Banda Islands Scuba Diving Sites
Seemingly insignificant islands in the middle of nowhere in the Banda Sea, the Banda Islands are in fact steeped in history and blessed with some of the finest diving in the country. Central to the spice trade of old, and former home to exiled freedom fighters, the islands are now enjoying a growing reputation for what goes on below the surface.
If big pelagics are your thing and you fancy the idea of being surrounded by masses of dog-tooth tuna, then an Indonesia liveaboard cruise here could be for you. Apparently the stocks of this primary source of meat to the islanders simply cannot decline at current consumption, such is their breeding rate. Diving is usually comfortable, with good visibility and calm waters, but some of the dive sites are subject to conditions that make them suitable for experienced divers only. One certainty is that you will see plenty of big stuff as well as no shortage of colourful reef life.
Topside, these Banda Islands boast climbable volcanic mountains which are covered in lush green vegetation. For a taste of historic atmosphere going ashore in Bandaneira is a must for its remnants from the old spice trade of colonial times.
Diving Season
May to June and September to November are the two most reliable periods to visit, but there is no reason you shouldn't enjoy great diving in the Banda Sea at other times of the year.
Banda Islands Diving Reef Basics
Depth: 8 - >40m
Visibility: 20 - 40m
Currents: Can be very strong
Surface Conditions: Calm
Water Temperature: 25 - 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate - advanced
PADI Course Compatibility: Great for shark awareness and drift diving
Distance: ~1,650 km east northeast of Bali (83 hours), 320 south west of Irian Jaya (16 hours)
Access: Indonesia liveaboards
Banda Islands Dive Sites
More detailed information on the dive sites of Banda Islands:
Dive The World Recommendations: Batu Kabal and Karnobol.
Other dive sites that can be dived as part of a Banda Islands liveaboard cruise:
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