- Spectacular diving especially for experienced divers
- Enjoy the excellent visibility in Pantar Strait due to consistent currents
- Whale sharks & large marine life watching
- Log dives in the rarely visited Lembata
- Visit local markets, always an interesting and colourful experience
- Traditional performances by the indigenous inhabitants of the islands
- Overland excursion to Kelimutu Lakes National Park in Flores
This will be our first ever trip with a focus on oceanic cetaceans (Whales and Dolphins). Join us to explore the whale corridors of Eastern Indonesia. The voyage will cover the amazingly diverse and scenic Solor-Alor archipelago. We will start and finish in Maumere (Flores), ensuring easy and reliable flight access.
For several hours on most days, we will be on the look-out for the tall blows of the mysterious Pygmy Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus brevicauda), with adults measuring up to 25 metres in length. Blue whales are the latest of all baleen whales, and largest animal that ever lived on Earth. The Alor region has several deep, yet narrow passages where we can best spot blue whales on their migration path. Another noteworthy species in these same waters will be the largest toothed whale, the mighty sperm whale. Ben started his career in marine science as a sperm whale ecologist, and the Savu Sea is a regional stronghold for these whales (and over 20+ other species of marine mammals). Hence, we can experience many insights on these fascinating deep divers. If sea state and behaviours are favourable, we hope to get some in-water encounters with these giants along the way. (Blog on Ben and www.PlanetDeep.org)
A typical day on this trip will consist of 2-morning dives/snorkels followed by the afternoon spent at sea attempting to get close encounters with marine mammals. According to Ben October is prime time for the Whales. We can also expect great weather and calm seas during this time of the year. After our afternoon “whale patrols’ (cetacean habitat and whale watching activities), there will be opportunities for dusk or night dives on at least 3 occasions. In addition, we will also add several cultural experiences in traditional and coastal villages along the way. So, there will be an amazing array of experiences throughout the Expedition.
Other cetacean species we expect to encounter are (selected from a total of 24 species for the Savu Sea, and counting):
· Melon-headed whales
· Fraser’s dolphins
· Spinner dolphins
· Pilot whales
· Indonesia’s ‘tropical’ Orcas
Day 1:
Embark on a journey from Maumere on The Seven Seas to Lembata, packed with thrilling adventures! Enjoy a delicious lunch before immersing yourself in the crystal-clear waters for a check dive or snorkelling session among vibrant marine life. As the day comes to a close, The Seven Seas will cruise under a star-studded sky for an overnight journey to Lembata.
Day 2:
Wake up in Lembata to a hearty breakfast, and then embark on two exhilarating dives or snorkelling trips along the north coast. In the afternoon, keep an eye out for the majestic whales in the Flores Sea!
Day 3:
The day starts with two dives in the beautiful waters of South Pantar. Discover the diverse marine life that calls this area home. Afterward, prepare for an awe-inspiring afternoon as you watch for majestic whales in the Savu Sea. To end the day, embark on a night dive in South Pantar and witness the enchanting beauty of the nocturnal marine life.
Day 4:
Explore Beang Abang with morning dives/snorkels in Pantar/Alor. Spend the afternoon whale-watching in the Savu Sea and enjoy a thrilling night dive before visiting a local village to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the area.
Day 5:
Dive into the wonders of Alor with two morning dives/snorkels. In the afternoon, set off on an adventurous expedition as you sail through the waters of Pantar Strait, seeking awe-inspiring encounters with whales. End the day with a mesmerising night dive and a visit to a local village.
Day 6:
Double the fun with two dives/snorkels in Alor in the morning. In the afternoon, get ready to set out on an exhilarating quest to spot majestic whales in the waters south of Alor.
Day 7:
Uncover the hidden treasures of Solor with an exhilarating morning of two dives/snorkels, then The Seven Seas sets sail on an adventurous afternoon expedition to spot majestic whales in the Savu Sea.
Day 8:
Unfortunately, our trip has come to an end. It’s the last morning so take some photos with the crew, and then it’s time for goodbyes as the guests are accompanied ashore and to the airport for their flights.
Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.
Bunk beds2 peopleShareable
King size bed2 peopleNon shareable
