The Samambaia is manned by a 22-member crew, who are always on hand to create an incredible journey. The diving experiencs are exceptional, with a spacious dive deck and a favorable guest-to-dive guide ratio of 4:1. Dive itineraries on this Indonesian liveaboard access the biodiverse sites of Raja Ampat, Triton Bay, and the Banda Sea, as well as Alor and the Komodo Islands.
Accommodations:
The Samambaia features seven well-appointed cabins, all of which have been beautifully crafted with attention to detail. The ensuite bathrooms come with hand showers, non-marine toilets, and washbasins carved from wood, and all are supplied with fresh water from the onboard watermakers. Additionally, they have wardrobes, under-bed storage, and individually controlled air-conditioning.
Double Cabins: There are two Double Cabins on the lower deck, which can accommodate up to two guests.
Convertible Cabins: There are two Convertible Cabins on the lower deck, which can be configured either with two twin beds or a double.
Twin Cabins: There are two Twin Cabins on the lower deck, which can accommodate up to two guests.
Master Cabin: There is one Master Cabin on the main deck, which can accommodate up to two guests and offers 180-degree sea views.
Dining:
Indonesian liveaboard trips onboard the Samambaia include all meals and snacks, with a focus on both local and international cuisine. Guests can expect freshly baked breads and pastries, as well as ice cream made in the galley. Most dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notification.
Coffee, tea, and drinking water are all included in the rates, as are juices and beers. Wine and spirits can be purchased for a surcharge.
Amenities:
All of the cabins (except one) are located on the lower deck, with the Master Cabin found at the rear of the main deck. It’s located adjacent to the galley and the main dining/living area while the spacious dive deck is at the front of the Samambaia. Here you will also find bench seating where you can dine alfresco.
On the upper deck are several sun loungers for relaxing in between dives. An inflatable kayak is also available for guest use when the Samambaia is moored in calm waters.
Diving:
The Samambaia offers 7-, 11- and 12-night itineraries exploring some of Indonesia’s most exciting dive destinations. In addition to visiting the biodiverse waters of Raja Ampat and encountering whale sharks in Triton Bay, it sails through the Banda Sea, to little-visited Alor and to the legendary Komodo Islands. This Indonesian liveaboard moves throughout the archipelago during the year to take advantage of the best diving conditions.
The Samambaia’s dive guides have years of experience in the area and there is a guide/divemaster ratio of 4:1 to ensure a personalized experience underwater. The vessel is well-equipped for underwater photographers, with a dedicated camera room and work stations with integrated 110v and 220v charging ports.
The spacious dive deck is located at the front of the vessel and comes complete with two hot water showers for rinsing off after dives. Two 21-foot skiffs serve as tender-boats and each can transport up to eight divers and their gear. The same crafts are used for shore excursions, which are included on some itineraries. These include cruises through lagoons and coves, island hikes, and whale watching excursions.
Most dive itineraries offered by the Samambaia include three daily dives, plus a sunset or night dive, depending on the location. A full range of rental gear is available on request and Nitrox is provided to certified divers free of charge. For divers who want more air, 15-liter tanks can be provided for a surcharge.
Indonesia straddles the equator and enjoys a tropical climate, with surface water temperatures ranging from 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C), depending on the location. Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm wetsuit, although some dive sites are subject to cold upwellings and cool currents, so extra layers are recommended. This is particularly true if you are diving in the Banda Sea, South Komodo, and Alor where water temperatures below 68°F (20°C) are often experienced.