Explore a Hidden Corner of Indonesia by Liveaboard
The Banggai Archipelago is a true frontier—a remote chain of over 100 islands adrift between Central Sulawesi and the Molucca Sea. Far from the well-trodden paths of Indonesian tourism, this is a place where the modern world feels distant, where the only boats you’ll see belong to local fishermen, and where each day unfolds in quiet seclusion.
Here, time slows to the rhythm of the tides. White sand beaches stretch untouched, fringed by lush green islands rising from turquoise waters. Stilted Bajau villages stand above the shallows, home to sea nomads who have spent generations living in harmony with the ocean. Beneath the surface, vibrant coral gardens teem with marine life, including the striking Banggai cardinalfish, found only in these waters.
Scattered throughout the archipelago, hidden lagoons shelter a rich ecosystem of mangroves, corals, and seagrass beds—the feeding grounds of elusive dugongs. These quiet waterways, shaped by nature over centuries, are a sanctuary for both marine life and those who seek adventure off the beaten path.
Banggai is also the heart of our Reef Positive Business initiative. Through our partnership with Blue Alliance Marine Protected Areas, all proceeds from Nomad Archipelago go toward supporting the conservation of this extraordinary marine ecosystem, ensuring its protection for generations to come.
The Bajau, often called “Sea Nomads,” have lived for centuries in close connection with the ocean. Once fully nomadic, living entirely at sea on handcrafted boats, many now dwell in stilt villages where daily life follows the tides.
In the Banggai Islands, we visit remote Bajau communities that continue to live from the sea—fishing, collecting sea cucumbers, and freediving with remarkable skill.
These visits offer a respectful glimpse into a resilient, ocean-bound way of life. Welcoming and curious, the Bajau share traditions shaped by generations on the water, guided by sustainability and deep knowledge of their marine environment.
The Bajau, often called “Sea Nomads,” have lived for centuries in close connection with the ocean. Once fully nomadic, living entirely at sea on handcrafted boats, many now dwell in stilt villages where daily life follows the tides. Read More
Sometimes hailed as one of the clearest freshwater lakes on the planet, Paisu Pok’s remarkable clarity reveals a submerged world where fallen logs and intricate rock formations are visible even at depths exceeding ten metres. This transparency creates a surreal experience for swimmers and snorkelers.
The surrounding verdant jungle, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, enhances the sense of seclusion and tranquillity. The atmosphere is enriched by the sounds of rustling leaves and distant birdsong, creating a quiet wilderness experience.
Like Raja Ampat and Komodo, the Banggai Archipelago offers exceptional snorkeling—but with added solitude. Its remote location offers rare exclusivity and the chance to encounter endemic species found nowhere else. Snorkeling here also means witnessing the skills of the Bajau first-hand. When possible, we join Bajau fishermen to observe their traditional methods and freediving techniques.
The Banggai has been little explored as a scuba diving destination. On private charters, our leisurely paced diving becomes an act of discovery, as we focus on exploring new locations and searching for uncharted dive sites.
Days in the Banggai Islands often drift toward the shore. With so many islands to explore, many with their own quiet stretch of white sand, solitude is easy to find. Backed by dense greenery and looking out to calm, clear waters, these beaches invite swimming, beachcombing, or simply taking in the stillness.
We explore nearby coves, mangrove channels, and shallow lagoons by kayak and paddleboard, spotting turtles surfacing for air and reef fish darting through the shallows.
Come evening, the day closes with a beach barbecue—fresh fish grilled over coals, the sound of the sea close by, and the sky painted in warm tones. Back on board, there’s time for a quiet game, a shared story, or simply relaxing on deck under a blanket of stars.
Days in the Banggai Islands often drift toward the shore. With so many islands to explore, many with their own quiet stretch of white sand, solitude is easy to find. Backed by dense greenery and looking out to calm, clear waters, these beaches invite swimming, beachcombing, or simply taking in the stillness. Read More
We offer a series of slow-paced cruises through the Banggai Archipelago, ranging from 6 to 8 nights, each designed to explore the region’s marine richness and cultural depth. These journeys trace quiet channels, remote islets, and little-visited Bajau villages, with flexible itineraries that follow the rhythm of the tides
A six-night journey through the remote reaches of the Banggai Archipelago, where life is shaped by tides, tradition, and the quiet rhythm of the sea. From luminous lagoons and coral gardens to Bajau fishing camps and forest-fringed beaches, this voyage offers moments of both stillness and discovery along Indonesia’s hidden edge.
Experiences:
An eight-night journey through the heart of the Banggai Marine Protected Area, blending slow exploration with meaningful contribution. This voyage invites guests to experience the region’s extraordinary biodiversity while supporting local conservation efforts and engaging directly with the communities who call these waters home.
Experiences:
This is a hosted journey through the Banggai Archipelago like no other, where exploration meets purpose, and discovery supports the protection of one of Indonesia’s most fragile marine ecosystems.
Use the tool below to check live availability and explore our upcoming cruises. Filters let you search by date, duration, number of guests, and more. For each cruise, you can choose:
Once you’ve made your selection, the platform will guide you through a few steps to submit your details. When you click [Book], a provisional reservation will be made — no payment required at this stage — our team will then be in touch to confirm your booking and arrange payment to secure it.
If you need help planning your trip? Click [Enquire Now] to send us your preferred travel dates & traveller details — we’ll be happy to consult with you in planning the perfect cruise.
