Ambon Island in Maluku

Located in the heart of Maluku, Port of Ambon is a haven for macro diving enthusiasts and critter hunters. This bustling port city offers a unique blend of rich history and incredible underwater biodiversity. Dive sites here are renowned for their muck diving opportunities, featuring an array of fascinating marine life such as frogfish, cuttlefish, and nudibranchs.

Ambon stands out as the critter capital of Indonesia, making it a paradise for underwater photographers. The famous Laha dive site, also known as "Twilight Zone," is a must-visit, where divers can spot rare and unusual species like the psychedelic frogfish and various flamboyant cuttlefish. Additionally, the Ambon Bay area offers intriguing shipwrecks, including the Duke of Sparta, adding a historical dimension to your underwater adventures.

For non-divers, Ambon offers a wealth of activities, from exploring vibrant local markets and historic forts to relaxing on scenic beaches. The rich cultural heritage, combined with its natural beauty, ensures that every visitor finds something to marvel at. Whether you're diving into the depths or staying on land, Ambon promises a diverse and unforgettable experience both above and below the water.

Fort Amsterdam in Ambon is a historical gem dating back to the colonial era, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch in the early 17th century. Located in Hila, a small village on the northern coast of Ambon Island, this well-preserved fort offers a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich colonial past.

What makes Fort Amsterdam stand out is its strategic location and the stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. The fort's architecture reflects the styles of its European builders, and visitors can explore its towers, walls, and cannons that once protected the region.

Fort Amsterdam provides an enriching experience of Ambon’s history and culture. Nearby, visitors can also explore traditional villages, visit local markets, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the island. This destination is perfect for history buffs and those looking to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Indonesia.

The Duke of Sparta wreck, resting in Ambon Bay, is a remarkable dive site steeped in history and marine biodiversity. Originally built in 1940, the Duke of Sparta was later targeted and sunk during a covert CIA operation in 1958. The wreck, now encrusted with corals and home to a variety of marine life, offers divers a unique glimpse into the past alongside vibrant underwater scenery.

Located in Ambon, the Duke of Sparta is a must-visit for wreck enthusiasts and critter lovers alike. The intact structure provides numerous swim-throughs and entry points, making it accessible for divers of all levels. The site teems with ghost pipefish, lionfish, coral shrimps, and nudibranchs, while the deck and superstructure are frequented by batfish, trumpetfish, fusiliers, and surgeonfish.

Beyond diving, visitors to Ambon can explore the island’s rich culture and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, marine life, or adventure, diving the Duke of Sparta wreck offers an unforgettable experience.

The Twilight Zone in Ambon is renowned for its exceptional muck diving, attracting underwater photographers and critter enthusiasts from around the globe. Located on the southern coast of Ambon Bay, this dive site offers a unique underwater landscape with a dark sandy bottom that provides a perfect backdrop for discovering some of the ocean's most bizarre and fascinating creatures.

Diving in the Twilight Zone is like stepping into another world. The area is teeming with rare and unusual marine life, including the famed Rhinopias, various species of frogfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, and mimic octopus. The site's relatively shallow depths, ranging from 5 to 25 meters (16 to 82 feet), make it accessible for divers of all levels, with visibility typically around 10-20 meters (33-66 feet).

Ambon also offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant markets, historic forts, and beautiful beaches. Whether you're diving or exploring topside, the Twilight Zone in Ambon promises an adventure filled with unforgettable encounters and breathtaking sights.

Pintu Kota, known as the “City Gate,” is one of Ambon’s most iconic dive sites, offering a spectacular underwater arch formation that attracts divers from around the world. Located on the southern coast of Ambon Island, this site features a stunning archway carved naturally by the ocean, creating a dramatic entrance to a vibrant underwater world.

Divers at Pintu Kota can expect to see a variety of marine life, including schools of reef fish, colorful corals, and the occasional passing pelagic. The arch itself is covered in soft corals and sponges, providing a habitat for critters like nudibranchs, shrimps, and small crabs. The clear waters and impressive rock formations make this site perfect for underwater photography and exploration.

Non-divers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the area, with its rocky cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Snorkeling is also an option, allowing a glimpse into the underwater marvels of Pintu Kota. Whether diving or exploring from the surface, Pintu Kota offers a memorable experience for all visitors.

Laha in Ambon is a hidden gem for muck diving enthusiasts, offering an underwater playground brimming with rare and fascinating critters. Situated on the north coast of Ambon Bay, Laha's black sand slopes and rubble sites are a magnet for macro photographers. Here, you can encounter an impressive array of species including the elusive rhinopias, flamboyant cuttlefish, and the famous Ambon scorpionfish.

What sets Laha apart is its incredible biodiversity and the unique critters that call it home. Divers can expect to see mimic octopuses, blue ring octopuses, various species of frogfish, and a myriad of nudibranchs. The shallow waters and minimal currents make it an ideal spot for divers of all levels, while the sheer abundance of macro life ensures that even the most experienced divers will find something new and exciting. For non-divers, the nearby villages and beautiful landscapes of Ambon provide plenty of exploration opportunities.

Whether you are a seasoned macro photographer or a beginner looking to experience muck diving at its finest, Laha offers an unforgettable diving experience. Dive into the dark sands of Laha and uncover the hidden treasures of Ambon Bay.