Banda Sea Cruise Expedition with Blue Whales, the Lucipara Islands and the Spice Islands

BOOKING: Select the number of diving / non-diving guests, plus the number of fuel surcharges and harbour fees that apply. 

Join me and a small group of snorkelers and divers for another epic Banda Sea Cruise Expedition on board the luxurious Pindito. This will be the fourth time I've led trips to this region in search of Blue Whales. Winds are traditionally low during this, the doldrum season. Also, it's at the peak of Blue Whale activity, before they begin their migration south to Australia.

On this trip we also have the very special opportunity to visit the Lucipara Islands. Described as the 'mini-Maldives', the Lucipara Islands are six islands with fringing atolls that rise up hundreds of metres below the Banda Sea deep. Surrounded by steep drop-offs, the islands are famed for spectacular snorkelling and diving. There is also the chance to see turtles nesting.

Afterwards we will visit the 'forgotten' Spice Islands to learn about the colonial history we share with them and explore some spectacular snorkel-dive locations nearby, before heading to Koon Island ... and the infamous 'Shitty Place'. This location was named after the exclamations of German divers who first visited with Pindito in the early 1990s. It's a terrifically beautiful spot to swim.

Then we'll head back west along the southern coast of Seram, admiring the 3,200m high mountains on one side, while sailing past the 7,700m Weber Deep. The land here rises higher than Everest. Along the way we'll search for strange cetaceans like Cuvier's Beaked Whales, Rough-toothed and Risso's Dolphins

Pricing: Please note, the AUD price is based on a USD price of $6,490 pp excluding diving and a currency exchange rate of about 0.63 USD to 1.00 AUD. Invoices will be made out in USD so prices may vary due to currency fluctuations.  

No fixed itinerary

Pindito never has a set itinerary. We plan our trips and water activities based on weather, tides, currents and what you want to do. Maybe you'd like to visit a village or go paddle-boarding? We have four zodiacs, more than enough for our maximum 16 guests to do what they want to. We even spend some evenings with a cocktail on a remote beach or exploring the stunning scenery, caves and bays.  In our opinion, there is no better or more sustainable way, to explore this amazing region.   

Simon Mustoe

As well as being founder of Wildiaries, Simon is also the author of 'Guide to Whales and Dolphins of Australia' and has spent the last 20 years studying marine mammals all over the world. Several years ago Simon Mustoe created Wildiaries with the sole purpose of “connecting people to nature”. Simon has spent a lifetime traveling and observing nature, running expeditions and working as a wildlife expert for large companies. Simon says “the emotional bond to home is a feeling we can all understand. When we travel we seek the company of those who care most about the place they live, nature’s power to inspire comes through strongly”.  

• Transfers from/to airport or hotel to/from the MV Pindito. 
• Accommodation in a double or twin bed cabin with en-suite shower bath, toilet and individual AC.
• Full board including all drinks on board (excluding wine). 
• Expert guides.
• Daily 2-3 snorkel / dives*
• *NITROX fillings are included for divers. Gear can be hired on board (please enquire). 
• All offered land excursions. 

• Harbour fees (80 USD)
• Fuel Surcharge* (approx. 200 USD)
• Souvenirs onboard
• Crew gratuities (we recommend per guest/day EUR 15.00 / USD 20.00).
• Domestic airport-taxes and departure taxes
• Trip insurance.
• Dive insurance (divers only).
• National marine park and other local customary fees. 
• Domestic flights.
• Any pre and post-trip accommodation.
• Any other personal costs, laundry or items of a personal nature.
• Anything else not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
• Visa costs or COVID tests. 
• Airport taxes for domestic flights and departure fees (if applicable, payable at the airport).

*this was introduced as an option in 2022 due to global fuel supply chain problems. Fuel surcharge varies depending on distance covered and this is our best estimate.