Banda Sea to Raja Ampat-Best of Both Worlds November 3-13, 2026

The Banda Sea trip is one of my all-time favorite voyages. This area offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling in Indonesia. During our explorations we’ll experience the underwater beauty and stunning scenery of Ambon, Banda Sea and Raja Ampat.
The islands of the Banda Sea are off the beaten path feel, perfect to be explored by liveaboard.

The remoteness of these islands along with low human population means there has been less impact from fishing and pollution. The result is a vibrant, natural and healthy reef system.  Over 1,500 fish species and 500 coral species inhabit this magical area. 75% of all Coral species that exist in the world are located here.  The colorful reefs explode with soft and hard corals and are home to a rainbow of reef fish and marine life ranging from magnificent mandarin fish to majestic mantas.
October and November are the ideal months to enjoy clear skies and the calmest seas.

Itinerary:
November  3-13, 2026
On November 3, 2026 we’ll board the luxurious Coralia in Ambon and begin our travels through the heart of the famed “Coral Triangle”. The sheer number and diversity of marine environments makes snorkeling in the Banda Sea a snorkelers dream.
This dynamic area features brilliant soft coral gardens, dramatic walls covered in massive gorgeous gorgonian sea fans, pinnacles, an ancient lava flow with huge table coral and more!
Beyond providing some of the best snorkeling in Indonesia the volcanic Banda Islands, also know as the Spice Islands, have had a long and fascinating history. Up until the middle of the 19th century this was the only place on Earth where the spices nutmeg and mace could be found. As a result this area became a crucial hub for the spice trade.

We’ll begin our journey exploring a few of the bays around Ambon. Ambon is muck heaven. A real treasure chest of critters can be found around Ambon including frogfish, octopus, sea horses, flying gunards and a huge variety of nudibranchs.

Our journey will continue as we travel north to Nusa Laut,  The village there protects the fantastic snorkel site of Amet Reef. Eagle rays, a huge school of jacks, hammerhead sharks and even a Dugong have all been seen here. The reef is very healthy and it is common to see Bumphead parrotfish feeding in the shallows.

We’ll continue on to visit the historically significant island of Banda Neira, once the center of the Dutch/Portuguese Spice Trade dating back to the early 1600s. In Banda Neira we’ll visit an open air market, the old dutch fort, museum and a nutmeg plantation. We’ll learn about the incredible history of these remote islands.
Banda Neira is one of the few places in the world you can snorkel with Mandarin Fish. These gorgeous, psychedelic-colored fish are bigger than their cousins in Palau and they are easily seen.  We’ll snorkel at dusk and if we’re lucky, we may even see them mating.

A highlight of our voyage in November 2022, were the spectacular reefs of Run and Ai. I was agog, totally blown away by the never-ending vibrant, fishy reefs of these Banda Islands. I’m excited for you to see these remote and gorgeous reefs.

As we travel through the Banda Sea to Raja Ampat we’ll enjoy the soft corals of Misool and the super fishy Dampier straits.
The variety of marine life should be phenomenal. We’ll swim through a parade of fusiliers, surgeons, banner fish, trigger fish and squadrons of jacks and barracuda. Other area highlights may include mobula rays gliding over the reefs, wobbegong sharks weaving along the sea floor and magnificent mantas.

Our day to day itinerary will be based on real time tidal and weather conditions.
Our capable captain will position us to make sure we are in the best places at the optimum time. We have the luxury of time, when we find a spectacular site we love, we have the flexibility to stay. We can follow our hearts and the fish!

For early risers, the day might start with watching the sunrise and fresh brewed coffee. You’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast (don’t get me started about the home-made cinnamon rolls) before jumping in for your first snorkel adventure.
The afternoons will feature another exploration under the sea and perhaps a hike.
The leisurely 10 days at sea will be full of fantastic snorkeling, village visits and relaxing time on board with other like-minded adventurers.

Your Yacht:

The Coralia is 157 x 30 feet.  There is ample deck space to enjoy the view, dine, or simply relax.
The spacious sun deck and lounge areas have comfy sofas and loungers. There is an indoor air-conditioned dining room.
On clear nights we can dine al fresco, under the stars.
There is even a massage therapist on board! Free WiFi is provided depending on the local cell phone reception.

The Coralia has eight spacious cabins that offer abundant comfort and style.
The four air-conditioned Deluxe cabins are located on the lower deck and have port holes.  The deluxe cabins are furnished with either a king bed plus a single or two twin beds.

The four Master cabins on the main and upper deck feature king size beds, a sofa and closet. A door opens to your private balcony with a sun chair and outside sofa.
All cabins have spacious en-suite bathrooms have warm freshwater showers, fluffy towels and hairdryer.  A safety box, regular and USB charging stations are provided.

November 13, 2026 Disembarkation in Sorong.  You may fly onward any time of day.

Trip Cost:
$6975 per person based on double occupancy in a deluxe cabin with king bed or two twin beds
$7750 per person based on double occupancy in a master cabin with king bed and private balcony
This departure is sold out. Accepting waitlists.  Contact Wendy@snorkelingetc.com

 What to expect:
This is a snorkel-intensive program. You should be a proficient swimmer/snorkeler able to snorkel unassisted. A typical day features 3-5 hours of snorkel time.
Be prepared for steep stairs on the live-aboard and ladders on and off the dinghy/zodiac.
Snorkel sessions are guided by the helpful and experienced crew provided by the Coralia.
Evenings are free to enjoy the sunset, a leisurely dinner and the company of your fellow passengers.

Trip costs include:
♦ Transfers to/from the Coralia from Ambon/Sorong airports.
♦ 10 nights accommodation on the Coralia.
♦ $345 for Port fees, fuel surcharge, and marine park fees 
♦ All meals, snacks, soft drinks, coffee, tea and drinking water.
♦ All water-based and land-based activities while on board.

Trip costs exclude:
♦ International and domestic airfares.  
♦ Airport taxes for domestic flights and departure fees, payable at the airport.
♦ Hotels before or after the cruise.
♦ Alcoholic beverages.
♦ Massages on board.
♦ Laundry.
♦ Trip cancellation and medical insurance (essential).

TRIP LEADERS:
This expedition will be led by one or more of the follow trip leaders

Wendy Simon, CEO/Founder of Snorkeling Etc and Robert Irwin, Master cribbage player of the universe 

Carol May and Chris Wilkinson:

 

 

 

Carol and Chris are recently retired science teachers. Their background in marine biology gives them a deep understanding and appreciation of the marine environment. They are certified marine mammal naturalists and have 20 years guiding and organizing multi-day outdoor expeditions. They are passionate about snorkeling and adventure travel.
Chris and Carol are skilled photographers. Carol’s underwater photography has been recognized in several publications, including the journal of Wildlife photography. Chris is a devoted GoPro user with a special focus on pelagics.

I hope you will be able to join me in this exceptional journey!
For further information and an application please contact Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com

 

 

 

 

 

In the spirit of adventure,
Wendy Simon/CEO
Snorkeling Etc Inc.
Santa Cruz, CA.
831 254-5001