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Pindito liveaboard is the only safari boat in Indonesia  that has 15+ years of operating experience in Raja Ampat, Komodo, Flores and the Banda sea.
Offering 8 cabins for 16 guests in 6 double and 2 twin all cabins feature ensuite heads with hot and cold running water (vanity and shower as well as toilet), individually controlled air conditioning and five 220v AC electrical outlets available 24  hours a day. Our crew is devoted to your comfort and will attend to your cabin daily, keeping it clean and tidy and providing fresh towels as necessary. Additional towels are available for you on deck as needed. Now you can join Pindito as she sails to and dives upon the most biodiverse coral reefs in the world. With a crew off 17 standing-by to look after you during your expedition you will be sure to discover the best diving in the world in style.
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The Lounge is the place where everybody meets for meals, shares photos and videos between  dives, and socializes. Spend convivial hours playing games, telling tall tales, listening to music, or just kicking back at the end of the diving day with a cold Bintang (Indonesian beer) or a glass of fine Australian wine.
Meals & Drinks
Savor our international cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. The food is influenced by international and above all Indonesian (or Asian) dishes. Breakfast is served in two slots. Continental breakfast before the first dive, sumptuous breakfast buffet after the first dive.
Lunch and dinner with an Asian flair, featuring meat, fish, and a variety of side dishes.  And save room for special sweets and delightful desserts!
Between meals, our crew will serve you snacks, including cake and cookies. Tea, coffee, juice, soda and cold water are always available.
After your last dive of the day, unwind with a beer or a cocktail or a nice glass of wine.
Be sure to let us know what you like to drink so we can have it waiting for you onboard. Beer is complimentary while cocktails and wine require a surcharge.
Computer Area:
The Pindito offers a computer forburning CDs/DVDS so that you can create lasting pictorial and  video memories of your dives. Please bring your own blank CDs and DVDs!
TV, Video & Music Area:
Enjoy a variety of music and new video releases here, and feel free to plug in your laptop, camcorder or dSLR to view your images on our big screen TV!
Library:
Learn about the reefs and fishes you've seen on dives in our Marine Life Library, or curl up with a paperback between dives. Novels are available on a "take one/leave one" basis.
Dive deck
Meet  and prepare for your upcoming dive on the Pindito's Dive Deck. Take a fresh water shower after the dive, trick-out your dive gear, get help from dive staff, and just hang out here before and after dives.
Wheelhouse
The Pindito's navigation instruments are all situated here on the bridge: Radar, satellite navigation (GPS), deep sounder, satellite communication, Irridium (Seawave) with e-mail connectivity and VHF radios. All instruments have a backup unit for safety. The captain, officers, wheelmen and machinist work in shifts and are on-duty and vigilant 24 hours a day.
The Pindito is BKI registered and insured.
Crew 
The Pindito's Indonesian crew of 17 is at work to ensure you a secure and comfortable voyage through Indonesia's tropical island paradise.
The crew includes two chefs and two stewards who will constantly attend to your dining and cabin needs.
The bow
The Pindito's bow is a popular place to get together with other guests, have a cool drink and enjoy spectacular sunsets. Here, “walking the plank” offers you a cool breeze and the best place towatch dolphins and flying fish as they skip along inPindito's bow-wake.
Kitchen 
Our chefs are specially trained to provide you with unlimited delicious food. They are happy to meet your special dietary requests. Just drop us a note before the cruise and let us know what you love to eat and we’ll do our best to have it onboard and prepared for you.
Camera room
Photographers and videographers will love the convenience and functionality of the Pindito's camera room, located aft of the Lounge on the Main Deck.
We built the Camera Room with the needs ofmodern digital underwater photographers and videographers in mind. Here you will find plenty of storage space, professional-grade work areas, and both 220v and 110v AC charging stations at your disposal. We also offer overflow space for photographers on the spacious tables in the salon (please clear for meals) and on the lounge deck when more space is needed for image-makers.
In the salon you will also find the large flat panel television and computer center where you can plug into and watch video and stills created during your dives. And be sure to take advantage of the extensive knowledge base of the ship’s onboard photo and video professionals by asking questions should you have them.
Pindito offersspecial photo charters during which you can cruise with top underwater photographers. Be sure to ask our booking agent about these special photo and video "Focus" weeks. We offer top pros, like Marty Snyderman, who will work with you hands-on to help you perfect your underwater stills.
If making high-definition video underwater is your focus, top European videographer Edi Frommenweiler and American videographer Clay Wiseman offer high definition (Sony HDCam) and even 4K (Red Cam) broadcast-quality professional production seminars aboard Pindito, during which you can create professional quality reels and video productions. Learn about broadcast video production, using tripod stabilization underwater,maintenance and preparationof your video housing, capturing unique marine life behaviors, and editing your video in Final Cut Pro.
Sun deck
Relax and rejuvenate — choose from a variety of massages offered in our new Floating Spa.
Our crew member Gagak is for the professional given “Bali Traditional” oder an “Aroma Therapy” massage or a Reflex Zone Therapy responsible. In the morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to enjoy a relaxing massage.
The Massages are payable on board and can't be reserved or booked in advance.
Traditional Balinese Massage
a whole-body massage to reduce fatigue and stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph.
1 hour massage per person: USD 32.00 / EUR 20.00
Aromatherapy Massage
a whole-body massage utilizing essential oils to heal and tone body, mind, and spirit.
1 hour Massage per person: USD 32.00 / EUR 20.00
Reflex Zone Therapy
Relieve tension, increase your energy, and heal your body through the massage of nerve endings in your feet.
1 hour massage per person: USD 24.00 / EUR 15.00
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Revel in a magestic array of superb  natural attractions - unspoiled coral gardens, volcanic landscapes and unexplored turquoise cays . Straddling the equator, Indonesia is a tropical island paradise made up of 14,000 islands, many of which are noted as world-class diving destinations.  The stunning natural wealth of this archipelago, even when considering itsindividual attractions, is enough to make most other travel spots green with envy. If you are looking for an idyllic tropical setting with great diving right at your doorstep and unforgettable natural wonders, a trip to Indonesia is a must.
Even though there is no way for this website to touch on all that Indonesia has to offer, here is a brief glimpse at some of the highlights
 There is truly something for everyone. Indonesia can rightfully boast of landscapes consisting of palm-fringed tropical islands, heavenly white-sand beaches, majestic wildernesses, towering mountains, an impressive chain of volcanoes and the world’s  best underwater spots.
For those with an itch to explore, you can search for the legendary "Komodo Dragon" on the island of the same name, explore the lush habitat of the "Bird of Paradise", enjoy kayaking and bird watching in the coastal mangroves or trek through superb national parks. The Cenderawasih natural reserve offers both iridescent corals underwater and great trekking opportunities as parts of visits to fascinating traditional villages.

But if your idea of a holiday is pure relaxation, you can also just relish the wonderful warmth of the sun on the legendary beaches on Bali after a drift dive through exquisite coral gardens. Nusa Tengara and North Sulawesi are famed for their underwater landscapes and the breathtaking beauty of the remote Maluku Islands can be enjoyed from our beautiful sundeck.

And, of course, for those happiest in the underwater realm, you will not be disappointed! The uniqueness of West Papua, a largely ignored region which is home to the world’s highest and most species-rich island, will leave you with fantastic memories to last a lifetime. The reefs and beaches of the Togean Islands provide spectacular diving amidst a perfect tropical island setting. Komodo of course is considered the quintessential dive destination  but you shouldn't overlook the opportunity to discover the natural marine richness and the unusual rarity of places like the Raja Ampat Archipelago, which has been called a "Lost World", a jewel both on land and at sea.
And this is only a brief glimpse at the country's charms! Indonesia still has many areas waiting to be discovered. Come join us in our explorations of the hundreds of untouched  islands surrounded by enchanting coral reefs that await you!
The marvelously rich culture of Indonesia boasts a unique and remarkable assortment of cultural traditions, vibrant arts and many individual ethnic groups.
The rugged mountainous terrain and the fact that the country is made up of many islands, many of which remained isolated from each other, resulted in groups of people with distinct  traditions and an extraordinarily diverse differentiation of languages and cultures across the archipelago.
The islanders did not in fact become "Indonesians" until 1945, when a line was drawn to incorporate the former Dutch East Indies, a group of islands bringing together an astonishingly varied collection of peoples.
Examples of this heterogeneous development can be seen in the fascinating temple complexes of Borobudur  and Prambanam, or during a visit to Sumba, home to some of the most traditional cultures in East Indonesia, where you can see spectacular ikat and massive megalithic tombs. You can also visit centers of contemporary art and culture on Bali, or discover South Sulawesi and the area of Toraja, where elaborate funeral rites are a central part of their society. To experience a living example of Indonesia's rich culture, visit the Minangkabau region of West Sumutra, known for its architecture, and where music and dance thrive. Is it any surprise then that "Unity in diversity" is Indonesia's national motto - Photos of Raja Ampat diving - Komodo diving photos
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 The Pindito provides transfers from any hotel in South Bali to the Pindito and welcomesyou on boardat 11:00 AM in Benoa Harbor, South East Bali. As soon as all guests are on board and are holding their welcome drink the Pindito is ready to leave the harbour. You will be introduced to the crew members and you will be shown around in order to start feeling at home on the Pindito.
In the meantime the Pindito leaves the harbour and heads off towards Lombok. Take this opportunity to enjoy Bali’s famous sunsets while enjoying a drink our deck. Dinner will be served while cruising towards our first destination, Satonda north of Sumbawa.
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Day 2, Satonda, North Sumbawa |
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After our light breakfast, we´ll have a check dive at the calm shore of Satonda. After this dive full breakfast will be served. Satonda, an island which has both shore-side and underwater treats, to entertain everybody. Today’s diving will take place in this spectacular area, including the night dive. If you wish, we can organise a short walk to the brackish lake where locals believe sacred wishes become true. Right after sunset there are thousands of fruit bats lifting off from Satonda Island towards Sumbawa; a spectacle of its own. After the night dive we lift anchor and depart with directions Komodo National Park.
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The vegetation has changed drastically. A rough and dry landscape is the new scenery. The peaceful bays of Banta Island, and an enormous variety of fish life under water. Our special spot called "Critters" offer a full menu of rarnesness. After dinner, we will sail towards our next incredible destination, Rinca.
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Day 4, Rinca, Komodo National Park |
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After a peaceful night´s cruise to the sheltered waters of Horseshoe Bay, Rinca Island, we will spend the whole day diving in this area. You can enjoy the uniqueness of this area. These dive sites are famous for their diversity in marine life that will be fully appreciated once under the water! All meals will be served on board. Between dives our guests can explore the lonely beach by going for a walk or with the binoculars. Wild boars, monkeys and the odd Komodo dragon are the highlights.
Day 5, Komodo National Park |
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Another day diving in the Horseshoe Bay area is scheduled. We will introduce new incredible dive spots and as well hold on to the already explored favourites. Enjoy relaxing cocktails and learn about the marine species from our vast library of identification books in between dives. We will lift anchor late at night to move towards the village of Komodo for your "dragon adventure" the following morning.
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Day 6, Komodo National Park |
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Pindito welcomes you to the famous Komodo Island early this morning. After breakfast, a park ranger will escort you for a 4.5 km walk. You can see the Komodo Dragons when they are sunbathing and heating up, from very, very close (a scary and challenging experience at once!). Komodo National Park is the only habitat on earth where the dragons still exist. After lunch, you will spend the rest of the afternoon diving in this incredible area. Dinner will be served on board.
Day 7 & 8, Komodo National Park |
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What else should be scheduled but diving in this fantastic region? We visit islands such as Padar, Tatawa, and Rinca. Gili Lawa Laut, Gili Makaser. Between lunch and dinner, we offer as many dives as possible. Cruising through this spectacular area, both above water and below will prove an unforgettable experience. At midnight, we lift anchor and move to Sangeang Island.
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At Sangeang the stunning volcanic island offers some of the best dive sites. We will spend the entire day diving around this incredible place to make sure nothing will be missed. Lunch will be served on board while the Pindito sails to another beautiful bay. The night will be spent in the area of Sangeang.
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Day 10, North East Sumbawa |
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Diving around Sangeang! Lunch and dinner are served on board. As an alternative to diving you may visit the village of Sangeang, where the locals build the Pinisih vessels in their traditional way. You can see how the Indonesian carpenters work on these wooden ships right on the beach.
Day 11, Moyo Island, north Sumbawa |
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We reach the island of Moyo early this morning. Moyo is a nature reserve and many kinds of birds and monkeys live on the island and are responsible for the acoustic background sounds. After the last dive the Pindito lifts anchor cruises northern of Lombok towards Bali. On our way back we have a captain’s party on deck. Our crew will sing traditional songs and dance the Boco Boco!
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Day 12, South East Bali
Harbour of Benoa, South East Bali, 8.00 am. We are already at the end of this cruise. After breakfast we get ready for disembarking and the Pindito organises the transfer back to the airport.
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The Misool route will show you an abundance of the undersea world. Its beauty  will carry you away! Thousands of isle, which have been pushed up throughout the thousands of years and build a wonderful scene. Everywhere you come across caves, or caverns, you´ll find rocks as big as cathedrals, over hangs that all together improve the dramatic sight of this breathtaking landscapes.
Misool is a region with thousands of isle, which have been pushed up throughout the thousands of years and build a wonderful scene. You come across caves, or caverns everywhere. You´ll find rocks as big as cathedrals, over hangs that improve the dramatic sight of this breathtaking region.
Of course these sights will continue in no less impressing views under water. Misool is one of the places on earth where you´ll find the most various species of fish, hard and soft corals, sponges, worms, nudibranches, shrimps and crabs and all kind of non-vertebrates, like cuttle fish and octopus.  You will as well come across wobbegong shark and epaulet sharks, which you will only find in the region of „Raja Empat“. Giant clams as well as fantastic tiny shells. Photographers as well as Videographers will have the dives of their lifetime for shoot macro all over.
Misool is one of the places with most wonderful and colourful and above all still intact reefs. All kinds of different corals set up the background scenery of the underwater world.
Our Pindito crew knows this region since 1992. Until 2001 was the unique live aboard cruising and offering diving holidays. Nobody else but the Pindito crew knows this place better. All isles, channels, rocks and caves had been explored throughout the years. It is always a great adventure to do land excursions in Misool, on condition that the weather allows it of course.
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Pick up at the airport of Sorong from our German and English speaking crew member. Short private transfer to the peer and embarking. As soon as all guests are on board and are holding their welcome drink the Pindito is ready to leave the harbour. You will be introduced to the crew members and you will be shown around in order to start feeling at home on the Pindito.
Dinner will be served about 06.00 pm, so you may gather together with our other guests and start your tour!
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Misool, after our little breakfast we shall have the first at about 08.00 am. The spot we choose is a calm and relaxing place, and gives you the opportunity to get used to the region. After this first check-dive you have the second part of your nourishing breakfast. At 11.00 am we head of the dive spot called „Vrenelies Gärtli“, which has become legendary on the Pindito. Over hangs, huge grottoes and dive troughs, drop offs and all covered in fantastic corals is what makes this place so great. Lunch is served at 12.30 pm and you’ll have time to relax until 3.00 pm to get back to "Vrenelies Gärtli“. Since this spot is so huge and offers so much diversity, we can easily offer several dives here. After this dive there is enough time to go on a trip on our zodiacs in order to admire the wonderful landscape that gives hand to what you have seen under water. Do you feel like giving a try on the wakeboard or on the water-skis, you are ever so welcome. Dinner will be ready at 6.00 pm and at 8.00 pm you better get ready again for our last dive this day!
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The Pindito will continue to cruise southwards to the group of isles called „Fabiajet“. Picturesque landscapes and wonderful reefs are waiting for you. The abundance of corals, different sponges and fish is nearly unbeatable. We allow ourselves to offer several dives at the same spots, since they have so much to offer. Theses masses of fish swimming around those wonderful coral gardens are an impressive view and will satisfy every diver’s wishes and dreams. Of course we will come across precious macro as well: nudibranches, sea horses, barramundi and lots more are on the program! For the night dive the Pindito will anchor in a very calm and shallow place with hardly any current, but loads of nudibranches, pipe fishes, cuttle dish, ghost pipefish! Want to take a picture? Go ahead; it´s all there for you!
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Today we shall go eastwards to „Wayl Batan“. Little island with beautiful reefs full of life in a topographically interesting landscape are tempting. Great schools of fish as well as pygmi seahorses will be shown by our guides, unless your eyes are well trained and you´ll see it all by yourself. Barracudas, batfish and snappers are cruising in the open blue. With the powerful sunshine breaking through the water the rocks, covered in colourful corals are presenting a breathtaking sight. Our night dives will do at the same place as the dives during the day, so you can compare the different creatures!
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Overnight the Pindito will reach the Misool. We offer an excursion with the zodiac that will last all day. Impressing tombstone of the natives will be on our schedule. This excursion will take us 20 km into the fantastic island labyrinth, where we drive through channels and valleys with our fast zodiacs. Walks to caves on the land, as well as a visit to a cave which we can only enter with the zodiac in order to see tiny bats, that hide from the daylight and sleep during the day. The last cave that we enter is a big as a cathedral and can only be entered by walking. Whoever believes that this program is too exhausting can of course stay on board and go for dives (we can offer this alternative since we have three big zodiacs on board). The dives will be done close to where the Pindito is anchored. Sometimes the visibility is bad and there is a pretty strong current, but of course the underwater world is a temptation as all others in the region.
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In Waigeo, Sel Pele we have the chance to visit a pearl farm. Depending on where they stand with the pearl production we will be invited to have a closer look on how the pearls are being produced.
Of course we have been diving before and after this visit and the high light of these dives where the pygmi seahorses. Those cute little creatures are hidden in the gorgonias in all colours available: red, yellow and orange! The only creatures that are offering more colours of the rainbow are nudibranches and the pipe fishes.
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Eagle Rock is just around the corner and is completely different to what you have seen so far. The stand alone rocks in the middle of the sea are always worth a picture or two. Splendid visibility, white beaches with black coral gardens, sweetlips, catfish and different kinds of rays are part of these dives. And since it is such a fantastic area above and under water we shall go back to the bay of Sel Pele again in the afternoon.
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Around the island of „Jef Fam“ you will have the opportunity to see the wobbegong and epaulet sharks, which are unique to this region. The reef, which seems as if it dressed up in RED is breathtaking scenery and will make all divers’ dreams come true.
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Dampier strait, the channel between Waigeo and Batanta Island gives the chance to see manta rays. Two dives will be done western of Mansuar Island where a "fish soup" and a fantastic reef are waiting. Our night dive will be south of Mansuar island and offer the variety and abundance of this precious diving region.
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Before heading back to Sorong we will dive at "Kri“ and „Sardinriff". In Sorong we have a captain’s party on deck. Our crew will sing traditional songs and dance the Boco Boco!
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Sorong.
We organise the transfer back to the airport of Sorong and say goodbye to you! |
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 This trip begins in Ambon, capital of the Moluccas. From there we will visit the best dive sites of Saparua and Nusa Laut before we reach the historically important Spice Island Banda Neira. A strategic dutch colony from history hard fought for in the 16th and 17th centuries. Fascinating land excursions to the old dutch fort or climbing the volcanes gives a complete feel to this trip. Along the east coast of Ceram we continue towards Raja Ampat. The fantastic labyrinth of islands around Misool is incredible and has been scientifically proven to be the epicenter of global marine biodiversity. In the Raja Ampat Marine Park we will spend 7 memorable days and the trip will finish in Sorong, West Papua.
Day 1
The guests will be met by the crew of Pindito at Ambon airport. From there it is a short 15 minute transfer to the Pindito. Once everyone is on board, we will lift the anchor and get underway. After dinner we have the boat briefing.
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Day 2
In the morning we arrive in Nusa Laut. In front of the village of Ahmed we make the first dive. Nusa Laut has spectacular reefs and wonderful coral gardens. Schools of surgeonfish, bigeye trevally, barracuda and plenty of reef fish are found here. With a bit of luck you can also have sightings of hammerhead sharks in the blue. For the night dive we will be critter hunting under a pier. Overnight cruise to Banda Neira.
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Day 3
We will start the dive day on the outer reefs of Banda Neira. The reefs here are full of marine fauna of all colours and shapes. Schooling fish gather and the macro life is rich. In the afternoon we cruise into the harbour of Banda Neira where we will do a dusk dive amongst the displaying mandarin fish. |
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Day 4
For those who are fit and want to get up early we can climb the Volcano Gunung Api to watch the sunrise. Of course diving is our main focus and the dive site Lava Flow is not to be missed. 20 years ago the lava poured into the ocean and in the short time since a hard coral garden grew which is unrivalled in the world. Table corals over 5 metres in width, staghorn corals as far as the eye can see and even endemic species found nowhere else is just a sample of what you can see here. In the evening we leave Banda Neira in the direction of Koon.
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Day 5
As soon as we arrive in Koon we hit the water. On the dive site “Too Many Fish” a spectacle of schooling fish awaits you. Giant groupers, schooling fish of all types in the midst of beautiful corals. Underwater photographers be prepared to be spoilt for choice and disorientated by the number of possible subjects! After 3 dives we leave towards Raja Ampat.
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Day 6
Our first stop is Wajil Batan. Many small islands and reefs full of life are waiting for us. From schooling fish to different species of pygmy seahorses, almost everything can be seen here if you have good eyes. Otherwise you can follow your Pindito dive guides. The diving scenery is impressive with cliffs and overhangs covered in soft corals and bathed in sunlight. You will want to go back for the night dive.
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Day 7
A short cruise in the morning to Fiabatjet. 4 small rocks break the surface from the submerged reefs. On the slopes are gigantic seafans as far as you can see in their thousands. Swarms of anchovies are hunted by mobulas and Spanish mackerel. Lazy barracudas hang in the current and Napoleon wrasse curiously check you out. Another highlight of the trip.
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Day 8
The islands of Boo and Jilliet are next. Fantastic reefs unrivalled in the world, covered in soft and hard corals of every colour. An unbelievable variety of fish life will astonish you and the dive time will pass far too quickly.
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Day 9
The Pindito will cruise in the early morning to Misool. A half day excursion to several different limestone caves is next, where you can see ancient burial remains in the cliffs. The journey to the caves is a spectacular speed boat ride through small channels, shallow reefs and equatorial tropical vegetation. In the afternoon we dive in a bay before we cruise the evening to Jef Fam.
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Day 10
Batu Burung is our next dive site in the morning. A huge reef with wonderful coral and spectacular fish life. Wobbegongs are one of the highlights here. Seasnakes, pygmy seahorses and enormous tricadna clams can be seen in the shallows. On “Red Wall” for the nightdive we can see Harlequin shrimp, frogfish and many species of nudibranchs. An overnight cruise takes us to Mansuar.
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Day 11
Our last diving day will really round the trip off in style. On the manta cleaning station, these majestic rays will cruise over our heads and let us enjoy the spectacle from up close. With this impression we will leave Raja Ampat and cruise back to Sorong.
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Day 12
Check out from the Pindito and transfer with the Pindito crew to Sorong airport. |
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This trip covers 1100 nautical miles starting from Flores, (Nusa Tengara) crossing the Banda Sea to Irian Jaya (West Papua). This journey passes through a wide range of geological landscapes and formations of Indonesia. We will cruise past volcanic islands to limestone pinnacles developed from ancient coral reefs. The fantastic Raja Ampat Marine Park off the west coast of Papua is our ultimate destination and will provide unrivalled diving highlights. As we cruise along the natural migratory paths and playgrounds of marine mammals such as whales and dolphins, this cruise is guaranteed to provide amazing diversity and beauty both above and below the water.
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This trip covers 1100 nautical miles starting from Flores, (Nusa Tengara) crossing  the Banda Sea to Irian Jaya (West Papua). This journey passes through a wide range of geological landscapes and formations of Indonesia. We will cruise past volcanic islands to limestone pinnacles developed from ancient coral reefs. The fantastic Raja Ampat Marine Park off the west coast of Papua is our ultimate destination and will provide unrivalled diving highlights. As we cruise along the natural migratory paths and playgrounds of marine mammals such as whales and dolphins, this cruise is guaranteed to provide amazing diversity and beauty both above and below the water.
Maumere on Flores |
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This harbor offers some of the most amazing and diverse dive locations in the world. Under the pier we can find razorfish, different species of pipefishes, seahorses, frogfishes, scorpion fishes, a wealth of colourful nudibranches, plus schools of barracuda and batfish. This area provides the perfect fanfare to start or end your memorable journey. In “Pindito-slang” we call Maumere harbor Blue Water Muckdiving!
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Whereas Kawula offers crystal blue water diving and spectacular overgrown drop-offs, the island of Pantar shows its best side for the night dive. In between the dives there is the opportunity to visit a local village.
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Here we have many different diving options. Whether you prefer drifting along coral encrusted walls, sloping reefs in crystal clear water or hunting for nudibranchs and ghost pipefish, there really is something for everyone.
On the north coast of Alor we have a divesite where you will be completely surrounded by fish life. Steep slopes and drift diving on the current bring in the big fish on to this beautiful reef. Certainly good enough for a second look!
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The west coast of Wetar boasts amazing dive sites with Drop-Offs, colourful reefs and abundant fish life. Here there is a good chance to see some pelagics. Mind your depth as you swim over the edge in deep blue water as we are many miles away from civilization!
Along the north coast we have regular sightings of dolphins and whales, often just a few meters away from the divesite!
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The terrain slopes into the blue Banda Sea inviting you to swim amongst gorgonian fans, huge sponges and rainbow coloured soft corals. Keep your eyes out in the blue for tuna, Napoleon wrasse and sharks. Some of the spots around Romang are influenced by volcanic activity and provide great night diving where we can see Spanish Dancers and fascinating Bobtail-Squits.
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This island group was first dived on a Biodiversity tour in November 2003. Starting from the shallow reef top to the deep here is amazing coral growth and diversity. As you take in this natural wonders the diver will be watched by the inhabitants of the reef and passing pelagics. The fish are still curious here because it is so rarely dived – just by Pindito since 2003!
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Here we dive another volcanic island which rises out of the deep Banda Sea, far out in the open ocean. Darwin could have studied his evolution theory here. Life is sparse on the island but underwater the steep walls are covered in corals you will experience a wonderful dive. On the night dive we have a good chance to see the shy Saron Shrimps.
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Is it the island of sea snakes or the island of birds? This island has two unique things to offer. Thousands of seabirds inhabit the island, from frigate birds to boobies, it’s a spectacle you will enjoy. Underwater Seasnakes are present by the dozen and if we are lucky we’ll see them hunting in a pack. But also the reefs along this island are beautiful, a mix of walls and slopes with corals in all colours and sizes. In between you always will spot some sharks, tuna and jacks.
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At the eastern side of Seram in the Molucca Sea stretches a long reef chain separated from the Banda Sea by a deep channel. Everything you want to see passes through this channel. From dolphins to manta rays, sharks to mobulas. The frequent strong currents guarantee good fish action. This is a divesite with giant groupers, schools of barracuda, red snappers and bigeye trevally. The safety stop affords time to take in the beautiful reeftop. Esteemed to be one of the top ten divesites in the world this spot will not disappoint.
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In the south-east of Misool begins the next chapter of our diving trip. As the visibility decreases the biodiversity and numbers of species explodes. Amongst the strange scenery of limestone pinnacles clad in green vegetation are hundreds of unexplored pristine divesites. The reefs are home to Pygmy seahorses living in the gorgonian fans and the most beautiful, colourful soft coral reef tops. The situation in Misool is such that we will dive the spots we know and love, but the reef a few hundred metres away is just as beautiful. This gives us the option to try out somewhere new!
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In the Raja Ampat Marine Park there are countless divesites, all with a different character. For those with keen eyes all kinds of macro life can be found in cracks, under overhangs and in the corals. At other places we can offer amazing fishlife along submerged reefs and ridges. Don’t forget to take your eyes off the reef from time to time, or you will miss Napoleon wrasse, mobulas, reef sharks and big schools of fish. This area is also suitable for exploring the island labyrinth by speedboat and close to the shore we can see parrots, eagles and orchids.
In places it is hard to see the reef for the fish, but there you will be surprised by the variety of nudibranches, and macro life. In the limestone underwater scenery you can explore caves and arches, covered in colour and life. Investigate the seafans to find more pygmi seahorses and spindle cowries. Swim slowly and look out for the soft coral crabs. The reef provides so many cracks and caves for the animals to hide in we try to cover a smaller area in more detail as we dive.
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A trip through the bays and channels of Misool is a real adventure. Rich equatorial tropical vegetation hides large caves in the limestone of different size and history. Beautiful light patterns, roosting bats and the air of tropical rainforest gives this remote area a real “Indiana Jones” feeling.
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Here we will dive along stunning reefs that show off the astonishing richness of fish life of Raja Ampat. We can see big schools of snapper and mackerel, and grouping or solitary barracuda. Manta Rays can be seen at a cleaning station, while batfish and sharks cruise past. At the end of the dive you make a safety stop on the beautiful reef top.
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Close by to Sorong is an airplane wreck from the Second World War, which we will dive if the group dynamic and the schedule allow. All through this trip we have the chance to explore and discover something new.
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Construction:
Wooden ship with BKI classification, Type Pinisi (Traditional Indonesian Motor Sailer) |
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Engines:
Boudouin 330 HP Diesel |
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Range:
1,300 nautical miles |
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Tenders:
4 Zodiacs (3 active, 1 standby) |
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Available Voltage:
22v, 50 Hz (110v available in Camera Room)
Power: US and EUR standarts, 2-pole |
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Water Tank:
2,000 gallons and Desalinator
Reverse-osmosis Watermaker |
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Saftey:
2x life rafts, Venol oxygen unit, O2, First-aud kit |
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Compressors:
2 Mariner Bauer, Nitrox membrane compressor (32%) |
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Scuba Tanks:
40 x 80cf tanks with DIN adaptors available |
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Electronics:
2x Radar, 2x Ecosounder, 2x GPS, VHF radio, Satellite communication Irridium (Seawave), E-mail access |
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Miscellaneous:
TV, DVD/CD player, library, water skis, wakeboard |
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Guest Accommodations:
For a maximum of 16 guests
6 cabins with double beds, 2 cabins with twin beds. Extra bunk available upon request for double cabins.
All guest cabins have a own shower, washbasin, toilet, individually controlled air conditioning and electricity 24 hours a day - 220v, 50Hz (110v available in Camera Room) |
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Crew:
17 Indonesian crewmembers and 3 European Dive Guides (multilingual) |
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Relax in the luxury of our teakwood-paneled cabins. Each 10' x 10'  cabin is named after a mystical Indonesian island and, depending on your reservation, is appointed either with a twin bed plus an upper bunk, or with a spacious double bed. All cabins feature ensuite bathroomss with hot and  cold running water (vanity and shower as well as toilet), individually controlled air conditioning and five 220v AC electrical outlets available 24 hours a day.
Our crew is devoted to your comfort and will attend to your cabin daily, keeping it clean and tidy and providing fresh towels as necessary. Additional towels are available for you on deck as needed.
Pindito offers six double cabins and two twin cabins, creating very comfortable accommodations for up to 16 guests.
Double bed cabins
All of our double cabins feature individually controlled air conditioning, as  well as ensuite heads appointed with a shower, washbasin, and toilet. We will happily add an upper bunk to accommodate a family with one child or two people who just want an extra surface on which to place their gear.
Twin bed cabins
The twin bedded cabins “Ambon” and “Aru” are named after the islands in the Maluku region. Our cabins with one twin bed and a bunk offer more floor space than double cabins. Twin cabins are ideal for single guests — there is no surcharge for booking half a twin cabin. Twin cabins also have ensuite bathrooms appointed with a shower, washbasin, and toilet.
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Cabin |
Per person per 10 day trip |
Double bed cabin |
$4495 |
Twin / single bed cabin |
$4495 |
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Per Person per 16 night trip |
Double bed cabin |
$6550 |
Twin / single bed cabin |
$6550 |
Included in the price
Transfers from and return the airport to the MV Pindito
Accommodation in a double bed or twin bed cabin with en-suite shower bath, toilet and AC
Full board including all drinks on board (excluding wine)
All diving (no diving on arrival/departure day)
multilingual guides on board
all offered land excursions
Not included in the price
Fuel surcharge: $ 250 2010 only (prices in 2011 and 2012 have already incorporated  the fuel surcharge into the price. However, a fuel surcharge may be added, if fuel prices
fluctuate beyond the programmed range for fuel included in the current published rate.)
Nitrox fills: $ 180.00 (for cruises starting 2011 Nitrox is included free of charge)
Nitrox course: $ 180.00
Souvenirs onboard
Crew gratuities
Domestic airport-taxes and departure tax (150,000 Rupiah / $17)
Trip insurance ( www.travelguard.com) 
Massage
National marine park fee for Raja Ampat $ 70.00, for Komodo $ 50.00, for Bande Sea $ 40.00 each per passenger/cruise, payable on board (These fees are subject to change)
Booking
All reservations must pay a deposit of US$ 800.00 per person to be sent no later than 7 days after the date the reservation is made to confirm the booking. If this booking fee is not received within the stated period of time then the Pindito will automatically offer the berths to other travel and booking  agents. Payment of the balance must be made 90 days prior to departure date. Booking made under 90 days to the departure date incur full payment at the time of booking.
Cancellation
120 – 90 days prior to departure 25% of the Pindito cruise cross price
89 – 60 days prior to departure 50% of the Pindito cruise cross price
59 – 0 days prior to departure 100% of the Pindito cruise cross price
Full booking and cancellation policy
| Prices Rental Gear |
| If you require rental equipment please advise us of your required gear after the reservation. You will find the prices for diving gear rental below (we hold only four full sets on board! However mask, snorkel and fins always need to be brought along yourself!) |
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BCD (sizes M and L) |
US$ 80.- |
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Regulator |
US$ 80.- |
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Torch (Kowalski) |
US$ 50.- |
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Computer (Aladin Sport) |
US$ 40.- |
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15L divetank for the whole cruise |
US$ 80.- |
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Saftey sausage |
for free |
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Weight belt |
for free |
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Emergency light |
for free |
| The above mentioned fees will be charged extra on board the Pindito. You can choose between cash payment in CHF, Euro, USD, or credit-card payment (Master & Visa). |
| We recommend to bring a 5-7 mm wetsuit. Water temperatures are generally between 24-27 ° Celsius. In the Komodo region however (Nusa Tenggara tours and biodiversity tours) we strongly recommend a 7mm wetsuit, since the water temperature can be pretty chilly throughout the whole trip. |
| We do have a few wetsuits on board (sizes 46-52), which can be used as sort of an emergency for free. However we do not accept reservations for diving suits and kindly ask you to bring along your own! |
| Please bear in mind that we only have two 15Liter tanks on board the Pindito! First come, first served! |
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A Typical Diving Da
After you've enjoyed a  continental breakfast meet our crew on the dive deck, where you will be given a detailed dive briefing and shown a sketch of the dive site. Then the dive staff will transfer your gear to the Zodiacs. No need to haul your own heavy gear, just jump into the Zodiac and after a comfortable, short ride, you'll be ready to dive. For your safety and peace of mind, our well-trained Zodiac drivers will accompany you from a safe and prudent distance during your entire dive. While underwater you can join the guide for a special tour or just do your own thing.After the dive, refreshments will be waiting for you aboard Pindito. Cool out and then enjoy a Balinese massage from our onboard masseuse. Kick back and chat about your diving experiences and sip a cool beverage while screening video and sharing photos from your dive.

Typically, we schedule four dives a day*:
Early morning (around 7:30 AM)
Late morning
Afternoon (around 2:30 PM)
After dinner – an exciting dusk or nighttime dive
Please note, all dives are offered depending on weather.
*More dives per day are available when Pindito is anchored or moored safely over a calm reef. Inquire with your divemaster about when you can  expect additional dive availability.
Diving instructors & Dive guides
The primary focus of our Pindito diving instructors and dive guides is to look after your safety and comfort. Dive guides lead all dives. Though you are certainly not required to accompany your guides during the dives, they'll keep an eye out for your safety. And if you want a specially guided tour just ask—they'll be very happy to accommodate. Our guides' trained eyes keep you safe, and they can spot unusual marine life of interest to the keenest photo and video enthusiasts.
Zodiacs
Pindito has three Zodiac Pros, Model 500 RL, powered by Mercury outboard  engines. Your crew will set up and break down all your diving equipment and stow it on the Zodiacs for you. Show the guides how you like your gear set up, and they'll take over and meticulously prepare, move and stow your gear for the entire trip, as well as carefully rinse and dry it at the end of your charter.
Explain the particulars of your camera system to your guides—they'll deliver it to your Zodiac with care and, after the dive, they'll gingerly transfer it to
the special freshwater rinse tank aboard Pindito.
Need help on and off with your tank? No problem, your crew will be there to assist you. If you have back issues, the crew is happy to help you on and off with your tank while you are in the water…don’t carry that load if it's  challenging for you! Pindito’s crew is all about safety and service, and with seventeen crewmembers aboard to serve you, you can look forward to diving with the greatest of ease.
Between dives your equipment will be carefully stored aboard Pindito in protected areas.
Safety
In the unlikely event of an emergency, we always carry a first-aid kit, diver’s oxygen, satellite telephone, VHF Radio, two life rafts, E.P.I.R.B. automatic signaling devices, and other important safety equipment. For safety reasons, we permit no dives on the arrival and departure days, and we serve alcoholic beverages only after your diving day is finished.
Rental Gear 
We're equipped to provide rental BCDs, regulators, dive lights, and dive computers for four divers.
If you need complete diving gear...
Simply let us know when you make your reservation and we take steps to be sure we have what you need aboard.
Please note: We carry a few wetsuits onboard that can be used for free in emergency circumstances. We are unable to carry a full range of suits, however; so if possible please bring your own wetsuit as well as mask, fins and snorkel
Nitrox & Nitroxcourses 
For our Nitrox Specialty certified guests, we offer Nitrox (32% oxygen) fills. There is a Nitrox analyzer aboard provided for your use. We require that you keep up with the Nitrox Log Board and analyze and document all of your Nitrox fills before the dives.
We also offer a P.A.D.I. Nitrox Specialty Course. The course will allow you to use Nitrox during the cruise, and you will be provided with a certification card to document your successful completion of the course. Remember—choosing to use and training for Nitrox is the diver’s personal decision. Should you choose to do so, you are responsible for planning dives that take into consideration the maximum operating depth (MOD) of the gas mixture as well as oxygen toxicity issues. So, plan carefully and you will reap the benefits of Nitrox diving.
The coral triangle is home to the world's most  bio-diverse population of marine species with Indonesia representing its hottest spot. Nowhere else has a comparable density, not to mention diversity, of underwater creatures and life been recorded.
In order to fully appreciate the exceptional status of this region, suffice it to say that the whole Caribbean area has only 9% of the  corals and 35% of the fish species found in Indonesian waters.
The reason for such a big difference is that the entire area of the Atlantic Ocean underwent a mass extinction of species during the last ice age. All types of corals and animals vanished during this period and the other species never regained the strength of their former numbers.
In Indonesia - the centre of this biodiversity triangle - the variety seen underwater is truly astonishing. In certain bays and around small islands, you can find more species than in the entire Caribbean. In a research report conducted in 1997 on the island of Flores, respected marine biologists Rudie Kuiter and Gerald Allen counted 1,133 species of fish just in Maumere bay. This is still the highest number of species of fish ever counted in a specific area.
In Wakatobi, the recorded number of species  of fish is at least 430, and in Raja Ampat, the same Gerald Allen, world-famous ichthyologist, counted the incredible number of 284 different species of fish counted during a single dive. In the same area, 465 different species of corals were found. As a result, scientists nowadays believe that this destination is the world's current no. 1 spot in terms of biodiversity.
Other world-class hubs of biodiversity include Manado and Lembeh, Central and South Sulawesi, Komodo, Flores, Alor and the Banda Sea, to name just a few. It should therefore come as no surprise that these hotspots are considered among the ultimate destinations for divers - Raja Ampat diving photos - Komodo diving photos
Komodo
Drift diving, pelagics melting pot and critters maze: dive in one of the world’s hubs of underwater activity
Maumere, Alor and Flores
An undisclosed diving treasure.
Your craving for adventure will be fulfilled while sailing on the Pindito Liveaboard in these awe-inspiring waters full of unexplored treasures
Maluku - Ambon and the Banda sea
The unspoiled beauty of a remote paradise.
These rarely visited seas have some of the world’s richest marine environments filled with unspoiled corals, tiny critters as well as pelagics
Raja Ampat
The most striking biodiversity on our planet
Central Sulawesi: Togean and Bangaii
One of the world's most remarkable places for coral reef diversity
North Sulaweis: Manando and Lembeh
Critters extravaganza and breathtaking walls
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Getting to Raja Ampat is a two step process.
Step 1: Arrange your international air transportation to one of three Indonesian Gateway cities—Manado, Bali, or Jakarta.
Step 2: Purchase a domestic air ticket from your Indonesian Gateway city to Jefman Airport in Sorong (city code SOQ) on Papua Island (formerly known is Irian Jaya). This is the starting point for your Raja Ampat voyage.(Please note that without an Indonesian crecit card you will be unable to purchase Indonesian domestic flights - we can arrange these for you at a nominal charge)
Bali Gateway Using this routing you would fly to Denpasar Airport in Bali (DPS) using your international carrier. This route to Raja Ampat requires two legs. First is a 75 minute flight from Bali (DPS) to Ujung Pangdang (UPG - also called Makassar), a city on the island of South Sulawesi. An overnight hotel stay will be required in Ujung Padang as the onward flight does not depart until the following morning (We recommend the Imperial Aryaduta Hotel) for your overnight stay. The two hour and ten minute flight to Sorong (SOQ) the following day is operated daily with early morning departures. On the return guests can route through either Ujung Pandang or Ambon (AMQ) to return to Bali. The return to Bali can be accomplished in a single day.
Manado Gateway: Using this route you would fly into Manado (MDC) on North Sulawesi with your international flight normally from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. An overnight stay may then be required in Manado at this point, depending on your flight schedules. From Manado connections can be made using either Lion Air or Merpati Airline for the flight into Sorong (SOQ). Flight times range between one hour fifteen minutes to two hours ten minutes depending on the carrier and whether they route through Makassar or fly direct. Between the two carriers, there are flights every day, except Sunday. The return flights work just the opposite. Again, an overnight stay may be required in either Manado, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur to sync up the international segments. If you are flying from Kuala Lumpur you can also go via Makassar on the new Air route and the onto Sorong.
Jakarta Gateway: A third alternative for guests is to use Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Jakarta (JKT), Indonesia as their gateway. The journey to Sorong (SOQ) can then be completed in a single day with flights on either Xpress Air or Merpati Airline that connect in Ujung Padang (UPG - also known as Makassar) on South Sulawesi Island. The return trip from Sorong to Jakarta can also be completed in a single day.
No matter which gateway city guests choose to utilize, we recommend two hotel nights be built into your travels. One upon arrival between the international and domestic legs, and one on your journey home between the domestic and international legs. Should a flight delay (or baggage delay) be encountered in either direction, your domestic and international airline tickets are not “linked”, and as such, no compensation or assistance would be offered by the airline. The only protection available would be Trip Interruption and Cancellation insurance.
Domestic Air Carrier Notes:
We recommend two hotel nights be built into your travels. One upon arrival between the international and domestic legs, and one on your journey home between the domestic and international legs. Should a flight delay/cancellation, baggage delay, or schedule change be encountered in either direction, your domestic and international airline tickets are not “linked”, and as such, no compensation or assistance would be offered by the airline. The only financial protection available would be Trip Interruption and Cancellation insurance.
Domestic airlines have different baggage weight restrictions than international carriers. Many times these flights are on smaller turboprop aircraft and not jets which do not have as much space and cannot take as much weight. Therefore they have more restrictive luggage reqirements. A rule of thumb is that passengers are allowed 44lbs (20kg). Above that - expect excess baggage charges. All guests are advised
to please pack carefully and light using soft bags for easier storage on the boat. Just because excess luggage charges are paid it does not necessarily mean that your luggage and you will travel on the same fight or arrive on the same day.
Premier liveaboard diving and its local agents will schedule domestic flights and purchase a tickets on behalf of guests as a service for a nominal fee, however, in doing so, Premier liveaboard diving is only acting as an agent for the airline and is not responsible for, and can accept no responsibility for, cancellations, delays, schedule changes, or problems caused by the air carrier.
DENPASAR - Sorong - DENPASAR |
Airport City Codes: DPS (Denpasar / Bali) · Sorong (SOQ) · Ujung Pandang (UPG) · Ambon (AMQ) |
Denpasar - Sorong (via Ujung Pandang) |
AIRLINES |
FLIGHT Nr. |
DAYS |
ITINERARY |
ETD |
ETA |
GARUDA |
GA 544 |
Daily |
Denpasar - Ujung Pandang |
12.00 |
13.15 |
XPRESS AIR |
XN 800 |
Daily |
Ujung Pandang- Sorong |
09.45 |
12.35 |
MERPATI AIRLINE |
MZ 806 |
Daily |
Ujung Pandang - Sorong |
09.20 |
12.30 |
Sorong - Denpasar (via Ambon or Ujung Pandang)
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XPRESS AIR |
XN 801 |
Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Sorong - Ujung Pandang |
09.40 |
10.50 |
XPRESS AIR |
XN 801 |
Mon, Wed, Fri |
Sorong - Ujung Pandang |
11.40 |
12.50 |
MERPATI AIRLINE |
MZ 807 |
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat |
Sorong - Ujung Pandang |
11:20 |
14.25 |
MERPATI AIRLINE |
MZ 803 |
Wed, Fri, Sun |
Sorong - Ujung Pandang |
15:50 |
16.55 |
GARUDA |
GA 621 |
Daily |
Ujung Pandang - Denpasar |
16:10 |
17:25 |
GARUDA |
GA 545 |
Daily |
Ujung Pandang - Denpasar |
18:05 |
19:20 |
LION AIR |
JT 1505 |
Tue, Thu, Sat |
Sorong - Ambon |
06.00 |
07.10 |
LION AIR |
JT 791 |
Tue, Thu, Sat |
Ambon - Ujung Pandang |
07.45 |
08.20 |
LION AIR |
JT 741 |
Tue, Thu, Sat |
Ujung Pandang - Denpasar |
09.00 |
10.15 |
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JAKARTA - Sorong - JAKARTA
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Jakarta to Manado to Jakarta
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Airport City Codes: Manado (MDC) · Jakarta (JKT) - Sorong (SOQ)
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Carrier |
Flight # |
Days |
Route |
Dept. |
Arr. |
Garuda |
GA 602 |
Daily |
JKT-MDC |
07:10 |
12:50 |
Garuda |
GA 520 |
Daily |
JKT-MDC |
18:00 |
23:20 |
Lion Air |
JT 776 |
Daily |
JKT-MDC |
05:00 |
09:10 |
Lion Air |
JT 778 |
Daily |
JKT-MDC |
08:15 |
13:50 |
Lion Air |
JT 770 |
Daily |
JKT-MDC |
18:55 |
23:05 |
Garuda |
GA 513 |
Daily |
MDC-JKT |
07:00 |
10:10 |
Garuda |
GA 603 |
Daily |
MDC-JKT |
13:30 |
17:00 |
Lion Air |
JT 771 |
Daily |
MDC-JKT |
06:55 |
09:05 |
Lion Air |
JT 775 |
Daily |
MDC-JKT |
09:50 |
12:00 |
Lion Air |
JT 777 |
Daily |
MDC-JKT |
14:35 |
18:15 |
Manado - Sorong - Manado |
Airport City Codes: Manado (MDC) · Sorong (SOQ) |
LION AIR |
JT 1178 |
Mon, Wed, Fri |
MDC-SOQ |
11.05 |
13.55 |
LION AIR |
JT 1177 |
Mon, Wed, Fri |
SOQ-MDC |
09.15 |
10.05 |
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