Banda Sea to Raja Ampat-Best of Both Worlds November 8-19, 2027

The Banda Sea trip offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling in Indonesia. During your explorations you’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  8-19, 2027
On November 8, 2027 you’ll board the luxurious Coralia Dua in Ambon and begin your 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.

The journey begins with a few days exploring 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.

The journey continues as you travel north to Nusa Laut,  The local village protects their reefs.  One of the special sites is Amet Reef.  Here you may see eagle rays, huge school of jacks, hammerhead sharks and even a Dugong.
It’s common to see Bumphead parrotfish feeding in the shallows.

You’ll continue on to 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 you’ll have time to visit an open air market, a Dutch fort, museum and a nutmeg plantation.  It’s fascinating to learn about the 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 more easily seen.  If you are lucky you may even see them mating.

One of the highlights of past voyages were the spectacular reefs of Run and Ai.  These remote reefs are vibrant, super fishy and stretch as far as the eye can see.

As you travel through the Banda Sea to Raja Ampat you’ll love the soft corals of Misool and the dynamic marine life in the  Dampier straits. Enjoy swims 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.

The day to day itinerary will be based on real time tidal and weather conditions.
The capable captain will position the Coralia to make sure you are in the best places at the optimum time.
You have the luxury of time, when there is a spectacular site, you’ll have the flexibility to stay longer.
You can follow your 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 (wait till you try 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 11 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 Dua is the brand new sister ship to the Coralia. Updated photos will be added in the near future.
This gorgeous vessel 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 Dua 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 18-19, 2027
The Coralia Dua returns to Sorong the evening of November 18th.
The morning of the 19th you will disembark the Coralia and be transferred to your flight or hotel in Sorong.
You are available to fly out any time of day.

TRIP COST:
$8275 per person based on double occupancy in a deluxe cabin with king bed or two twin beds
$9150 per person based on double occupancy in a master cabin with king bed and private balcony

 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 Dua from Ambon/Sorong airports
♦ 11 nights accommodation on the Coralia Dua
♦ $410 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  
♦ Port, park and fuel fees that exceed $410
♦ Hotels before or after the cruise
♦ Alcoholic beverages
♦ Massages on board
♦ Gratuities
♦ Laundry
♦ Trip cancellation and medical insurance (essential)

TRIP LEADERS: Carol May and Chris Wilkinson:

Carol and Chris are retired science teachers and true thalassophiles. Their background 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.

Chris and Carol look forward to welcoming you on board!
For further information and an application please contact Carol.May@icloud.com