Amaya Explorer Itinerary

Halmahera

Day 1: Departure from Ternate – Into the Ring of Fire (2 dives)
Your journey begins on the historic spice island of Ternate, where the dramatic silhouette of Mount Gamalama rises above the skyline. After a smooth embarkation, we set sail southward, leaving behind the island’s storied past. As the vessel glides across deep blue waters, soak in sweeping views of volcanic peaks and remote coastlines. The horizon unfolds toward the untouched southern reaches of Halmahera—a wild frontier shaped by fire and sea, where nature remains raw, powerful, and largely undiscovered.

Day 2: Sali Bay & Pantini Strait – Colorful Reefs and Reef Sharks (3 dives)
Wake up in the tropical embrace of Sali Bay, where coral-rich slopes teem with schooling fish, and reef sharks and turtles glide through warm, clear waters. We continue to the dynamic Pantini Strait, where strong currents channel nutrient-rich flows that energize the reef. Expect exhilarating drift dives alongside vibrant coral fans, sea whips, and dense schools of snapper shimmering in the blue.

Day 3: Joronga Islands – Remote Beauty, Calm Waters (3 dives)
The Joronga Islands reveal a quieter side of Halmahera—a serene chain of islands edged with white-sand beaches and luminous turquoise lagoons. Dive sites here offer gentle conditions, flourishing soft coral gardens, and intriguing macro life. Between dives, unwind in calm waters, swim in sheltered lagoons, or step ashore onto beaches rarely touched by visitors.

Day 4: Goraici Islands – Untouched Wilderness (3 dives)
Today we venture into the remote Goraici Islands, where isolation has preserved reefs in near-pristine condition. Explore sloping reefs and coral-draped ridges alive with large schools of fish. With luck, encounter rays or blacktip reef sharks cruising through the blue. The raw, unspoiled nature of this region makes every dive feel like true exploration.

Day 5: Makian Island – Volcano Meets the Sea (3 dives)
At Makian Island, dramatic landscapes continue beneath the surface. Diving in the shadow of its towering volcano reveals a striking mix of black sand slopes, lava formations, and deep reef drop-offs. Geothermal activity adds a surreal dimension, while unique critters and occasional pelagic visitors bring constant surprises to these volcanic waters.

Day 6: Tawali Island (3 dives)
Diving around Tawali typically features a mix of reef slopes, walls, and occasional pinnacles. The reefs here benefit from nutrient flow across the wider Halmahera Sea, supporting both small critters and mid-sized pelagics.

Day 7: Failonga Island – Coral Walls and Island Culture (2 dives)
Our final dive destination, Failonga Island, offers steep walls, colorful overhangs, and exceptional visibility. Healthy reefs host nudibranchs, groupers, and reef sharks, making for a rewarding final series of dives. Later, relax on board or explore nearby shores, with sweeping views back toward Halmahera’s northern coastline.

Day 8: Return to Ternate – Disembarkation
We return to Ternate, where your journey began. As you disembark the Amaya Explorer, carry with you vivid memories of coral kingdoms, volcanic horizons, and one of Indonesia’s most untouched archipelagos. This Halmahera expedition blends adventure, discovery, and serenity—an experience far removed from the ordinary.

Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.