(with potential extension!)
+++ Blue Whales of Timor Leste +++
Diving with the largest animal that ever lived
If you like the following, this trip might be for you:
Blue Whales
Annually, from October through November, Timor-Leste is blessed with the remarkable and unique occurrence of the Pygmy blue whales' migration, which is a subspecies of the blue whale, the largest creature to have ever lived on our planet. Our main goal is to get in the water with them, get up close and personal but without any interference in their natural behaviour.
Cetacean Epicentre
The deep waters just off the coast of Timor-Leste are identified as a "global hotspot" for cetaceans. Species such as short-finned pilot whales, melon-headed whales, as well as spotted, spinner, striped, Risso's, fraser's, bottle-nosed, and rough-toothed dolphins can be spotted here. In addition, this region also hosts beaked Whales, and it even serves as a migration route for Humpback Whales
Intimate Team
A relaxed atmosphere, pristine dive conditions and light hearted conversations form the pillars of our ocean adventures. We love to combine high diving standards with a no-nonsense group and crew, so there is enough space for us to enjoy what we are all here for: marvel at the ocean spectacles. A small circle furthermore avoids overcrowding these animal habitats.
Authentic Accomodation
Hotel Timor will serve as the basecamp for this adventure. Located just next to the coastline and right beside the main landmarks, it perfectly suits our trip needs. The local staff is extremely attentive and open. Large and clean rooms offer the perfect oasis to wind down after a day on the ocean, and food standards are up to par.
Atauro Extension
Diving at Atauro Island offers a captivating underwater world waiting to be explored. Located in the waters of Timor-Leste, this hidden gem boasts crystal-clear seas, vibrant coral reefs, and a diverse array of marine life. For divers wanting to make the absolute most of their trip to the far East, we offer a 4 day/3 nights extension to this coral heaven (see below).
Isolated Region
Looking at the big spectrum of diving destinations around the world, Timor Leste is a relatively young diving destination. If you enjoy diving far away from the crowds, are looking for something different and intimate, then this trip is definitely for you. No big liveaboards, bubble wall diving or anything alike here. Just pure island bliss in the presence of peaceful underwater giants.
This trip is open for everybody
Viewpoints from cultures all over the globe inspire us, that’s why we love bringing people from different backgrounds together. The more diverse, the better we feel.
Expedition Character
This trip has a true expedition character. We are at the end of the world (from our perspective), and things work on island time, with all the good things that come with it, and the sometimes unforeseen ones as well. Activities are weather dependent and can sometimes be shifted in timing. Will it all be worth it however? Hell yeah.
Swimming with whales
"The first time in the water with a big whale is still something I like to remember. What an impressive feeling, hard to describe or to compare to anything else. The moment you see this huge beautiful animal you realise how small and irrelevant you are. For anyone dreaming of spending water time with a blue whale one day, Timor Leste is one of your best bets in the world . To do it with us? Even better!"
Marcel - Behind the Mask
Meet your BTM Trip leader
Tim De Deygere
Behind the Mask Project Manager & Trip Leader
Blue Whales of Timor Leste
Oct 28 - Nov 1, 2024
Extension to Atauro Island
Nov 1 - Nov 5, 2024
Blue Whales of Timor Leste:
- per person (see details below for what is included in this price)
Atauro Island Extension:
- per person (see details below for what is included in this price)
Included:
Blue Whales of Timor Leste:
- Transfer from/to Dili Airport (Timor-Leste) with speedboat and land transfers
- …
- Behind the Mask Travel tour guide
Atauro Extension:
- …
- Behind the Mask Travel tour guide
Not included:
Blue Whales of Timor Leste
- Flights from Bali Denpasar to Dili and back with Sriwijaya Air ~ 600 € per person
- Flights from/to Bali Denpasar depending on your origin (from/to Europe starting from ~ 750 € per person)
- surcharge Superior Bungalow (private shower, shared toilets) € 100 per person / 10 nights
- stopover night in Bali
- …
Atauro Extension:
- …
Important: min. 6 bookings to confirm this group. We highly recommend DiveAssure insurance which also covers force majeure and single missed days of diving due to sickness. Feel free to ask us about it. Further extensions in Bali or around Indonesia are always possible we’re happy to assist!
Our terms & conditions apply!
Blue Whales of Timor Leste
October 28 – November 1, 2024
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Atauro Island
November 1 – November 5, 2024
Arrival Day
0645: Hotel pickup
0700: Boat check-in &d eparture
0900 :Atauro Island arrival Breakfast&check-in
1030 : Dive/Snorkel Check Dive
1230 : Lunch
1430 : Dive/Snorkel 2
1700:Snack
1900: Dinner
Intermediate Days
0645:Breakfast
0730: Dive/Snorkel
1030: Dive/Snorkel
1230:Lunch
1430 : Dive/Snorkel
1700:Snack
1830: Night Dive
1900: Dinner
Departure Day
0645: Breakfast
0730: Dive/Snorkel
1030: Dive/Snorkel
1230: Lunch
1400: Check out & boat departure
Blue Whales of Timor Leste
Tradition, Charm, Excellence
Located in the heart of Dili, Hotel Timor serves as one of the most prestigious avenues of the city and within walking distance of Nicolau Lobato Airport, surrounded by international embassies, government buildings, shops, restaurants and beaches. This prestigious hotel offers 88 rooms, including exquisite and comfortable suites, 1 restaurant, 3 large rooms meetings, 1 coffeebar and a Swimming Pool.
Over time Hotel Timor has updated and benefited from several renovations. Today, it offers all the comfort and convenience of an International Hotel but always maintaining the charm and tradition of its origins.
According to the Hotel, you will “travel in time, but a journey that is ongoing at the present and projecting into the future of this young nation”.
Atauro Island Extension
Xyz
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Blue whales, Humpbacks, Pilots & Sperm whales
The Wetar Strait between Timor‐Leste and Ataúro Island has only recently been found by scientists to be a migration route for a vast variety of whales journeying between the Antarctic and the warmer waters in Indonesia.. These migratory populations are heading for waters in and around the Banda Sea (Indonesia) to mate and bear their young before heading back to Antarctica and their feeding grounds.
It’s possible, when conditions are right, to see humpbacks, blue whales, sperm whales, beaked whales and also, possibly orcas. We all know there’s never a guarantee with Mother Nature …. but, recent history shows that between October and December the chances are excellent. (The sperm whales, other smaller whale species and most of the dolphins seem to be resident pods, which means you may see them at most any time of the year. Scientific studies are still in their infancy and more is being learned with each passing year.)
You can also add to your “wish list” at Timor multiple sightings of spectacular pods of dolphins and small whales, Including Fraser’s, dolphins, bottle-nose, spinner& spotted dolphins … melon-headed, pygmy killer and pilot whales You might also catch sight of a resident dugong.
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Unique Destination
