Nusa Kode + Sumbawa

28 NOV - 8 DEC 2024

PIONEER ROUTE: AN EXPLORATORY EXPEDITION

THE MISSION

Taking the road less travelled.

Join us as we embark on this inaugural expedition, driven by a spirit of exploration. Our mission for this expedition is to unveil the hidden treasures of Komodo’s Deep South: Nusa Hode, also known as Horse Shoe Bay.

The cold and nutrient-rich upwelling currents that occur here during the dry season in July to October fuel an explosion of marine life with a diverse array of corals, fish and marine critters - all packed and concentrated in a relatively small area. But this upwelling also means poor visibility and low water temperatures. That is why our expedition is well timed during the wet season from October to December, capitalising on clearer, warmer waters while still enjoying the full bloom of marine life. This region is also less frequented by mainstream liveaboards during this time, which means we will have exclusive access to the dive sites.

After our explorations here, we will then move northward to Central Komodo and then westward to Gili Banta, Sangeang Api and Sumbawa, which include exciting encounters with pelagics amidst the pristine coral scape for which Komodo is legendarily famous.

General conditions predicted are warm water temperatures (27-28°C), good visibility and sunny with scattered tropical showers.

THE ROUTE

Our itinerary will be flexible - depending on weather conditions or how well we collectively like a particular site - but the four main regions of explorations include Horse Shoe Bay, Gili Banta, Sangeang Api and Moyo. We will also be including one day of exploring undiscovered sites.

Arrive at Komodo International Airport, Labuan Bajo

2 Horse Shoe Bay (Nusa Kode)

3 Gili Banta

4 Sangeang Api

5 Moyo

6 Depart from Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport, Sumbawa

HORSE SHOE BAY

“Imagine any colour, and you will find it in Horse Shoe Bay.”

This underwater paradise, characterised by vertical walls, seamounts, boulders and reef slopes, offer a haven for experienced divers and photographers seeking colourful and pristine corals, macro marine critters and encounters with majestic giants like manta rays. Above the surface, the active presence of Komodo Dragons, sea eagles, and occasional sightings of migrating sperm whales in the strait add to the allure of this untamed landscape.

GILI BANTA

“Where the volcano melts into a coral reef.”

Gili Banta Island, a vast volcanic caldera, is unique with its northern half submerged underwater. Situated within the Komodo buffer zone and to the west of Sumbawa, it serves as an intriguing stopover while crossing the Sapi Strait towards Sangeyang. The island offers several promising dive sites waiting to be explored. Reefs here boast good health and is teeming with fish life.

SANGEANG API

“A fusion of biodiversity and volcanic activity to create a macro heaven.”

Sangeang Api stands as a striking yet picturesque volcanic complex, with no eruptions recorded since 2014, although its twin cones often release plumes of ash and smoke into the sky. Beneath the waves, Sangeang's highly unique underwater terrain that includes hydrothermal vents is home to vibrantly colourful soft corals and is one of the best macro diving sites in the world.

MOYO

“Captivating landscapes meet exciting underwater encounters.”

A must visit spot on Moyo Island is the stunning Mata Jitu waterfall, which cascades gracefully into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by lush tropical foliage. Underwater, the pristine reef is rendered in full colour due to fantastic visibility. At the local fishing platforms, we will get to see whalesharks that come to feed on bycatch when the fishermen pull in their fishing nets.

THE VESSEL

CHENG HO | Sea Safari Cruises

Made from Ulin (Ironwood), one of the most durable and powerful wood in the world, and built in-house, the Cheng Ho is a traditional Phinisi style schooner with a touch of modern luxury. She is comprised of 4 decks with 14 en-suite air-conditioned cabins. Facilities include spacious restaurant and bar area, lounge outdoor, sun deck, dive deck and Jacuzzi.