Itinerary

We are organizing this trip without a fixed itinerary in order to remain flexible and take the freedom to stay longer at the particularly impressive sites. 

Our rough route first takes us to the south, where we dive in the channels with dozens of sharks and eagle rays and are amazed by the diversity of the underwater world. We continue to the Ari Atoll, where at this time of year we have the best chance of encountering whale sharks and manta rays.

Of course, it should be noted that nature has its own laws and not everything is always predictable. Nevertheless, we will use our knowledge and experience to make this special trip an unforgettable experience.

Particularly impressive are our night dives, where we have the unique opportunity to dive with manta rays in the spotlight or snorkel with whale sharks. These magical moments underline the enchantment of the Maldives.

During our tour we explore secluded sandy beaches where we enjoy the unique atmosphere with breathtaking sunsets and a cozy beer.

EcoPro Seascape 

The Eco Pro Seascape a trailblazer in the world of liveaboards, redefining quality and comfort in the Maldives. Designed to accommodate up to 28 guests, this vessel caters not only to scuba diving enthusiasts but also to those keen on a variety of water sports and cruising adventures. Embracing eco-friendly practices, the Eco Pro Seascape offers a unique blend of sustainability and high-quality service. Its diverse itineraries promise unforgettable experiences, from exploring vibrant coral reefs to relaxing in serene oceanic surroundings.

Boat Specs:

• Year built:2023
  
• Length:41m
• Beam:10.7m
• Top speed:12 knots
• Cruising speed:8-9 knots
• Max guests:28
• Number of cabins:17
• Number of bathrooms:17
• Tender: Diving dhoni
• AirCon in each room
• Bar
• Outdoor Dining 

The Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 coral islands nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is a diving enthusiast’s dream. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral atolls, this tropical paradise offers a mesmerizing underwater experience. The coral formations, ranging from delicate soft corals to massive hard corals, paint an awe-inspiring tapestry beneath the surface.

Diving in the Maldives is synonymous with encounters with a rich diversity of marine life. From manta rays to the gentle giants, whale sharks, the Maldives provides opportunities for unforgettable interactions with some of the ocean’s most magnificent inhabitants. The coral atolls serve as a thriving ecosystem for an array of marine species, including colorful reef fish, turtles, and various types of sharks. Notably, the Maldives has established a commitment to marine conservation, ensuring the protection of its underwater wonders.

What sets the Maldives apart for divers is the range of dive sites catering to all levels of expertise. Whether drifting along vibrant coral walls or navigating channels with robust currents, there’s an adventure for everyone. The warm tropical waters create an ideal environment for year-round diving, allowing enthusiasts to explore the underwater realms comfortably. In essence, the Maldives stands as a premier destination for those seeking a perfect blend of stunning underwater landscapes, abundant marine life, and diverse dive opportunities.

Day 1 Kaimana

Our team is standing by to collect you from the airport, or from your hotel and transfer you to the harbour. Spend your first day on Adelaar settling in and getting acquainted with the boat, the crew, and your fellow guests. Enjoy the amazing views as we navigate toward the first night’s anchorage. Weather permitting, we will prepare the al fresco dining area for the first of many of our tasty meals.

Day 2 Namatote

Under new moon, we will spend the day in the north of the island of Namatote. There we visit the traditional outrigger fishing platforms that are regularly visited by what the fishermen refer to as ‘mothers of fish’, i.e. the world’s largest fish, the majestic whalesharks. 3-Day Dives, 1-Night Dive

Day 3 Dramai

The southern most point of our voyage is the island of Dramai. The waters surrounding this island are a sheer fish lover’s paradise. Reminiscent of rush hours in a big city, schools of different species of snappers, sweetlips, surgeonfish, batfish, fusiliers, jacks and other species make it so dense, it is difficult for divers to get a glimpse of the unique topography. The coral studded underwater formations include massive overhangs and swim throughs. With a bit of luck, we may even encounter oceanic manta rays. 3-Day Dives, 1-Night Dive

Day 4 Iris Strait

There is a regular through-flow of water in the Iris Strait between mainland New Guinea and Aiduma Island. This steady supply of nutrients triggers a veritable explosion of coral growth. Healthy areas dominated by enormous hard coral formations are interchanged with slopes covered in immense black coral bushes. The surrounding area is literally invaded by the largest and most colourful soft coral gardens that exist. All of this benthic life attracts schools of fish and squadrons of mobula rays. 3-Day Dives, 1-Night Dive

Day 5 Triton Bay

The diving in Triton Bay is unique, as the small islands act as fish magnets and feature exquisite coral growth of both hard and soft corals. The bay is home to a plethora of critters such as pygmy seahorses, leopard and tiger shrimps, endemic flasher wrasses or rare cephalopods. On night dives in this bay, be on the lookout for Triton Bay’s endemic walking shark. A structure resembling a huge underwater coral caldera is one of the topographic features of this area. Another topside highlight is our speedboat tour through the maze of the large Triton Bay lagoon with its countless hidden bays and channels surrounded by unique karst rock formations. 3-day dives, 1-night dive

Day 6 Momon

The Momon Area of New Guinea is without a doubt one of the highlights for photographers. The very photogenic Kiti Kiti waterfall falls directly out of the vibrant jungle and into a turquoise sea. For those who are up for a land excursion, there are opportunities to venture into the jungle forest.

But first, there will be dives along the seamounts off the coast, known for their big schools of big eye trevallies, sharks, pelagic fish and oceanic manta rays. 3-day dives 

Day 7 Koon

Do you like diving with a lot of fish? In that case Koon is the place for you. Apart from having too many fish to list, there is also a spectacular land – or rather surface – activity nearby. Depending on the tide we can enter a hidden system of marine lakes and canals for a snorkel and swim trek unlike any other! Typically, at the end of the trail you will be greeted by enthusiastic local village children. 3-day dives

Day 8 Watubela

The Watubela archipelago is also regularly visited by schooling hammerhead sharks. However, this is not the only charm of these remote islands located at the border between the Banda and Seram Sea. Spectacular white sandy beaches offer perfect locations for those postcard sunset drinks after a day’s diving surrounded by schooling fish. 3-day dives

Day 9 Hatta

Hatta, the easternmost Island of the Banda archipelago, is named after Indonesia’s first vice-president who spent time here in exile. The diving off Hatta is dedicated solely to seeing schooling hammerhead sharks. The sight of groups ranging from a handful to literally hundreds of those majestic animals is an unforgettable experience, and one of the main reasons the diving in the Banda Sea is so special. 4-day dives

Day 10 Manukang

Our first stop is Manukang, a volcanic outcrop that according to Moluccan lore, is known to be haunted. This we cannot judge, but what we do know, is that it attracts its fair share of pelagic visitors. Schooling hammerhead sharks swim along the underwater ridges that are covered in huge barrel sponges. 4-day dives

Day 11 Nusa Laut/Ambon

Our last diving day can be pelagic or macro oriented depending on our guest preferences. 2-day-dives

Day 12 Ambon

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and disembark – until the next time.

The Adelaar

Experience unparalleled luxury liveaboard diving in Indonesia, aboard the spectacular 39m Dutch Schooner, M/V Adelaar. This stunning vessel showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern elegance. Adelaar Indonesia boasts opulent teak paneling, lofty ceilings, and a chic salon and dining area. Guests can indulge in the allure of a magnificent master suite and three outstanding staterooms.

Each stateroom is equipped with individual climate control, en-suite marble bathrooms, and flat-screen televisions for a personalized experience. The upper and lower decks offer stylish seating areas with breathtaking views. The attentive ten-member crew is dedicated to fulfilling every guest’s needs, ensuring utmost comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. Adelaar’s skilled chefs curate a menu featuring exquisite gourmet Indonesian and Western cuisine, while the fully stocked bar provides a selection of cold drinks, local beers, imported wines, and spirits. Embarking on scuba diving adventures from Adelaar unveils a world of diverse marine life, including vibrant fish and pelagic species.

Banda Sea

The Banda Sea, situated proximate to the Maluku Islands in Eastern Indonesia, constitutes a maritime expanse that transcends conventional characterization. Encompassed by a constellation of islands within its quadrilateral seas, this remote enclave within the ‘Ring of Fire’ has resisted the encroachments of modern civilization, presenting itself as a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty. Distinctive features include a special underwater topography, with the northern basin descending to a depth of 19,000 feet and the southern basin to 17,700 feet, marked by the seismically active Gunung Api and flourishing coral reefs, thereby establishing the Banda Sea as a habitat for majestic marine species such as hammerhead sharks.

For lovers of underwater exploration, a sojourn into the Banda Sea is an unparalleled experience. It unveils a realm of marine vitality largely untouched by human influence, affording remarkable encounters with biannually occurring congregations of schooling hammerhead sharks. Beyond this spectacle, the Banda Sea commands acclaim for its diverse macroscopic marine life, encompassing seahorses, elusive rhinopias, and other compelling species. The Manuk Islands, identified as a particularly noteworthy dive site, beckon with the presence of sizable sea snakes and the opportunity to witness the captivating display of schooling hammerhead sharks. Within the heart of Indonesia, the Banda Sea emerges as an undiscovered treasure, beckoning discerning explorers to delve into its untarnished depths and witness the sublime harmonies of nature.

Day 1 Ambon

After boarding Adelaar in Ambon, you will enjoy your first day on board whilst cruising straight into the heart of the blue Banda Sea.

Day 2 Manukang

Our first stop is Manukang, a volcanic outcrop that according to Moluccan lore, is known to be haunted. This we cannot judge, but what we do know, is that it attracts its fair share of pelagic visitors. Schooling hammerhead sharks swim along the underwater ridges that are covered in huge barrel sponges.  4-day dives

Day 3 Hatta

Hatta, the easternmost Island of the Banda archipelago, is named after Indonesia’s first vice-president who spent time here in exile. The diving off Hatta is dedicated solely to seeing schooling hammerhead sharks. The sight of groups ranging from a handful to literally hundreds of those majestic animals is an unforgettable experience, and one of the main reasons the diving in the Banda Sea is so special. 4-day dives

Day 4 Watubela

The Watubela archipelago is also regularly visited by schooling hammerhead sharks. However, this is not the only charm of these remote islands located at the border between the Banda and Seram Sea. Spectacular white sandy beaches offer perfect locations for those postcard sunset drinks after a day’s diving surrounded by schooling fish. 3-day dives

Day 5 Koon

Do you like diving with a lot of fish? In that case Koon is the place for you. Apart from having too many fish to list, there is also a spectacular land – or rather surface – activity nearby. Depending on the tide we can enter a hidden system of marine lakes and canals for a snorkel and swim trek unlike any other! Typically, at the end of the trail you will be greeted by enthusiastic local village children. 3-day dives

Day 6 Momon

The Momon Area of New Guinea is without a doubt one of the highlights for photographers. The very photogenic Kiti Kiti waterfall falls directly out of the vibrant jungle and into a turquoise sea. For those who are up for a land excursion, there are opportunities to venture into the forest a jungle trek. But first, there will be dives along the seamounts off the coast, known for their big schools of big eye trevallies, sharks, pelagic fish and oceanic manta rays. 3-day dives

Day 7 Aiduma

Along the coast of the karst island of Aiduma in the Aru Sea there are numerous little coves, islets and underwater formations with unique topography that are covered in dense soft coral growth. Fish life is profuse and features schools of snappers, sweetlips and fusiliers as well as napoleon wrasses, large groupers and wobbegong sharks. 3-Day Dives

Day 8 Dramai

The eastern most point of our voyage is the island of Dramai. The waters surrounding this island are a sheer fish lover’s paradise. Reminiscent of rush hours in a big city, schools of different species of snappers, sweetlips, surgeonfish, batfish, fusiliers, jacks and other species make it so dense, it is difficult for divers to get a glimpse of the unique topography. The coral studded underwater formations include massive overhangs and swim throughs. With a bit of luck, we may even encounter oceanic manta rays.3-Day Dives, 1 Night Dive

Day 9 Iris Strait

There is a regular through-flow of water in the Iris Strait between mainland New Guinea and Aiduma Island. This steady supply of nutrients triggers a veritable explosion of coral growth. Healthy areas dominated by enormous hard coral formations are interchanged with slopes covered in immense black coral bushes. The surrounding area is literally invaded by the largest and most colourful soft coral gardens that exist. All of this benthic life attracts schools of fish and squadrons of mobula rays. 3-Day Dives, 1-Night Dive

Day 10 Triton Bay

The diving in Triton Bay is unique, as the small islands act as fish magnets and feature exquisite coral growth of both hard and soft corals. The bay is home to a plethora of critters such as pygmy seahorses, leopard and tiger shrimps, endemic flasher wrasses or rare cephalopods. On night dives in this bay, be on the lookout for Triton Bay’s endemic walking shark. A structure resembling a huge underwater coral caldera is one of the topographic features of this area. Another topside highlight is our speedboat tour through the maze of the large Triton Bay lagoon with its countless hidden bays and channels surrounded by unique karst rock formations. 3 -Day dives, 1-Night dive

Day 11 Namatote

Around new moon, we will spend the day in the north of the island of Namatote. There we visit the traditional outrigger fishing platforms that are regularly visited by what the fishermen refer to as ‘mothers of fish’, i.e. the world’s largest fish, the majestic whale sharks.
Closer to full moon there are no fishermen and whale shark sightings are rare. During such times we will concentrate on the dive sites south of Namatote with their pinnacles, caverns, swim-throughs, and black coral forests. On one special rock cliff only visible by boat we can see prehistoric rock art, evidence of the culture of the region’s earlier human inhabitants. After Namatote we start the final passage of the trip in style – by hoisting Adelaar’s set of sails! 2-Day dives

Day 12 Kaimana

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and disembark – until the next time.

(Itinerary may vary depending on weather and sea conditions)

The Adelaar

Experience unparalleled luxury liveaboard diving in Indonesia, aboard the spectacular 39m Dutch Schooner, M/V Adelaar. This stunning vessel showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern elegance. Adelaar Indonesia boasts opulent teak paneling, lofty ceilings, and a chic salon and dining area. Guests can indulge in the allure of a magnificent master suite and three outstanding staterooms.

Each stateroom is equipped with individual climate control, en-suite marble bathrooms, and flat-screen televisions for a personalized experience. The upper and lower decks offer stylish seating areas with breathtaking views. The attentive ten-member crew is dedicated to fulfilling every guest’s needs, ensuring utmost comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. Adelaar’s skilled chefs curate a menu featuring exquisite gourmet Indonesian and Western cuisine, while the fully stocked bar provides a selection of cold drinks, local beers, imported wines, and spirits. Embarking on scuba diving adventures from Adelaar unveils a world of diverse marine life, including vibrant fish and pelagic species.

Banda Sea

The Banda Sea, situated proximate to the Maluku Islands in Eastern Indonesia, constitutes a maritime expanse that transcends conventional characterization. Encompassed by a constellation of islands within its quadrilateral seas, this remote enclave within the ‘Ring of Fire’ has resisted the encroachments of modern civilization, presenting itself as a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty. Distinctive features include a special underwater topography, with the northern basin descending to a depth of 19,000 feet and the southern basin to 17,700 feet, marked by the seismically active Gunung Api and flourishing coral reefs, thereby establishing the Banda Sea as a habitat for majestic marine species such as hammerhead sharks.

For lovers of underwater exploration, a sojourn into the Banda Sea is an unparalleled experience. It unveils a realm of marine vitality largely untouched by human influence, affording remarkable encounters with biannually occurring congregations of schooling hammerhead sharks. Beyond this spectacle, the Banda Sea commands acclaim for its diverse macroscopic marine life, encompassing seahorses, elusive rhinopias, and other compelling species. The Manuk Islands, identified as a particularly noteworthy dive site, beckon with the presence of sizable sea snakes and the opportunity to witness the captivating display of schooling hammerhead sharks. Within the heart of Indonesia, the Banda Sea emerges as an undiscovered treasure, beckoning discerning explorers to delve into its untarnished depths and witness the sublime harmonies of nature.

ITINERARY

From your home country, you will need to fly to Sorong Airport (SOQ) which is located in West Papua – Indonesia. Sorong Airport can be reached from the following Indonesian international airports: Jakarta, Denpasar, Manado, or Makassar/Ujung Pandang. We always recommend to arrive in Sorong a few days or at least one night before to be on the safe side. We are happy to assist with all internal flights, accommodations etc. in Indonesia. Contact marcel@behind-the-mask.com if you would like any assistance.

SORONG-RAJA AMPAT TRANSFER

We will co-ordinate your arrival and collect you from the airport or your hotel and bring you direct to the vessel. There are several good hotels in Sorong should you wish to overnight before or after your Raja Ampat cruise. Sorong is a small city so most of the hotels are located within 10 – 20 minutes to Sorong Harbour, while Sorong Airport is only located 10 minutes by car from the harbour.

DAY 1

Check-in on board Mermaid II. As guest arrivals take place all through the day depending on flights, you are welcome to board when you arrive and spend some time unpacking and setting up your equipment, etc. Following the boat and safety briefing, Mermaid II will start cruising to the area of Misool. The first cruising will be done overnight. It is almost impossible to put together a daily itinerary due to the magnificent diving everywhere Mermaid II goes. No trip is the same, with so many different sites to visit and explore. If there is somewhere in particular you really have your heart set on, please discuss with the Cruise Director who will do their utmost to get you there – conditions, ship and your safety allowing!

DAY 2-4 +++11 DIVES

Misool area with literally hundreds of dive sites around this magnificent area, you will be in divers’ paradise for a few days. Soft corals and gorgeous gorgonians, home to the much sought after pygmy seahorse! Pinnacles with masses of fish. Islands you will thoroughly enjoy in the Misool area include the Balbulol, Sagof,Wagmab, Farondi, Wayilbatan, Warakaraket, Fiabacet, Yillet, Kalig and Pele Islands.

DAY 5-7 +++12 DIVES

Dive around Penemu Island and visit the viewpoint. Or dive around the island of Kawe, a great place for schooling fish with beautiful reefs covered in black coral bushes and a very good chance to have encounters with Manta Rays. Heading to the central part of Raja Ampat dive around the island of Yanggefo, with beautiful mangrove areas, stunning reefs covered in orange and purple soft corals and submerged reef with lots of schooling fish. Arborek and Sawanderek Villages are some of the most beautiful islands to visit and great to dive under their jetty! The jetty pillars are covered in soft corals – a photographer’s delight and also good for macro such as signal gobies, nudibranchs, pipefish, blue ringed octopus and more. The Mantas are then calling us to visit the famous Dampier Strait in the central part of Raja Ampat. Here Mantas hang out at their cleaning stations along with all the schooling fish that the sites have to offer. At some of the sites in the Dampier Strait, the macro marine life is amazing with critters such as the seamoth, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, pipefish and more. The Dampier Strait is also well known for an incredible amount of schooling fish. There are several pinnacles with zillions of fish. The tips (capes) of several islands are also home to lots of schooling fish – barracudas, bigeye jacks, snappers, zillions of fusiliers and surgeonfish and much more. As if that weren’t enough, here you can find lots of wobbegong sharks!

DAY 8 +++2 DIVES

Two dives in Dampier Strait. More of the same. Fish, fish, fish, glorious corals andall! Then back to Sorong Mermaid II must go. The crew will take care of rinsing your equipment and there’s time to pack during this 4-5 hour run.

DAY 9

After breakfast, Mermaid II staff will transfer you to the airport. This is a sample itinerary and is subject to changes beyond the operator’s control. The exact itinerary, route and amount of dives for your cruise may be adapted to best suit the weather conditions, tides and currents, season and other prevailing events.

THE MERMAID II

M/V Mermaid II is a 33 meter, twin engine steel motor yacht. One of the most comfortable dive boats in Asia, she easily accommodates 18 guests in 8 deluxe cabins and 2 guests in a lower deck budget cabin. All deluxe cabins are located on the main deck and offer a choice of either double bed only or twin bed configuration. Each deluxe cabin offers large panoramic sea view windows. individually controlled air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. Below deck the budget cabins have twin bunks, vanity sink, air conditioning and share a bathroom with one other cabin via adjoining doors.

There is a wide stern dive platform with two exit ladders and fresh warm water showers. The dive deck is huge with plenty of room to gear up, individual boxes for your dive gear, camera tables and loads of rinse tanks. Enjoy fresh fluffy towels after each dive and hot chocolate after your night dives !

The dining room is at the front of the main deck where delicious buffet style Asian and western meals are served. The saloon is large and spacious with comfortable lounges, big windows, bar fridge, and complimentary fresh roast coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices. Multimedia entertainment centre including large flat screen TV for briefing and movies, large library and a full selection of marine life books.

There are two outside decks–the shade covered party deck with its comfy cushioned lounge suite around nearly the whole deck and the sun platform in front of the wheelhouse give you the choice to sun bake or not !

RAJA AMPAT

The best time to dive Raja Ampat is from October to April. During this time you will be able to explore the Northern and Southern Part of Raja Ampat. The water temperature in Raja Ampat is between 27 – 30 Celsius. We recommend 3mm long wetsuit to dive in Raja Ampat unless you are warm quickly.

THE MARINE PARK

The Raja Ampat Marine Park covers a large area with more than 1’500 islands listed. Therefore, a liveaboard is an ideal way to explore this fantastic destination. Here you will explore one of the last frontiers of unspoiled diving and snorkelling. The archipelago’s pristine reefs are not only vibrant, but the region also proves to have the highest coral reef biodiversity for its size in the world. Raja Ampat holds more than 1’320 fish and 550 coral species and all that is yet to be discovered. Raja Ampat is the epicentre of global marine biodiversity and considered to have the best coral reef diving on the planet. From unusual wobbegong sharks to majestic giant mantas to tiny pygmy seahorses, Raja Ampat has it all! If you are snorkelers or have non-diver family members or friends and you are not sure if this will be a trip that they would enjoy, we have good news: there are many activities for you too!! There are plenty of excellent sites in this fabulous destination, which not only great for diving but also for snorkelling. This marine park is listed among the world’s best-snorkelling destinations. This area is also remarkable for its stunning above water scenery. The famous natural landmark of Raja Ampat is of the mushroom-shaped limestone formations covered in dense vegetation rising out of the turquoise seas. A visit to Pianemo or Wayag viewpoints for extraordinary views and photo opportunities of these iconic natural wonders. During our trip to Raja Ampat, we will also visit local villages on some islands and explore the beautiful lagoon by speed boat.

August 3 to 15, 2025

On August 9th, a connecting flight will bring you to the island of Santa Maria through Ponta Delgada.

03.08. – 09.08.2025

Daily Plan

Due to unpredictable weather conditions, the daily action plan will be discussed one day before or even change in the morning again. This means you should be flexible and ready for some short-notice changes every day. The activities included will happen at some point during the week. If some trips won’t be possible, there will be a refund or other similar activities instead. This group is limited to 8 divers on private boats which maximizes the experience but also makes it easier to plan and discuss within the group.

Faial

House Bay Guest House Guest House, located in the historical center of Horta, offers stunning views of the Bay of Horta. This guesthouse features eight rooms with private bathrooms, a shared living room with cable TV, a kitchen where guests can prepare meals, and a terrace for socializing and dining while enjoying the bay view. Breakfast with local products is served in the kitchen, and there are individual dispensations for each room.

Ideally situated for exploring Horta, the guesthouse is near the Horta Marina, Peter’s Café Sport, and Porto Pim Beach, with various restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops nearby. Transportation options include a taxi rank, Minibus stop, and public parking, with Horta Airport a 10-minute drive away and the Maritime Terminal five minutes away. The marine-themed decor of the rooms adds a colorful and educational touch, reflecting the maritime culture of the Azores.

Santa Maria

The Azores

The Azores (Portuguese: Açores) are an island archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly halfway between mainland Portugal and North America. The archipelago consists of nine islands of volcanic origin that are known for their untouched natural scenery and friendly inhabitants. Apart from the volcanic craters, green meadows, lakes and waterfalls, Azores are a true eco-tourism paradise offering incredible marine biodiversity, whale watching and world-class diving.

The Island of Faial

Located only 4.5 nautical miles from the island of Pico and approximately 14 nautical miles from the island of São Jorge, Faial is one of the ‘Triangle Islands’. Recognised as the yachting capital of the northern hemisphere, it has a strong connection to the sea with its main port – Horta Marina – providing a safe harbour for thousands of vessels as they cross the Atlantic. The number of sailboats huddled in the small bay adds to the charm of this city, which lies in the shadow of the extinct volcano of Guia Hill. No visit to Horta is complete without a visit to one of its most famous Portuguese bars – Peter’s Café Sport. Overlooking the Marina with Mount Pico as its backdrop, the walls are covered in flags left by travellers, giving the bar a sense of the history of the city. Faial was the site of the Azores last major eruption, the Capelinhos Volcano (1957/58). The landscape created by the eruption on the island’s west tip makes for a fascinating day trip and the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre has lots of information about the devastation caused by the event.

The Island of Santa Maria

Santa Maria is one of the nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago, situated in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is the southernmost and oldest of the Azorean islands, with a rich history dating back to its discovery in 1427. Santa Maria is known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring lush green landscapes, picturesque beaches, and rugged cliffs. The island’s climate is relatively dry and warm compared to the other Azorean islands, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Santa Maria also offers a glimpse into its historical past with charming villages, traditional architecture, and cultural festivals that celebrate its unique heritage.

More about Azores islands

All the nine islands of the Azores Archipelago are of volcanic origin and are located in the North Atlantic, scattered along a 600 km stretch of ocean from Santa Maria to Corvo, approximately between 37° and 40° north latitude and 25° and 31° west longitude.

The islands of the archipelago are divided in three geographical groups: the Eastern Group, comprising Santa Maria and São Miguel, the Central Group, including Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, and the Western Group, composed by Corvo and Flores. The Azores, along with the archipelagos of Madeira, Canary Islands and Cape Verde, constitute the biogeographic region of Macaronesia, a name which means “fortunate islands” for those who live there and visit them.

In the realm of legend, some associate the Azores to the Atlantis, the mythical island kingdom quoted by Plato. As for history, references to nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean located approximately in the position of the Azores can be found in books and maps since the 14th century. However, it was with the Portuguese Maritime Discoveries, led by Prince Infante D. Henrique, that the Azores were definitely registered in the map of Europe. It is unknown whether the first navigator to reach the archipelago was Diogo de Silves in 1427 or Gonçalo Velho Cabral in 1431. The origin of the name Azores is also debatable as there are various theories. The most common associates the designation of the common buzzards found on the islands which were mistaken as being another bird of prey: the northern goshawk (açor). What is now certain is that it was Prince Infante D. Henrique who incited the settlement of the islands. First, animals were sent, between 1431 and 1432, and later settlers started to arrive from 1439.

From that date, the settlement continued throughout the 15th century (Western and Central Groups) and the 16th century (Western Group). Jews, Moors, Flemish, Genovese, Englishmen, Frenchmen, and African slaves came together with the Portuguese from the mainland to face the hardships of such a task.

This epic start moulded a people that throughout the centuries was able to resist volcanic eruptions, isolation, invasions of pirates, political wars and infesting diseases. The courage of the Azorean people was confirmed when they resisted the Spanish domination during the succession crisis of 1580, and when they supported the liberal movement during the civil war (1828-1834).

The Azores have a long list of natural parks, of areas of protected landscape, of protected fauna and flora species, of forest reserves, and of sites with geological interest guaranteeing the preservation of a priceless natural legacy. As a form of compensation for all of this effort, the Azores are considered to be a sanctuary of biodiversity and geodiversity and one of the best locations for Nature Tourism.

In the Atlantic Ocean, life multiplies itself by more than two dozen species of dolphins and whales that either inhabit or pass through Azorean waters. There are abundant colonies of molluscs, crustaceous and fish, thus completing the region’s extraordinary marine diversity.

Reiseablauf

Start/Ende Fakarava – Das Beste der Tuamotus

Die Tauchsafari beginnt und endet in Fakarava, eine Flugstunde von Tahiti entfernt.

Die 15 Nächte Reise umfasst die besten Tauchplätze des Tuamoto-Archipels. Fakarava ist eines der berühmtesten Tauchgebiete in Französisch-Polynesien, da es wahrscheinlich die reichsten und spektakulärsten Unterwasserlandschaften bietet.

Je nach Wetter und Bedingungen kannst du 13 Tauchtage mit bis zu maximal 2 Tauchgängen täglich erwarten.

Tauchsafaris auf der Aqua Tiki III sind keine “Hardcore”-Tauchsafaris, sondern vielmehr eine sehr gelungene Symbiose aus entspannendem Tauchen und Inselerlebnissen. Du erkundest die besten Tauchplätze, Kanäle, Riffe und Lagunen entlang der Route durch die Atolle Fakarava, Tetamanu, Kauehi und Toau.

Für diejenigen, die kein Anschlussprogramm geplant haben, endet die Reise auf der Aquatiki III am 01. Oktober. Alternativ kann man auch länger in Französisch-Polynesien bleiben, z.B. auf den Tuamotus, Tahiti oder auch auf Moorea oder Bora-Bora. Wir beraten dich gerne unverbindlich über die Möglichkeiten, die individuell auf deine Wunschtage abgestimmt werden können.

Aquatiki III

Die Aquatiki III ist ein Katamaran der Marke Fountaine Pajot, gebaut in La Rochelle, Frankreich.

Der Komfort an Bord ist eines Hotels würdig: ein großer, sehr komfortabler Bereich mit Videoecke, Lounge-Bibliothek und Cocktailbar. Eine amerikanische Küche, ein großes Deck das durch ein Vordach vor der Sonne geschützt ist, wo die Mahlzeiten serviert werden, ein großes Sonnendeck, ein vorderer Salon und 2 Trampoline, die im Allgemeinen sehr begehrt sind, sowie eine Grillplattform.

Der Katamaran ist 20 m lang und 9,8 m breit und verfügt über 5 Kabinen für insgesamt 10 Gäste: 2 Kabinen mit Doppel- oder Einzelbetten, 1 Kabine mit Etagenbetten für 2 Personen und 2 VIP-Doppelkabinen mit TV/Hifi/DVD-Anlage. Sie verfügen alle über eine individuell regulierbare Klimaanlage, ein Soundsystem und ein eigenes Bad mit Toilette.

Der Antrieb wird durch 230 m² Segel und 2 Motoren mit 150 PS gewährleistet, mit einem mehr als 1000 Liter großen Kraftstofftank.

Ein leistungsstarker Generator und ein Wechselrichter sorgen für die elektrische Versorgung, die kontinuierlich 220 V liefert, mit individuellen 220 V Steckdosen in jeder Kabine 24/7.

Die Aquatiki ist autonom im Süßwasser: mehr als 800 Liter Reserve, mit 2 Entsalzungsanlagen von 190 Litern / Stunde.

Der Katamaran ist mit den modernsten Navigationsgeräten und den neuesten technischen Entwicklungen ausgestattet, um maximale Sicherheit zu bieten: Autopilot, GPS, BLU, VHF, Computer-Navigationszentrum, Radar, Standard-C-Wetter, Notsignal von Sarsat.

Der Katamaran ist auch mit allen Annehmlichkeiten ausgestattet wie eine Hi-Fi-Anlage mit Soundsystem in jeder Kabine, Fernseher, Videorecorder und DVD mit Videothek. Eine Bibliothek, in der du unter anderem Dokumentationen über die Unterwasserfauna, Polynesien, die Schifffahrt usw. findest, sowie zahlreiche Spiele, um die Abende zu gestalten.

Ein Telefon, WIFI und ein Fax per Satellit ermöglichen es, unter allen Umständen und sogar am anderen Ende der Welt in Verbindung zu bleiben!

Französisch Polynesien

Französisch-Polynesien liegt 18.000 km von Frankreich entfernt und besteht aus etwa 118 Inseln vulkanischen oder korallenartigen Ursprungs, die eine Fläche von etwa 4.200 km² bedecken. Diese Inseln liegen verstreut in einer Region, die so groß ist wie Europa.

Das Klima ist tropisch, warm und feucht, wird aber durch Passatwinde gemildert. Es gibt zwei Jahreszeiten: eine heiße und feuchte Saison (27 bis 35 ° C) von Dezember bis Februar und eine kühlere Saison (21 bis 27 ° C) von März bis November.

Das Gebiet, das den Status eines Übersee-Territoriums hat, besteht aus 5 Inselgruppen, die jeweils völlig unterschiedliche Landschaften bieten:

• Im Westen gehören die Inseln Tahiti (die größte der polynesischen Inseln, mit Papeete als Verwaltungshauptstadt und Moorea) und die Inseln Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine, Bora-Bora, Maupiti dazu. Dies sind gebirgige Inseln, die von einem Korallenriff und einer Lagune umgeben sind, die die Küste säumen. Es ist die größte und am dichtesten besiedelte Region dieses Gebiets.
• Der 300 km nordöstlich von Tahiti gelegene Tuamotu-Archipel besteht ausschließlich aus flach liegenden Koralleninseln, den so genannten Atollen, sowie aus ausgedehnten Sandbänken, die mit Kokospalmen bewachsen sind und die eine türkisfarbene Lagune im Inneren abgrenzen.
• Der Australes-Archipel (Tubuai, Rurutu), ganz im Süden gelegen, besteht aus 7 gebirgigen Inseln, die von einer Lagune und einem Riff umgeben werden. Das flache Gelände und subtropische Klima eignen sich gut für den Gemüseanbau. Von Juli bis Oktober ist im Australes-Archipel der Treffpunkt für Wale.
• Der Gambier-Archipel (Mangareva) im äußersten Osten des Landes, etwa 1.600 km von Tahiti entfernt, besteht aus vulkanischen Gesteinen. Es sind Überreste eines Vulkans, der von einem Saumriff umgeben ist, aus dem sich dutzende Inseln erheben.
• Der 1.500 km von Tahiti entfernte Marquesas-Archipel (Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa) liegt in der Nähe des Äquators und besteht aus einer Gruppe Vulkaninseln, die weder eine Lagune noch ein Korallenriff besitzen. Die meisten Inseln sind von kleinen Nebeninseln oder Rifffelsen umgeben. Die Marquesas, genannt Enua Enata (übersetz „Die Erde der Männer“), bieten nur wenige Strände, dafür aber grandiose Landschaften, überwiegend gebirgig, stark zerklüftet mit tief eingeschnittenen Tälern, deren Flüsse sich manchmal mit spektakulären Wasserfällen ins Meer ergießen.

Tuamotu-Archipel

Der Tuamotu-Archipel, der etwa 300 km nordöstlich von Tahiti liegt, besteht aus 76 Atollen, von denen kaum die Hälfte bewohnt ist. Bei diesen so genannten flachen Inseln handelt es sich um Krater, die unter dem Einfluss der Erosion verschwunden sind und deren von Korallen besiedelte Ränder nur noch aus weißem Sand bestehen, der mit Muscheln übersät und mit Kokospalmen bepflanzt ist, die die Polynesier “Motu” nennen.

Das Klima auf Tuamotu unterscheidet sich von dem der höher gelegenen Inseln von Tahiti und den Inseln im Windschatten. Die warme und feuchte Jahreszeit von Dezember bis Februar ist hier viel gemäßigter, mit einem erfrischenden Passatwind und geringeren Niederschlägen (meist in der Nacht), was zu Schwierigkeiten bei der Frischwasserversorgung führt.

Auf den Tuamotu ist die Landschaft völlig unberührt, weit weg von jeglichem städtischen Trubel. Das Leben auf diesen Atollen ist einfach und ruhig. Die Aktivitäten der Einheimischen, der Paumotus, beschränken sich auf getrocknete Kokosnuss, Fischfang und seit einigen Jahren auf die Zucht von Perlmutt Durch Veredelung entsteht die berühmte schwarze Perle, eine endemische Tuamotu-Art. Die Lagune im Landesinneren ist ein geschützter Ort, ideal für die Einrichtung von Perlenfarmen und Fischparks.

Jedes Atoll bietet Landschaften von wilder Schönheit. Vom Himmel aus gesehen erscheinen sie wie weiße Ringe auf dem tiefblauen Pazifik. Die Motus sind mit Kokospalmen bewachsen, die von schönen Stränden umgeben sind, und werden durch kleine Kanäle voneinander getrennt. Das Wasser der Lagunen färbt sich von Zartgrün zu Türkisblau und geht in Violett über.

Rangiroa war das bekannteste Paumotu-Atoll, vor allem wegen seiner Tauchplätze. Aber nicht weit von Rangiroa entfernt liegt Fakarava. Fakarava hat den größten Pass Polynesiens und ist von Atollen umgeben, die die schönsten Tauchplätze Polynesiens bieten.

Tauchen in Französisch-Polynesien

Fakarava-Touren sind Tauchausflüge auf hohem Niveau, die auch die anspruchsvollsten Taucher zufriedenstellen werden.

Die Leitung erfolgt durch einen Tauchlehrer, der die Taucher begleitet, und einer Person an der Oberfläche, die den Tauchgang ständig überwacht. Die Tauchgänge werden in den Kanälen durchgeführt, wobei die Strömungen oft sehr stark sein können!

Je nach Wetterbedingungen und Strömungen werden täglich 2 Tauchgänge angeboten, außer am An- und Abreisetag.

Die Wassertemperatur schwankt wenig: von 25 ° C im Winter (September) bis 29 ° C im Sommer (März), ohne Sprungschicht. Die Sichtweiten in diesen kristallklaren Gewässern sind immer ausgezeichnet.

Nachttauchgänge sind nicht geplant (bitte vor Ort erfragen).

Malapascua: March 15 – 21 March 2025 

Day 1 (March 15) arrival day –pick up at Cebu, arrival at the island. Welcome briefing and prepare boxes. Possible to do sunset dive (not part of the itinerary).

Day 2 (March 16) – 2 dives with the Thresher sharks and 1 dive sunset/night with the Mandarin fish at light house reef.

Day 3 (March 17) – Gato Island Day trip incl. lunch on the boat: 3 dives out (additional optional night on guest bill).

Day 4 (March 18 – Day off – after Saturday night? The most fun night on the island after Friday night 😉

Day 5 (March 19) – 2 dives at Kalangaman Island (BBQ on the beach) + 1 dive at Chocolate Island on the way back.

Day 6 – (March 20) – 2 dives with the thresher sharks and 1 local dive.

Day 7 – (March 21) – Departure Day

Tubbataha Reef: 22 to 28 March 2025