Banda Sea

Healthy abundant coral reef home to innumerable species; from macro critters and big pelagic alike, combined with unforgettable cultural experience.

Destination Highlights

There is a chance you have heard about the Banda Sea as a hot spot for encountering schools of hammerhead sharks! But the Banda Sea offers so much more, both above and underwater.

Diving in the Banda Sea is a journey into one of the last untouched frontiers of the underwater world. This destination pushes the boundaries of exploration for even the most experienced divers. Located in a remote part of the Indonesian archipelago, the Banda Sea is both geographically and biologically unique. Imagine what you may encounter in this vast body of water, a part of the Coral Triangle, a region celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity. The sea's isolation has allowed its ecosystems to thrive with minimal human impact. With waters here being more than 7,000 meters deep, there is a potential to encounter almost anything on your bucket list!

Even if you are not a diver, the Banda Sea is a fascinating destination. It is so rich in history and played a big part in the spice trade that began in the 16th century. The nutmeg growing on the island was so valuable to the European market that the Dutch even agreed to trade ten Banda Islands with New Amsterdam, now known as Manhattan Island, New York!

Quick Access

Why Dive Banda Sea

It's difficult to single out one highlight when diving in the Banda Seas; the entire experience is filled with remarkable encounters.. Banda Sea dive sites are so rich with colorful reefs, pinnacles, walls, and volcanoes hot springs! With so many to explore, divers will appreciate the sheer variety of dive sites, and it will even make a couple of weeks' cruise just fly by.

The Banda Sea is home to a fascinating mix of marine species, some of which are found nowhere else. Gunung Api which also known as Manuk and Snake Volcano provides a unique chance to dive (and interact!!) with hundreds of Olive Seasnakes. Despite being venomous, they are no threat to divers as these creatures are non aggresive. But they do take some interest on divers and often come check us out.

There are a few currents in the Banda Sea. However, these currents are also responsible for the sea's rich marine life, bringing nutrients that support the abundant coral and fish populations—massive schools of Barracudas, Trevallies, Jacks, Butterflyfish, and, of course, the famous hammerhead Sharks.

The deep waters attract rarer sights, such as orcas and different kinds of whales during their migratory seasons, even with the world's biggest animal, the blue whale!

In summary, diving in the Banda Sea is a rare opportunity to experience a world as wild as it is beautiful, offering a perfect blend of adventure, discovery and profound natural beauty that will captivate even the most experienced diver.

diving highlights

What to expect:

Tons of beautiful corals, sponges, and tunicates, home to countless of fish.
Massive fish soup of Red and Black Snappers, Barracudas, Jackfish and Pompanos on several dive sites.
Eagle Rays, Bumphead Parrotfish, Napoleons and Honeycomb Morays
Banded sea snakes at Gunung Api a.k.a Snake Volcano

Special Encounters

Hammerhead sharks, mola-mola, pod of pilot, omura whale and whales blue whale.
Snorkeling with Dugong can also be arranged with land based resort as well as some liveaboards.

Type Of Diving

Reefs, seamounts, walls, and volcanos.

Diver Level

All levels of divers are welcome, but please note that some dive sites could have strong currents. We always recommend checking with your dive guide during the dive briefing.

Water Temperature

The water temperature in the Banda Sea typically ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) year-round, making it comfortable for diving with a 3mm wetsuit or even a shorty.

Visibility

The visibility in the Banda Sea is often excellent, ranging from 20 to over 50 meters (65 to 165 feet). The best visibility is typically found during the dry season (September to November and March to May).

Things to do in Banda Sea

A land tour of Banda Island, Indonesia offers a fascinating journey through history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the island’s rich heritage by visiting nutmeg plantations, a nod to its past as a major hub in the global spice trade. A walk through the town reveals well-preserved Colonial-era architecture, showcasing the island's Dutch influence. Highlights include Fort Belgica, an impressive 17th-century fortress offering stunning panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. The island's serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and warm local culture make it an unforgettable destination for those interested in both history and nature.

Best Time to Visit Banda Sea

The best time to dive in the Banda Sea is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is generally calm, and the water conditions are ideal for diving.

How to get to Banda Sea

Given the vast expanse of the Banda Sea, the best way to explore its depths is by liveaboard. Some liveaboard trips begin in Maumere or Alor on the island of Flores, while others start or end in Saumlaki, located in the Forgotten Islands region. Additionally, some liveaboards use Ambon as their embarkation or disembarkation point, offering a special treat for macro diving enthusiasts. To fully experience the best of the Banda Sea, it is recommended to embark on a 10 to 12-day cruise, allowing ample time to explore its diverse dive sites.

Given the remoteness of this area, we recommend arriving at least one day before your cruise departure to allow for any potential flight or baggage delays. Even if everything runs smoothly, it’s helpful to have some extra time to adjust to the time zone, especially after a long international flight.

Our experienced team is happy to assist you in coordinating your domestic flight schedule to align seamlessly with your liveaboard departure.

Choose your liveaboards.

Liveaboards are the best way to explore this vast and remote region, allowing divers to access sites that are otherwise inaccessible.

Tips for Exploring Banda Sea Responsibly

When planning a trip to Banda Sea, it's important to consider how you can explore this beautiful destination responsibly. One crucial aspect of responsible travel is choosing the right place to stay. Here are four tips for finding the best accommodations in Alor:

Look for eco-friendly options: There are many eco-resorts and lodges in Alor that prioritize sustainability and conservation. These properties often use renewable energy sources, minimize waste, and support local communities.
Choose locally-owned accommodations: By staying at locally-owned properties, you can support the local economy and get a more authentic experience of Alor.
Consider homestays: Homestays are a great way to experience local culture and support local families. Many homestays in Alor offer basic accommodations, but they provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local community. By following these tips, you can ensure that your trip to Alor is not only enjoyable but also responsible and sustainable.