pygmy seahorses and various nudibranchs amidst the structures. This attention to detail is a signature of the Jelajahi Laut experience. The cruise pushes north to the remote Jef Fam Islands and the Kawe region, presenting unique dives over submerged pinnacles.
The trip is complemented by iconic topside excursions. We undertake a climb to the viewpoint at Penemu, offering breathtaking vistas of the mushroom-shaped karst islands. Further land activities include a visit to a local village, offering genuine cultural immersion, and an early morning bird of paradise jungle trek to witness the endemic male bird's spectacular mating display. The remote deep fjords of Aljui Bay are also explored, famed for exceptional night diving. Scuba divers seeking the ultimate central and northern Raja Ampat experience will find the Jelajahi Laut an excellent choice.
Final Day
Following a final morning dive and a last hearty breakfast, you will disembark from the Jelajahi Laut in Waisai.
Raja Ampat National Park South & Central
Trip highlights: shark action, manta rays, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, caverns, drift diving, healthy reefs, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Raja Ampat - Mioskon, Misool Eco Reserve: Romeo, Yillet, Boo, Jellyfish Lake; Penemu, Jef Fam Islands, Dampier Strait: Cape Kri. Veewpoint hike, bird of paradise jungle trek, village visit.
Day 1
The Misool region contains over 1,500 fish species, and your route to them is plotted instantly upon arrival. Divers embark the Jelajahi Laut at Sorong Harbour and get a comprehensive safety briefing after a welcome aboard. After settling into assigned sleeping quarters, the early afternoon is dedicated to fine-tuning dive gear during a crucial tune-up submersion near Mioskon Island. Passengers eat their first evening meal on board while the liveaboard propels itself on its initial overnight course south towards Misool.
Core Days
The expedition begins in the Misool Eco Reserve, a sanctuary of pristine reefs defined by kaleidoscopic soft corals and dramatic karst formations. Dive sites such as Romeo, Yillet, and the famous Boo Windows showcase underwater landscapes draped in immense sea fans and sponges. Here, the focus is on spectacular wide-angle photography, capturing the staggering density of schooling fish and reef creatures that characterise Misool. The health and vibrancy of these southern reefs are utterly spectacular, attracting reef sharks and large Napoleon wrasse.
The Jelajahi Laut then moves north to the central Raja Ampat region. The Dampier Strait offers a completely different, high-energy diving profile driven by powerful currents. Cape Kri is a world-renowned pinnacle where colossal schools of fish gather, offering exciting encounters with barracuda, giant trevally, and blacktip sharks. The central Raja Ampat diving, accessed perfectly by the Jelajahi Laut, ensures superb visibility and abundant life. The Jef Fam Islands provide further outstanding topography, blending current-fed pinnacles with protected, coral-rich slopes.
This route ensures divers experience the unique topside wonders alongside the diving. We visit the Misool region's famous non-stinging Jellyfish Lake, offering an unforgettable opportunity to snorkel among thousands of golden jellyfish. For the iconic Raja Ampat viewpoint, a rewarding hike is scheduled to the top of Penemu, granting breathtaking vistas of the mushroom-shaped karst islands. Further cultural immersion includes a village visit, and a specialised jungle trek is also included for a chance to witness the spectacular mating dance of the red bird of paradise. The Jelajahi Laut liveaboard offers a perfect balance of aquatic adventure and regional discovery.
Final Day
Awake to a final morning on the Jelajahi Laut. After a last dive, packing your gear and enjoying a continental breakfast, disembarkation is scheduled in Sorong, concluding your comprehensive south and central Raja Ampat safari.
Raja Ampat, Banda Sea & Ambon (15 Days / 14 Nights - 45 Dives)
Trip highlights: shark action, manta rays, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, caverns, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Raja Ampat - Mioskon, Dampier Strait: Cape Kri, Yenbuba Jetty, Sawandarek Village, Penemu, Jef Fam Islands, Misool: North, East, South and West; Madorang, Koon, Gunung Api, Banda Islands: Pulau Hatta, Ai, Run, Suanggi; Nusa Laut, Ambon Bay. Viewpoint hike, historic fort and museum tour.
Day 1
This is the definitive Indonesian transit dive trip, linking Raja Ampat's biodiversity to Ambon's historic waters. Upon accessing the Jelajahi Laut at Sorong harbour, you are greeted by the crew and given an essential vessel overview. Following this, the afternoon allows time for guests to arrange all their personal dive kits. A necessary introductory dive on Mioskon Island's slopes precedes the evening where you consume the first of many fine meals on board. That night, the liveaboard traverses the sea, charting a path toward the south to commence the remote exploration.
Core Days
The initial days focus on the pristine and biologically rich Misool archipelago. The Jelajahi Laut liveaboard will explore all corners of this region: north, east, south, and west. Dive sites around Boo Corner and the Jef Fam Islands showcase phenomenal soft coral growth and karst topography, which attracts reef fish and cruising blacktip sharks. Misool offers a visual feast, known for spectacular wide-angle opportunities and world-class reef health.
As the cruise moves north, the vessel enters the high-action environments of the Dampier Strait. Here, diving sites like Cape Kri offer classic current-fed diving where colossal schools of fish congregate, including barracuda, mackerel, and snapper. The area provides superb visibility and the chance for big pelagic sightings. The jetties at Yenbuba and Sawandarek Village also offer rewarding macro dives with resident pygmy seahorses and ornate ghost pipefish, contrasting sharply with the deep blue action of the pinnacles. A viewpoint hike is also included to ensure spectacular topside views of the archipelago.
Leaving Raja Ampat, the Jelajahi Laut crosses the deep Banda Sea, where the diving shifts towards exposed volcanic structures and historical sites. Stops at Madorang, Koon, and the active volcano Gunung Api offer high-energy wall dives with the potential for viewing mobula rays and larger pelagics in the rich currents. We also explore the historic Banda Islands, diving around Pulau Hatta, Pulau Ai, and Pulau Run, where massive hard corals thrive. Topside, a guided tour takes you through Banda Neira for a historic fort and museum tour, linking the diving to the region’s spice trade past.
The final stages focus on the diverse environments near Ambon. Exposed islands like Suanggi and Nusa Laut provide excellent clarity and wall diving. The entire expedition culminates with specialist muck diving in Ambon Bay, specifically at Laha. This site is renowned among certified divers for endemic and rare critters, including the Ambon scorpionfish, providing a final, rewarding contrast to the wide-angle reefs of Raja Ampat.
Day 15
Enjoy a final continental breakfast on board before disembarkation in Ambon, marking the conclusion of this extensive Jelajahi Laut liveaboard safari.
Raja Ampat, Lembeh & Halmahera (13 Days / 12 Nights - 33 Dives)
Trip highlights: shark action, manta rays, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, caverns, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Raja Ampat: Dampier Strait, Jef Fam Islands, Misool (Boo, Fiabacet, Daram); Pulau Pisang, Halmahera: Strait of Patinti, Goraici Islands, Tifore; Lembeh Strait. Viewpoint trek in Penemu, Jellyfish Lake.
Day 1
This unique liveaboard adventure onboard the Jelajahi Laut is designed to showcase the very best of Eastern Indonesia's underwater world. You will journey from the vibrant, fish-filled reefs of Raja Ampat, through the remote and wild Halmahera Sea, and finally to the critter-rich black sands of Lembeh Strait. This is a trip of contrasts, offering unparalleled biodiversity and unforgettable diving experiences.
Your adventure begins in Sorong Harbour in the morning. After a welcome tea or coffee, you'll be transferred to the Jelajahi Laut. Once onboard, enjoy a refreshing drink during a welcome introduction and safety briefing. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a light lunch before your first check dive at a site like Mioskon. The evening is yours to relax. Celebrate the start of your journey with sunset drinks and dinner on the main deck.
Core Days
Raja Ampat is the epicenter of marine biodiversity, and this liveaboard itinerary explores its 2 most famous regions. The journey begins in the Dampier Strait, the pulsating heart of the Coral Triangle. Here, powerful currents nourish reefs that explode with life, creating scenes of breathtaking abundance. You'll dive amidst massive schools of fish, including barracuda and jacks, while reefs sharks patrol in the blue. Iconic sites like Cape Kri and Sardine Reef offer some of the highest fish density on Earth, and Manta Sandy provides a front-row seat to graceful mantas at their cleaning station. The adventure then sails south to the ethereal beauty of Misool, a protected area of stunning limestone karsts and impossibly clear waters. Misool’s reefs are a masterpiece of colour, blanketed in some of the world's most vibrant soft corals. Drift through underwater cathedrals at Boo Windows, witness the manta ray ballet at Magic Mountain, and explore pinnacles at Fiabacet with wobbegongs and schools of sweetlips for company.
The Jelajahi Laut then enters the less-explored waters of the Halmahera Sea. This transitional phase is an adventure in itself, offering a taste of true remote liveaboard diving. The region is characterised by its wild, volcanic landscapes and nutrient-rich currents that attract a fascinating mix of pelagic action and unique macro life. Dive sites like the Strait of Patinti are known for powerful currents that bring in manta rays and schools of trevally. The remote islands of Goraici and Tifore offer pristine coral gardens and submerged pinnacles where you might encounter everything from schooling barracuda to rare critters hiding in the reef.
The grand finale of the liveaboard voyage is the legendary Lembeh Strait, the undisputed 'Muck Diving Capital of the World'. After the vibrant colours of the reefs, Lembeh presents a fascinating contrast: a dark, volcanic sand bottom that serves as the stage for the ocean's most bizarre and elusive creatures. This is the ultimate destination for macro photographers and critter enthusiasts. Here, the hunt is on for the rare, the unusual, and the masters of camouflage. Your guides will expertly point out ribbon eels, flamboyant cuttlefish, mimic octopus, hairy frogfish, blue-ringed octopus, and a staggering variety of nudibranchs. Every sandy patch holds a potential new discovery, making each dive a treasure hunt.
Day 13
Enjoy one final morning muck dive in Lembeh Strait. After breakfast and lunch onboard, Jelajahi Laut will cruise to port. Say your farewells to the liveaboard crew and fellow guests before receiving a transfer to a local hotel or Manado Airport.
Note: This itinerary sometimes runs in reverse. Please check your specific departure details.
[Information is best estimate in ideal circumstances and subject to changes beyond our control. The itinerary is a guide only and may be adapted to best suit the weather, tides, currents, availability and other prevailing events. Price is for the cruise, not for an exact number of dives].
A cruise on the Jelajahi Laut liveaboard through Indonesia is built upon the rhythm of exploration and sustenance, balancing immersive diving with the enjoyment of a comprehensive full-board meal plan. Scuba divers follow a routine that ensures every high-quality dive is properly bracketed by restorative meals.
The day starts early with a light snack or pre-breakfast served before the first dive briefing, preparing guests for the descent, usually around 7:30 am. Upon returning to the surface from this first dive, a full breakfast is served to properly fuel you for the rest of the morning's activity. The schedule continues with the second dive, followed by lunch and a substantial mid-day surface interval, perfect for relaxing on deck, sunbathing, or enjoying the scenery.
The onboard chef prides himself on preparing both international and Indonesian local cuisine, ensuring variety and ample portions throughout your stay. In the afternoon, the third dive is completed, often followed by a snack or an excursion ashore to a viewpoint or beach.
As evening approaches, sunset drinks are served, leading into the option of a night dive. Dinner marks the final main meal of the day, offering a rewarding conclusion to your diving activities. This substantial evening meal features a rotation of local and international dishes; you can expect to find comforting options such as various meat and fish-based choices, pasta dishes, soups, and rice. The selection is designed to meet the energy demands of a diving holiday, with the Jelajahi Laut chef catering to special dietary requirements if they are communicated in advance.
Water, tea, coffee, soft drinks, and electrolytes are complimentary throughout the trip. Once diving is complete for the day, beer and wine are available for purchase to round off the evening.
