Wondering what marvels await you during your cruising holiday in Indonesia? This article is for you!
Water temperature & Wetsuit
In this tropical zone, the water temperature can vary from 29°C /84°F to 21°C /74°F. If you’re planning to scuba dive in Indonesia, you will need a wetsuit (or several) adapted to these temperatures.
To make the most of your experience underwater, we advise the most cold-sensitive amongst you to wear a 5 mm neoprene wetsuit. Otherwise, a 3 mm neoprene wetsuit with a hooded vest can do the trick.
Do you own this type of wetsuit? Perfect, you could bring it for you cruise aboard Adelaar. If not, we offer you the possibility to rent your diving equipment before your trip.
Topographies under the surface
The magic Indonesian archipelago holds many surprises underwater… With more than 17.000 islands, it offers a great diversity of marine reliefs, each one of them being super rich in corals & big and small fish species.
Get ready to tick off your list many different landscapes! You will find shipwrecks perfect for day & night diving, impressive drop-offs and sandy slopes, and black volcanic seascapes promising a bubbly experience. There will be something for everyone.
Our crew has been sailing the archipelago for 25 years now and knows all the dive sites by heart. They will ensure that every visits under the surface bring you something unique to remember!
Currents in Indonesia
Should you expect strong currents during your cruise aboard Adelaar? The Indonesian archipelago knows many different water conditions, from roaring currents to quiet bays. If you prefer to avoid strong currents, no worries! We will always take you to locations that suit you best according to your level or mood of the day.
However, if swimming with bigger fish and pelagic is part of your bucket list, be aware that a certain level is required. Indeed, large species like Manta rays are often attracted by nutrient-rich waters provided by currents. Thus, pelagic dives can be a bit intimidating to a novice diver.
Indonesia and its vibrant marine life
Indonesia is the perfect destination for marine life enthusiasts. Indeed, the largest archipelagic country offers some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world! You will have the chance to come across many underwater species. Here is a short overview…
Mola Mola
Also known as the sunfish, this giant is on average 1.8 meters in length (5,9 feet) and 2,5 meters (8.2 feet) high. Up to 1 ton (2200 pounds), it is the heaviest bony fish on Earth.
Good to know: the best season to observe the Mola Mola is between July and November.
Manta rays
Manta lovers will be happy to know that the Indonesian government declared the entire archipelago a Manta ray sanctuary since 2014. And for good reason, these gracious animals are very numerous there.
The Indo-Pacific is also home to lots of black morphs (Manta with total black coloration). So, if you have never sight one, this is probably your best chance.
Sea turtles
Indonesia is a great holiday destination to observe turtles. Indeed, no less than six of the world’s seven marine turtle species can be found in Indonesia! The smallest species measures 60 cm (2 feet) and weight 30 kg (70 pounds). As of the biggest one, it can measure more than 2 meters (7 feet long) for about 700 kg (1500 pounds)!
Whale sharks
You have always dreamed of swimming with the largest fish in the ocean? Again, Indonesia is the place to be! Whale shark dives are some of the most impressive ones as these gentle giants reach on average 12 meters (40 feet).
You best chance to sight them is during a full moon. As for where they are, it is one of the best kept secrets. Fortunately, Adelaar works hand in hand with Conservation International to preserve these beautiful creatures and organise every now and then special cruises to meet with the whale sharks. Curious about these trips? Check our schedule here.
Pygmy seahorses
Pygmy Seahorses can be difficult to spot, as they measure between 1.4 and 2.7 cm (from 5,5 inches to 10,6 inches), but trust us, they are worth the search!
The most common species of Pygmy Seahorse is the Hippocampus Bargibanti, covered in warty-like tubercles. This species is good at hiding, as it takes the color of whichever species of coral it lives on.
Hammerhead sharks
The Hammerhead shark, often found on divers’ bucket list, can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) in length and weigh up to 500 kg (1000 pounds). However, smaller sizes are more common.
Insider tip: one of the best locations to spot them is the Banda Sea, a seldom-visited destination well-known for its hammerhead sightings.
Adelaar’s tip before departure
You believe holiday rhymes with sun’s warmth? The tropics certainly are the perfect holiday destination for you! You better make sure to add sunscreen to your packing list, as it will be of great use on land and at sea! Be aware though… Most of the classic sunscreens destroy the underwater ecosystem and we wouldn’t want that to happen, right?
To help you choose a harmless sunblock, we compiled a list of eco-friendly sunscreens for you to use. Together, let’s protect what we love!
Discover ScubaOtter’s Ultimate Guide To Liveaboards to learn everything there is to know about the scuba diving liveaboard experience and get the best tips before your departure.
Reconciling cruising with Indonesian waters conservation
Is cruising in the Indonesian waters compatible with ocean conservation? We believe it is. Adelaar has been one of the first liveaboards to sail in Indonesia, which calls for responsibility. We strive to protect the archipelago’s wonders.
You want to learn more about our actions? Check out our initiatives and conservation trips.
Emma, nature addict and travel enthusiast.
