The Climate, Diving Season and Best Time to Visit
Liveaboard cruises in the Banda Islands and Banda Sea are usually scheduled for the calmer weather periods in March, April, and from the September to December, in order to avoid rough seas.
Water temperatures are pretty consistent at these times (26-29°C). Visibility will be at its best (15-30m) in the September-December window.
Ports of Departure and How to Get There
Banda Islands liveaboard cruises depart from a range of ports. Trips beginning in the Banda Islands use Ambon as the departure port. You can reach Ambon from Jakarta, Bali (often via Ujung Pandang) and Manado. Banda & Raja Ampat cruises will use Sorong to begin or end the trip. You can fly to Sorong direct from Bali, Jakarta, or via Ujung Pandang or Manado. A variety of other ports may be used, depending on the route. They include Maumere, Saumlaki, Kaimana and Kalabahi.
You can view which ports the various boats use on their trips in the 'Departures & Prices' section of each boat's web page. We will send you full departure details during the booking process. Whichever ports your boat uses, normally the boat operator provides a transfer to the boat from the local airport or hotels (if you overnight beforehand).
Most people fly into Indonesia to Jakarta (Java), Manado (Sulawesi) or Denpasar (Bali). More information on: how to get to Indonesia.
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Places to Stay
For hotels before/after your Banda liveaboard safari, book through HotelsCombined.com. Compare options, chat with agents online, and reserve instantly with their Low Price Guarantee for best value:
