Route Description - The Flores Sea: Route II – The Bira Peninsula, Selayar, Taka Bonerate Atoll & Komodo
Dewi Nusantara’s cruise explores four of Indonesia’s premier dive regions, from Makassar in South Sulawesi to Labuan Bajo in West Flores. Guests will dive the Bira Peninsula, Selayar Island, Taka Bonerate Atoll, and Komodo National Park, experiencing a spectacular cross-section of Indonesia’s marine wonders. In Komodo, encounters with the legendary Komodo dragons complement dives in one of the world’s most celebrated underwater realms.
Day 1 – Makassar & Departure
Guests board in Makassar, the principal city of South Sulawesi. After settling in and an orientation, the vessel begins its journey south through the Flores Sea towards the first dive regions.
Day 2 – Bira Peninsula & Selayar Islands
The cruise explores the rugged reefs and walls around the Bira Peninsula and Selayar Islands, known for their rich marine life and biodiverse coral slopes. Diving here may include vibrant reef encounters and the chance to spot reef sharks and large schools of pelagics.
Day 3 – Selayar & Surrounds
Further diving around the Selayar Island archipelago, where remote sites offer pristine coral gardens and dramatic underwater topography. Drift dives and beautiful reef panoramas are typical here.
Day 4 – Taka Bonerate Atoll
The vessel reaches Taka Bonerate National Park, home to one of the world’s largest atoll systems. This UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve features extensive coral shallows and rich reef zones ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving, with abundant reef fish and macro life.
Day 5 – Taka Bonerate & Deep Reefs
Continued exploration of the Taka Bonerate atoll complex. Guests can expect drift dives, sloping coral gardens and possible pelagic encounters in the deeper ocean fringes of the atoll.
Days 6–8 – Wakatobi Region (if included)
If this version of the route is followed, dives may take place in the Wakatobi marine protected area, known for its outstanding coral reef biodiversity, huge sea fans, colourful gorgonians, and vibrant fish life — one of Indonesia’s most celebrated dive regions.
Days 9–11 – Komodo National Park
After the Flores Sea crossing, the vessel arrives in Komodo National Park, central Nusa Tenggara. Diving highlights here include drift sites, pinnacles and walls teeming with pelagic life, reef sharks, mantas and spectacular coral formations. Komodo also offers unique terrestrial highlights — including the famous Komodo dragons — for those who wish to explore above water.
Day 12 – Labuan Bajo & Disembarkation
The journey concludes in Labuan Bajo, West Flores. After breakfast, the crew assists with disembarkation and transfers to the airport or local hotels, marking the end of this extensive and varied expedition.