Banda Api Dive Site in the Spice Islands

Dive into the vibrant underwater world of an active volcano

Information about Banda Api

Banda Api, located in the Banda Islands of Indonesia, is a spectacular dive site offering a unique blend of vibrant marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes formed by volcanic activity. As an active volcano, Banda Api provides divers with a one-of-a-kind experience, where you can explore the pristine coral reefs thriving in nutrient-rich waters.

Diving at Banda Api is like venturing into an underwater paradise. The volcanic slopes are covered with healthy coral gardens, home to an array of marine species including large pelagics, reef fish, and macro critters. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing divers to fully appreciate the stunning biodiversity. Expect to encounter schools of barracudas, trevallies, and even the occasional hammerhead shark, making every dive an adventure.

For non-divers, the Banda Islands offer rich historical and cultural experiences. Known as the original Spice Islands, Banda has a fascinating history of nutmeg and clove trade. Visitors can explore old forts, plantations, and charming colonial architecture. Snorkeling around the island is equally rewarding, with vibrant reefs just below the surface. Whether you’re a diver or a history enthusiast, Banda Api promises an unforgettable experience.

Interesting facts about Banda Api

Getting there: The best way to explore Banda Api is by liveaboard, offering seamless access to the remote dive sites. Alternatively, you can fly to Ambon and take a ferry to the Banda Islands.

Best time to visit Banda Api: The optimal time for diving is from September to November and March to April, when water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) and conditions are ideal for marine life encounters.

Diving Conditions: Banda Api features water depths from 5 to 40 meters (16 to 131 feet), with moderate to strong currents, suitable for advanced divers. Visibility ranges from 15 to 30 meters (49 to 98 feet), perfect for underwater photography.

Our liveaboard trips: Several liveaboard vessels include Banda Api in their itineraries, with trips typically lasting 10-12 days. These tours often cover other top Banda Islands dive sites, such as Hatta Island and Pulau Ai, ensuring a comprehensive diving adventure.

A little known fact: Banda Api erupted in 1988, dramatically altering the underwater landscape. This event led to the creation of some of the most vibrant and diverse coral gardens in the region, showcasing nature's incredible resilience and ability to regenerate.

Pictures of Banda Api

Highlights Close to Banda Api

Kora-Kora

The Kora-Kora war boats are an integral part of Indonesia's rich maritime heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and cultural traditions. These long, narrow boats were historically used by the Maluku islanders for both warfare and ceremonial purposes. With their distinct design and impressive size, Kora-Kora boats could carry dozens of warriors, and their presence was often a formidable sight on the waters of Indonesia.

Today, the Kora-Kora war boats are celebrated through exciting traditional races held during local festivals, particularly in the Maluku Islands. These races are a vibrant display of teamwork and rowing prowess, as teams of rowers paddle in perfect unison to the rhythm of drums and chants. The races not only preserve the historical significance of the Kora-Kora boats but also foster a sense of community and cultural pride among participants and spectators alike.

Visitors to Indonesia can experience the thrill of a Kora-Kora race or explore these magnificent boats through various cultural exhibitions and museums. The boats are often ornately decorated with carvings and paintings, reflecting the artistic heritage of the local communities. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about Indonesia's maritime traditions, the Kora-Kora war boats offer a unique and enriching experience.

Pohon Miring

Pohon Miring, located in the Banda Sea, is a thrilling drift dive site known for its spectacular coral walls and diverse marine life. As you glide along the vibrant coral slopes, you'll encounter a myriad of colorful reef fish, including anthias, butterflyfish, and angelfish. The strong currents make this an exciting dive, perfect for experienced divers looking for a bit of adventure. One of the highlights of this dive is the swim-through, a natural tunnel adorned with vibrant corals and sponges, adding an extra element of excitement to your underwater journey.

The walls at Pohon Miring are adorned with an array of hard and soft corals, sponges, and sea fans. The site also hosts larger pelagic species such as tuna, jacks, and even the occasional hammerhead shark. For non-divers, the nearby islands offer fascinating cultural excursions and stunning natural beauty to explore.

Pohon Miring stands out for its exhilarating drift diving experience, combined with the beauty of its underwater landscape. Whether you are an experienced drift diver or looking to advance your skills, Pohon Miring offers an unforgettable diving adventure in the heart of the Banda Sea.