The Maluku Islands, often called the Spice Islands, are among Indonesia’s most underrated marine paradises. Tucked between Sulawesi and Papua, this archipelago offers breathtaking coral gardens, crystal-clear waters, and an incredible variety of marine life. From shallow reefs teeming with tropical fish to deep dive walls frequented by hammerhead sharks, Maluku is a diver’s dream come true.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeller, these islands promise an unforgettable underwater adventure.
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When Is the Ideal Time to Snorkel in the Maluku Islands?
The best time to snorkel and dive in Maluku is during the dry season, typically from October to April. During this period, visibility exceeds 30 meters, the seas are calm, and rainfall is minimal – perfect for uninterrupted exploration. The wet season (May – September) can bring stronger currents and cloudy waters, making underwater photography more challenging.
For the best experience, plan early-morning dives when the sea is at its calmest and marine life is most active.
5 Snorkelling and Scuba Diving Spots in the Maluku Islands
From Ambon’s macro wonders to the pristine reefs of Morotai, each of these destinations offers a different face of Maluku’s marine beauty.
1. Ambon Bay
- Location: Ambon Bay, Maluku, Indonesia
- Signature: World-renowned muck diving site with rare critters and WWII shipwrecks.
- Price Range: IDR 800,000 – 1,500,000 per dive session.
- How to Get There: Fly to Pattimura International Airport (AMQ) and drive 30 minutes to Ambon Bay.
Ambon Bay is a diver’s paradise for macro photography. Beneath its calm surface lies a world of vibrant sea life — from flamboyant cuttlefish and frogfish to seahorses and ghost pipefish. Several dive sites like Laha I and Twilight Zone offer sightings you won’t find anywhere else in Indonesia.
2. Pulau Hatta (Banda Islands)
- Location: Pulau Hatta, Banda Islands, Central Maluku, Indonesia
- Signature: Known for pristine coral walls, drop-offs, and schooling reef fish. Manta ray sightings are possible, especially during the hammerhead migration season (October-November), where “big stuff” like eagle rays and schooling bumphead parrotfish can be seen.
- Price Range: Single boat dives in the Banda area can be found for around IDR 650,000 to 1,200,000 per trip (for 1-2 tanks), but a full-day trip with multiple dives and transfers might be higher.
- How to Get There: Reach the Banda Islands by ferry or flight from Ambon, then a short boat ride to Pulau Hatta.
Hatta Island is the definition of untouched. With crystal visibility and coral walls dropping into the deep blue, it’s ideal for both snorkellers and advanced divers. The reefs are healthy and teeming with reef sharks, turtles, and colorful anthias darting around branching corals.
3. Saparua Island
- Location: Saparua Island, Central Maluku Regency, Indonesia
- Signature: Calm, shallow lagoons perfect for beginners and families.
- Price Range: IDR 600,000 – 1,200,000 for guided snorkelling sessions.
- How to Get There: Ferry from Ambon (1–2 hours) to Saparua Harbor.
Saparua’s tranquil waters are lined with soft coral gardens and colorful reef fish. The island is also home to charming coastal villages, where visitors can experience local life between snorkelling sessions. The combination of friendly locals, historical forts, and easy access make it a favorite among first-time snorkellers.
4. Banda Islands
- Location: Banda Islands, Central Maluku, Indonesia
- Signature: Famous for its steep volcanic walls, extensive lava flows (from the 1988 eruption), rich pelagic life (including hammerhead sharks during migration season), and vibrant coral slopes.
- Price Range: Single dives with local operators are closer to IDR 650,000-800,000 per tank.
- How to Get There: Flight or overnight ferry from Ambon to Banda Neira.
The Banda Islands are legendary among divers. Famous sites like Batu Kapal and Pulau Ai boast walls covered in massive gorgonians and soft corals. Lucky divers might even encounter hammerhead sharks during migration season. Above water, the old Dutch forts and nutmeg plantations add cultural richness to every trip.
5. Morotai Island
- Location: Morotai Island, North Maluku, Indonesia
- Signature: WWII wreck diving and crystal-clear reefs.
- Price Range: approx. IDR 550,000 per dive.
- How to Get There: Fly to Morotai Airport from Manado or Ternate.
Morotai is a paradise for history-loving divers. Beneath its turquoise waters rest sunken WWII planes, tanks, and ships, now transformed into thriving artificial reefs. Beyond wrecks, its coral gardens and schooling fish make it an excellent destination for snorkellers seeking adventure and serenity.
Useful Tips for First-Time Snorkellers in the Maluku Islands
Snorkelling in Maluku is rewarding and beginner-friendly — but preparation ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.
- Choose the right season (October – April) for calm seas.
- Bring or rent quality snorkelling gear.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral life.
- Respect marine life — observe, don’t touch.
Always go with a local guide for navigation and safety. - Check the tide and current before entering the water.
These simple habits help preserve Maluku’s delicate marine ecosystems while ensuring a memorable underwater journey.
Plan the Perfect Snorkelling Escape to the Maluku Islands with Indonesia Impression Tour
At Indonesia Impression Tour, we design bespoke itineraries that connect travellers with Indonesia’s most stunning underwater destinations — responsibly and seamlessly.
Whether you dream of diving the volcanic walls of Banda Neira or floating above Saparua’s coral lagoons, our team ensures luxury, comfort, and safety every step of the way.
Join our PADI-certified guides for an unforgettable journey marked by uncompromised safety standards, expert local knowledge, and sustainable travel practices.
Plan your Maluku diving adventure today: Maluku Islands Tour Packages & Operator 2025/2026 | Indonesia Impression
