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ConnectOcean Expeditions - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia
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This is a ConnectOcean Citizen Science and Community Outreach Expedition from 13-25 September 2016 to some of the remotest places in the Indonesian archipelago. Unforgettable 12 days / 11 nights onboard MV Blue Manta from Maumere in Flores to Saumlaki in the Tanimbar Islands. The expedition is lead by master educator and PADI Course Director Ernst Van Der Poll, and award-winning photographer and co-author of “The Coral Triangle” Eric Madeja.
  • citizen science expeditions indonesia
  • only 10 percenet single cabin surcharge liveaboard
  • package inclusive 1 night bali resort stay
  • liveaboard package inclusive domestic fights
  • liveaboard package inclusive excess baggage
  • liveaboard indonesia with 24 hour wifi
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Forgotten Island Expedition Brochure download
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  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard
  • Citizen Science Expedition forgotten islands indonesia liveaboard

Summary - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

  • 2 ConnectOcean Expedition Leaders for the whole length of the trip
  • Airport pick-up and transfers in Bali
  • 1 night at a 4-star resort in Bali
  • Traditional Indonesian Welcome Dinner in Bali
  • Domestic flight from Bali to Maumere
  • Domestic return flights from Saumlaki to Jakarta or Bali via Ambon
  • Excess baggage fees up to a total baggage (allowance + excess) weight of 35kg on all domestic flights
  • 12 days / 11 nights on board MV Blue Manta
  • Marine park and harbour fees
  • Tanks/air fillings, weight belt, 6 dive guides
  • Up to 34 guided dives
  • Voluntary participation on Citizen Science modules
  • Participation and sponsorship of the Community Outreach initiatives
  • All meals (Western & Indonesian) snacks, hot beverages, coffee, tea, soft drinks on MV Blue Manta
  • Towel, toiletries, cabin services on MV Blue Manta
  • Laundry services on MV Blue Manta
  • 24 hour WiFi Internet on MV Blue Manta
  • 1 hour complimentary Massage on MV Blue Manta
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Dive Info & Map

Dive Info & Map - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

Scuba Tanks

Aluminum scuba tanks are available with Yoke and DIN fittings and hold 12 liters. Larger tanks are available for a surcharge of USD 12 per day.

Dive Tenders

Blue Manta has 3 support RIBs, all of which are deployed constantly during your dives, so you can be assured of surface cover and safety support during your dive, even in the most adventurous of currents.

Dive Computers

As a safety precaution Dive Computers are mandatory for each
individual diver. Rental units are available for USD 12 per day.

Rental Equipment

Complete rental equipment is available. Please check the RATES TAB for pricing. Sizes from XS to XXXL available but limited in number. Please book all rental equipment in advance to avoid disappointment.

Nitrox

Enriched Air Nitrox Fills are available on board to enhance diver safety. The blending system on board is partial pressure, therefore a dedicated cylinder is required.
Nitrox is charged at USD 10 per day.

Diving Insurance

Diving insurance is strongly recommended in the event of a diving accident that requires hospitalization or hyperbaric chamber care.

Flying after diving

For their own safety we insist that divers follow the non-flying after diving time shown on their dive computers or stick to the 24 hour surface interval before flying recommendation.

Diver Certifications

At the start of the cruise guests are required to sign a liability release form and provide evidence of their certification. Usually in the form of a certification card and logbook – if unavailable, and they have PADI certification – please verify by PADI Dive Chek on-line.

Dive Times

Total dive time is usually 60 minutes including a mandatory safety stop. Longer divers can be accommodated if it doesnt interfere with the operation or travel itinerary and after being approved by the cruise director and expedition leader.

Dive Deck

Blue Manta has personalised rinse
tanks and wide outdoor work table for underwater digital cameras. Warm towels and fruits are available after every dive.

Water Temperatures

Water temperature ranges from 22C-29C (71F-84F). If you plan long dives we strongly recommend a 5mm or 7mm long semi dry wetsuit. We also recommend hood & rash vests. Book rental wetsuits in advance, all equipment is subject to availability.

Itinerary

Itinerary - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

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13 SEPTEMBER 2016 - BALI

Arrival of expedition members Ngurah Rai (Bali) International (DPS) Airport, Indonesia. Our expedition leaders will meet you at the airport and transfer you to a comfortable hotel at Sanur Beach.

The ConnectOcean “Forgotten Islands” Expedition begins with a traditional Indonesian welcome dinner during which our group leader will brief you on the travel and diving itinerary for the coming days.
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14 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TRANSFER TO MAUMERE AND EMBARKATION ON MV BLUE MANTA

After breakfast we transfer to the airport and depart with LionAir towards Maumere in Flores.

Important: LionAir provides only 15kg free luggage allowance for checked-in bags and 7kg (1pcs) for cabin luggage. For you to have piece of mind, ConnectOcean will cover your excess luggage on this flight up to 20kg over your allowance (total 35kg).

Flight schedule (suspect to change):
Airline: Wings / LionAir
Flight No.: IW1820
Departure Airport: Ngurah Rai (Bali) International (DPS)
Departure Time: 12:45 (Timezone GMT+8)
Arrival Airport: Maumere Wai Oti Airport (MOF)
Arrival Time: 14:45 (Timezone GMT+8)

Upon arrival at Maumere we will transfer to the harbour for embarkation on MY Blue Manta, our expedition vessel for the upcoming 12 days.

Check-Dive at Maumere Bay if time allows.
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15 SEPTEMBER 2016 - KOMBA VOLCANO - TANJUNG BAJATAN - TELOK LEWALING

We will visit Komba Island, also called Batu Tara, an active volcano far out in the Banda Sea. On average every 20 minutes you will be able to safely observe life eruptions manifested by spouts of volcanic ash and loud thunder-like booms from our expedition vessel. This is a nature spectacle that you won’t forget your whole life.

Off course we will also dive the reefs surrounding the volcano (2 dives). The dive sites feature a mix of walls and slopes with sandy patches. You will find a great variety of reef fish and the occasional pelagic passing in the blue. Whales and dolphins have been spotted here too.

For the 3rd dive of the day we relocate to Tanjung Bajatan on Kawula Island, where we can expect schooling fish and pelagics. The night dive we will spend looking for critters on a sandy flat with coral boomies in the calm waters of Telok Lewaling.
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16 SEPTEMBER 2016 - LEMBATA ISLAND

We will spend the day diving various sites around Lembata Island (2-4 dives) and conduct our first ConnectOcean Outreach experience visiting the traditional whale hunters of Lamalera Village and getting to know their culture.
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17 SEPTEMBER 2016 - ALOR ARCHIPELAGO

The Alor Archipelago consists of of the islands Alor, Pantar, Kepa, Buaya, Ternate, Pura and Tereweng. The relatively narrow passage between Alor and Pantar Island connects the Banda Sea, which is considered part of the Western Pacific Ocean, and the Savu Sea, part of the Indian Ocean.

The two oceans have different surface topography, water temperature and salinity, resulting in the Alor Archipelago being exposed to extreme currents multiple times a day as the tides rise and sink. This extra ordinary event is called the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) and is one of the reasons for the amazing marine biodiversity to be found here.

Diving at the Alor Archipelago will be a mix of drift dives along colourful walls thriving with reef fish and critter diving in calm bays (3-4 dives).
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18 SEPTEMBER 2016 - WETAR & REONG ISLANDS

Wetar and its nearby islands are known for the natives to worship crocodiles and sharks. Many families claim to be descendants from crocodiles, sharks, turtles and therefore are forbidden to eat the flesh of these animals.

We will spend the day diving looking for sharks, rays and big schools of fish such as Barracudas, Jacks, Snappers and Surgeonfish (3-4 dives).
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19 SEPTEMBER 2016 - GUNUNG API

Gunung Api is a small inactive volcano emerging from 8000 meters deep water (no kidding!) in the middle of the Banda Sea. The island is unique throughout the world due to its incredibly large population of sea snakes. Nobody really knows what attracts all these serpents to this island, but you will experience a dive like never before when dozens of them follow you throughout the dive like pets. As part of our Citizen Science activities you can be part of the first ever seasnake population estimate conducted on this site.

Apart from snakes we have a chance to encounter pelagic sharks and rays in addition to the omnipresent schooling fish (3 dives).
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20 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DAMAR, NUSLEUR AND TERBANG ISLANDS

The Nusleur and Terbang Islands will offer you stunning white sandy beaches and deep walls with a myriad of marinelife. We will spend the whole day diving these untouched walls and exploring the inner lagoons of the reef.

In the afternoon we will move to a calm bay at Damar Island for a night dive (3-4 dives)
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21 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DUSBORGH AND NIL DESPERANDUM REEF

Two submerged atolls emerging from very deep water. The steep walls of these reefs are overgrown with massive sponges and seafans teeming with colourful fish life. This is pelagic territory, including the chance to spot schooling Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks, so keep an eye out into the blue (3-4 dives)
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22 SEPTEMBER 2016 - SERUA ISLAND

Another forgotten island in the middle of the Banda Sea. The reefs of this remote place are literally overloaded with schooling fish and another good place to spot large tunas, rays and sharks (3-4 dives)

Serua is a dormant volcano that last erupted in 1921. Today the island is inhabited by a small number of villagers.

You will have the chance to meet and interact with the villages whose only contact to the outside world is a VHF marine radio. As part of the ConnectOcean Outreach activities we deliver urgently needed goods to the villagers and engage them in marine conservation awareness programs and activities.
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23 SEPTEMBER 2016 - SERUA ISLAND

We will spend a second day in Serua Island to complete our Community Outreach activities and to do more diving (2-4 dives)
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24 SEPTEMBER 2016 - SELU & WULIARU ISLANDS / JAMDENA PASSAGE

On our last diving day we will do some true exploration dives around the north-west coast of Selu and Wuliaru Islands, an area that virtually hasn’t been dived yet (1-2 dives). The afternoon we will spend cruising and exploring the islets and mangrove bays of the Jamdena passage where we will spend our last night onboard MV Blue Manta.
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25 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DISAMBARKATION AT SAUMLAKI

After breakfast we transfer to the airport and depart with Garuda Airlines back to Jakarta or Denpasar (Bali).

Important: Garuda Airlines provides only 20kg free luggage allowance for checked-in bags and 7kg (1pcs) for cabin luggage. For you to have piece of mind, ConnectOcean will cover your excess luggage on this flights up to 15kg over your allowance (total 35kg).

Flight schedule (suspect to change):
Airline: Garuda Airlines

Flight No.: GA7645
Departure Airport: Olilit Airport - Saumlaki (SXK)
Departure Time: 10:00 (Timezone GMT+9)
Arrival Airport: Pattimura Airport - Ambon (AMQ)
Arrival Time: 11:35 (Timezone GMT+9)

Flight No.: GA647
Departure Airport: Pattimura Airport - Ambon (AMQ)
Departure Time: 14:40 (Timezone GMT+9)
Arrival Airport: Soekarno Hatta International Airport - Jakarta (CGK)
Arrival Time: 16:15 (Timezone GMT+8)

> International connecting flight to your home destination from Jakarta

Flight No.: GA426
Departure Airport: Soekarno Hatta International Airport - Jakarta (CGK)
Departure Time: 17:05 (Timezone GMT+8)
Arrival Airport: Ngurah Rai (Bali) International (DPS)
Arrival Time: 20:10 (Timezone GMT+8)

> International connecting flight to your home destination from Denpasar (DPS) or transfer to your hotel of choice for vacation extension

Citizen Science

Citizen Science - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

ConnectOcean Expedition Citizen Science modules aim at providing knowledge and creating passion about marine environmental research and conservation through practical application. We hope this will lead to a greater understanding of the challenge to sustainably manage marine resources and the threats and issues facing our ocean environment. Passion does not get delivered through the Internet, reading a magazine or watching television. Passion is personal. Our society should less rely on hearsay and (sometimes bias) third party reporting. ConnectOcean trusts that not only seeing, but experiencing, is believing!

NOTE: Participation on ConnectOcean Expedition Citizen Science modules is voluntary.
coral triangle seascape expedition

Module 1 - The Coral Triangle

You will get to know more about our expedition destination, the Coral Triangle:
  • Marine habitats
  • People
  • Biodiversity and marine species diversity
  • Marine resource use
  • Threads to marine environment and its resources
  • Conservation efforts and challenges
Blenny fish diversity coral triangle

Module 2 - Marine biodiversity / fish species diversity

Researchers surveying marine species diversity in Indonesia regularly discover new species. In this module we focus on fish:
  • Fish diversity and taxonomy
  • Socio-economic value of fish
  • Fish surveying techniques
Practical application: You will be able to conduct some rapid reef fish diversity assessments on selected dive sites during the expedition.
reef manta coral triangle

Module 3 - Elasmobranch (Sharks and Rays) biology and identification

Elasmobranchs are cartilaginous fish, usually referred to as sharks, rays and skates. In this module we will look at
  • The role of sharks in the ocean
  • Elasmobranch biology and taxonomy
  • The role of sharks in society
  • Threads to elasmobranch populations
  • Existing shark sanctuaries and economic value
  • Shark interaction
  • Identification of elasmobranch species
  • Research data sharing
Practical application: Throughout the expedition we will identify and keep a log with all Elasmobranch sightings. We will contribute our recordings to the Manta Trust’s and Sharktrust’s sighting database and share it with other regional marine conservation organisations.
sea snake aggregation research coral triangle

Module 4 - Hydrophiinae (Sea Snakes) biology and identification

Sea Snakes are marine reptiles that are mostly confined to the tropical waters of the Indian and the Pacifc Ocean. Their ecology is only poorly understood. In this module we look at
  • Distribution of Sea Snake species
  • Sea Snake biology and taxonomy
  • Threads to Sea Snake populations
  • Sea Snake interaction
  • Identification of Sea Snake species
  • Sea Snake population assessment techniques
Practical application: When visiting the remote dormant volcano Gunung Api we will have the chance to dive with hundreds of snakes. We will attempt the first ever Sea Snake population estimate study for this location.
reef monitoring coral triangle

Module 5 - Coral Reef monitoring

Corals are the building blocks of the reef community. In this module we look at
  • The role of the coral reef
  • Coral identification and taxonomy
  • Coral stress and diseases
  • Coral monitoring methods
Practical application: We will conduct coral reef monitoring exercises on selected dive sites during the expedition.
plastic debris pollution ocean coral triangle

Module 6 - Marine Debris awareness

The solid waste, especially plastics, floating our oceans has accumulated to unprecedented dimensions. Tiny plastic particles called micro beads enter our food chain and have become a serious health threat to humans on marinelife. Why haven’t we found yet a solution for this problem? In this module we look at
  • The status of Ocean pollution worldwide
  • The impact of plastic garbage on our marine environment
  • Possible solutions currently discussed or implemented
Practical application: As part of this module we will conduct trawling for plastic micro beads. Our findings and recordings will be provided to 5Gyres to further strengthen their anti pollution campaign and also shared with other regional marine conservation organisations.

Outreach

Community Outreach - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

ConnectOcean Expedition Community Outreach will allow you to spend some or your time and resources during the expedition to benefit a marginalised group, community or civic- or community based organisation, in an effort to improve the quality of life for community residents, and to create cultural exchange leading to greater mutual understanding.
pygmy blue whale coral triangle

The traditional whale hunters of Lamalera, Lembata island

Reaching out starts by trying to understand the culture, history and livelihood of communities. You will have the unique opportunity to get to know the traditional whale hunters of Lamalera. Traditional whale- and dolphin hunting is controversial and ConnectOcean doesn’t aim to make it a tourist attraction. We had a long internal discussion before we decided to include this visit at Lamalera in our itinerary. While other expedition operators don’t want to expose their participants out of principle or because they might fear a negative response, we are the opinion that first hand exposure to environmental and social issues the world is facing is necessary to develop a deeper understanding, leading to more sustainable solutions. During the visit we plan to engage with the villagers in an open conversation focusing on the anthropological point of view and also on sustainability. We want to understand the villagers motivation and what the hunting means for their culture and livelihood.

During your visit at Lamalera village you might witness or unearth facts that seem disturbing to any passionate scuba diver caring about our marine mega fauna. Stay open-minded and get on a journey of discovery engage in a friendly discussion to explore common ground.
villager in remote indonesia

Villages of the Forgotten Islands

Many of the islands we will visit are very remote and far from urban centres. The villagers on this islands often rely on passing boats for medical supply, food items and building materials. Fresh water is an enormous problem in these locations, mostly relying on rain water only. The villagers practice sustainable fishing and a little bit of agriculture, but their reefs often get exploited by commercial fishing fleets from far away islands.

ConnectOcean Expedition will visit some of these villages and supply urgent needed goods and we will support the villagers in their effort to protect their own coral reefs from outsiders. We will work with children on marine awareness fun activities and provide essential medical supplies to the villagers (a detailed program is currently under development).

MV Blue Manta

MV Blue Manta - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

The MV Blue Manta is on of the largest purpose-built dive vessel in the region. Measuring 45m (148 ft) by 9m (29ft), this steel hull vessel will only take 18 guests. The 14 beautifully furnished en-suite cabins, each average 20sqm (200sf) in size, an open outdoor alfresco dining area, an indoor air-conditioned room for finer dining, speaks of the perfect onboard ambiance of a luxurious dive holiday. With maximum comfort and safety in mind, the Blue Manta is well equipped with safety facilities, cruises at 10 knots and the steel hull makes her an ideal vessel for long haul cruises and blue water crossing trips.
  • MV Blue Manta Liveaboard Expedition Specials
  • MV Blue Manta Single / Double Upper Deck
  • MV BLUE MANTA Saloon Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Twin Beds Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Sundeck
  • MV Blue Manta Camera Room Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Dive Deck Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Single & Queen Bed Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Outdoor Lounge Upper Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Indoor Dining Main Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Outdoor Dining Upper Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Twin Beds Lower Deck
  • MV Blue Manta Wheelhouse
  • MV Blue Manta Deck Plan

Stability

The Blue Manta is built with thick steel designed to withstand the hardest sea conditions, offering the stability wooden boats cannot. The 9m width and weight of 400 ton add to the steadiness, ensures uninterrupted rests and relaxation. The Blue Manta is a world class cruising hotel.

Safety

Blue Manta does not take risks or compromise on the safety and diving of our guests and crew. In addition to twin engines, the Blue Manta is fitted with the following security and safety features:
  • All cabins are with speakers, fire and smoke alarms
  • Furuno Radar, GPS plotter, Echo Sounders
  • SSB radio, VHF radio, SART, EPIRB
  • Standard Fire Fighting Equipment
  • 2 x 30 Life Rafts
  • Life Jackets in all cabins
  • 2 x rubber dingy
  • 2 x Anchor System (DC/AC)
  • First Aid & Oxygen Kit
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Satellite Telephone & Wi-Fi
  • Night Watch Security

Reliability

Built for sea-worthiness, the Blue Manta operates on twin engines and is an ultimate dive vessel for long haul cruises and blue water crossing trips. She is dependable for comfort, convenience and a stress-free dive holiday.

Internet onboard

The Wi-Fi is connected via Satellite and with 24/7 Wi-Fi connection, you can be connected with your family and friends anytime, anywhere.

Photo & Video

The Blue Manta is equipped with camera-friendly facilities, designed for the most avid underwater photographers.
  • Individual Rinse Tanks
  • Wide Outdoor Work Table
  • Indoor Dry Camera Room
  • Blow-dry Stations
  • Small dive groups (4 photographers : 1 guide)

Specifications

Ensuite Cabin: 14
Total Guests: 18
Crew: 22
Length: 45m (148ft)
Width: 9m (29ft)
Hull: Steel
Cruising Speed: 10knots
Engine: 2 x 826hp Yanmar
Generator: 3 x Yanmar Gensets
Compressor: 3 x 250 litres
Nitrox: 1 x Nitrox system
Dinghy: 3 x 6.5m dinghy with 90hp OBM
Watermakers: 2 x Watermakers 20 ton freshwater daily
Fresh water tank: 20,000 litres
Diesel tank: 45,000 litres
Range: 3500 nm

Crew

The very high crew and guest ratio ensures attentive, outstanding and personalised service. With a total of 22 crew members working onboard, we are committed to your safety, comfort and enjoyment.
  • 3 Captains/Deck Officers
  • 3 Engineers
  • 4 Dive guides
  • 3 Chefs
  • 2 Masseuses
  • 2 Hostesses
  • 1 Cruise Leader (Dive Instructor)
  • 1 Manager (Dive Instructor)
  • 3 Dinghy Drivers/Deck Hands

Cabins

Blue Manta will take only 18 guests. There are 14 beautifully furnished en-suite cabins, each average 20sqm (200sf) in size comprising of single cabins and twin/double cabins, off course all with ensuite toilet/shower.
  • 6 cabins on upper deck with window
  • 4 cabins on main deck with window
  • 4 cabins on below deck with a port hole

Meals

Having good food should be one of the most important criteria when choosing a liveaboard. On the Blue Manta you start your day with freshly baked breads. With no less than 5 meals a day, you will be filled and satisfied with an extensive range of treats for your taste buds.

Travel Info

Travel Information - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

Indonesia

The Indonesian archipelago consists of more than 17,500 islands stretching over more than 4,800km (3,000 miles), most lying in a volcanic belt with more than 300 volcanoes, the great majority of which are extinct. Indonesia is part of the Coral Triangle, the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on the planet.

Getting There

Our assembly point will be Denpasar, Bali (DPS). There are direct flights from many major cities in Australia, Europe, Middle East and the Asia Pacific region.

From Bali we will fly to Maumere (MOF) where we will board our expedition vessel. We will complete the cruise in Saumlaki (SXK) and return via Ambon (AMQ) to Jakarta (CGK) or Bali (DPS).

Ever since domestic travel with budget airlines has become very affordable in this country of more than 250 million people, most airports are getting to their capacity limits, experiencing long queues and somewhat chaotic conditions during check-in. Our package includes all domestic flights and our expedition leaders will manage your domestic flight check-in. To make things easier, we even cover your excess baggage up to a total baggage weight of 35kg.

Visa Information

The Indonesian government recently introduced visa-free travel for citizens from more than 40 countries. Please check with your embassy on the latest status.

Tipping

Although tipping is not common in Indonesia, if you are satisfied with the service consider a 5%-10% tip. The families of the boat crew will highly appreciate it.

Health

Indonesia is a tropical country and tropical diseases such as Malaria and Dengue Fever exist in certain areas. Other diseases such as Hepatitis A or Typhoid can be transmitted through contaminated water and food regardless of your location. It is important to drink a lot of bottled water and keep hygiene. Excessive sweating can easily lead to Fungal infections so you should wear loose clothes, wash frequently, and dry yourself carefully.
Since we will spend most at the time at sea, mosquitoes are less frequent and there is usually also a nice breeze preventing you from over-heating. Please seek medical advice and an update on the recommended immunisations at least 2 months before you travel. We also recommend a general travel/cancellation insurance.

Safety & Security

Indonesia is a vaste country with a diverse population. While Indonesians are generally known for their warmth and hospitality, there are always risks when traveling, especially in large cities and locations with social conflicts or problems.

Millions of tourists visit Indonesia every year and statistically the country’s crime rate is lower than many western countries. In order to keep any potential risks at a minimum we recommend you to be always aware of your surrounding and make informed and rational decisions. Our expedition leaders have extensive travel experience in Indonesia and can advice you accordingly. Please contact your own country’s department of foreign affairs for official travel advices.

Electricity

In Indonesia the standard voltage is 230 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type C / F.
plug, electricity, indonesia, diagram

Currency

The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Indonesia. Money changers, Banks, ATM’s are found in all major cities or tourist locations. Unfortunately expenses during your expedition have to be paid in cash since credit card facilities don’t work in remote locations of Indonesia. Onboard expenses can be paid in US Dollars (USD), Euro (EUR) or Singapore Dollars (SGD). You also should plan for some cash in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for handicrafts from local communities and visit markets in villages.

Climate

Indonesia has a tropical climate which is highly variable from area to area. The driest weather is generally observed from June to September, while more rain can be expected from December to March. Temperatures average between 23°C (73°F) and 28°C (82°F) all year, with a humidity of 60% - 90%.

Rates

Rates - The Forgotten Islands of the Banda Sea - Indonesia

USD 7300.00

Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Occupancy

USD 7550.00

Main or Upper Deck
Twin or Double Occupancy

USD 8015.00

Lower Deck Cabin
Single Occupancy

USD 8290.00

Main or Upper Deck
Single Occupancy

signup for connectocean forgotten island expedition
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INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE

  • 2 ConnectOcean Expedition Leaders for the whole length of the trip
  • Airport pick-up and transfers in Bali
  • 1 night at a 4-star resort in Bali
  • Traditional Indonesian Welcome Dinner in Bali
  • Domestic flight from Bali to Maumere
  • Domestic return flights from Saumlaki to Jakarta or Bali via Ambon
  • Excess baggage fees up to a total baggage (allowance + excess) weight of 35kg on all domestic flights
  • 12 days / 11 nights on board MV Blue Manta
  • Marine park and harbour fees
  • Tanks/air fillings, weight belt, 6 dive guides
  • Up to 34 guided dives
  • Voluntary participation on Citizen Science modules
  • Participation and sponsorship of the Community Outreach initiatives
  • All meals (Western & Indonesian) snacks, hot beverages, coffee, tea, soft drinks on MV Blue Manta
  • Towel, toiletries, cabin services on MV Blue Manta
  • Laundry services on MV Blue Manta
  • 24 hour WiFi Internet on MV Blue Manta
  • 1 hour complimentary Massage on MV Blue Manta

EXTRAS

  • Alcoholic beverages (USD 4 per beer)
  • Dive & travel insurance
  • Massage services (USD 25 per hour)
  • Nitrox refills (USD10 per day)
  • Dive equipment rental
  • Indonesian Visa (if required)
  • Domestic flight upgrades (if available)

Dive equipment rental:
  • BCD (USD 12 per day)
  • Regulator (USD 12 per day)
  • Mask (USD 5 per day)
  • Fins (USD 5 per day)
  • Wetsuit (USD 8 per day)
  • Dive computer (USD 12 per day)
  • Underwater Torch (USD 12 per day)
  • ExtraLarge Tanks (USD 12 per day)
  • Nitrox Fills (USD 10 per day)

Holiday extensions:
  • Ambon Bay - Critter Diving
  • Raja Ampat - Magic Colours
  • Bali - Dive and Relax
contact us for informations

Trip Extensions

Pre- or post expedition holiday extensions

Pre- and post expedition holiday extension
Do you feel like having a few more days to acclimatise or doing some additional diving before or after your ConnectOcean expedition? We can offer you competitive pricing and make the necessary bookings and arrangements. Feel free to contact us regarding any questions and advice.
lionfish bali resort liveaboard extension
Relax and dive in Bali

If it’s before your ConnectOcean Expedition or afterwards, Bali offers something for everyone; culture, nature, health & relaxation, outdoor activities, shopping, dining, nightlife and off course scuba diving.

Stay at the small Alam Batu Resort in North East Bali, famed for its black sand critter diving, the Tulamben Wreck and endless underwater macro photography opportunities.

We also can make arrangements for resort stays and dive arrangements in Nusa Penida, Sanur and Kuta.
Ambon Critter Diving Liveaboad extension
Critter diving at Ambon Bay

Ambon is famous for its world class muck diving sites. If Flamboyant Cuttlefish, Mimic Octopus, Harlequin Shrimp, Frogfish, Rhinopias Scorpionfish, Seahorses and other weird critters are your thing, consider stopping by at Maluku Divers on your way back from Saumlaki to Bali.
raja ampat resort liveaboard extension
The magic colours of Raja Ampat

From Ambon it’s only another 90 minutes flight to Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat. Extend your stay at Misool Eco Resort, the resort who won multiple awards for its endless efforts to conserve and manage Raja Ampat’s marine resources. Optionally we can also book you on an additional liveaboard cruise through Raja Ampat and we will take care of your additional domestic flight bookings.
Best rate guarantee !

We guarantee you the best rate for any of our featured dive resorts in combination with a ConnectOcean Expedition and we also offer highly competitive rates for any other dive resort in Indonesia.

Contact us for a consultation or bookings.
Best rate guarantee for expedition liveaboard

ConnectOcean
Americas & Middle East

Ernst Van der Poll
Chief Executive Officer
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
WhatsApp: +506 8575 9418
Skype: ernst.van.der.poll
Email

ConnectOcean
Asia Pacific & Europe

Eric Madeja
Executive Director Asia-Pacific
Sabah, Malaysia
WhatsApp: +60128382272
Skype: eric_madeja
Email