By: Torben Lonne
Samambaia is a traditional wooden phinisi sailing some of the best regions of Indonesia. The 18 experienced, professional and friendly crew members on board are always ready to create an unforgettable journey. The liveaboard has 6 decorated cabins on the lower deck and one Master cabin on the main deck with gorgeous 180° sea views. Each cabin has a private en-suite bathroom, individually controlled AC unit, under bed storage and wardrobes. Guests can tan or take a nap on the sun deck or on the padded lounge chairs on the covered sun deck. If you prefer the shade, enjoy a drink at the bar, or the chef prepared delicacies as well as buffet style options available at the main saloon. When the reception is available, guests can also use free Wi-Fi.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Several divers reported that the boat is in pristine condition and considered world class. -
Some people noted that the crew is incredibly friendly and they are not afraid to engage in conversation.
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Several people commended the knowledge of the cruise director and the diving instructor on providing the best diving locations.
Things we don't like:
Some divers said they would have wanted a more secluded space to dive away from other vessels.- A couple of people noted that on some locations the marine life was scarce.
- Some people said they would of wanted more time on the island to explore alone instead of the allocated time.
Some divers said they would have wanted a more secluded space to dive away from other vessels.Where to book:
Where to book:
Diving on the Samambaia in Indonesia
Samambaia Liveaboard
The magnificent Samambaia is a traditional Indonesian wooden liveaboard, built-in 2015. 42m (137.8 feet) long and 9m (29.5 feet) wide, this exclusive sailing vessel is set to explore remote dive locations. It is transporting dive safari adventurers to spectacular sites such as Raja Ampat, Komodo (Ambon, Serangan, Labuan Bajo, Banda Islands), Alor and Banda sea, arguably some of the world’s best diving spots with great marine biodiversity. Divers can not only enjoy spectacular day and night diving but also a range of activities during the surface intervals. Scenic rides through lagoons and caves, whale watching, visits to secluded beaches and trekking are just a few of them. The land excursions, exploring the exotic islands and unique wildlife will definitely complete the dive safari vacation. And in case someone prefers more activity, they can always try their hand at fishing.
Climb aboard and be welcomed by luxury and comfort, where the focus is on the finer details and the needs of the guests. It carries 18 experienced crew members who speak English, German, French, Indonesian and Italian. Although the Samambaia liveaboard is new, the crew and dive guides have years of experience in the area.
Samambaia Features and Interior
Samambaia offers 4 double and 2 twin cabins on the lower deck, and 1 master cabin on the main deck, for a total of 14 guests. Attention to detail expressed in the crafting process is reflected throughout all the cabins. All bathrooms have a rain showerhead paired with a hand shower, washbasin carved out of fossil wood and Western-standard non-marine toilet with integrated bidet. The master cabin, located on the main deck, has large windows offering breathtaking 180° views. Local wooden handicrafts and batik pillows enrich the ambiance, while a special glass coating ensures privacy.
Guests can relax in the main air-conditioned lounge, where there is a TV with a CD/DVD entertainment center, available for listening to some music or watching a movie. While enjoying the fabulous Indonesian archipelago, guests can work on their tan on the sun deck, or just take a nap on the comfortable padded lounge chairs on the covered sun deck.
Unwinding with a soothing massage or spa treatments is also available onboard.
Samambaia Cuisine
Guests have access to a mouth-watering buffet in the dining area of the main saloon. It includes plenty of chef-prepared delicacies, as well as buffet-style options. Freshly prepared menus usually feature Indonesian and Western (with plenty of Italian influence through the use of olive oil & parmesan) culinary delights. Hungry guests can enjoy these freshly prepared meals and snacks throughout the day. The amount and variety of food choices will satisfy even the largest of appetites.
When to Take the Trip
Water temperature in Komodo fluctuates from 23 to 28C/73-82F. The southern dive sites are better for visiting during the months of December through April. Komodo’s Northern waters on the other hand generally provide better visibility year-round. October to April is the best time to visit Raja Ampat.
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