Banda Neira in Maluku
Dive into history and vibrant reefs at the heart of the Spice Islands
What you need to know about Banda Neira
Banda Neira, the heart of the historic Spice Islands, offers an unparalleled diving experience rich in history and marine biodiversity. Located in the Banda Sea, this gem of an island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and steeped in colonial history, making it a unique destination for divers and history enthusiasts alike.
The waters around Banda Neira are teeming with marine life, from colorful coral gardens to fascinating shipwrecks that tell tales of the past. Divers can encounter large pelagics, such as hammerhead sharks and schools of barracuda, as well as a variety of macro critters in the shallows. The island’s underwater landscape features stunning walls, slopes, and lava flows from the active volcano, Gunung Api.
For non-divers, Banda Neira offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the remnants of Dutch colonial forts, stroll through nutmeg plantations, and learn about the island's pivotal role in the spice trade. Whether you're diving into history or exploring beneath the waves, Banda Neira promises an unforgettable adventure.
Interesting facts about Banda Neira Island
Getting there: The best way to explore Banda Neira is by liveaboard, offering direct access to its top dive sites. Alternatively, you can fly to Pattimura Airport (AMQ) in Ambon and take a local flight or ferry to Banda Neira.
Best time to visit Banda Neira: The prime diving season is from September to December and March to April, with water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). These periods offer the best visibility and marine life encounters.
Diving Conditions: Expect water depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters, with mild to moderate currents. The excellent visibility and diverse dive sites cater to divers of all experience levels.
Our liveaboard trips: Our liveaboard vessels offer trips ranging from 7 to 10 days, often including stops at other Maluku Islands and Raja Ampat. These trips provide a comprehensive diving experience in some of Indonesia's most remote waters.
A little-known fact: Banda Neira was once the epicenter of the global spice trade, particularly for nutmeg and mace, which were more valuable than gold in the 16th century.