Description
Boat
Samambaia is a traditional two mast wooden Phinisi schooner, built in November 2015, equipped with all the features of a modern diving boat. Measuring 40m long and 9m wide, it is powered with an engine Yanmar Marine Turbo 500Hp that can reach 10 knots cruise speed, making sure a swift journey.
It travels in the top world's rated dive sites of Indonesia with absolute comfort, safety and autonomy, regardless the remoteness of the dive points.
On the upper deck, you will enjoy a spacious and partially shaded sun deck with sun beds to relax facing the sea.
The air-conditioned indoor restaurant/lounge is located on the main deck and provides plenty of space for everyone to enjoy delicious treats. The chef will prepare an international cuisine, focusing on local specialties. Seafood is bought from sustainable sources only. You will also find there a very comfortable couch to rest before your next dive.
Outside of the indoor lounge, there is a large table that regularly is set for "al fresco" dinning under the stars.
Samambaia's dive deck is clean and organized, and fully equipped with personal storage for your dive gear and with two large rinse tanks with two compartments each: one for your masks, the bigger one for sensitive gear like cameras and computers. Dives will be provided from two 6.5m fiberglass speedboats.
Service on board always comes first, right after safety. The crew will satisfy all your needs and make your cruise a special and unforgettable memory.
Cabin
Samambaia has 7 comfortable cabins that can welcome up to 14 guests.
All cabins offer individual air conditioning, a rain shower head paired with a hand shower, western standard non-marine toilet with integrated bidet and a washbasin carved out of fossil wood.
1 Master Cabin:
Located on the main deck, it offers with its large windows a breath taking 180° view.
4 double Cabins:
Located on the lower deck, equipped with one super king sized bed and portholes.
2 Twin Cabins:
Located on the lower deck, comes with two single beds, portholes.
Diving
- 3 dives per day + alternating additional night dives.
- No dive on the embarkation and disembarkation day.
- 2 dives will be provided on the day before departure.
- All diving will provide experienced guide to lead the dive.
- Divers must have a min. 50 logged dives to join trips.
- Sea Kayaks are available for guests to use during the cruise.
Other Information
- Nitrox：Available free of charge for nitrox divers
- 15L Tanks：Limited available with additional cost
- REBREATHER Dive：Not available at the moment
- Technical Dive：Not available at the moment
- Dive Equipment Rental：Available with additional charge
- Dive insurance：Divers must have valid dive insurance
- Wi-Fi Internet ：Available free of charge (when have singal)
- Laundry Service：Available with additional charge
- Massage Service：Available with additional charge
- Payment on board：Cash(USD/EUR/IDR) or credit card
- Crew Number：18, include 2 dive guides
Itineraries
Raja Ampat
Divers generally enter this region via the airport at Sorong on the Indonesian province of West Papua. The first dive sites will often be around the island of Wai, only a two-hour boat run from Sorong, the quality of dives range from good to wonderful. Some dives are planned for slack tide, while occasionally the current can be challenging. Fortunately, the stronger currents also generally made for better visibility, blooming corals and greater fish activity. Best time to dive Raja Ampat is from October to April. Topside conditions at this time of year proved to be excellent. You could enjoy cruising in virtually flat calm seas, with only some rain showers punctuating warm, sunny days.
Komodo
The Komodo archipelago is a dramatic hilly landscape of wild savannah and some patches of forest; blue lagoons; and white, pink and red sandy beaches that host some of the most spectacular underwater scenery in the world. Komodo has a reputation for being a diving area for experienced divers. This is true, especially if you want to visit on Komodo by liveaboard.
Komodo has many dive sites with strong and sometimes unpredictable currents. Water temperatures change often and are sometimes far below the usual 28°C you will find in other parts of the Indonesian archipelago. In the southern area of Komodo National Park water temperatures may be as low as 21°C.
We advise a 5-mm wetsuit before diving Komodo to avoid any cold dives! The Southern waters generally provide better visibility from December through April. Lower visibility occurs in the South during the dry season when oceanic up-welling and plankton blooms, attracts a wealth of marine life to Komodo, especially invertebrates. Highest temperatures in the south are during the rainy season. Komodo's Northern waters generally provide better visibility year round. Fish is abundant everywhere but the rocks and reefs in areas of stronger current provide the best chances of spotting the bigger fish, especially sharks and other pelagic species.
Banda Sea
This journey cruises through a wide range of geological landscapes and formations of Indonesia, from volcanic islands to limestone pinnacles developed from ancient coral reefs. As we cruise along the natural migratory paths and playgrounds of marine mammals such as whales and dolphins, this trip is guaranteed to provide amazing diversity and beauty both above and below the water.
Alor Area
Being remote and untouched the 18 islands of the Alor and Solor group are considered one of the best diving destinations in Asia. Tourism has not developed yet and only few divers have explored these waters. One of the very last traditional whale hunter communities on the planet still lives in this magical archipelago. The islands are from volcanic origin, which make for stunning scenery. The waters around the islands are known for their strong currents, particularly in the relatively narrow strait between Pantar and Alor and also between Lembata and Pantar. With each tide, large water masses are pushed through the straits causing strong upwellings. The straits in the area play an important role in the exchange of marine life between the Indian and Pacific Ocean.
Each year whales and dolphins travel from the Pacific and Indian Ocean through the deep but narrow Nusa Tenggara island chain. The four island passages between Flores and Alor seem to be some of the richest in large marine life of all of Nusa Tenggara, and are especially abundant in whales and dolphins. The area is renowned for its large marine mammal migration and the whale watching in particular is breathtaking. During the season, while cruising through the area, you can spot whales surfacing by their water spout. Because of this, coastal communities living along eastern Indonesia's marine migratory routes, especially in the villages of Lamalera and Lamakera have been hunting whales for centuries. In every cruise is also possible to visit the traditional whale-hunters villages.
Alor is teeming with numerous dive sites that offer even the most seasoned of muck divers an experience they will never forget. So dust off those cameras and prepare to meet some weird creatures that in any other context could come from another planet: pegasus sea moths to mimic octopus; devil fish to ornate sea horses. Coral reefs are mostly found along the northern coast of the Solor and Alor island group with some coral reefs lining the channels in between major islands. The southern coastline of the islands, particularly on the island of Lembata, is lined with rocks and just little coral. The reefs also include rocky bottoms along the northwest tip of Alor starting in the strait between Alor and Pantar.
More
| Destinations | Alor, Raja Ampat, Komodo, Banda Sea |
|---|---|
| Facilities | Nitrox support, Sidemount Friendly, Watersport equipment, Camera Station, Fishing gear, Massage or Spa, Wi-Fi, Laundry |
| Languages spoken | English, French, German, Italian |
Schedules & routes
Prices & conditions
Included
- Transfers from airport and/or hotel to the yacht
- VAT and local taxes
- Full-board meal plan (including snacks)
- Complimentary beverages (water, tea, coffee)
- Alcoholic beverage
- Soft drinks
- Diving activity (incl. tanks, weights, weight belts)
- Dive guide service
- Nitrox fills
- Use of Kayaks or/and SUPs
- Land excursions and activities throughout the trip
- Boat accident insurance
- Cabin towels and complimentary toiletries
- Cabin cleaning service
- Wi-Fi
Not included
- Domestic flights in destination country
- Marine park fees & Port fees
- Fuel surcharge
- Dive equipment rentals
- Larger tank (15 L)
- Dive courses on board
- Massage/Spa service
- Dive insurance (mandatory requirement)
- Travel insurance (trip cancellation insurance)
- Crew gratuity
Useful information
Alor
Best time for diving
April to November, as this is when both visibility and weather are at their best, while September is the best time to spot Mola Mola. The currents usually are strongest in October and November, making conditions more challenging. From late December until early March, Alor is usually considered as off-season due to the rainy season.
About temperatures
Air : winter months are between 26°C - 29°C, summer months are between 27°C - 32°C.
Sea : between 25°C - 27°C from March to April & October to November, between 27°C - 30°C from May to September. Thermoclines are common year round, the water can drop at times to 22°C or lower.
Wetsuit Recommendation
We recommend a 5 mm full wetsuit. If you get cold easily, we recommend also bring gloves and a hood, or even a 7 mm full wetsuit.
Diver requirement
Suitable for all levels of diver from beginners to experienced. However, in the open blue, the current can be strong at times, so divers should to be comfortable with their skills. While the muck dive sites only have little current. You can find out more informations about diving in Alor here : Alor
Embarkation / Disembarkation
Alor liveaboard trips are usually from Maumere to Maumere, guests need to fly to Maumere airport (MOF).
However, some liveaboards often combine Alor with other destinations like Komodo, Banda Sea, Raja Ampat. Then you might only need to arrive or depart from Maumere.
Visa Requirements
Indonesia offers a free visa on arrival service for many nationalities which allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days. A list of countries that are eligible for visa on arrival can be found on the Indonesian Government's Directorate General of Immigration.
Please note: Immigration officials in Indonesia may ask for proof of onward travel (e.g. a return or onward air ticket).
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over the age of 9 months arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Money Matters
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), all liveaboards accept cash payments in USD.
Rupiah can be purchased from all major banks and exchange outlets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in major hotels, restaurants & shops.
Drones
There are very few restrictions on the use of drones for photography purposes within Indonesia. Please check Drone laws in Indonesia for details.
Extending your holiday
We offer a range of hotels/resorts, land-based diving packages, and excursions that can be arranged before or after your liveaboard holiday. Just ask us if you need such service.
Raja Ampat
Best time for diving
Mid October to April, the wind then picks up in May until the end of August, causing rougher seas and this means Misool area in the south will be shut from June to September. From July until September the diving in the north still can be enjoyable. The visibility can vary from 10 - 30 meters, current can be from mild to strong at times.
About temperatures
Air : fairly constant between 25°C - 31°C year-round.
Sea : it is warm all year round, about 27°C - 31°C
Wetsuit Recommendation
We recommend a 3 mm full wetsuit throughout the year.
Diver requirement
Intermediate to Advanced level. You can find out more informations about diving in Raja Ampat here : Raja Ampat
Embarkation / Disembarkation
Most of the embarkation / disembarkation will be in Sorong (SOQ).
Few liveaboards also departs from Waisai (RJM).
The easiest to fly through to & from Sorong (SOQ) via Jakarta (CGK), Makassar (UPG), Bali (DPS), or Manado (MDC).
Visa Requirements
Indonesia offers a free visa on arrival service for many nationalities which allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days. A list of countries that are eligible for visa on arrival can be found on the Indonesian Government's Directorate General of Immigration.
Please note: Immigration officials in Indonesia may ask for proof of onward travel (e.g. a return or onward air ticket).
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over the age of 9 months arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Money Matters
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), all liveaboards accept cash payments in USD.
Rupiah can be purchased from all major banks and exchange outlets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in major hotels, restaurants & shops.
Drones
There are very few restrictions on the use of drones for photography purposes within Indonesia. Please check Drone laws in Indonesia for details.
Extending your holiday
We offer a range of hotels/resorts, land-based diving packages, and excursions that can be arranged before or after your liveaboard holiday. Just ask us if you need such service.
Komodo
Best time for diving
May to October, the weather in Komodo is at its best between April and November. During the wet season (December to March) the weather can get a bit windy, with heavy quick rains, sometimes can cause rough surface conditions. However, liveaboards run trips here year-round.
The visibility in the North is excellent at 30 meters or even more, while it ranges between 10-15 meters in the South.
Some dive sites can have significant currents, whirlpools and see downdrafts. Sea conditions might change very quickly. Other dive sites are more quiet and rich in macro, especially in the South.
About temperatures
Air : range between 23°C - 32°C year-round.
Sea : in the North Komodo it can be around 26°C -27°C, while it gets colder towards the south where it can drop down to 22 ° C.
Wetsuit Recommendation
We recommend a 5 mm full wetsuit throughout the year for Komodo area.
Diver requirement
Intermediate to Advanced level, A good level in diving and some experience in drift diving are recommended to participate to Komodo cruise.
You can find out more informations about diving in Komodo here : Komodo
Embarkation / Disembarkation
Most of the embarkation / disembarkation will be in Labuan Bajo (LBJ).
Unless the trip is from Bali - Komodo, then the embarkation can be in Bali (DPS).
Visa Requirements
Indonesia offers a free visa on arrival service for many nationalities which allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days. A list of countries that are eligible for visa on arrival can be found on the Indonesian Government's Directorate General of Immigration.
Please note: Immigration officials in Indonesia may ask for proof of onward travel (e.g. a return or onward air ticket).
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over the age of 9 months arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Money Matters
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), all liveaboards accept cash payments in USD.
Rupiah can be purchased from all major banks and exchange outlets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in major hotels, restaurants & shops.
Drones
There are very few restrictions on the use of drones for photography purposes within Indonesia. Please check Drone laws in Indonesia for details.
Extending your holiday
We offer a range of hotels/resorts, land-based diving packages, and excursions that can be arranged before or after your liveaboard holiday. Just ask us if you need such service.
Banda Sea
Best time for diving
October to November & March to April, the seas are generally calmer during these months and in October to November there is higher chance to see hammerhead sharks. From May to August the surface conditions can get quite rough.
The visibility is generally good to excellent in Banda Sea areas, except in Ambon bay and in other bays for critter dives. Currents are low to moderate on most of the sites, however, strong currents may occur at times.
About temperatures
Air : range between 25°C - 31°C year-round.
Sea : range between 26°C - 29°C year-round.
Wetsuit Recommendation
We recommend a 3 - 5 mm full wetsuit throughout the year.
Diver requirement
Most dive sites are suitable for all levels with a few exceptions that are suitable only for advanced divers. You can find out more informations about diving in Banda Sea here : Banda Sea
Embarkation / Disembarkation
The embarkation / disembarkation can be in Ambon (AMQ), Kaimana (KNG), Maumere (MOF), Sorong (SOQ), Waisai (RJM), Saumalaki (SXK) etc. As some of the Banda Sea trip will combine with other destinations like Raja Ampat, Halmahera, Triton Bay. So please ask our agent to know the exact port for your trip.
Visa Requirements
Indonesia offers a free visa on arrival service for many nationalities which allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days. A list of countries that are eligible for visa on arrival can be found on the Indonesian Government's Directorate General of Immigration.
Please note: Immigration officials in Indonesia may ask for proof of onward travel (e.g. a return or onward air ticket).
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over the age of 9 months arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Money Matters
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), all liveaboards accept cash payments in USD.
Rupiah can be purchased from all major banks and exchange outlets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in major hotels, restaurants & shops.
Drones
There are very few restrictions on the use of drones for photography purposes within Indonesia. Please check Drone laws in Indonesia for details.
Extending your holiday
We offer a range of hotels/resorts, land-based diving packages, and excursions that can be arranged before or after your liveaboard holiday. Just ask us if you need such service.
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