Banda Sea - Trip Video

[CWK]

Sharing my video for my October 2018 trip to the Banda Sea.

 

[Dogbowl]

@CWK, great video! Thanks!

How were the currents and water temps? From the video, looks like the water was pretty calm.

 

[peeweediver]

Thanks. Fun to watch.

 

[flyboy08]

Some neat critters, thanks!

 

[CWK]

@CWK, great video! Thanks!

How were the currents and water temps? From the video, looks like the water was pretty calm.

There were very strong currents at times and I went through downcurrents twice, one of which was quite strong. Water temperature was between 26ºC and 32ºC. I was fine in a 3mm wetsuit. Someone from Toronto should be able to skinnydip without feeling cold.

 

[Dogbowl]

There were very strong currents at times and I went through downcurrents twice, one of which was quite strong. Water temperature was between 26ºC and 32ºC. I was fine in a 3mm wetsuit. Someone from Toronto should be able to skinnydip without feeling cold.

I’m not a normal Torontonian. With those temps I would bring a 5mm full suit and 5/3 hooded vest “just in case”.

 

[moorish8idol]

Fabulous! Thanks so much for sharing - I soooo want to do this trip. Could you let us know what sites/islands you hit up on this route? Where did you see those hammers? Cheers!

 

[CWK]

Fabulous! Thanks so much for sharing - I soooo want to do this trip. Could you let us know what sites/islands you hit up on this route? Where did you see those hammers? Cheers!

Route was Labuan Bajo to Wetar, then to Banda Neira before finishing in Ambon. I didn't record all the names of the islands. Hammerheads seen at Manuk island (no divesite name) and Batu Kapal off Banda Neira.

 

[AlMitch]

Thank you so much for the great video.
That crossing trip really seems to be such a special itinerary!! And you got so lucky with those hammers!!!
How would you rate the LOB?

 

[CWK]

I have, to date, only used the one LOB in Indonesia (twice - Komodo and Banda) so I have no basis for comparing it against other Indonesian LOBs. I had no issues with the Raja Laut and would use it again. Her crew were all great. My only minor grumble is that the cabins are small.