Dewi Nusantara
H A N D B O O K
Welcome Aboard: Diving & Cruising Indonesia with Dewi Nusantara
The Dewi Nusantara team has long been at the very forefront of the dive and
This handbook will give you handy information about the inspiration,
cruise liveaboard industry in this fascinating area of Asia. After 20 years of
construction and specifications of this magnificent vessel as well as in depth
continuous operations, our experience in the dazzling waters of the Indonesian
chapters about the areas you are visiting and the kind of underwater and
archipelago is unparalleled.
topside adventures you can expect to find at our incredible and diverse
destinations. Also included are dive and photographic operations information, a
Early Days
run down on our safety systems and a trip planning guide.
Our first cruising vessel, the gracious MY Ombak Putih, broke new ground
when she was launched in 1996. The first all wooden purpose built “pinisi”
styled boat to operate as a cultural cruiser, she is still out on the waves
today. Our initial step into the world of scuba diving began in the first week
of 2002 with another first, MY Ombak Biru. Once again styled on the famous
Indonesian sailing vessels of old but, under the surface, designed and built
bristling with all the facilities and dive systems needed to operate at the very
top of an extremely competitive market.
We understand that when you want to experience the wonders of the
underwater world you are looking for the purest habitats that can be found
anywhere, far away from the hustle of the modern world. Once you find
yourself cruising on the magnificent Dewi Nusantara, somewhere out in that
vast marine seascape that is eastern Indonesia, you will know that you have
been upgraded from being just a tourist, to the status of explorer, so sit back
and relax and let us take you on the dive liveaboard trip of a lifetime.
Dewi Nusantara
Five years later and not content with sitting on our laurels, we then pulled
our master-stroke, with the launch of MY Dewi Nusantara - Goddess of the
Archipelago. This jaw-dropping, three masted schooner immediately pushed
the bar up and away from the competition. From the world’s largest and
most opulent owners suite on a dive liveaboard, to the most comfortable and
powerful tenders used by any boats in the region, the benchmarks of quality,
service, safety, style, and experience that this extraordinary vessel set in 2008
still haven’t been equalled, though many have tried.
Since she was launched, Dewi Nusantara has been undergoing constant fine
tuning, and because we believe we can always do better, we haven’t stopped
there with our innovative approach. Our dive professionals and experienced
crew, some of whom have been together from before the start of Dewi’s
operations, have cut their own niche in the dive industry with their unrelenting
appetite for discovery and incredible attention to detail.
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Contents:
Facts & Figures
• Your Personal Scuba Equipment
• Concept
• Scuba Cylinders
• Inspiration
• Nitrox & Gas Analysis
• Specifications
• Our Rental Equipment
• Construction
• Dive Safety Equipment
• Facilities & Services
• Oxygen Units & First Aid
• Accommodation
• Emergency Evacuation & Recompression Concerns
• Communications
• Tenders
• The Dewi Nusantara Crew
• Scuba Courses
Deck Plans
• The Dewi Dive Commandments
• Main Deck
• A run-down of the camera and imaging facilities we have on board
Photo & Videography
• Accommodation Deck
• The Master Suite
General Vessel Safety & Emergency Procedures
• Upper Deck
• Being safe on board and what to do in the event of an emergency
Destinations
Planning Guide
• Indonesia: The Ultimate Adventure Destination
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Raja Ampat: Exploring The Realm Of The Four Kings
• Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
• Cenderawasih Bay: Whalesharks, Wrecks & Unexplored Reefs
• Flores to Alor: Reefs, Critters and Fire Breathing Monsters
• Flores to Wakatobi: Dual Dream Dive Destinations
• Maluku: Travel Back In Time On A Spice Island Adventure
• Getting There: How To reach Our Destinations
• General Travel Information
• Dewi Nusantara - The On-board Experience
• Dive Operations In Brief
• Komodo: The Land That Time Forgot
• Adventure & Special Interest Cruises
Dive Operations
• The Dewi Nusantara Dive Crew
• Dive Briefings
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Dewi Nusantara
F A C T S
&
F I G U R E S
About Dewi Nusantara
Concept
at record breaking speed for the time ferrying goods and passengers between
“With Dewi Nusantara our goal is to build the finest liveaboard vessel in the
but with all the comforts of the 21st century.
region. When we are finished we will sail her in Indonesia’s premier diving
Specifications
Europe and the USA. Dewi Nusantara has been constructed as a faithful replica
locations during the best diving season for that area.”
• Built: Kalimantan (Borneo), Indonesia
“With our extensive knowledge and experience of wooden vessel construction
• Type: Wooden hulled schooner
and operation in the waters of the Indonesian archipelago starting in 1995
• Length over deck: 148 feet (47 metres)
with our other successful motor yachts, we are perfectly placed to accomplish
• Length over all: 180 feet (57 metres)
this task with our new vessel.”
• Beam: 37 feet (12 metres)
The Dewi Nusantara Managaement Team
June 2006
• Draft: 12 feet
(3 metres)
• Total displacement:
Inspiration
800 tons
Dewi Nusantara is a three masted wooden schooner with a design that harks
back to the classic days of sail, the latter part of the 1800’s. To set Dewi apart
from all the other vessels operating in Indonesian waters and also for the
practicalities of our
operation, we have
drawn our design
inspiration from the
stylish European and
American schooners
and cutters of that
elegant period.
These remarkable
state of the art vessels
would sail across the
• Propulsion:
2 x 500 HP Nissan
twin turbo diesel
units
• Fuel capacity:
29,000 litres
• Desalinator
production: 2 x 5,000 litres per day
• Cruising speed: 8 knots
• Navigational aids: VHF, SSB, Furuno radar, twin GPS systems
• Communications: Twin LW and single SW radios. She is also equipped with
Dewi Nusantara
Atlantic trade routes
satellite telephones and a 3G internet system.
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• Electricity: Twin generators - 220 volts
After these tasks were completed nearly a year later in December she was
ready to be launched and floated out into the river stream on a high tide
• Number of passengers: 18
before being towed nearly 500 nautical miles across the Bali Sea to Benoa
• Accommodation: Eight double/twin staterooms
harbour in Bali where, under the supervision of engineering and design
• Suites: One - The “Master Suite”
components began.
• Air conditioning: To all interior areas
Now we had a race
experts, the huge task of finishing the woodwork and installing the engineering
against time to have
• Number of crew: 18 sea crew and 4 dive staff
her ready for the
Construction
up-coming 2008 dive
Building a traditional wooden vessel the size of Dewi Nusantara is a complex
enterprise that involves a lot of preparation, a lot of labour and a lot of time
which nowadays it is only feasible in those rare places where both the wood
and the ship’s carpenters are still available. Fortunately we found such a place
in east Kalimantan.
going to begin in North
Sulawesi. Finally after
weeks of sanding and
cabin construction the
engines and generators
Hand built as a one
were installed, the
off project the initial
lounge and cabins
stages of Dewi’s
were designed and decorated and the dive centre built and equipped, we were
construction began on
finally ready for the long haul to the Lembeh Strait to start her maiden cruise.
the muddy banks of
the Karangan River in
Sangkulirang Bay, east
Kalimantan, better
known as Borneo,
Indonesia early in
2007. Our chosen site,
although it was a five
hour drive from the nearest airport, was close to the water, close to the source
of the raw materials needed and lastly had a plentiful and skilled workforce
nearby to work with our master shipwrights and so we began.
We are enormously proud of the final result, a beautiful vessel of immense
strength equipped with state of the art machinery and electronics and we very
much hope that you like her too.
Facilities & Services
• International and local cuisine
• Fine wines
• On-board boatique
• TV and DVD player
Finding suitable timbers for and laying the ironwood keel is the first task and
the site starts to grow up around this afterwards. Next is building up and
covering the ribs then finally on top of this laying the various layers of decking
and building the some of the superstructure.
season that we were
• iPod docking station and sound system
• Two sun decks with loungers and hammocks
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• After dive massage
Communications
• Full body massage
Even in the wilds of eastern Indonesia it is becoming possible to find cell phone
• Hot water deck showers
following communications equipment on board:
• Early morning wake up beverage service
• Satellite telephones
• Reading and marine life ID libraries
• Long and short wave radio systems
• 3G Internet
• 3G Internet
• Backgammon gaming tables
The Dewi Nusantara Crew
• Sea Kayaks
The friendly and experienced crew members of Dewi Nusantara originally
coverage, sometimes in the most unexpected places. However we do have the
come from all over the Indonesian archipelago, hailing from Java to West
Accommodation
Papua, and Sulawesi to
Dewi Nusantara’s air conditioned staterooms are all individually designed, and
Sumbawa. Comprised
are each adaptable for either twin or double use. These cabins are some of the
of many religions,
most spacious on any
they all speak English
dive liveaboard with
to varying levels,
each one having its
although they love
own elegant en-suite
it and are very
bathroom, reading
accommodating if you
lights, desk and chair,
want to practice your
220V power points and
Bahasa Indonesia (the
clothing storage.
local language) with
The Master Suite has
a double bed and
sumptuous furnishings,
its own jacuzzi bath,
and 180 degree views over the ocean from the rear of the vessel.
them. They are always
up for a laugh and a
joke, and are happy to assist with your every need, whether it is a game of
chess or backgammon, an ice cold drink on the sun-deck, or to help you into a
tender for a dive.
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Dewi Nusantara
D E C K
P L A N S
Accommodation Deck
A Floating Five Star Hotel
The lower deck is Dewi Nusantara’s main cabin area with four wonderfully
appointed staterooms on the port side, and four on starboard. These 20
square metre rooms are reached from the main stairway in the lounge/salon,
via a long corridor running down the centre of the vessel. Each cabin can be
configured for twin or double use.
At the bow the lower half of the dive centre is set up and includes the
equipment workshop, compressors and nitrox systems, rental equipment
storage area and two crew cabins.
Towards the stern is the engine room, crew dining room and more crew cabins
and equipment storage areas. There is actually another deck beneath the
staterooms where the vessel’s balanced holding tanks are arranged with a
walkway extending from the engine room to the lower half of the dive centre.
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Main Deck
Where It All Happens
The main deck is where most of the day to day action goes on and houses
most of the vessels facilities. The superstructure at the bow houses the anchor
winch room with the dive centre/camera room directly behind. Moving outside
towards the stern is our huge dive deck and outdoor dining area. Continuing
back the expansive lounge and indoor dining area is next and on both side of
this are the covered twin stairways leading to the upper deck and inside the
lounge the stairway leading down to the accommodation deck.
The ships galley, cold and freezer rooms as well as some crew cabins are
behind the lounge on both port and starboard sides. Hot outdoor showers on
the starboard side and toilet facilities on the port side can also be found on
this deck.
Taking up the all of the back section of the vessel is the Master Suite details of
which are covered on the next page.
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The Master Suite
Sheer Luxury
The Master Suite, occupying the full width of the aft section of the main deck,
The suite has its own lounging area; a large corner sofa with huge table
is the signature room of the ship and is a marvel of design and comfort. It has
constructed entirely from one piece of natural shaped teak. In the other
180 degree views of the ocean behind the ship, and at 46 square meters it is
corner, for our more athletic guests, there is a giant beanbag, but be careful,
the largest room on board and surely one the larger suites available on any
once you get into it you may find it difficult to get out, it’s so comfortable.
live-aboard in the world.
There is ample storage in the wardrobes as well and extra draws and
Like all of the vessel’s interior areas and furnishings, The Master Suite was
cupboards in the bathroom, plenty of room for all of your personal belongings.
conceived and built by the Bali based designer Bruno Helgen. You can see that
the suite’s design has a clear link with the other rooms on board, but this one
is Bruno’s masterpiece! The layout of the suite, the light, the furniture and the
view give you the immediate feeling that you never want to leave . . . you’re
home.
This “one of a kind” suite features a king size bed with bedside tables and
reading lights and the stunning en-suite bathroom has a shower as well as a
jacuzzi bath with ocean views.
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Top Deck
Spectacular 360 degree views of Indonesia
At the centre of the upper deck is Dewi Nusantara’s wheelhouse, this is the
nerve centre where the boat is commanded from and features the navigation,
radar, communications, depth sounder and global positioning systems. The
captain’s and first mates cabins are also included in this block, directly behind
the wheelhouse.
At the very rear of the top deck is the tender deck. Our twin seven metre
fibreglass speedboats are stored during longer or overnight passages and are
lifted up using our unique boom crane and winch system.
In front of the wheelhouse is the huge sun deck with comfortable lounging
furniture, and looking forward over the main deck is the bow sun-deck
featuring more sunbeds and two hammocks, the perfect place to take in the
spectacular scenery of eastern Indonesia after a hard days diving.
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Dewi Nusantara
D E S T I N A T I O N S
Indonesia: The Ultimate Adventure Destination
With a rich history of kingdoms, conquests, colonialism, trade, and a dramatic
paradise. Consisting of over 17,000 mostly uninhabited islands, the oceans
geological history of seismic natural disasters, Indonesia has been blessed with
and seas that surround this waterborne nation are breathtaking, featuring
an exhilarating kaleidoscope of cultures, traditions, languages and religions.
every type of tropical seascape, from sleepy mangrove backwaters to crystal
These factors, combined with friendly people and a wonderful year round
clear coral atolls, wave battered basalt cliffs and current surged rocky sea
climate, make Indonesia the ultimate adventure vacation destination.
mounts, all of them teeming with life.
Stretching for more than 5,000 kilometres along the equator between the
The flora and fauna that can be found in this country of unparalleled natural
continents of Asia and Australia, the Democratic Republic of Indonesia, the
beauty is boundless. Indonesia boasts some of the world’s rarest plants, trees
name deriving from the Greek words, indos (indian) and nesos (islands),
and animals as well as home to the most diverse collection of marine life found
is one of the world’s largest and most populous nations. Referred to by the
anywhere else on earth.
Indonesian people as “air tanah kita” which translates to “our land and sea,”
the planet’s longest and most diverse archipelago is a terrestrial and marine
Welcome to Indonesia, “Air Tanah Kita”.
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Diving The Coral Triangle
A Landscape of Incredible Diversity
All of Indonesia’s premier dive locations are inside what is known
Topside the huge landmasses and countless islands of Indonesia are as
internationally as “The Coral Triangle”, and our majestic three-mast liveaboard
equally diverse as their marine counterparts. Volcanoes - 155 of them
schooner, Dewi Nusantara, has the capacity and extensive experience needed
active - dominate the country and follow the archipelagos’ sweep eastward,
to cruise, dive and explore the area in style.
forming the Indonesian “Ring of Fire”. The steaming jungles of Sumatra and
The Coral Triangle is a geographical term referring to a roughly drawn
triangular area of tropical oceans and seas that include the coastlines of west
Malaysia in the west, the Philippines to the north to Papua New Guinea and
the Solomon Islands in the east and down to East Timor (Timor-Leste). At
the centre of this triangle we find the eastern half of Indonesia, putting this
Kalimantan (Borneo) give way to rice paddies and forests in Java. Savannah,
grassy meadows and dusty hills feature across the central Nusa Tenggara
region, which then gives way to West Papua’s mangrove-covered river deltas,
high jungle and snow-capped mountain peaks in
the east.
part of the country in
Cutting through the middle of the country
what marine scientists
is what is known as the “Wallace Line”. This
refer to as the global
invisible dividing line starts at the northern tip
epicentre of marine
of Borneo running south along the island’s east
biodiversity and a
coast, where it then crosses the Java/Bali Sea
major centre for coral
passing through the deep channel that separates
evolution, the “Amazon
Bali from Lombok. Named after Alfred Russel
of the Seas”.
Wallace, the British naturalist, this imaginary line
Extensive watery
mangrove forests
provide nurseries for a
large variety of marine
species that have
sustained the sea-faring island people of Indonesia for millennia. The sparkling
coral reefs serve as breeding grounds for whales, dolphins and sea turtles
and many fish, providing the seeding stock for the future of our planet’s coral
reefs, over the years we have seen these reefs adapting and changing along
with global trends.
bisects Indonesia, forming a bio-geographical
transition zone between the markedly different
flora and fauna of Asia in the west to that of
the Australian continent in the east. Indonesia,
spreading either side of the Wallace Line, has a
greater diversity of animal species, both marine
and terrestrial, than any other country on earth.
Culture, Colour and Fascination
As you would expect with such a vast country
that stretches so far from west to east and across several time zones, there
It’s little wonder that Indonesia is at the top of every tropical scuba divers’
“to do” list and Dewi Nusantara’s dive cruises can take you to all of the
archipelago’s world famous locations: Raja Ampat, Halmahera, Ambon, the
Banda Sea, Wakatobi, Komodo, Flores, Alor, the Forgotten Islands of Tanimbar,
Kei and Aru and Cenderawasih Bay, the latest global “must dive” hotspot.
are massive cultural differences within Indonesia’s population of 200 million
people. Anthropologically there are big differences between the Indo-Chinese
people of Sumatra and Java to the more aboriginal Papuan tribes found on
the eastern side of the country, and of course differences in their religions and
customs too.
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On Bali these rites are well known the world over but did you know that
there are still parts of the island of Sumba where the people still construct
monolithic houses and hold grand ceremonial horseback battles involving
hundreds of spear wielding riders, commencing when the priests see a specific
type of marine worm infest the local beaches and the moon is in the right
position.
East of Bali
Bali is the next island in the line and this is where the coastal waters become
much deeper and where the country becomes infinitely more interesting to
scuba divers. Bali is the first link in a chain that stretches over 800 nautical
miles to the east, lies 8 degrees below the equator and runs all the way to
Wetar and East Timor in the Banda Sea. This region of Indonesia is called Nusa
Central Sulawesi is home to the famous Toragans whose houses are built to
resemble the spacecraft that brought their ancestors to earth and who believe
they were born of the stars; while
Tenggara and makes up our first major diving area and includes the famous
Bali, Komodo and Alor destinations, and many more that are much less
travelled.
on the island of Alor, the people of
Sulawesi
Takpala village still conduct tribal
North of this long island system,
ceremonies and dances with their
150 nautical miles across the Flores
mysterious centuries old bronze
Sea is Sulawesi. This huge and
drums, the origins of which are
unknown.
strangely shaped island includes the
Further east still are the coastal
in the south east and the critter
and jungle dwellings of the Asmat
haven of the Lembeh Strait and
tribe of south west Papua who still
Bunaken National Park in the north,
carry out deadly raiding excursions
as well as many others in between.
between their villages to settle
The two major cities on Sulawesi
local disputes. The whole country of
are Manado, the regional capital in
Indonesia forms a huge melting pot
the north and Makassar, Sulawesi’s
of culture, colour, and sometimes
actual capital and major domestic
deadly fascination.
airway hub, on the south west of
Buton/Wakatobi/Tukang Besi sites
the island.
Across the Archipelago
Let’s start a journey across Indonesia’s vast chain of islands beginning at
Maluku
the northern tip of its most westerly island, Sumatra, six degrees above the
East of Sulawesi is Halmahera and the northernmost part of the islands and
equator, out in the Indian Ocean west of the Malay Peninsula. This huge island,
seas that make up the Maluku region. Maluku ranges from north to south
1,700 km from tip to tip, traces a long diagonal sweep to the south-east where
and includes Halmahera and her attendant islands while further south are the
it meets the island of Java at the Sunda Strait close to the nation’s capital,
bigger islands of Obi, Buru, Seram and the Ambon group of Haruku, Saparua
Jakarta. Java, the world’s most densely populated island, continues eastward,
and Ambon itself. Even further south and way out in the deep blue Banda Sea
directly below the island of Borneo, the world’s fifth biggest, which includes
is the Banda group - once the epicentre of world commerce when the spice
the Indonesian section of Kalimantan, the largest, along with the Malaysian
trade was in full swing in the 1700’s. Also part of Maluku are the isolated and
territories and the Sultanate of Brunei in the north of the island.
small atoll and island sites at Lucipara and Manuk; and the region finishes with
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the relatively unexplored Babar Islands, close to the eastern end of the Nusa
western section of the Indonesian half of the huge island of Papua, these three
Tenggara chain at Wetar.
independently different areas is now under the world’s microscope as being
among the last underwater frontiers. Triton Bay lies to the south west, Raja
The Forgotten Islands
Ampat takes up a large portion of the north west and Cenderawasih completes
We continue our journey east and on to our next stop, the Tanimbar, Kei and
Aru island groups. Technically a part of Maluku, these groups form the south
the triangle in the north east.
eastern perimeter of the Banda Sea and are the mythical South Sea Islands
Journeys End
made famous by the Blair brothers, Lawrence and Lorne, at the culmination of
We are now at the end of our journey around the major diving regions of
their filmed Indonesian epic, Ring of Fire. Due to their remote position, these
Indonesia and have ended up, after starting in the Indian Ocean on Sumatra,
groups are largely unexplored by
west of mainland south-east Asia,
either divers or cultural explorers.
very close to being in line with
Eastern Australia. We have travelled
West Papua
close to 5,000 kilometres from
Finally and once again moving
west to east and hundreds more
north, we come to our last major
traversing from north to south.
marine region, or rather regions:
Now, if you will excuse the pun, let’s
Triton Bay, Raja Ampat and
carry on with a more “in depth” look
Cenderawasih Bay. Clustered on
at the prime dive destinations that
and around the now famous “Bird’s
Dewi Nusantara’s visits.
Head Peninsula” off the north
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Dewi Nusantara
R A J A
A M P A T
Raja Ampat: Exploring the Realm of the Four Kings
Located in the heart of the coral triangle offshore from the north western
tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsula on the vast island of Papua, lies the pristine
Raja Ampat National Park. Quoted by many as being divings final frontier,
Raja Ampat casts a
spell on all who visit:
crusty sea salts, novice
divers, photographers
and scientists alike.
The national park
is huge covering
over 50,000 sq km
comprising of four
main islands: Waigeo,
Batanta, Salawati and
Misool. Alongside the
main islands, the park
also boasts literally hundreds of karst limestone islands and islets that pop up
from the deep blue sea giving the impression that they have been carefully
placed by a landscape designer.
Raja Ampat boasts an astounding variety of marine habitats, which translates
to wildly different diving experiences, from pelagic drift dives to magical muck
sites. There are some that are even unique to Raja Ampat, such as clear water
mangrove forests with brilliant coral gardens growing right next to them. The
area has hundreds of potential dive sites and exploration is still continuing.
On every trip there are chances for new and amazing discoveries in one of the
world’s last underwater Edens.
Exciting topside diversions are on offer too: thrilling speedboat rides around
the enchanting lagoons, exploring cathedral-like caves, hunting for the elusive
“Birds of Paradise” or the chance to visit the local aquaculture centres of
working pearl farms.
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Raja Ampat - A brief history
The diversity of dive sites is remarkable; there are some areas where soft
Prior to the 16th century very little was known in the west about this region,
although trade with the Maluku, Timor and perhaps Java, existed long before.
After a few years of unsuccessful attempts to discover a fabled “island of
gold”, the Spanish buccaneer Ynigo Ortiz de Retes finally landed here in 1545,
naming the region New Guinea and claiming it for the King of Spain. Several
failed gold explorations
followed, but it was
only in 1714 that
Spain was forced to
relinquish control to
Holland and Britain.
These two seafaring
superpowers had
long been interested
in the region’s
trading commodities
of nutmeg, massio
bark, trepang (dried sea cucumbers), tortoise shells, pearls, birds of paradise
feathers and slaves. The British finally proclaimed a protectorate in the east
in 1884, the Dutch established two permanent posts in the west in 1899, and
boundaries were settled in 1895 and 1910.
corals and sea fans dominate, spectacular hard coral seascapes, mangroves
shallow reefs, drop-offs, caves, black sand, white sand and sea grass beds.
All of these environments combine to house a huge amount of marine life,
in more shapes and sizes than anywhere else in the world. All levels of the
food chain are well represented, from pygmy seahorses to top predators and
everything in between. The reefs of Raja Ampat literally buzz with life. Beware!
Sensory overload is a common problem here.
Breathtaking Topside Scenery
Raja Ampat is world renowned for its spectacular above-water scenery and
sparsely inhabited tropical islands. Pristine rain forests decorate the tops of the
dramatic limestone cliffs and there are hundreds of deserted bays and glorious
white sandy beaches as well as many other hidden treasures to dazzle the
intrepid explorer. It’s a kayakers dream too, featuring intricate coastlines with
caves, bays, gorges,
hidden rivers - all of
them teeming with
exotic tropical wildlife,
plants and flowers.
A bird watching hike
on Gam or Weigeo
It was World War II, however, that finally put the vast island of New Guinea
on the world map in western history, when it became a fierce battleground
between the Japanese and Allied forces. With the end of World War II and the
beginnings of independence the Dutch handed her territories over to what was
Islands will take you
through scenic forests,
past fragile exotic
orchids growing from
to become the Republic of Indonesia.
cracks in the stone
Under the Surface
Paradise performing their elaborate early morning courtship dances to attract a
cliffs and finally to the unforgettable experience of witnessing the male Birds of
Raja Ampat’s marine environments are out of this world, with something for
everyone. The reefs are a riot of colour and variety and are home to some of
the rarest marine life to be seen anywhere. Big animals are also on show with
manta ray displays a common occurrence at a number of sites, while the huge
female mate.
Caving at Misool will bring you an exciting glimpse into a fascinating hidden
subterranean world while it is still possible to search for historical artefacts
and interesting remnants from World War II, such as crumbling forts, sunken
Dewi Nusantara
pelagic concentrations around the sea mounts and islands are incredible.
planes and other hardware.
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Dewi Nusantara is one of a limited number of liveaboards that have been
granted a licence to operate in the Raja Ampat National Park, the income from
which, alongside park fees charged to all visitors, goes towards helping the
local villagers in a variety of community projects. Village communities maintain
their ancestral way of life and traditional values by participating in a wide
Dewi Nusantara In-House Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at sales@
dewi-nusantara.com for the most competitive rates.
variety of village celebrations which
Since the majority of the
always include various types of
Indonesian domestic air carriers
music, singing, dance performances
do not participate in global
and other rustic fun that we often
ticket distribution, we provide a
get the chance to enjoy on our trips.
purchasing service for the domestic
tickets on our guests’ behalf. In
Raja Ampat – Itineraries
order to purchase tickets, guests
Raja Ampat is Dewi Nusantara’s
will need to provide Dewi Nusantara
home for the majority of the
with your name as it appears
operating year. Our luxurious motor
on your passport, nationality on
sailer will be plying the waters of
passport, and the international flight
this stunning National Park to bring
details for your arrival and return
you the very best of this unique
home.
and truly beautiful paradise to
For details of how to get to and
make your dive vacation dreams
from Raja Ampat please see the
come true. Starting and finishing in
“Planning Guide” section of this
Sorong, our 11-night cruises offer
presentation.
nine and a half days of spectacular
and varied diving with between two and four dives per day with many
fascinating land excursions along the way.
Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] if you
have any further questions.
Other destinations include: Komodo, Cenderawasi Bay, Halmahera, Banda, Alor
and Wakatobi. Please see our schedules and itineraries pages or contact us for
more details at [email protected].
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
C E N D E R A W A S I H
B A Y
Cenderawasih Bay: Whalesharks, Wrecks & Unexplored Reefs
Taking up the most part of the north western section
of Indonesian West Papua, Cenderawasih Bay,
combined with Raja Ampat and Triton Bay make
up what is known as The Bird’s Head Seascape.
All three of these markedly differing regions
are relatively new to the diving fraternity, with
Cenderawasih Bay being the main contender for the
diving world’s latest “must see” destination award.
The bay, marine park and outlying areas sit on the
north east side of the Bird’s Head Peninsula and
include the towns of Manokwari and Nabire, as well
as the larger islands of Biak, Supiori, Numfor, Yapen
and the mini archipelago of the Paraido island group.
Facing north out into the vast Pacific Ocean,
Cenderawasih Bay has features that are rare, even
when taking into consideration the incredible range
and diversity of diving in other parts of Indonesia.
Looking at the bay on a chart, it soon becomes
evident it is somewhat confined and this has caused
some unique marine conditions when compared
to the fish-filled reefs of Raja Ampat, the soft
coral gardens at Triton Bay or the current-washed
channels of the Komodo and Alor straits - and this is
the reason why Cenderawasih is so different.
In contrast to many of the other Indonesian dive
centres of excellence, Cenderawasih is the only one
not to be greatly affected by what is known as the
“Indonesian Throughflow”. This oceanic phenomenon
describes the complex movement of water through
the Indonesian archipelago between the Pacific and
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Indian Oceans. The planet’s biggest water flow or
movement, this mostly north to south exchange of
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nutrients and larvae is a major factor as to why Indonesia’s oceans and seas
have such prolific marine life and exciting underwater conditions.
Cenderawasih Bay, on the other hand, is not really affected by these huge
water movements and - until fairly recently, in geological time frames - the
bay was even more cut off and this has caused the marine flora and fauna to
differ from the Indonesian norm. This isolation now means that the bay plays
host to a number of endemic marine
Whalesharks – Suckers for a good time
Anybody who has ever encountered a whaleshark during a dive knows what an
awe-inspiring and humbling experience it can be. Like the graceful manta ray,
whalesharks are great favourites with divers and just seem to glide though the
water, without a care in the world, feeding on microscopic plankton and other
small organisms while all you have to do is keep up with them for a photo
or video scene. Now we present a whaleshark encounter like no other, the
Cenderawasih Bay Big Boys.
species and perhaps even more
interesting is the fact that many
In Indonesia it is common, from
normally deeper dwelling animals
Bali all the way to West Papua,
can be found here in relatively
for fishermen to utilise floating
shallow water, creating a topsy-
bamboo rafts, anchored to the sea
turvey reefscape which gives us a
bed, to attract fish. Called FADs
chance to observe and photograph
(fish aggregation devices) or, more
these otherwise unreachable
traditionally in Indonesia, rompongs,
creatures.
they are employed in open water
Diving Cenderawasih
away from reefs to act like a floating
The Cenderawasih National Park -
tiny fish and other marine life. Once
weed bed habitat that will attract
covering 14,000 square kilometres
a community has been established
and Indonesia’s largest, is half as
under the device it is not long
much again bigger than that of
before more and progressively
Raja Ampat and has some splendid
larger fish are attracted to it and
diving, even without the Indonesian
fishing can commence. Some of
Throughflows’ natural currents
and upwellings. The reefs of the outer islands and the Padaido archipelago
complex offer sparkling colour, a riot of marine life, picture perfect sandy
beaches and the chance to explore WWII wrecks and artefacts. The truly
pristine island of Yapen in particular, is fast becoming popular with the world’s
birdwatchers and has spectacular topside treks to find the elusive “Birds of
Paradise.”On the north west edge of the bay, the shipwrecks of Manokwari -
these floating fishing stations can be a bit of a hazard to shipping as they
are sometimes moored way out to sea (in fact in Bali they have become a
menace), some even having some sparse living accommodation attached.
Many times while on a trip we have encountered them and our guests are
fascinated, sometimes even refusing to believe what their purpose is as they
are so remote.
some explored, some not - add another dive dimension and could turn into a
Now, a variation of the rompong called a “bagan” is used in Cenderawasih Bay
tech-divers paradise. The main attraction and the stars of the Cenderawasih
by the fishermen, almost all of whom are from Sulawesi incidentally. What
bay show however, at least for now, are the up close and personal whaleshark
these guys do is catch tiny baitfish in nets and hang them in the water as bait
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experiences deep inside the bay at Kwatisore, so let’s start with the big boys.
for the larger pelagic animals, to speed up the natural progression of life under
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the bagan. What happens here though is that they get a lot more than they
tourists today across the south west Pacific region a fascinating insight into the
bargain for. Whalesharks are not shy about adjusting their planktonic diet with
struggles of that time.
something a little more substantial, baitfish for example, so these monsters
started to gather under the bagans and suck at the nets for a free meal.
Fortunately for us and more so for the whalesharks, the local fishermen took
their presence as a good luck omen and in time struck up a relationship with
them, to the point where they can now hand feed the sharks the same as you
The sunken wrecks of Chuuk (Truk), Palau and the Philippines are well known
in the diving world. Indonesia, although not so famously, also bears some
of the scars of war with scattered wrecks all over the archipelago. From the
HMAS Perth and USS Houston battle cruises lying in the Sunda Strait between
would a cow.
Sumatra and Java to the famous Liberty Wreck at Tulamben, Bali, there are
As an extension of the fishermen’s interaction with these animals, dive
has the largest concentration of sunken wartime artefacts and Dore Bay and
liveaboards are now visiting the bagans and the fishermen allow divers to get
the town of Manokwari probably have the most.
wreck site all over the archipelago. It is the Birdshead Seascape however, that
in the water with them to film, photograph and observe these majestic beasts
Manokwari town runs along the
at their leisure. As their free feed is
beautiful shoreline of Dore Bay,
static, the whalesharks tend to stick
a natural deep water harbour
around for quite a time and, as well
backed by the 3,000 metre high
as swimming around the platforms,
Arfak mountain range and lower
have adopted a “vertical in the
lying impenetrable jungle, forming
water” feeding position unique to
a nicely protected, and what the
the area. A bonus to this whaleshark
Japanese navy thought was a safe
tea party is that it is also possible
anchorage for their cargo and
to catch a glimpse of some of the
warships. The hills above the town
pelagics that the bagans are there
bear the trademarks of Japanese
to attract, with sightings of sailfish
and marlin being recorded.
occupation: they are riddled with
Manokwari Shipwrecks
and escape. General McArthur’s
tunnels used for storage, shelter
allied forces were based on the
Toward the end of the Second
island of Biak 120 nautical miles
World War, the US Navy began a
away and were regularly attacking
push north west from the Solomon
the Japanese at Manokwari with
Islands in the hopes of containing
and defeating the Japanese invaders. Under the command of General
MacArthur, this successful offensive routed the enemy and began a process
that was eventually called island hopping. The Japanese were put on the back
foot, but not without a fight, over Papua New Guinea, the Marshall Islands,
West Papua, Micronesia, Halmahera and up into the Philippines where they
their aircraft. Unfortunately for the allies the Japanese had cracked their radio
codes so were ready when the planes attacked their shipping; this led to a
lot of them being shot down to join the bombed and sunken Japanese vessels
already on the sandy seabed.
Inside of Dore bay itself are two islands, Mansinam, the largest, and Raimuti
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were finally defeated. The remains of these conflicts have given divers and
or Lemon Island, much smaller and appropriately shaped like a lemon. Coral
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reefs surround most of both of them and Mansinam has the dubious distinction
The Pillbox Wreck
of being the first place in Papua where, in 1855, two Christian missionaries
There is a large white cross on Mansinam Island commemorating the arrival of
first set foot in the region. Their arrival heralded the spread, for better or
the aforementioned missionaries in the water close to this monument is where
worse, of Christianity and its superstitious customs amongst most of the
the Pillbox Wreck lies. Sitting in depths of between 9 and 16 metres, this
indigenous people of the islands and mainland.
Japanese commercial cargo vessel is around 60 metres long and was pressed
While over 20 wrecks
have so far been
into wartime use as an ammunition carrier, some of which is still evident on
the wreck today.
discovered, only five
The Mupi Wreck
are easily diveable at
Not as much is known about the Mupi Wreck. This vessel is 40 metres (130
the present time for
ft) long and lies upright on the sandy bottom with her decking at a depth of 9
liveaboards or land-
metres (30 ft). The superstructure is draped in red and white soft corals and
based operations.
a metal pot can still be seen in position on the oven as well as bottles and yet
Others are either
more ammunition.
too deep to reach on
conventional scuba,
are hard to find or are
so bent and destroyed
they are hardly worth
diving. Luckily for us the five that are reachable are relatively unexplored,
fairly pristine and rarely visited. Good hard and soft coral growth and abundant
marine life is also an advantage, while many still contain interesting artefacts
and - with the exception of the Shinwa Maru - have not yet been properly
identified. Let’s have a look at them.
The Shinwa Maru
At 120 metres long and lying at a maximum depth of 35 metres the Shinwa
Maru is the Manokwari wreck that so far we know the most about and also one
of the best to dive. Located south east of Mansinam island this large Japanese
transport ship has five holds and lies on her port side with her superstructure
still intact. Featuring an abundance of marine life the Shinwa Maru was
bombed as big holes can be seen where big holes should not be and she is
loaded with a wealth of artefacts to discover.
Australian Plane Wreck
As with a lot of Pacific
The Cross Wreck
A Japanese coastal patrol boat 40 metres in length and lying in 19 metres of
water on a flat sandy bottom. Upright although listing to one side it is possible
Ocean wreck sites, it is
not only shipping that
to view the engine room, galley and radio room.
lies on the ocean floor,
The Pasir Putih Wreck
a lot of aircraft too
Named for its closeness to the Pasir Putih beach this is another Japanese
and Manokwari is
navy patrol boat. Around 30-35 metres (100-115 ft) long, sitting upright and
no exception. One
between 13-22 metres (45-75 ft) deep on the reef slope. Depth charges can
plane wreck that has
be observed on the stern and while others lie on the nearby slope.
been found here is what is believed to be a P-40N Kitty Hawk fighter. Laying
there are sometimes
at a depth of 27 metres (90 ft) this plane was thought to be used in allied
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operations by the Royal Australian Air Force before its demise.
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Cenderawasih Reefs - True Exploration Diving
Marine Life
Getting back to more conventional Indonesian diving, the wide variation of
When it comes to marine life and leaving the amazing whalesharks aside for a
coral reefs and walls of the park and the outer islands make up the latest
while, the bay also features a fine cross section of Indonesian marine animals
must see destination for virgin dive site discovery and exploration. Up until
with most of the usual suspects represented. With the addition of Wobbegong
a couple of years ago liveaboards
sharks that are normally, but not
were rarely seen here, and as it
exclusively, spotted at Raja Ampat
covers such a vast area, the dive
and the rare leatherback turtle that
sites in Cenderawasih Bay still have
is hard to find anywhere else in
to be properly logged, charted and
Indonesia, Cenderawasih’s animal
described; the opportunities for
list begins to look better and better.
new discoveries are almost endless.
Marine mammals pop up too with
There are also the islands of Biak,
schooling dolphins being a common
Supiori, Numfor, Num and Yapen as
topside site and, the sluggish but no
well as islands and the coastline of
less fascinating dugong can be seen
the eastern side of the bay to take
grazing in the mangrove and sea
into consideration. Although they do
grass areas.
have some known dive sites they
As previously mentioned, due
also have many more reefs and even
wrecks to be found.
to its inverted architecture, the
The Padaido Archipelago
few places in the world where it is
Cenderawasih reefscape is one of the
possible to observe and photograph
Originally called “Schoutenlands”
marine species that normally live in
after the famous Dutch seafarer
William Schouten, who first explored the islands in the 1600’s, the Padaido
archipelago is another fine example of an area that is vying for our exploratory
attention. Padaido - meaning “place of indescribable beauty” and numbering
some 30 islands - is a group of wonderland of classic white sand beaches and
spectacular undersea gardens in crystal clear waters.
far deeper water. This has opened up a whole new chapter for marine scientists
who are now beginning to discover new species and variations in the bay to add
to the already world beating numbers of Indonesian sea creatures.
Topside Nature Reserves
Cenderawasih Bay retains a natural beauty becoming of the south pacific and is
Sea mounts and Sunken Reefs
a treasure trove for the nature lover, both marine and terrestrial. The bay and
Diving on reefs and mounts that are isolated out at sea is always an exciting
experience and inside the huge bay at Cenderawasih there is a wealth of
shallow reef systems and connected sea mounts, such as Tydeman Reef, that
become exposed at low tide and these offer yet another facet to an already
bewildering variety of dive exploration opportunities.
outer islands, as well as the 450 square kilometre Arfak Nature Reserve close
to Manokwari, are home to a host of rare creatures normally only seen in books
or TV documentaries. Living in the lowlands, gorges and hilly forests, these
creatures are endemic to the area and include forest wallabies, tree kangaroos,
possums, bandicoots and the sleepy and secretive cuscus - native to Papua and
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north Australia, this large marsupial is a member of the possum family.
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Birders’ Paradise
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
The whole continental-sized island of Papua has, along with the Amazon, the
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
largest concentration of bird life on the planet with west Papua being the home
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at sales@
of the elusive and rare Birds of Paradise. In the Arfak Reserve, it is reckoned
dewi-nusantara.com for the most competitive rates.
that 320 bird species have been recorded, with around 50% of these endemic
to the region. The huge frigate bird congregations out on the rocky islets in the
bay and the ornithological delights on the mainland and larger islands make
Since the majority of the Indonesian domestic
air carriers do not participate in global ticket
Cenderawasih Bay a birders’ paradise.
distribution, we provide a purchasing service
Dewi Nusantara in Cenderawasih Bay
In order to purchase tickets, guests will need
for the domestic tickets on our guests’ behalf.
Once again, the diverse underwater and stunning topside worlds of Indonesia
have combined to produce yet another wonderful destination, with something
very special for every adventurous diver and
intrepid traveller the world over. Let Dewi
Nusantara be your luxury home away from home
in this beautifully unique part of the world.
Cenderawasih Bay - Itineraries
Starting and finishing at Manokwari, our
11-night Cenderawasih Bay cruises offer nine
and a half days of spectacular and varied diving,
with between two and four dives per day and
to provide Dewi Nusantara with your name
as it appears on your passport, nationality on
passport, and the international flight details for
your arrival and return home.
For details of how to get to and from
Cenderawasih Bay please see the “Planning
Guide” section of this presentation.
Please feel free to contact us via email at
[email protected] if you have any
further questions.
many fascinating land excursions along the way.
Please see our schedules and itineraries pages or
contact us for more details at
[email protected].
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
F L O R E S
T O
A L O R
Flores to Alor: Reefs, Critters and Fire Breathing Monsters
The Flores-Adonara-Solar-Lembata-Pantar-Alor island chain in Indonesia lies
toward the eastern end of the long Nusa Tenggara archipelago, 160 nautical
miles directly south of the large island of Sulawesi and 500 nautical miles east
of Bali. These scenic and highly volcanic islands lie eight degrees below the
equator and enjoy calm blue seas and warm sunny weather throughout most
of the year.
Life is full of surprises, particularly where scuba diving is concerned, and
we had a really welcome surprise a few years ago when the Alor regency in
eastern Indonesia opened its door to us.
Way back in December 2004, four years before Dewi Nusantara was even
For selected cruises during our operational year, Dewi Nusantara will be setting
out on dive adventure programmes east of Flores to this fascinating region.
Rarely visited by other liveaboards the dive sites here feature crystal clear
visibility, exciting drifts along sheer walls, dazzling coral gardens and some
classic critter dives combining to give you one of the most prolific and diverse
marine environments in Indonesia. Our dive crews were among some of the
first to visit here, so here is the story of the development of a new destination
for you and Dewi Nusantara.
Exploration in East Nusa Tenggara
completed, our dive team had a break in their regular schedule and embarked
on a custom cruise that took us along the chain of islands between Flores
and Alor, deep into what is called East Nusa Tenggara. What we found
astonished us; endless visibility over pristine reefs teeming with marine life,
and fascinating critter dives loaded with many of the rare creatures that
underwater image makers only dream about. Alongside our marine adventures
there was breathtaking topside scenery everywhere featuring active volcanoes,
breaching whales and playful dolphins, as well as the wonderfully friendly local
people - and this was only on one trip!
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Our dive team is constantly looking to find new dive destinations for Dewi
It was therefore with some excitement that we started out on what was to
Nusantara; and since our first visit, we had always wanted to find out more
become some fascinating new dive cruises that revisited the eastern end of
about East Nusa Tenggara while, at the same time the area was literally
the Nusa Tenggara archipelago. Some of the areas and dive sites we already
staring us in the face, asking to be explored. With this in mind, we decided
had knowledge of but
to repeat our earlier exercise and, in 2010, took a fresh look at this new and
we had our work cut
relatively undiscovered region of the vast Indonesian archipelago. To help us,
out to find more - and
all we needed to do was look in our dive logs, and now we would like to share
what discoveries we
the secrets of these islands with you.
made! It takes a little
while to get really
Sparkling Reef Structure
comfortable with a
The different areas that Dewi Nusantara operates in around Indonesia
new operational area
each have a unique and distinctive feel to them, both underwater and on
but extensive earlier
the surface. The
experience in Komodo,
architecture, biology
Raja Ampat and North
and geography of
Sulawesi stood us
the reefs and the
in good stead. Right
corals living on them
away, we started for find some sublime new dives to go along with those we
appear to be very
already knew and our list of sites and the marine life found on them just keeps
slightly different in
on getting longer - and more impressive.
each destination,
marine life that is
Pelagics and Cetaceans
relatively common
A few of the oceans larger creatures turn up in the Alor/Pantar/Lembata
in one place is rarely
Straits that are rarely seen at other destinations too. Sightings of otherworldly
seen in others, and our
mola mola as well as thresher and hammerhead sharks and absolutely huge
Flores to Alor route is
dogtooth tuna are reported on a regular basis. On other dives along our
no exception. For example, the wobbegong shark that in found all over Raja
northern and southern routes, we are often visited by massive Napoleon
Ampat is extremely rare in areas further west, while the sea apple (a rather
wrasse, plenty of white-tip, black-tip and grey reef sharks, colossal stingrays,
flamboyant holothurian or sea cucumber) is only found in the cold waters of
as well as squadrons of eagle and mobular rays.
the southern sites of east Nusa Tenggara.
Huge schools of dolphin are a common sight on our travels as they race
The marine environments along our route include sheer fan-covered walls,
towards the boat to play in our bow wave. The current swept channels that
teeming sea mounts and ledges with spectacular visibility, sparkling coral
separate the islands in the Alor/Pantar and Pantar/Lembata Straits serve as
slopes and some remarkable sandy critter dives. Some dives are totally
major thoroughfares for much larger cetaceans too and it is not unusual to see
unique, such as Clown Valley and Big Foot Bay on Pura Island in the Alor
one or two huge whales surfacing to breathe, even the massive blue and fin
Strait, with carpets of anemones spreading as far as the eye can see for
varieties.
hundreds of metres.
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Classic Critters
The Dewi Nusantara dive team, being the intrepid underwater explorers that
Most avid critter hunters know of the Lembeh Strait in north Sulawesi but not
many have heard of the Kalabahi Sound, Teluk Lebaleba, Teluk Waihinga or
Beangabang Bay - all of which are on a par with their more famous neighbour
in Sulawesi. These dive sites produce rare and cryptic creatures time and time
again, without the crowds or overzealous divemasters, and we have only really
scratched the surface; or the bottom if you want to be technically correct.
we are, have dived on Komba’s surrounding reefs on many occasions and have
found even more colourful and mysterious black sand and reef sites to add to
our ever growing list.
The Local People
Although not densely populated, we often get to meet the people of this farflung region, their smiling friendly faces making a welcome addition to any
To produce a world class critter
trip. The ladies from the islands of
site, local conditions must be right:
the Alor/Pantar Strait specialise in
slightly sloping sandy gravel and silt
weaving decorative Ikat fabrics and
is the preferred bottom composition,
will brave the currents and row out
washed over daily by a gentle tidal
in their delicate water craft out for
current, preferably mixed with a
us to sample and buy their colourful
fresh water source such as a stream
wares. If you like live entertainment
or river. When these environments
there is plenty of that too, we often
combine things start to get
roll up to a dive site to be greeted
interesting, and there are plenty of
by an entire school of children
opportunities to find them in the
singing and shouting to us from the
hundreds of bays and coves that are
shore or while paddling their dugout
a feature of these islands.
canoes around the boat.
Topside
The quality of the coral reefs of
the Alor region owes a lot to the
Along our route, there are some
local fishermen. Sustainable fishing
incredible topside sights too: white
practices using basket weave traps
sandy beaches, sparkling blue seas,
emerald green forests, scorched savannah and, more strikingly, many very
active volcanoes. During our trips, we try to get up close and personal with
one of these fire-breathing monsters, Komba, an island volcano that thrusts
out of the Flores Sea 30 nautical miles north of Lembata Island. Creeping up
on this smoke puffing beast just before dark, huge dust clouds can be seen
blasting out at regular intervals from deep inside the island. When darkness
falls, we are presented with the even more awesome sight of huge fire
red rocks and ash bouncing and scattering down the mountain side before
plunging with a loud hiss into the sea, punctuated from time to time with
are in place and it is not unusual to
see a spear fisherman going about his aquatic business whilst completing a
safety stop after a dive - have a camera ready though, they love to pose for
underwater photographs too.
Dewi Nusantara and her experienced crew has now put East Flores and
the Alor region firmly on the map of must-see places for divers wanting to
experience something exciting, new and out of the ordinary. For volcanic thrills
and pioneering diving off the beaten track, the underwater world of East Nusa
Tenggara is hard to beat! Surprise yourself - we did!
Dewi Nusantara
deafening volcanic explosions - a humbling but jaw dropping experience.
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Flores and Alor - Itineraries
During or operating year the magnificent Dewi Nusantara motor sailer visits
the Flores and Alor region for selected cruises in this fascinating part of
Indonesia to bring you the very best that this unusual and pristine region has
to offer.
Our Flores and Alor cruises will start and finish in the harbour town of
Maumere, north Flores, These 11-night cruises offer nine and a half days of
spectacular and varied diving, with between two and four dives per day and
many fascinating land excursions along the way.
Please see our schedules and itineraries pages or contact us for more details at
[email protected].
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at sales@
dewi-nusantara.com for the most competitive rates.
Since the majority of the Indonesian domestic air carriers do not participate
in global ticket distribution, we provide a purchasing service for the domestic
tickets on our guests’ behalf. In order to purchase tickets, guests will need
to provide Dewi Nusantara with your name as it appears on your passport,
nationality on passport, and the international flight details for your arrival and
return home.
For details of how to get to and from Maumere, our start and finish port
in Flores for these cruises, please see the “Planning Guide” section of this
presentation.
Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] if you
have any further questions.
Dewi Nusantara
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S O U T H
Dewi Nusantara
E A S T
S U L A W E S I
&
E A S T
N U S A
T E N G G A R A
SE Sulawesi & East Nusa Tenggara: Dual Dream Dive Destinations
Dewi Nusantara heads out on some unique dive cruises that take in several of
Indonesia’s most colourful, interesting and diverse dive destinations; Buton,
Wakatobi, Alor, Lembata and East Flores. These trips are scheduled one way
in two directions - starting and finishing in two different locations (Buton,
South Sulawesi and Maumere in Flores) - offering a splendid cross-section of
Indonesian scuba diving: dazzling coral reefs and walls in crystal clear water,
Lembata coast - a red hot experience both under and over the water.
Underwater, both areas offer supreme reef and wall diving. The walls of
Alor, in particular, plunge down to the extreme depths from shallow calm
coral gardens, while the Wakatobi region has been described by Jacques
Cousteau and the crew of Calypso as being “one of the best reef systems we
have ever dived”. Divers
as well as a many cryptic
and photographers who
critter dives - some that
favour the “little things
only liveaboards like Dewi
Nusantara can reach.
in life” have a lot to look
These “combination
are several absolute world
cruises” are split into
class and rarely dived
two different sections:
critter sites at Buton, Alor
Buton/Wakatobi to the
and Lembata to keep even
north and Alor/Flores,
the most discerning macro
part of Nusa Tenggara
snapper enthusiast happy.
in the south. On the
Now let’s take a virtual
surface, these combined
run-through of the major
destinations are very
areas we will be visiting,
different, with the Alor-
running from north to
to-Flores section featuring
south, Buton to Maumere:
forward to as well: there
towering volcanoes almost
everywhere you look, while
Buton
at Buton and Wakatobi,
After landing at Baubau
the change in scenery is
airport in south Sulawesi, it
dramatic and we are now
is just a short trip to Wajo
faced with idyllic coral
Bay where Dewi Nusantara
atolls and surface reefs
will be moored and ready
rising up from the deep
to start your trip. Buton
Banda Sea.
Island and particularly Wajo Bay is becoming increasingly popular as a diving
The mid-point is punctuated with a bang as we focus on a live volcano display:
destination in its own right. Wajo Bay forms a natural harbour on the south
side of Buton and is one of the latest in a long line of hotspots for critter diving
Dewi Nusantara
the permanently erupting sea borne monster of Komba 30 miles north of the
fanatics. With a gently sloping sandy bottom and eight nautical miles across
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at its mouth, this busy bay features several world class muck sites and has all
out from the north Flores coastline. Creeping
the required components to become one of Indonesia’s major critter hunting
up on this smoke puffing beast just before dark
havens with all of the major marine muck suspects present.
huge dust and ash clouds can be seen blasting
out into the sky from deep inside the island at
Wakatobi
regular intervals. When darkness falls, we are
The Wakatobi island complex some 50 nautical miles south east of Buton
presented with the even more awesome sight
is well known the world over as being one of Indonesia’s premier dive
of huge molten red rocks and ash bouncing and
destinations. Turned into a part of the Tukang Besi National Marine Park many
scattering down the rubble strewn mountain side
years ago with the efforts of the land-based Wakatobi Resort, this once very
before plunging with a loud hiss into the sea,
remote and difficult to reach location is probably what everybody’s idea of
underlined from time to time with deafening
a south sea island paradise would look like. White sand-covered coral atolls
staccato explosions - an incredible experience.
fringed with swaying
It’s now that you know you are well and truly in
palms standing atop
the “Ring of Fire”.
clear blue coral reefs
with plunging vertical
walls are the order of
the day here.
The Dewi Nusantara dive team, being the
intrepid underwater explorers that we are, have
dived Komba’s surrounding waters on many
occasions in the past and discovered even more
Rising from the north
fascinating and mysterious vibrant reef and
west perimeter of the
black sand sites to add to our already impressive
Banda Sea, the Tukang
and ever growing list.
Besi National Marine
Park benefits from the
Alor, Pantar, Lembata, Adonara & Flores
upwellings of nutrients
Waking up the next morning, we are presented with even more volcanoes,
from its depths, as well as the strong currents that surge and swirl around the
running in a line along the East Nusa Tenggara islands east to west from Alor
islands. Its signature sea fan-covered walls, coral reefs and sea mounts are
to Flores. Now we have some intriguing choices to make: we are on the north
some of the most active in Indonesia. Diving at the well-known sites like the
side of an island chain, we can explore the new critter sites in the Kalabahi
razor thin ridges of Blade or the spread out collection of undulating sea mounts
Sound and the pristine walls and reefs of the Alor Strait, or navigate the
at Roma and the barracuda-patrolled sites of north Hoga are first-rate marine
super deep wall complex in Teluk Waihinga and later simply opt for the most
experiences.
prolific rhinopias dive we, or anybody else for that matter, has experienced, at
Lembata island.
A firework display to remember
After our visits to Buton and Wakatobi, it’s time to make our move south
across the Flores Sea to Alor and Flores and the islands in between - but first
we need to make a stop at the fearsome volcano island of Komba that pushes
Motoring down the channels that separate this line of islands to the south
side, we find ourselves in the Indian Ocean. Much like the more well-known
channels of the Komodo National Park, these waterways form a boundary
line between two markedly different marine environments. Colder deep water
Dewi Nusantara
angrily some 600 metres up and out of the Flores Sea some 30 nautical miles
upwellings provide a smörgåsbord of nutrients and food for the animals of
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these rarely visited
into provide a playground for the elusive mandarin fish, right underneath our
sites. The premier
boat. A little while ago, we spent four full days diving here between cruises
critter haven of
and our explorations here and at the fish market dock ticked nearly all the
Beangabang Bay
“must see critter” boxes.
on Pantar continues
to surprise us with
its ever changing
These sites - some known only to us - and more, with plenty of others to be
discovered, are all part of a Dewi Nusantara Best of Indonesia “combination
conditions and marine
cruise” from Buton to Maumere.
life while moving east
Buton to Flores and Flores to Buton – Itineraries
we have the jawdropping architecture
and colour of the
wave-battered rocks
Taking up part of our operational year, Dewi Nusantara will be cruising and
exploring the seas between Buton, south east Sulawesi to Maumere, on the
north coast of Flores. These trips are scheduled to run one way from two
and reefs of the islets along the southern coastline of Lembata.
different directions. Firstly, north to south from Baubau on the island of Buton,
We finish our cruise at the quaint harbour town of Maumere in Flores. The
and Lembata and finishing at Maumere in Flores. The other option runs south
largest town on the north Flores coast, Maumere’s busy harbour hides another
to north and starts in Maumere, reversing the first route and finishing at
treasure; the sand, silt and rocks that the docks pilings have been hammered
Buton, flying home from Baubau.
then to the Wakatobi region before crossing the Flores sea to visit Alor, Pantar
Dewi Nusantara
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Whichever direction you choose, these 11-night cruises offer nine and a half
days of spectacular and varied diving, with between two and four dives per day
and many fascinating land excursions along the way. Please see our schedules
and itineraries pages or contact us for more details at
[email protected].
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at
[email protected] for the most competitive rates.
Since the majority of the Indonesian domestic air carriers do not participate
in global ticket distribution, we provide a purchasing service for the domestic
tickets on our guests’ behalf. In order to purchase tickets, guests will need
to provide Dewi Nusantara with your name as it appears on your passport,
nationality on passport, and the international flight details for your arrival and
return home.
For details of how to get to and from either Bau Bau or Maumere, our start
and finish ports in Buton and Flores for these two-way cruises, please see the
“Planning Guide” section of this presentation.
Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] if you
have any further questions.
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
M A L U K U :
H A L M A H E R A ,
&
T H E
A M B O N ,
F O R G O T T E N
B A N D A
I S L A N D S
Maluku: Travel Back In Time on a Spice Island Adventure
The Moluccas, meaning in Arabic “Land of Many Kings”, or to give the region
thousand kilometres. Let’s take a
it’s modern name, Maluku, was the first part of the Indonesian archipelago
more detailed look at these three
to capture the imagination of European mariners and explorers. The natural
different places:
beauty of Maluku is a picture perfect vision of a desert island paradise: powder
white beaches, clear blue waters and gently swaying coconut palms. However,
Halmahera
it was not for this that the explorers came; it was for a treasure that held the
Located in the northern section of
highest prices in the European markets at the time: rare spices.
Maluku and wedged between north
In the 16th century,
cloves, nutmeg and
mace were the highest
priced commodities a
seafarer could lay his
hands on. Of course
where market prices
are involved, conflict
soon follows, and the
Portuguese, British
and more particularly,
the Dutch, were very
ambitious in getting their share of the highly profitable spice trade. At that
time nutmeg, and its derivative, mace, could only be found on the tiny Banda
Islands, in the middle of the deep Banda Sea, and cloves only grew on the two
volcano islands of Tidore and Ternate close to the west coast of Halmahera.
The Maluku region still features many relics of the fortifications erected to
Sulawesi and Raja Ampat is the
island of Halmahera. Shaped like
a mini Sulawesi, Halmahera, along
with it’s satellite islands and islets is
now firmly on the scuba travellers’
radar, and, along with her sisters,
the Bacan islands, boasts some
fabulous reef and sea mount diving
as well as featuring the unexplored
WWII shipwreck graveyard in the
north at Kao Bay and others close
to the island of Morotai. There
are plenty of critter hunting sites
around the region too, particularly
down the volcano island line of
Ternate, Tidore, Raja, Moti and
Makian.
protect the invaders’ interests, as well as other imports of western technology
The Patiente Strait that runs
such as gas street lighting in Banda, leaving visitors with an absorbing insight
between Halmahera and Bacan has
into a long distant time.
some fine hard coral gardens, as do
Covering a huge area and including the Banda Sea, the three major areas of
Maluku Utara (north), Maluki Tengah (central) and Maluku Tenggara (south
east) run along a north-west to south-east diagonal line from Halmahera,
across Ambon and the Banda Sea, down to the Tanimbar and the Aru
the reef systems at the southern
end of Pulau Mandioli, while way
out south east in the Halmahera
Sea is the isolated island of Pisang
(banana), which serves as a great
Dewi Nusantara
islands that lie off the west coast of the island of Papua - a stretch of over a
stepping stone to Raja Ampat.
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Pisang boasts three rocky and current-washed sea mounts with fantastic
the famous Lembeh Strait and not-yet-so-famous critter sites of the Alor
pelagic action, as well as some nice reef diving combined with pretty tropical
region. The Laha site recently gained the attention of the world’s critter
island scenery and plenty
spotting aficionados
of bird-life.
with the discovery, by
Maluku Divers staff, of a
Ambon
brand new frogfish, the
Cruising further south and
psychedelic (histiophryne
nestled underneath the
psychedelica). This little
ominous presence of the
fellow is coloured either
massive island of Ceram,
yellow-brown or peach
we come to Ambon. Ambon
on pink and white stripes
city itself is the central
and bounces around the
capital of the Maluku
gravelly sandy bottom of
region, and the island,
this area of the harbour.
along with her neighbours,
Right next door in the
Haruku, Saparua and Nusa
harbour, technical diving
Laut, has for a long time
is now being pioneered
been a firm favourite with
by Maluku Divers on the
adventurous divers the
137 metre long wreck of
world over for its stunning
the Duke of Sparta, and
outer reefs and abundant
research and exploration
marine life. In recent
years however, it has become a hotspot of a different kind. With the rise in
popularity of “critter” or “muck” diving, combined with the increasing ranks
of new underwater
photographers, the
search is always on
for the next - to quote
the incomparable Ned
De Loach - “honey
hole”. In the harbour
at Laha Ambon has
one of the best, with
several sites that are
gaining favourable
continues for more shipwrecks in the area. The Ambon region of Maluku now
has the magical scuba diving trinity of reef, wreck and critter all within easy
reach on her doorstep.
The Banda Sea
Cruising south from Ambon, the Banda Sea features the isolated atolls of
Lucipara and Penyu, which rise up and out of the five kilometre deep water to
create amazingly isolated reef and wall diving. The volcano “island of snakes”
at Manuk is another of Indonesia’s unique dives where, at times, literally
thousands of banded sea kraits (snakes) swim, creating an awe inspiring (or
terrifying depending on which side of the fence you sit concerning snakes)
marine spectacle. On the eastern side of the Banda Sea, great diving can also
be experienced on the reefs along the island chain that includes the Koon,
Dewi Nusantara
comparisons with
Gorom and Watubela groups that extend to the south east from Ceram.
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The major attraction in the Banda Sea, are of course, the Banda Islands.
waters of the natural
Visiting this small sleepy collection of laid back islands really is like going back
harbour and right in
in time. Once active with the bustling spice trade, Banda has retreated back
front of the wonderful
into relative obscurity; but the group boasts a wealth of buildings and artefacts
original colonial Hotel
for travellers interested in history. The town of Bandaneira, dominated by the
Maulana lies another
smouldering 600 metre volcano, Gunung Api (last eruption 1988), across the
of Indonesia’s great
harbour, still retains
critter sites. All of
an old Eurostyle post
the usual and some
office, colonial hotel
unusual critters can
and government
be found on the sandy
buildings, busy market
flats, while the usually
and museum, as well
elusive mandarin fish
as the aforementioned
can be seen here in
street lighting and the
great numbers. They have grown quite big here and can be photographed and
imposing Fort Belgica,
filmed relatively easily on the rocks close to the hotel garden. You can even
built by the Dutch.
stand up and out of the water during a dive for a cup of tea.
Nutmeg is still grown
here and mace still
The Forgotten Islands
produced in the town,
Our last call in Maluku, and located at the south eastern perimeter of the
while a wander around the quiet groves of fruit-bearing trees on Lontar island
Banda Sea, are the Babar, Tanimbar, Kei and Aru islands, home of the
is a magical experience.
legendary Birds of Paradise. These isolated groups, sometimes known as the
The scuba diving at the Banda Islands is greatly enhanced by the fact that the
island group is surrounded by very deep water. The close proximity of deep
water and isolated islands always produces something special underwater
due to the upwellings of nutrients, and Banda is no exception. Current-strewn
rocky sea mounts, vertical walls and technicolour coral reefs are the order of
the day here and so are some great big fish habitats. Inside the harbour and
due to the relatively recent eruption of Gunung Api (this literally means “fire
mountain” and is a generic term for any volcano in Bahasa Indonesian), divers
can marvel at the fabulous new coral growth on the lava flow at the foot of its
slopes. The shiny coal-black river running down from the mountain into the
harbour - like many recent lava flows into the sea in Indonesia - is another
testament to the way that nature takes a surprisingly rapid hold on a recently
cooled and barren lava seascape.
“forgotten islands” and rarely visited or dived by any operations, have only
the Arafura Sea to the south before landfall in Australia, while the island of
Wetar and the world’s newest nation of East Timor (Timor Leste) link to our
Alor routes in the
west. Dewi Nusantara
is planning some
exceptional exploration
trips to these distant
jewels in the future to
cruise and dive where
no man has ventured
before – we will keep
you posted on our
progress.
Dewi Nusantara
Once again muck diving rears its ugly head(s) here in Banda too. In the calm
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Both topside and underwater Maluku, along with its genuinely friendly locals,
is an absolute joy to behold, a south sea island paradise. The region is famous
for the centuries old statues comprising mainly warriors and fertility gods and
replicas are still produced on Tanimbar. Be one of the lucky ones to join Dewi
Nusantara on a trip that take in this amazing area.
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at sales@
dewi-nusantara.com for the most competitive rates.
Since the majority of the Indonesian domestic air carriers do not participate
Contact us at [email protected] for details.
in global ticket distribution, we provide a purchasing service for the domestic
Maluku – Itineraries
tickets on our guests’ behalf. In order to purchase tickets, guests will need
Although rare, Dewi Nusantara will be making some trips that will be taking in
nationality on passport, and the international flight details for your arrival and
some of the different areas of the Maluku region. Please see our schedules and
itineraries pages or contact us for more details at sales@dewi-nusantara.
com.
to provide Dewi Nusantara with your name as it appears on your passport,
return home.
For details of how to get to and from the ports where Dewi Nusantara will be
Should you have any interest in chartering our magnificent three mast
schooner for a cruise in any of the parts of Maluku mentioned here to sample
starting and stopping these special cruises please see the “Planning Guide”
section of this presentation.
some of the world’s greatest diving, again, please feel free to contact us at
Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] if you
[email protected].
have any further questions.
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
T H E
K O M O D O
N A T I O N A L
P A R K
Komodo: The Land That Time Forgot
Komodo! Mention the word in company almost anywhere and you are likely
ferocious Komodo Dragons and trek up and along the desolate jagged ridges to
to get the same reaction: hushed mutterings about a mythical, far away land
the peaks of the park’s, quite literally, breathtaking mountainous landscapes.
dominated by barren sun scorched mountains and low-lying primordial forests
set on islands surrounded by dazzling coral reefs. The conversation would then
The Local People
follow that these islands are protected by the fierce currents of a treacherous
The majority of the people in and around the Park are fishermen originally
deep blue sea and ruled over by one of the most awe inspiring predators on
from Sape and Bima in Sumbawa and Manggarai, in eastern Flores, and some
the planet! And you know what? This description is about as close as it gets!
from south Sulawesi. Those from south Sulawesi are from the Suku Bajau or
Bugis ethnic groups. The Suku Bajau, originally nomadic people, moved from
Welcome to Komodo, the “Land That Time Forgot”.
location to location in the region of Sulawesi, Nusa Tenggara and Maluku, to
make their livelihoods on the water. Descendants of the original people of
The Komodo National Park
Komodo, the Ata Modo,
Established in 1980 as a
still live in Komodo, but
World Heritage Site, the
there are no pure blood
Komodo National Park is
people left and their
located some 250 nautical
culture and language are
miles east of the holiday
slowly being integrated
island of Bali and sits eight
with other recent
degrees below the equator,
migrants.
deep in the Indonesian
archipelago between the
Little is known of the early
islands of Sumbawa and
history of the Komodo
Flores.
islanders. They were
subjects of the Sultanate
Encompassing 1,817 square
of Bima, although the
kilometres and comprising
island’s remoteness from
the three main islands,
Bima meant that its
Komodo, Rinca and Padar,
affairs were probably little
as well as many other
troubled by the Sultanate
smaller islets and rocky sea
mountains, the park is considered to be one of the most exciting natural world
adventure destinations on the planet.
other than by occasional
demands for tribute. There are also stories that Komodo island itself was used
as a penal colony for criminals from Sumbawa. It’s all very well being banished
Intrepid divers and explorers can experience one of the most exciting and
to a remote island for a crime, but one that is stalked by three metre man
eating lizards is surely cruel and unusual punishment.
Dewi Nusantara
richest marine environments in the world; get up close and personal with the
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Marine Komodo
northern and southern sides of the park offer two distinct underwater
The huge island nation of Indonesia is home to the world’s most prolific marine
ecosystem and the Komodo National Park is at the epicentre of all this wild
activity. Most world-class diving sites are usually formed by either unusual
volcanic formations of undersea rock or extensive deposits of coral limestone,
washed over by nutrient-rich marine currents. Fortunately during its evolution,
the Komodo region of Indonesia has been blessed with all of this! This
spectacular seascape is comprised mainly of volcanic sea mounts, pinnacles,
walls and canyons, as well as fringing reefs, coral gardens, mangrove bays and
sandy slopes, creating
an unmatched variety
of very different
and distinctive dive
environments.
environments. The Flores Sea is to the north and the Indian Ocean lies to the
south, and these two vast seas are connected by the Sape, Linta and Molo
Straits. Between the
months of March and
November, the clear
warm waters flowing
from the Banda and
Flores Seas wash
over the pristine hard
coral gardens and
sea mounts in the
north, while in the
south, deep cold water
currents from the
Between the sea
Indian Ocean collide
mounts the vast
with the continental shelf, causing upwellings that produce a vast plankton
coral reefs, often in
banquet for the marine life here. Between the months of December and
shallow water, teem
February, these water conditions are reversed, with warm blue water lighting
with unusual tropical
up the south while colder, greener conditions are evident on the northern sites.
reef animals. In fact,
During a single day of diving water temperatures can vary wildly between 30C
this area plays host to
(86F) to 18C (64F) degrees in just a short distance at some times of the year.
more than 1,100 different species of fish. With a careful eye, even the most
jaded observer can discover hundreds of new species of brilliantly coloured
Fierce Currents
marine life, plus an astounding array of invertebrates, some of which have
Komodo is justly famous for its high-energy, adrenaline-pumping dives, and
never been properly identified yet!
the gusting currents that surge and swirl through the deep channels around
The list of critter species is huge, and new and unusual creatures are being
discovered here all the time. For fans of bigger animals, the dive sites with
stronger currents play host to majestic mantas, sharks and many other larger
pelagic species. Whales, dolphins and turtles have made the park a playground
and even the rare dugong or sea cow can sometimes be spotted in the various
scattered mangrove areas.
North & South
the sea mounts between Komodo, Padar and Rinca islands are the key to the
park’s wonderful marine life. These immense water movements produce such
a wild variety of conditions that there is something here for everybody. Great
visibility, massive cliffs of black basalt, sheer walls and dazzling coral gardens
all combine to house one of the most prolific and diverse undersea ecosystems
on earth!
Topside Komodo
Topside, the landscape is dotted with islands and islets of every description;
Dewi Nusantara
The range of dive sites and conditions in Komodo are legendary, and the
their volcanic bases have been carved by aeons of ocean wear, but their
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crowns are distinctive and unique. While most of Indonesia is green and
tropically lush, the Komodo National Park is much dryer, featuring lofty rocky
peaks, creature-filled green forests and grassy slopes and meadows that give
a savannah type feel to the landscape - the a perfect habitat for its most
famous resident, the Komodo Dragon, the largest lizard on earth!
birds that make Komodo an ornithologists dream.
The two largest islands in the park, Komodo and Rinca, are home to many
types of land-based fauna too. Snakes are common, especially during the
wetter months, and it is not unusual to come across a cobra, python or green
tree viper during a cross-country
Beaches
trek. Wild pigs or boar can often
be seen rummaging around in the
The beaches of Komodo are a
undergrowth or wallowing in a cool
dream: sandy with a background of
mud pool. Deer are plentiful while
rocks and hills, and mostly deserted.
herds of goats are resident on some
Great for trekking and beachcombing
of the smaller islands like Gili Lawah
but not a good place for sunbathing,
Laut. Rinca Island also supports
however - you have to remember
some huge water buffalo that
what else lives here. Looking at
like to graze in the meadows and
the sand on some of these beaches
wallow in the mud pools; and many
brings yet another surprise: it
families of mischievous crab-eating
appears to be pink in colour, and it
macaques can be seen squabbling
actually is! The vermilion-coloured
and scurrying close to the waters’
organ pipe corals that thrive in
edge.
Komodo do not lose their pigment
when they die; they just wash up on
But whatever or wherever they are,
these beaches and get crushed and
they are all just dinner for the main
ground up with the regular white
event!
sand to produce this remarkable pink candy floss colouration.
Enter the Dragon
Wildlife
While the giant man-eating monitor lizards living here are undoubtedly the
stars of the show, the islands in the park also support an impressive array of
native wildlife, both in the air and on the ground.
Imagine a 150kg, three-metre long, armour-clad monster with serrated ripping
teeth set in immensely powerful jaws, and four sets of razor sharp claws on
the feet of each stocky leg. Add to this a wickedly whipping tail capable of
knocking a full grown man to the ground and the ability to inject toxic saliva
Effortlessly swirling high in the thermals close to shore, the breathtaking
hunting displays by White Bellied Sea Eagles and Brahminy Kites are a show
not to be missed. In the wooded areas, the trees screech, chatter and hoot
with Green Imperial Pigeons and Yellow Crested Cockatoos; and on the forest
floor, the Megapode bird, a close relative of the domestic chicken, can be seen
into its victims with each bite. This all sounds like something straight out of
a horror movie, your worst nightmare - or so you may think. Living on the
islands of Komodo and Rinca, and nowhere else in the world, this mythical
creature is no bad dream; this is the awesome Komodo Dragon!
Many times during our expeditions, we have had many hair-raising
Dewi Nusantara
digging and building their earth mound nests - and these are just some of the
opportunities to get up close and personal with these animals while on treks
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on the islands; make sure when you visit that you keep a close eye on the
bushes, around the trees and even on the beach - this apex predator takes no
prisoners.
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Be sure to contact us via email at
Jurassic Park
[email protected] for the most competitive rates.
So fasten your weight belts and let’s begin our epic journey around one of the
Since the majority of the Indonesian
most diverse and unique areas of the natural world, to a land of dragons and
domestic air carriers do not participate
dramatic landscapes, fierce currents and sparkling corals in seas teeming with
in global ticket distribution, we provide a
more marine life than almost anywhere else on the planet, a real-life “Jurassic
purchasing service for the domestic tickets
Park” above and below the surface of the
on our guests’ behalf. In order to purchase
sea. Whether you are ripping along the top
tickets, guests will need to provide Dewi
of a sea mount on an electrifying current
Nusantara with your name as it appears
dive, poking around in the shallows late in
on your passport, nationality on passport,
the day or visiting the islands on a topside
and the international flight details for your
adventure, Komodo is calling!
arrival and return home.
Komodo - Itineraries
For details of how to get to and from
Dewi Nusantara will be visiting the fabled
Komodo National Park and surrounding
areas as part of our annual schedule.
Please see the “Schedules” section of this
presentation to find out when we are there
and don’t miss the chance to experience
some of the very best diving in Indonesia
Komodo Airport in Labuhan Bajo, Flores,
the port where Dewi Nusantara will be
starting her Komodo National Park
cruises please see the “Planning Guide” section of this presentation.
Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] if you
have any further questions.
in the comfort of Dewi Nusantara. If you would like any more information
concerning our cruises in Komodo please feel free to contact us at
[email protected].
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
S P E C I A L
I N T E R E S T
C R U I S E S
Adventure & Special Interest Cruises
For intrepid explorers looking for something special and far off the beaten
coves and inlets in this part of the world where our vessels have not yet
track, adventurers wanting to come nose to nose with local tribal people
anchored.
and their ancient cultures, wildlife lovers wishing to walk in the footsteps of
great scientists and biologists like Alfred Russell Wallace - you have come to
the right place. Dewi Nusantara is reading and waiting to make your wildest
dreams come true and be your luxury home from home in eastern Indonesia!
The team here on
While our live-aboard diving cruises concentrate on the exploration of
Indonesia’s underwater world, our adventure and leisure expeditions are
geared more towards experiencing the diverse cultures and natural beauty of
this incredible archipelago.
Dewi Nusantara has
Wildlife & Trekking
a longer history in
With an astounding array of wildlife, Indonesia is a magnet for animal
cultural, adventure
enthusiasts the world over. Hiking over the sun scorched savannah and in the
and dive cruises than
low lying forests of Komodo can bring you face to face with the indigenous
just about any other
man eating Komodo Dragon, jungle trekking in West Papua will let you witness
operator in this land of
the elaborate courtship
a thousand wonders.
dances of the birds of
Since the launch of
paradise. These are
our first vessel, the
just two examples
ground breaking 43
of our up close and
metre traditional
personal adventures,
schooner Ombak Putih in 1997, then following this up in 2002 with the 38
unique experiences
metre Ombak Biru, we have finally arrived at the what is considered to be the
that cannot be had
jewel in the crown of the entire Indonesian adventure fleet, the fabulous MY
anywhere else in the
Dewi Nusantara. Setting sail on her first voyage in May of 2008, Dewi has set
world.
the standard for the rest to follow, a magnificent 57 metre three mast wooden
schooner, a masterpiece of craftsmanship and engineering offering levels of
Some areas where
luxury, comfort and elegance that are second to none in the region.
these and many more
Our cruising experience throughout the eastern Indonesian archipelago
way than by ship. There is no better way to discover and explore the pristine
is unsurpassed. Sailing from Bali to West Papua in the far-east there are
islands and incomparable nature and wildlife that Indonesia has to offer than
countless islands, islets and bays to be explored and in 15 consecutive
on board Dewi Nusantara.
operational years our vessels have logged over 200,000 nautical miles
throughout the region. Our crews and long-time cruise directors and
expedition leaders know more about the incredibly diverse islands and seas
of our excursions take place are so remote they can’t be reached any other
Culture & Creativity
Besides Indonesia’s stunning natural beauty the people of this immense
Dewi Nusantara
of Indonesia than just about any other people alive, there are very few bays,
waterborne nation are also rightly famous for their diverse cultures and
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boundless creativity.
Wonderfully colourful
hand woven fabrics
called “ikats”, famous
with collectors all over
the world are still
produced in eastern
Luxury & Comfort
In between all of this excitement and exercise it is nice to know you have a
floating five star residence waiting for you close by to rest, relax and dine on.
Indeed, some of our guests prefer just to stay put on board our beautifully
appointed yacht, sunbathing on one of the sun decks with a book and an ice
cold drink while taking in the stunning landscapes and marine panoramas.
Nusa Tenggara. Dewi
A lot of our destinations feature unique and exciting land excursion
Nusantara can take
opportunities coupled with the unbeatable scuba diving found in many of
you to the islands of
Indonesia’s legendary
Flores, Alor, Timor,
hot spots. We have
Roti, Savu and Sumba
wide experience in
so you can see first-
combining the two and
hand how the local people produce these intricate works of fine art on their
can design bespoke
antique wooden looms in exactly the same way their ancestors did.
itineraries for special
Cultural ceremonies and celebrations are a part of everyday life all over
the country. Colourful parades, fierce horseback battles and complex and
mysterious birth, wedding and funeral rites and rituals, sometimes attended
interest groups that
cater to both divers
and non-divers.
by thousands, are common all over the archipelago. Dewi Nusantara can even
Although Dewi
venture as far east as the mangrove covered coasts of West Papua to visit the
Nusantara follows
Asmat tribe, whose customs and culture were, until a few decades ago, still
a busy schedule of
unknown in the western world.
diving expeditions all
over eastern Indonesia she is available for charter for private parties, special
interest groups or movie productions if sufficient notice is given prior to
departure. Please contact us for a detailed proposal and quotation at
[email protected] with your requirements.
In short, there is no limit to what you can explore, discover and experience in
wonderful Indonesia on board the majestic Dewi Nusantara! Please feel free to
contact us at: [email protected] for more information.
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
D I V E
O P E R A T I O N S
Dive Operations - Lets Get Down!
As you would expect of the premier liveaboard vessel in Indonesia, Dewi
Andrea Duggan
Nusantara is equipped with all of the amenities an adventurous visiting scuba
Cruise Director: Southampton, England
diver could wish for, and more. Comprising a huge main dive deck and at the
PADI Instructor
front an indoor dive centre/camera room with a large compressor room and
Andrea is the latest edition to the
technical area on the deck below, Dewi Nusantara has more than enough room
Dewi Nusantara team. She began
to comfortably accommodate a full complement of guests along with all of
scuba diving in 1998 and became
their scuba and camera equipment, no matter how much you like to bring.
certified as a PADI instructor in the
You will be using the “dive centre” area of the boat a great deal during your
cruise, so what follows is an overview that gives you plenty of information
about its features as well as details concerning our on board equipment such
as rental gear, cylinders and nitrox systems. There is also a rundown of our
Philippines. She has travelled and
worked extensively in Asia, especially
Indonesia, ever since. She is fluent in
Spanish, Catalan and Indonesian.
dive procedures; how we run our dives, our dive tenders and the safety
Yan Alfian
features that we build into our daily underwater and topside operations.
Ast. Cruise Director: Lombok, Indonesia
To start with, here is an introduction to our dive crew. These are the
professionals who will be looking after you during your cruise and who hope
to bring you the most exciting underwater as well as on board and topside
experiences that Indonesia and Dewi Nusantara has to offer.
PADI Divemaster
Yan has been with us since the very first
days of the Komodo Dancer in 2002.
Since then he has become one of the
most sought after and popular dive
The Dewi Nusantara Dive Crew
guides in the country. His super sharp
Wendy Brown
and affable character are legendary in
Cruise Director: Sri Lanka & England
PADI Instructor
eyes, all round knowledge of marine life
the dive industry.
Wendy has been with Dewi Nusantara
Andri
from the first cruise. She started
Dive Operations: Sulawesi, Indonesia
scuba diving back in the dark ages
Divemaster
in Fiji, 1979 actually, and became an
Originally from Lembeh but now living
instructor in Roatan. In Indonesia
in Sorong, Andri worked for 3 years at
since 2004, she spent four years at the
Papua Diving
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
in Raja Ampat and now
Wakatobi dive resort before joining us
with Dewi Nusantara, has been all over
in 2008.
eastern Indonesia. His huge smile, big
laugh and consummate professionalism
Dewi Nusantara
make him a very popular with guests.
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Risko
Dive Operations: Sulawesi, Indonesia
PADI Divemaster
Risko has been a popular dive guide
for more than 15 years in Lembeh,
Dive Briefings
On every cruise we give an “in depth” dive operations briefing on the first day
of your cruise, to give you a clear idea of our general dive procedures, safety
issues and photographic concerns.
Bunaken, Raja Ampat, Ambon, Komodo
Directly preceding every dive a full dive briefing is given with information
and Alor. With his eagle eyes Risko
concerning dive type, suggested depths and marine life expectations along
is able to find the most amazing and
with lots more relevant information about the site about to be dived.
minute creatures underwater and is
always ready for a laugh and a joke
Dewi Nusantara is equipped with two large white briefing boards on the
when you are on the boat.
dive deck and these are used for the display of detailed site maps and other
Bernard (Ben) Rumbewas
dive the site with a good idea of what to expect when you are down there.
Dive Operations: Batanta, Raja Ampat
Divemaster
Ben has been with Dewi Nusantara for
information so that you are totally equipped with the necessary knowledge to
Your Personal Scuba Equipment
Our crew will assign deck baskets to guests for stowage of their personal
the past three years and in that time
equipment (i.e. masks, lights, boots etc.), your scuba unit will either be stored
has become a firm favourite with our
on the main vessel or on our tenders. All dive bags and other excess baggage
guests. Born and raised in our major
can be put away in storage on the vessel.
operating area of Raja Ampat, he has
a great deal of experience in and out
Whilst we are sure that our guest’s personal scuba equipment will be in
of the area and in his quiet and careful
good order, sometimes, particularly after annual service, equipment can
manner is a critter spotting expert.
malfunction. Don’t worry, this will not spoil your dive trip as our dive crew
Steven
Divemaster
Steven is from Bunaken. He started
diving in 2005. Before joining Dewi
Nusantara he worked at resorts in
Bunaken and Lembeh. He loves Macro
and with his incredible eyes he is a
sharp spotter of cryptic critters!
can handle most common problems. If we aren’t able to fix your gear, there is
plenty of rental equipment on-board to keep you in the water and diving.
Scuba Cylinders
The Dewi Nusantara uses 11.2 litre (80’s) aluminium cylinders. These are
designated for use with either air or nitrox 32. Nitrox cylinders are tagged to
differentiate them from our air cylinder with have no markings. In addition
we have a limited supply of larger 15 litre (100’s) and smaller 10 litre (63’s)
cylinders should you wish to use smaller or larger units. All of our cylinders
are fitted with DIN adaptable valves and there is a charge for using the 15 litre
tanks.
At the end of a dive your cylinder is either re-filled directly from our air/nitrox
Dewi Nusantara
compressors or the cylinder is changed for a new full one. Please check before
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starting your next dive that your BCD is correctly positioned and fastened, that
encouraged to discreetly make themselves known to the dive crew. Qualified
your regulator is properly seated, and that your cylinder is full. Please note
guests will be shown the location of the Dewi Nusantara First Aid Kit and the
that there is a $200 charge for nitrox for on 11 day cruise.
emergency oxygen units.
Nitrox & Gas Analysis
Emergency Evacuation & Recompression Concerns
The dive crew and engineers on Dewi Nusantara use a Nitrox Technologies
Please be aware that the vast majority of our diving operations are carried out
membrane system to produce our diving gases. This method is very safe and
in very remote locations, and the nearest working recompression chambers to
extremely accurate. We have several O2
Dewi Nusantara’s dive destinations
analysers on board for guests to use, and
areas are at the public hospitals in
it is mandatory that all divers analyse
Bali and Manado. To reach them in
and log their mix with every new fill or
the event of an underwater accident
cylinder change. If you are unclear or
will require the use of emergency
are having trouble using our analysers
air evacuation, which is not always
the dive crew are always on hand will be
available. Please plan and execute
happy to show you how to analyse and
your dives with this in mind.
log a mix accurately.
Hanging in the dive centre there is a
Our Rental Equipment
“Diving Emergency Plan”. Should a problem occur this document outlines the
Our rental scuba equipment is manufactured by Aqualung. We have six full
sets of scuba gear with BCD’s ranging from small to extra-large, masks,
snorkels. Our custom made wetsuits are made from 5mm neoprene have long
arms and legs. Fins are available free of charge and we also carry a supply of
correct procedures and provides telephone numbers for help in dealing with an
emergency.
Dive Tenders
underwater lights.
All of the dives from the Dewi Nusantara are carried out using our custom built
Dive Safety Equipment
to make your diving easier and more comfortable during your trip.
tenders. Below is some information about them and some procedures we use
Guests are required to carry an SMB (surface marker buoy) and a Dive Alert
or other audible signalling device on every dive. If you do not have your own
(which we highly recommend) we have a limited supply of this equipment on
board for you to use free of charge. Guests will be shown how to fit and use
this equipment correctly during the dive procedures briefing at the beginning
The Boats
Our twin tenders were made by Bali Fibreglass, close to our home port of
Benoa, to our own design. They are seven metres (24ft) long and three metres
(10ft) wide and each one is powered by a single 200hp Yamaha four stroke
of your cruise.
outboard engine. These engines are fast and reliable and have electric starters
Oxygen Units & First Aid
stern leaving most of the interior free for divers and their camera and scuba
and trim, the boats have plenty of stowage space and are driven from the
Dewi Nusantara is equipped with an extensive first aid kit as well as a large
emergency oxygen supply and delivery systems. If there are guests on
equipment. Each tender is equipped with its own VHF radio, shot line, stainless
steel ladder and stern line and for every dive are crewed by a driver, an
Dewi Nusantara
board who have training in either First Aid and/or O2 administration they are
assistant and two dive guides.
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Tender Boarding Procedures
2. Take off and hand up your weight belt or weight pouches (if possible) to the
Our guests sit facing inward with their personal scuba units secured in special
slots in the seats. This enables us to re-fill your cylinders in position so there is
no need to carry heavy equipment up and down the entry stairway.
The entry stairway extends from the starboard (right) side of the Dewi
Nusantara down to the waterline. Cameras, fins, weight belts and other
equipment are loaded during the site briefing, after the briefing guests are
crew.
3. Take off and hand up your scuba unit to the crew - make sure there is no
dangling equipment.
4. Hold onto the boarding ladder while taking off your fins. Hand your fins up
to the crew.
then asked to make their way to the boarding stairs where crew members will
5. Carefully ascend the ladder into the boat. Please do not linger too close
be on hand to assist you into the tenders. Once on board it is best to sit down
to the tender when another guest using the boarding ladder. Guests are also
and gear up straight away avoiding
asked not to climb into the tender with
any unnecessary movement which
a scuba unit and weight belt in place -
could cause problems for other guests
there are good reasons for this:
boarding.
1. The extra weight puts unnecessary
Extra dive weights are stored on board
strain on the ladder and the boat hull.
both tenders should you experience
2. The extra weight on one side can
any buoyancy problems.
make the boat unstable.
Dive Entry Procedures
Some areas that we dive are well known for strong currents. Due to this factor,
it is often necessary to get all divers from the tenders in the water quickly and
to minimize the time at the surface. A back-roll entry is the preferred method.
Please take your cues from our dive guides and staff and swim away from the
tender after picking up any camera equipment.
3. A diver in full equipment could easily
injure other guests already in the tender when moving around.
4. A diver in full equipment could easily become unbalanced once in the tender
and injure themselves.
Tender Exit Procedures
Surfacing
When surfacing from a dive it is very important not to break the surface too
close to the tenders. Doing this makes it difficult to the crews to spot you,
surface a few metres away and don’t under any circumstances try to come up
directly underneath the boat - you can’t and you will bang your head!
Dive Exit Procedures
After signalling to the crew that you are OK, please wait to be picked up. When
it is your turn to enter the tender please use the following boarding sequence:
Now comes the easy part. With all equipment stowed, when the tender comes
alongside the main vessel, divers closest to the stairway should exit first onto
the platform and then proceed up to the main dive and shower deck. Our crew
members will be on hand to help and they will also handle all of your cameras
and scuba equipment.
Scuba Courses
Dewi Nusantara dive courses follow PADI teaching guidelines. Visiting diving
instructors are permitted to give instruction on board Dewi Nusantara
­­­
if they
Dewi Nusantara
1. Hand up your camera, video and any other loose equipment.
are currently in teaching status with their certifying agency and maintain
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underwater liability insurance. They must obtain a list of additional insureds
compressed gas tends to dehydrate the body faster than you would think.
from the Dewi Nusantara office before the cruise and these must be listed on
Make an effort to drink extra amounts of water during the day and both before
their Certificate of Insurance.
and after diving. Water will be served on the dive deck before every dive,
please take advantage of it.
Enriched Air Diver
This is by far our most popular course and consists of complete academic
Dive safely and conservatively. Remember that dive computers are not
instruction about the
programmed to your specific physiology. Always give yourself a good safety
principles of partial
margin and do NOT share a dive computer with your buddy!
pressures within
breathing gases and
their effects on the
As many dives as are safely possible will be offered on a daily basis. Typically 1 or 2 morning dives, 1 afternoon dive and 1 dusk or night dive.
body when diving,
All diving is to be conducted within standard no decompression limits unless
open book tests and
an internationally recognized technical diving course is being offered by an
an exam as well as a
appropriately certified and insured instructor. Divers are advised that they are
practical demonstration
to dive within the safe diving limits set by their certifying agency.
of gas analysis and
our compressor/nitrox
generation systems
followed by two
completion dives on nitrox. If the newly certified nitrox diver wishes to dive
with nitrox for the remainder of the cruise there is a $50 surcharge for gas.­­­­
Limit your depth to your own level of training, experience and fitness. Most
agencies recommend a maximum depth of 30 metres (100ft) with an absolute
maximum safe depth
of 40 metres (130ft).
Plan all dives as nodecompression dives.
The Dewi Dive Commandments
All divers must sign the “Release & Waiver” and the “Nitrox” forms (if
applicable) as provided by Dewi Nusantara prior to participating in any diving
or water sports related activity with no alteration being made.
Decompression stops
are to be carried out
only in an emergency
situation. What you will
All divers must provide proof of certification with a recognized agency,
be doing on your trip
preferably backed up with a log book.
is recreational diving
Maintain good mental and physical fitness for diving. Avoid being under the
influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs while diving and understand the
and not decompression
diving.
influence of such drugs as those frequently taken for sinus problems and sea
We try to plan the deepest dive of the day as the first dive and make all
sickness while diving. There is a “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink And Dive”
following dives progressively shallower. Make the deepest portion of each dive
policy on board. The consumption of alcohol is to be reserved for post diving
at the beginning and work up shallower during the dive.
activities. Drink or Dive - You Decide.
All diving activities will be supervised by a qualified individual whose
Dewi Nusantara
Keep well hydrated. The tropical environment combined with breathing dry
internationally recognized level is Divemaster or higher.
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All diving activities will be conducted within Dewi Nusantara’s safety standards
Make a minimum three minute safety stop at the end of every dive at a depth
and parameters.
between of 7 and 5 metres (20 to 15 feet).
On every dive at least one, and more often two, Divemasters will be in
If you surface in shallow water please swim out into deeper water, doing this
the water with up to nine divers to lend assistance (both emergency and
greatly helps our tender crews to pick you up safely and avoids any damage to
otherwise) as needed and/or requested.
the tender due to drifting into rocks or reef.
Any instructional programmes that are
Please remember to surface with at least 30 bar (500 psi) in your cylinder.
offered aboard will only be conducted by an
This is for your own safety and also protects the structural integrity of our dive
appropriately qualified, certified and insured
cylinders.
Instructor.
If you surface away from the boat please inflate
All divers are required to carry an SMB (surface
your BCD and use the proper hand signal to let
marker buoy) and a Dive Alert or other audible
us know that you are “OK”. Deploy your SMB
signalling/warning device on every dive. These
(surface marker buoy) if necessary to gain
items are provided for divers who do not have
attention. If we don’t see you shortly thereafter,
their own and are also available for purchase on
please give a whistle from your audible
board. It is highly recommended that you bring
signalling device. If it is dark please turn on your
or purchase your own as our supplies may be
underwater lights or strobes.
limited.
The nitrox fills available on board Dewi
Primary and backup light sources are to be
Nusantara are produced using a membrane
carried by each diver on all night dives.
system and are set at 32% O2 (PO2 0.32).
Guests are asked to remain clear of all mooring
Please set your nitrox computers accordingly.
or buoy lines at all times unless carrying out a
Lastly, please remember that you are diving on
safety stop.
and in one of the most fragile ecosystems on the
planet. Please do not touch or harass anything.
There will be no solo diving permitted from the vessel.
Practice good buoyancy control as well as good
Adhere to the buddy system on every dive. Know your buddy’s equipment,
check out where all their buckles and releases are to be found, enter the water
together, and dive together.
minute please ascend to the surface as safely as possible and signal to the
Make all ascents slowly - the slower the better.
We are only concerned for your well-being. Our
safety record aboard the Dewi Nusantara is
If find yourself drifting in a strong current, and into the blue for more than one
tender crew.
diving and photography skills.
exceptional and we appreciate your co-operation in adhering to the safe diving
standards set forth.
If you have any questions regarding our diving operations and equipment
please contact us at [email protected]. Dive safe and have fun!
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
P H O T O
&
V I D E O G R A P H Y
The Image Makers: Marine Photography & Videography
Before we started the construction of our first purpose built dive liveaboard
compressor systems and equipment storage area below deck while the
in Indonesia, the Ombak Biru in 2001, we realised, with the boom in digital
majority of the upper portion features a purpose built camera room, the first
camera sales and digital imaging in general, that there was a new dawn
to be featured on a dive liveaboard in Indonesia. Foam covered workstations
on the horizon for underwater photography. With this in mind we built into
with multiple electricity outlets and individual lights have been built on top of
our plans facilities the make the
open storage areas, making it easy
underwater photographer’s life
to bring a camera out of the water
a little easier, namely a charging
and into the workshop in seconds
station, dedicated tools and camera
for those “all important” tweaks and
workstations and storage areas, we
adjustments.
even purchased an E6 processor.
Topside Photo
Opportunities
We were proved right with our plans
and right with the satisfaction of
our guests, including some of the
Another important consideration
world’s leading exponents of the art.
is the topside photographic
The Dewi Nusantara
Camera Room
opportunities that a Dewi Nusantara
The technological leaps and bounds
in and around some of the most
made with digital still and video
spectacular scenery anywhere in
cameras in the six years between
the world so a land camera is an
the launching of Ombak Biru and
essential accessory. Many of our
the construction of the ground
guests bring two of more cameras
breaking Dewi Nusantara were
with them. This is to avoid having to
immense, it seemed to us that
take their marine housings apart to
everyone diving on board with
photograph what at times can be a
us had some form of camera and
very special photo opportunity that
housing. Therefore, when it came
only presents itself in a very small
to designing and building our latest
time frame, breaching whales and
vessel we knew that we had to
dolphins for example.
trip anywhere in Indonesia affords.
You will be diving and cruising
take things further with regard to
planning for the very best camera facilities around, and we did.
The two storey dive centre built into the bow of the ship features our
Camera Equipment Wash-down
Dewi Nusantara has large purpose built wash down tanks on the main dive
Dewi Nusantara
deck for you to rinse or soak your equipment after a dive and the water is
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changed daily or sooner. Dedicated camera towels are in plentiful supply on
the dive deck and in the camera workshop for you to dry your gear and a blow
gun is also hooked up.
Batteries
Over the years we have noticed that many guests bring their own supply of
batteries with them, sometimes quite a lot. With airline weight restrictions
getting smaller and smaller all the time why not let our office know of any
Camera Rental
battery requirements you have
For guests wishing to try their hand
and we will be happy to purchase
at underwater photography we have
a personal supply for you here in
Canon point and shoot S95 cameras
Indonesia and save you a lot of
with Ikelite housings available for
time, bother, weight and money.
rent on board, these cameras can
shoot HD video. Please contact us
If you have any questions or
for details.
queries about our camera facilities,
camera rental, electricity supply,
Computer Facilities
battery supplies, transformers or
For our diving photographer guests
video production please feel free to
who do not want to travel with a
contact us at
laptop we have on board computer
[email protected].
facilities for data transfer and CD/
DVD backup, should your camera
cards get too full. Dewi’s lounge is
also equipped with a DVD player,
large format flat screen TV for
photo/video/iPad/Phone playback.
On Board Electricity
If you are traveling from the USA
or Japan or anywhere else that has a mains electricity supply of 110 volts it is
important to know that the electricity supply on-board 220 volts. It is a good
idea to check your charging systems, although rare these days, some chargers
will only run on 110 volts and will be destroyed at higher voltages, don’t worry
though, we have step down transformers on board to enable you to carry on
as normal.
Dewi Nusantara
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Dewi Nusantara
S A F E T Y
&
E M E R G E N C Y
P R O C E D U R E S
Safety & Emergency Procedures
There will be a safety briefing combined with the main boat and dive
operations briefings at the start of your cruise to familiarise you with our
safety and emergency procedures and equipment.
Life Jackets: There are two life jackets in every cabin. Life jackets are slipped
over the head and secured with the tapes around the waist and are equipped
with a whistle. There will be a demonstration of the correct method of donning
your life-jacket during
the safety briefing.
Emergency Alarm:
This will be activated
during the briefing, so
that in the event of a
serious problem you
will be familiar with its
sound.
Fire Control:
Fire extinguishers are located at:
1. The Tender Deck
5. Crew Mess
2. Dive Centre
6. Engine Room
3. Kitchen
7. Wheelhouse
4. Rear port-side companionway
8. All Cabins
In case of fire please operate the fire extinguishers using your own initiative,
if you can, whilst calling for help. As a general rule aim the extinguisher at
the base of the flame. The correct operation of the fire extinguishers will be
explained during the initial safety briefing.
Emergency Exit
Emergency Exit from Cabin Deck: There is an emergency exit to enable an
escape from the accommodation deck onto the main dive deck in the event of
a problem that does
Life Rafts: There are
two life rafts on the
upper deck, one on the starboard side (right), and one of the port (left) side
of the bridge (wheelhouse). These are encased in thermoplastic shells and
will be launched by the crew in the event of an emergency. They are design
to auto-inflate after hitting the water. These rafts can accommodate up to
25 people each and include survival packages containing food, drinks, flares,
not allow access to the
lounge. At the bow end
of the accommodation
deck there is a
red ladder on the
starboard side that
extends up through
medications, torch and blankets.
a hatchway onto the
Life Rings: These are situated on the main and upper decks, and secured
familiarise yourself
to the outside walls on the left, right and front of the salon with two more on
with its location during
either side of the wheelhouse. If there is a man overboard emergency please
the first day of your
take the initiative if you can and throw one to the person having the problem
cruise.
main dive deck. Please
if a crew member is not immediately available. Please make sure the keep
the person in the water in sight at all times, it is easy to lose sight of them in
heavy chop or swell.
Search Lights: Flashlights are provided in every cabin and you will be
shown their location during your room orientation. We have additional larger
Dewi Nusantara
searchlights in the wheelhouse and the camera room/dive centre.
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Safety Drill
General Safety
At some point during your cruise there may be a safety drill. When the alarm
Please remember that walking around on board a seagoing vessel is not like
is sounded all guests on board must assemble on the main deck as quickly as
walking around on shore. Sometimes we may encounter wet weather and
possible. If you are in your cabin
rough seas, sometimes the decks
please make sure you get your life
will be slippery with water and
jacket, if not in your cabin please
hazardous with the movement of
ask a crew member for assistance.
the boat. Please remember to be
Guests occupying the port (left) side
careful while moving around the
cabins must proceed to the port side
boat and walk in a slow and careful
of the dive deck, guests in starboard
manner.
(right) side cabins must proceed to
Staircases are a particular point of
the starboard side of the dive deck.
caution, treat them as if they were
Guests occupying the Master Suite
ladders and always maintain three
are to proceed to the port (left) side
points contact while going up or
of the dive deck. When assembled
please put on your life jacket as
down.
shown during the safety briefing.
First Aid
As this is a drill we will not actually
Dewi Nusantara is equipped with
launch the safety rafts but, in an
an extensive first aid kit and the
emergency, guests should take
dive crew have first aid training.
instructions from the crew as to
If you have a problem on board
when and how to board the safety
that requires some assistance or
rafts. Please do not go back into
medication please ask the cruise
your cabin once you are on the main
director for help. There is a full
deck. STAY CALM AND DON’T PANIC.
listing of the contents of the kit on board, and we carry everything from an
It is important that these procedures are followed as there are also crew
members on board and they will be split between the safety rafts.
aspirin to an epipen. Please remember that in the tropics small scratches can
quickly become infected, particularly form corals. Please treat these kinds of
wounds appropriately as soon as they occur.
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Dewi Nusantara
P L A N N I N G
G U I D E
The Dewi Nusantara Planning Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used?
Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency. It is advisable to exchange currency at
In what time zone is Indonesia located?
banks which have the most favourable exchange rates and most are open
The capital Jakarta is 7 hours ahead of GMT
Monday to Friday. It is recommended that you exchange enough currency for
The Komodo, Flores, Alor and Wakatobi areas are in the Central Time Zone and
general tips, airport taxes and small pocket change. Major credit cards are
are 8 hours ahead of GMT
accepted by most restaurants, hotels, car rental companies, and shops.
Raja Ampat, Cenderawasih Bay, Ambon and Banda are in the Eastern
What does the Dewi Nusantara package include?
Indonesia Time Zone and are 9 hours ahead of GMT.
All state rooms are air-conditioned and fitted with private toilets, showers and
What languages are spoken on board?
There are about 583 languages and dialects
spoken in the archipelago. Bahasa Indonesia is
the national language. In all tourist destination
areas English is the number one foreign
language. All of the dive staff can speak English
as well as some members of the crew.
What weather conditions can be
expected?
Raja Ampat is a year round diving destination
and there is no real rainy season like that found
in other areas of Indonesia. A light wetsuit is
necessary, though some people choose more
thermal protection (a 3mm suit) to ensure
continued core warmth throughout their visit.
The Komodo National Park is a destination that
offers great diving year round. The area is
much drier than Bali and lies within one of the
driest regions of Indonesia. Having said this,
Komodo often has two distinctly different water temperatures in the north and
south areas of the park, cold and warm. A wetsuit is necessary, though some
people choose more thermal protection (a 5mm suit) to ensure continued core
temperature warmth throughout their visit.
sinks. There is a “grazing” breakfast available
from 6 am before the first dive. Breakfast is
cooked to order and is served after the first
morning dive. There is a buffet lunch and an
elegant meal at dinner with waiter service.
Additionally, fresh mid-morning and midafternoon snacks are served. Beverages (nonalcoholic and local beer) are complimentary
while on-board. Shampoo, conditioner and
body wash are provided in your stateroom.
These have been hand blended and custom
made for us in Bali. There are hair dryers in
each stateroom. Linens are changed mid-week
and fresh towels are changed as needed. Filled
tanks, weights and weight belts are included.
Ground transfers between airport and the vessel
at the destination are included.
Are there any air transport charges?
No air transportation (domestic or international)
is included in the cruise package. As of 9
February 2015, all airlines departing from Indonesia are required to include the
airport departure tax in the price of the ticket. This new regulation is valid for
both domestic flights as well as international flights departing from Indonesia.
Dewi Nusantara
Departure Tax is also called Passenger Service Charge (PSC)
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If you have purchased a ticket before 9 February 2015, when the tax wasn’t
your passport. We will also require international flight details for your arrival
included in the ticket price yet; then you will still need to pay the airport tax.
and return home.
You will be asked to pay this at the airline counter upon check-in for your
departure flight. After you paid, the airline staff will put a stamp on your
Your domestic airline tickets will sent to you electronically and you can simply
print out your e-tickets.
boarding pass that shows you have
paid.
When planning any trip in Indonesia
on Dewi Nusantara, we recommend
If you have purchased a ticket after
at least two hotel nights be built
9 February 2015; then the Bali
into your travels. One upon arrival
airport tax will already be included
in your ticket.
between the international and
What are expected additional
expenses?
on your journey home between your
domestic legs of your trip, and one
domestic and international flights.
Dive instruction, dive and photo
Please note that Dewi Nusantara
equipment rentals and “boatique”
is only acting as an agent for the
purchases must be settled on-board
airlines and is not responsible for,
prior to departure. Acceptable
and can accept no responsibility for,
methods of payment include: US
cancellations, delays or problems
Dollars, local currency, traveller’s
caused by the air carrier. Domestic
checks, or credit cards (Visa or
air rates are subject to change
Master Card). There is a credit card
until the time the airline ticket is
charge of 3%. Personal cheques are
purchased.
not accepted. Crew gratuities (as
a usual guideline, guests normally
Please feel free to contact us via
pay 10% of the cruise fare) are also
email at [email protected] if you have any further questions.
additional expenses.
Raja Ampat - Getting There
Dewi Nusantara Travel Specialists
Our office in Bali has in-house travel specialists who will be happy to assist
with flight and hotel arrangements. Please contact us via email at
[email protected] for the most competitive rates.
Getting to Raja Ampat in eastern Indonesia is a two-step process.
Step 1:
Arrange your international air transportation to one of three Indonesian
Since the majority of the Indonesian domestic air carriers do not participate
in global ticket distribution, we provide a purchasing service for the domestic
tickets on our guests’ behalf. In order to purchase tickets, guests will need
Gateway cities: Bali, Manado, or Jakarta. Each Gateway City has advantages
and disadvantages and these are explained below:
Bali Gateway: This routing is ideal for guests who want to experience the
Dewi Nusantara
to provide Dewi Nusantara with your name and nationality as they appear on
magical hospitality of Bali before embarking to the remote area of Raja Ampat.
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Using this routing, guests would fly to Denpasar Airport in Bali (DPS) using
their favourite international carrier. The onward journey to Raja Ampat from
Bali requires two legs. First is a 75-minute flight to Ujung Pandang (UPG),
a major domestic hub on the island of Sulawesi. An overnight hotel stay is
required in Ujung Pandang. The following day, the two hour and ten minute
Papua. This is the starting point for your Dewi Nusantara Raja Ampat voyage.
No matter which gateway city guests choose to utilize, we recommend at
least two hotel nights be built into your travels. One upon arrival between the
international and domestic legs of your trip, and one on your journey home
flight to Sorong (SOQ) operates daily with early morning departures. On the
between your domestic and international flights.
return, guests can route through either Ujung Pandang or Ambon (AMQ) to
Cenderawasih Bay - Getting There
return to Bali. The return to Bali can be accomplished in a single day. This
routing offers the most reliable flight schedule available to Sorong.
Getting to Cenderawasih Bay in eastern Indonesia is a two-step process very
similar to getting to Raja Ampat.
Manado Gateway: Using this routing, guests would fly into Singapore (SIN)
Step 1:
(typically on Singapore Airlines),
Arrange your international air
then connect with Singapore Airlines’
transportation to one of three
regional partner, Silk Air, for a
Indonesian Gateway cities: Bali,
flight into Manado (MDC) on North
Manado, or Jakarta.
Sulawesi in Indonesia. An overnight
stay may then be required in Manado
Each Gateway City has advantages
at this point, depending on flight
and disadvantages and these are
schedules. From there, connections
explained below:
can be made using Garuda or Lion
Air for the flight into Sorong (SOQ).
Bali Gateway: This routing is
Flight times range from one hour
fifteen minutes to two hours ten minutes, depending on the carrier. Between
the two carriers, there are flights every day, except Sunday. The return flights
work the other way around. Again, an overnight stay may be required in either
Manado or Singapore to synchronise with your international flights.
Jakarta Gateway: A third alternative for guests is to use Soekarno Hatta
International Airport in Jakarta (JKT), Indonesia, as a gateway. The journey
to Sorong (SOQ) can then be completed on a fight with Garuda (usually
leaving in the very early hours of the morning) that connect in Ujung Pandang
(UPG) on Sulawesi Island. The return trip from Sorong to Jakarta can also be
completed in a single day.
ideal for guests who want to
experience the magical hospitality of Bali before embarking to the remote area
of Cenderawasih Bay. Using this routing, guests would fly to Denpasar Airport
in Bali (DPS) using their favourite international carrier. The onward journey
to Raja Ampat requires two legs. First is a 75-minute flight from Bali (DPS)
to Ujung Pandang (UPG), a major domestic hub on the south east side of
the island of Sulawesi. An overnight hotel stay is required in Ujung Pandang.
The following day, the two hour and ten minute flight to Manokwari (MKW)
operates 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. This routing offers the most reliable
flight schedule available to Sorong.
Step 2:
Purchase a domestic air ticket from your Indonesian Gateway city to Jefman
Manado Gateway: Using this routing, guests would fly into Singapore
Dewi Nusantara
Airport in Sorong (city code SOQ) on the Indonesian part of the vast island of
(SIN) (typically on Singapore Airlines), and connect with Singapore Airlines’
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regional partner, Silk Air, for a flight into Manado (MDC) on North Sulawesi
Step 1:
in Indonesia. An overnight stay may then be required in Manado at this
Arrange your international air transportation to the Indonesian island of Bali.
point, depending on flight schedules. From there, connections can be made
using Lion Air for the flight into Manokwari (MKW). Flight
times range from one hour fifteen minutes to two hours
ten minutes depending on the carrier. Between the two
carriers, there are flights every day, except Sunday.
The return flights work the other way around. Again,
an overnight stay may be required in either Manado or
Singapore to synchronise with your international flights.
Step 2:
Purchase a domestic air ticket from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali
to Wai Oti Airport in Maumere (city code MOF) on the island of Flores - this
is both the starting and finishing point for your Dewi
Nusantara Flores to Alor voyage.
Buton and Flores – Getting There
Getting to the two different embarkation and
Jakarta Gateway: A third alternative for guests is to
disembarkation points for Dewi Nusantara’s Buton/Flores or
use Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Jakarta (JKT),
Flores/Buton combination cruises is one of two three-step
Indonesia, as a gateway. The journey to Manokwari
processes.
(MKW) can then be completed in a single day with flights
with Garuda Air that connect in Ujung Pandang (UPG) on
Sulawesi Island.
Buton to Maumere Cruises
Step 1:
Arrange your international air transportation to Ngurah Rai
The return trip from Sorong to Jakarta can also be
International Airport (city code DPS) on the Indonesian
completed in a single day.
island of Bali.
Step 2:
Step 2:
Purchase a domestic air ticket from your Indonesian
Purchase a domestic one-way air ticket from Ngurah Rai
Gateway city to Rendani Airport in Manokwari (city code:
International Airport in Bali (city code DPS) to Baubau
MKW) on the Indonesian part of the vast island of Papua.
Airport (city code BUW) on the island of Buton, south
This is the starting point for your Dewi Nusantara Raja
Sulawesi. This is the starting point for your Dewi Nusantara
Ampat voyage.
Buton-to-Maumere voyage. This flight stops at Makassar/
No matter which gateway city guests choose to utilise,
we recommend at least two hotel nights be built into
your travels. One upon arrival between the international
Ujung Pandang airport and can be completed in a single
day.
Step 3:
and domestic legs of your trip, and one on your journey home between your
Purchase a domestic one-way ticket from Wai Oti Airport
domestic and international flights.
in Maumere (city code MOF) on the island of Flores back to
Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali (city code DPS) to
Flores and Alor – Getting There
connect with your return international flight. This flight sometimes has stops
Getting to the embarkation point for Dewi Nusantara’s Flores and Alor cruises
at Kupang on West Timor or Tambulaka on Sumba and can be completed in a
is again a two-step process.
single flight.
Dewi Nusantara
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Maumere to Buton Cruises
Step 1:
Step 1:
Arrange your international air transportation to Ngurah Rai International
Airport (city code DPS) on the Indonesian island of Bali.
Arrange your international air transportation to the Ngurah Rai International
Airport (city code DPS) on the Indonesian island of Bali.
Step 2:
Step 2:
Purchase a domestic air ticket from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali
Purchase a domestic one-way air ticket from Ngurah Rai International Airport
to Komodo airport in Labuhan Bajo (city code LBJ) on the island of Flores,
in Bali (city code DPS) to Wai Oti Airport in Maumere (city code MOF) on
or Bima (city code BMU) on the island of Sumbawa. Please check your
the island of Flores. This is the starting point for your
embarkation/disembarkation ports on your cruise invoice
Dewi Nusantara Maumere-to-Buton voyage. This flight
for correct information. Some cruises leave from Benoa
sometimes has stops at Kupang on West Timor or
Harbour in Bali so you will only require a one way flight.
Tambulaka on Sumba and can be completed in a single
flight.
Travel Tips
Step 3:
What luggage restrictions do I need to be
concerned about?
Purchase a domestic one-way ticket from Baubau Airport
(city code BUW) on the island of Buton, south Sulawesi
back to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali (city code
DPS) to connect with your return international flight. This
flight stops at Makassar/Ujung Pandang airport and can be
completed in a single day.
Guests are encouraged to pack carefully and as lightly
as possible. For international flights, please check with
your carrier about weight restrictions and any other
restrictions on the content of your luggage. No matter
which gateway you are using, you will also be flying on a
domestic Indonesian air carrier to reach Sorong. Domestic
Maluku - Getting There
airlines have different baggage weight restrictions than
The two major airports for the Maluku region are
are allowed 44lbs (20kg) usually only 22lbs (10kg) from
Pattimura (city code AMQ) on Ambon Island and Babulla
(city code TTE) on Ternate Island. Depending on which
trip you would like to make, it would be necessary to buy
a one-way ticket either to or from one of these, as well
as tickets to or from Jeffman airport (city code SOQ) in
Sorong or Wai Oti airport (city code MOF) in Maumere. Information about both
of these airports as well as international flight arrivals and departures can be
found in the relative area sections of this brochure.
international carriers. A rule of thumb is that passengers
Manado. Above that—expect excess baggage charges.
These can vary from US$2.00 to US$5.00 per kilo, per
segment, and depends on the airline and the destination.
A connecting flight would have two segments. However,
please be advised there is no guarantee that any excess
luggage (especially that above 45kg) will actually travel on the same flight as
the guest. This in turn could result in luggage not making it to the guest in
time for the charters departure or an international flight home if that would be
Komodo - Getting There
on the same day.
Getting to the embarkation point for any Dewi Nusantara Komodo cruises is
In case luggage arrives one day late in at Sorong Airport or in Komodo we can
again a two-step process.
arrange to get it to the vessel on day two of the trip. This involves some extra
Dewi Nusantara
costs. However we can’t guarantee that this will always work.
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What travel documents will I need?
How do I get from the airport to Dewi Nusantara?
You are required to possess a passport valid for at least six months from
The Dewi Nusantara package includes a transfer from the embarkation airport
the date of arrival and have proof of return or onward ticketing. Your
to the port where the yacht will be waiting for you. Crew will greet you inside
passport should have at least two blank pages in it in order to pass through
the arrival hall and help you claim your luggage. Please look for crew or
immigration.
agent from our transfer company
holding a Dewi Nusantara sign or
You will also require a Visa. You
a sign with your name on it. It is
may qualify for a Visa on arrival
approximately a 20 minute drive
depending on your citizenship.
from the airport to the harbour
Please contact your local Embassy
where the yacht is.
or Consulate for your destination
How do I get from the hotel
to Dewi Nusantara if I arrive
early?
or review the requirements on one
of the many travel visa information
websites or contact our office in Bali.
The boat will call the hotel on
What should I know about
customs and immigration?
embarkation day and advise
boarding time. Once Dewi is ready
At the airport, customs formalities
for boarding we will transfer you
are usually quick and trouble free.
from the hotel to the boat.
Tourists are allowed articles for use
What do we do on the day
we disembark?
during their stay. These include
items of personal adornment,
wearing apparel, toiletries and any portable articles which someone can
The Dewi Nusantara returns to port on the morning that you disembark the
reasonably be expected to use during their stay.
yacht. Final disembarkation will occur between 6:00 am and 10am at the end
Please note that it is strictly forbidden to any illegal drugs into the country.
The death penalty applies to drug smugglers in Indonesia.
of the charter. Transfers are provided to the airport for guests departing this
day. If your flight is not until later in the afternoon we will take you to a local
hotel for day use and transfer you to the airport in time for your flight.
What are the embarkation and disembarkation times?
Official embarkation time is 4pm. If you are arrive on an early flight you will be
met at the airport and taken to a hotel for breakfast and coffee. We normally
try to start boarding from 12 noon. Once all guests are on-board, the Dewi
Nusantara will depart. On the day of disembarkation, you will be transferred to
the airport between 6:00 am and 10am. If your flight is later than this you will
How do I arrange for pre and post charter hotels and transfers?
In addition to being able to book your domestic airline tickets Dewi
Nusantara’s travel specialist has created several extension packages based
around different experiences in the area. Alternatively, they would be happy to
design something specifically with your interests in mind.
be taken to a hotel where you can purchase a drink and use the wi-fi and then
Do I need trip insurance?
1.5 hours before your flight is due we will transfer you to the airport and assist
We strongly recommend that every guest purchases comprehensive accident,
you with check in.
medical, baggage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance when space
Dewi Nusantara
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is reserved. Trip insurance will protect you from financial disappointment if you
UHT long life milk is provided on-board. We recommend that you purchase any
are prevented from making your scheduled trip due to illness or family illness,
special brands of alcoholic beverages that you may want to consume on-board
or in the event that unforeseen circumstances prevent the airline or yacht
at the Duty Free Shop at any airport. We encourage you to consume lots of
from making its scheduled trip. In an event where it is necessary to cancel or
non-alcoholic liquids during the week to avoid dehydration. Remember: Alcohol
interrupt a charter due to weather or any matter beyond the control of Dewi
and diving do not mix. Once you consume alcohol, you become a snorkeller
Nusantara, there will be no refund or credit issued. We also recommend diving
until the next day.
accident insurance and Dewi Nusantara work in connection with Dive Assure
who provide tailor made insurance specific for scuba diving holidays.
A word about alcohol
www.diveassure.com
The importation of alcoholic beverages in Indonesia is strictly controlled by
Dewi Nusantara - The On-board Experience
restrictions. In accordance with local cultural customs and regulations only
If I am travelling as a single will I have a roommate?
All rates are quoted on a share
the government through quota restrictions. Locally produced beer has no
local beer is provided and one glass of wine is served with dinner as part
of your Dewi Nusantara package. At all other times, additional alcoholic
beverages (based on availability)
basis; therefore, unless you require
including bottles of imported wines
a guaranteed single room and pay
and drinks containing spirits may be
an additional supplement (65%),
purchased through the ship’s bar.
you will very likely be sharing your
stateroom with one other guest of
There are no corkage or bottle
the same gender.
charges imposed for guests who
choose to bring their own alcohol
What type of cuisine is
prepared?
on board for personal consumption.
Customs regulations allow foreign
Meals prepared by our on-board
tourists arriving into Indonesia to
chef consist of an international
bring with them 1 litre of alcohol per
mix with a local flair. If you have
adult. If you have a favourite wine
any special dietary requirements,
or spirit you would like to consume
please advise our Bali office as soon
on your upcoming cruise, we
as possible so we can adequately
encourage you to bring it with you.
prepare to meet your needs. Certain
special dietary and beverage
requests may not be available on a consistent basis due to the remote nature
of this location.
While customs in Indonesia are
laid back and friendly to tourists, the importation limits are enforced. All
checked and carry-on bags are x-rayed when clearing customs, so bottles and
containers are easily identified by Customs officers. Any tourist who attempts
What kinds of beverage are available on board?
The Dewi Nusantara’s selection of beverages includes fruit juices, soft drinks,
iced water, tea and speciality coffee and a limited selection of local beer. One
to circumvent the import limits opens themselves up to a very inconvenient
situation with government officials.
Dewi Nusantara
glass of wine is served with dinner. Fresh milk may not be available, although
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What electrical current is available on board?
Although most of our treks on most of our cruises can be completed in
The electrical current on Dewi Nusantara is 220 volts. Guests may wish to
sandals a pair of running shoes or even walking boots is a far better and more
bring a converter for the use of small appliances in their stateroom. There is
comfortable option.
a charging station in the camera room which offers access to both 110V and
in all of Indonesia is 220 volts.
What if I am prone to
seasickness?
How much shall I pack?
moderate movement of the yacht
Please plan to travel light. We
at times. If you have a tendency
recommend that you pack your
toward seasickness we strongly
gear in soft luggage such as a
urge you to bring some over-the-
duffel bag for easy stowage and to
counter motion sickness medication
add to your comfort in your cabin,
or consult your doctor about
leave those large, rigid suitcases
prescription brands, such as the
at home. Clothing should be
trans-dermal patch or Scopace
lightweight, comfortable sportswear
tablets. Chewable ginger tablets or
and swim suits are a must. A light
capsules of powdered ginger have
sweater or jacket is ideal for the
also proved to be effective.
220V power. The standard current
Currents and winds may cause
evenings. Dress aboard is always
What if there is an emergency
on board?
casual. Light clothing that reflects
the sun is best and a hat is a
recommended. Evening dress is informal. Additional items you may want to
bring are sunscreen, sunglasses, walking shoes and a hat or visor for your
time on shore. Hair dryers are provided in each cabin. We recommend you
pack your regulator, dive computer, mask, swim suit, change of clothes and
essential items in your carry-on bag. This will make it easier in the event
your luggage is delayed. Please check with your airline as to what weight
Our dive crews are trained in first aid
and diving accident management. Dewi Nusantara is equipped with a complete
first aid kit and a high capacity oxygen system. The vessel also has direct
contact with the closest hyperbaric chamber. Since emergency transportation
and treatment cost is the responsibility of each guest, we strongly recommend
that you dive conservatively and obtain special insurance for divers from
restrictions will apply to your carry-on and checked luggage.
Divers Alert Network, Dive Assure or similarly ranked company. Be warned that
Will there be any opportunities to go ashore during the cruise?
take up to 3 days before you get to a hyperbaric chamber. Your diving must be
In Raja Ampat we always visit a pearl farm or take a speedboat ride through
planned within the limits and standards of your certification organization.
the standard of the hospitals in Sorong and Labuan Bajo are not good! It could
the karst limestone islands. Komodo is famous for its ‘dragon’. Varanus
komodoensis is a lizard locally called ‘ora’, the largest monitor lizard in the
world. You have the opportunity to go ashore for a 2-hour walk on Komodo.
Experienced park rangers will show the natural habitat of this fascinating
predator. The trek usually starts around 7:30 am, the best time to find the
How can my family contact me in the event of an emergency at
home?
In case of emergency your family may contact you by calling our Bali office at
+ 62 361 766269 during business hours (10 am – 6 pm local Bali time which is
Dewi Nusantara
dragon. But when and if we go ashore always depends on the weather.
8 hours ahead of GMT). If outside of our operating hours, call our emergency
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cell phone number, +62 811399213. Please reserve calling this number for
our Bali office at least 30 days prior to departure so that we can adequately
emergencies only.
prepare.
Communications: Cell Phones, Satellite Phones and E-Mail?
Is it customary to offer a gratuity to the crew?
Check with your local cell phone
Gratuities are not included. We
provider for service while visiting
prefer that our guests reward our
Indonesia. The Dewi Nusantara is
crew based on performance. If the
equipped with satellite based phone
crew performs to your expectations,
for emergency communications.
we suggest that a gratuity of
E-mail access is available free of
approximately 10% of the published
charge when we have a 3G signal
package price be considered normal.
but it is very slow. It is suitable only
Payment of gratuities is entirely at
for sending a “What’s App” but not
the discretion of the guest. Payment
for uploading photos to Facebook.
of gratuities can be by cash or credit
card (Visa or Master-Card cards
Is smoking permitted?
are accepted but warrant a higher
A designated area on sun-deck of
service charge).
the outdoor lido deck is available for
How can I pay for my
expenses and purchases on
board?
smoking. Smoking is not permitted
in any other area for any reason.
Is there entertainment on
board?
Dewi Nusantara has a small, onboard “Boatique” which sells
The Dewi Nusantara has a multi-
a selection of logo clothing,
system TV unit for digital video
custom jewellery, sundries, diving
camera playback, a compact disc
accessories, batteries, logbooks,
player, a DVD player and iPod
etc. A crew member will gladly
docking player in the main salon.
assist you with your purchases
If you have a favourite movie,
at any time during the week. US
slide show or a video to share, we
encourage you to bring it along! You may also bring your own favourite music
CD’s or DVD’s. A small library of “books for exchange” is maintained on-board,
as well as marine life identification books for reference.
Dollars, Euros, Indonesian Rupiah
or VISA and Master Card credit cards are all accepted for bill payment.
Unfortunately American Express cards or personal and travellers cheques are
not accepted.
How can I celebrate a special occasion?
Our crew is delighted to help you celebrate any special occasion on-board
Diving operations in brief
How many dives will be done each day?
Dewi Nusantara
including birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons or weddings. Kindly advise
We will offer up to four dives per day, including a night dive. On the last dive
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day there will be two dives (weather and sea conditions permitting).
normally available to all certified Nitrox divers for an additional charge. Nitrox
dive profiles must be planned and executed with a Nitrox compatible computer.
What paperwork will I need for diving?
It is recommended that the planned PO2 level be set within the limits of your
Remember to bring your c-card or proof of
certifying agency. All Nitrox fills must be analysed
certification. The dive master requires proof of
by the divers using the mix and logged prior to each
certification before the first dive. You will be required
and every dive. Nitrox certifications are usually
to complete our Cruise Application and Waiver
available on-board to all certified open water divers
agreement prior to departure for Indonesia.
for an additional charge
How will we dive from the Dewi
Nusantara?
What diving equipment will I need to
bring?
Tender diving is the rule. All dives will be made
Equipment provided aboard the Dewi Nusantara
from two dive tenders. Guests board the tender
includes cylinders (11.2 litre/80 cu. ft. aluminium
and then don their gear at the dive site. For divers
with DIN/Yolk convertible “K” valves), weights and
who require special assistance we will be happy to
weight belts. Divers will also need the following
provide it. Backward roll entry from the tender is the
equipment:
most convenient way to enter the water. Our crew
will hand down cameras and other equipment. To
• Regulator with alternate air source
re-board the tenders, guests may remove their gear
• Depth and pressure gauge
in the water and hand it up to our staff and simply
climb aboard by way of a ladder secured to the
• Dive computer
gunwale of the tender.
• Buoyancy Compensation Device (BCD)
Do I need to bring any safety equipment?
• Mask/fins/snorkel
For your safety, it is recommended that each diver
carry an emergency SMB (safety sausage), Dive
• Night Dives: we require at least two light sources
Alert or other suitable audible surface signalling
on a night dive
device and mini-strobe light on all dives. If you do
not bring any one of these devices with you they are
• Recommended (Additional) Dive Equipment
available for rent on board, however, quantities may be limited.
Are there any limitations or restrictions on the diving?
All diving on board the Dewi Nusantara should be planned no-decompression
• Battery operated glowing tank marker light
• Dive light with extra batteries or a charging source
dives and conducted within the limits and standards of your certification
What safety equipment do I need to have?
agency.
We suggest that you bring your own to ensure compatibility with your personal
Are nitrox fills available?
equipment. The Dewi Nusantara has a limited supply available for rental by our
Dewi Nusantara
Dewi Nusantara is equipped with Nitrox facilities. Nitrox fills of up to 32% are
guests.
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Recommended Surface Safety Equipment For Each Diver
of the group on their tender. You may move away from the group within
• An audible surface signalling device such as a Dive Alert (air horn) or an
reason – providing that the divemaster leading the dive is kept in sight at all
emergency whistle of superior quality.
times. You will not be permitted to separate from the group or carry your own
• A visual surface signalling device (Daytime) such as an inflatable safety
drift line.
Can I fish or spearfish?
sausage (SMB) or similar device.
• A visual surface device (Night or Dusk) such as a personal mini-strobe or
similar device.
Fishing gear is available. Fishing is only allowed in certain areas at the Cruise
Directors discretion and at extra costs of US$50 per hour. Spear fishing
equipment is prohibited on-board.
Additional Recommended Surface Safety Equipment
• Signalling mirror
• Whistle
Is dive gear and photo/video gear available for rent?
Dewi Nusantara has a limited amount of diving equipment available for rent,
so it is critical that you advise our Bali office staff, in advance, if you decide
you want to rent gear. We offer BCD’s and regulators. Two Canon S95 point
and shoot cameras with Ikelite housings are available for rental. These
cameras can shoot HD video.
I am a photographer, what can I expect?
Photo opportunities are abundant no matter what system you have. Guests
may use the TV in the salon to view their images. The vessel is equipped with
a variety of input cables.
Camera Tables: Dewi Nusantara has a large indoor camera work bench (8
meters long) with individual power outlets and spotlights under the castle
deck.
Charging Stations: There are several charging stations with 110V and 220V
power available for your use.
Rinse Tanks: There is a huge “cameras only” rinse tank for the exclusive use
of photographers on-board.
Dive Buddies: All divers are required to have a buddy with them at all times.
Dewi Nusantara
When on a drift dive, photographers are expected to stay with the main body
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Dewi Nusantara
H A N D B O O K
Dewi Nusantara
E-mail: [email protected]
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V2016.03 - 11th November 2016