Guide To Indonesia Liveaboard Diving
In general, Indonesia liveaboard diving can be divided into two distinct seasons: November to May (prime season for diving Raja Ampat) and May to October (transition trips and Komodo season). However, keep in mind that most areas in Indonesia can be dived year-round and there are more liveaboards in Indonesia than most other scuba diving destinations. This means that you'll find many different Indonesia liveaboard trip itineraries visiting/combining various different areas.
For a refined journey through the Indonesian archipelago, the luxury Mutiara Laut liveaboard experience blends traditional sailing charm with upscale amenities.
November To May
November to May is the prime liveaboard diving season in Raja Ampat. Most Indonesia liveaboards sail and dive this holy grail of the Coral Triangle during this time of year, with a smaller number of liveaboards staying in other areas such as Komodo.
Other areas visited by liveaboards in Indonesia during these months include the Banda Sea, Sulawesi (keep an eye out for trips that start or finish in Lembeh or North Sulawesi, as it could mean an epic resort + liveaboard combo trip), Halmahera, and Triton Bay (often in combination with Raja Ampat).
June To October
May/June to September/October offer a wide variety of itineraries on Indonesia liveaboards, often combining various different regions. These are the most popular time of year to dive Komodo and you can find many trips sailing the entire length of the National Park from north to south.
Alor is also often visited during this time of year and can be done in combination with Komodo or the Banda Sea.
Many Indonesia liveaboard operators choose to sail the Banda Sea around the months of September and October, which offer the best conditions for diving and topside. This is also the best time to see hammerhead sharks in the area!
Interested in diving with sharks?
Check out our list of the Best Shark Diving in the World.
A small number of Indoneisa liveaboards stay in the Raja Ampat area during these months, visiting northern Raja Ampat and other "nearby" areas like Cenderawasih Bay, Banda Sea, and Forgotten Islands.
Derawan a lesser-known but no less special scuba diving destination is another great area visited by a number of liveaboards in the summer months.
Year-Round Indonesia Liveaboard Destinations
You can find a small number of Indonesia liveaboards that choose to stay in one area year-round, especially in Raja Ampat, Komodo, and Wakatobi. However, keep in mind that for some areas like Raja Ampat and Komodo, there will be months when you can't visit certain areas and the dive conditions may not be optimal. Don't hesitate to drop us a line if you have any questions about liveaboard options in a particular area or in a certain month!
Liveaboards In Indonesia
Bluewater Travel can help you book a liveaboard in Indonesia and over 30 other destinations in the world at the same price or even lower than booking any other way. We know the boats, cabins, diving, and logistics better than anyone else in the industry. Email us today or leave us a message through the live chat box to start planning your dream dive vacation in Indonesia. Embark on our Halmahera Remote Indonesia Liveaboard Trip – August 2027 to explore untouched dive sites and vibrant coral reefs. Divers looking for spacious accommodations and experienced guides should consider exploring Indonesia aboard the Black Manta, one of the region’s most well-equipped liveaboards. For those seeking a luxurious diving experience in Indonesia, the Ombak Biru liveaboard offers exceptional comfort and access to world-class dive sites. For a classic Indonesian sailing experience, the Sea Safari VII liveaboard combines traditional design with modern amenities.
New to liveaboards?
Let's help you get started with our Guide to Liveaboard Diving.
You may also want to check out our list of the Best Liveaboard Destinations for Beginner Scuba Divers.
