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Diving on the Samambaia liveaboard
The Samambaia accommodates a maximum of 14 divers, who are looked after by a Western cruise director and eagle-eyed Indonesian dive guides. Although the boat is relatively new (built in 2015), the crew has been diving these waters for many years and knows how to handle currents, choose the best dive times, and spot the critters on your wishlist.
But back to the facilities—the extensive dive deck gives every diver enough space to prepare and store their gear between dives. Rinse tanks have fresh water for everyone’s gear, and there are dedicated tanks for cameras.
Speaking of underwater photography, this liveaboard offers a dedicated camera room with stabilizers, air conditioning, and an automatic fire extinguisher. And there is plenty of space to set up even the most extensive camera rig, including charging points to ensure your equipment is ready for the next dive.
In addition, Samambaia’s cruise director is a passionate underwater photographer himself, and understands the needs of photographers and videographers only too well. He’s also extremely knowledgeable about camera equipment, which can be invaluable when guests have questions or need some camera advice.
All dives are done from two tenders, making it easy to drop divers in the best possible spot every time. At 21 feet (6.5 m) long, the tenders offer plenty of space for every diver, their equipment, and even large camera rigs.
Highlights:
- Excellent photography support
- Highly knowledgeable crew
- Nitrox included in the price
Onboard the Samambaia
This is a liveaboard designed and built by divers for divers. Diver convenience, comfort, and safety are at the heart of every detail you find on this vessel. And there are plenty of details to love. Let’s start by taking a look at the seven cabins.
The Samambaia has four double and two twin cabins on the lower deck. Each is furnished beautifully, using traditional wood, and readily equipped with comfortable beds and ample storage space for each passenger.
The bathrooms are also worth highlighting. Not only can passengers enjoy a rain shower and a hand shower, but the washbasins are simply stunning to behold. Carved from fossil wood, each is unique.
The master cabin is located in the aft area of the main deck. It’s more spacious than the double and twin cabins, but what makes it really special is the window-front offering 180-degree views of breathtaking Indonesian scenery.
At 137 feet (42 m), the Samambaia offers plenty of space to relax. Simply head to the upper deck and choose your favorite sun lounger. There is plenty of shaded space to relax between dives, too.
If you prefer to be indoors and enjoy a spot of air conditioning, the main salon has a comfortable couch that is just perfect for taking an afternoon nap in between dives. If you need anything, the 18 crew members looking after a maximum of 14 guests will be on hand to fulfill your every wish.
Aside from diving the spectacular Indonesian archipelago, passengers can also choose to snorkel and explore the shallower areas of these reefs. Saying that, simply cruising around these islands is just as viable a choice.
In either case, don’t miss out on the land excursions. Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to explore a remote beach few people have ever set foot on, visit a traditional village, or hike up a hill to take in the breathtaking views. You may also get up close and personal with the (in)famous Komodo dragons.
Highlights:
- 180-degree views from the spacious master suite
- Beautiful pieces of artwork and detailed furnishings around the boat
- Choice of activities for non-divers and in between dives
Dining on the Samambaia
The Samambaia’s culinary team treats passengers to a combination of Indonesian and Western dishes. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there is a big Italian influence in the cooking on board, thanks to Italian owner Gian Carlo Fanchini. Without letting go of their roots, the Indonesian chefs are integrating ingredients like olive oil and parmesan into their cooking.
All meals are served buffet-style in the dining area of the main saloon, and there is plenty of variety. For those who feel hungry between meals, the crew provides a constant supply of snacks. And if the Indonesian night sky is simply too stunning to miss, the Samambaia’s dive deck can be converted into an alfresco dining area. Toast the night sky with a beer, included in the price, or opt for wine and spirits, available for purchase.
What’s more, this wouldn’t be an Italian-owned boat if there wasn’t great coffee on board. For some divers, that’s essential before gearing up for the first dive of the day. In any case, it adds to the enjoyment of the trip. The crew is happy to accommodate dietary requirements, but as with all liveaboards in remote locations, it’s good to let the operator know beforehand.
Highlights:
- Excellent coffee for a perfect start to every diving day
- Indonesian cuisine and Italian-influenced Western dishes
- Great choice of buffet-style food
Things we like:
- Nitrox included in the liveaboard price
- Italian coffee options
- The cruise director is also a passionate underwater photographer
- Great range of activities outside of diving
Things we don't like:
- Limited or no Wi-Fi in some locations
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2015 |
| Max Divers | 14 |
| Price Range | Luxury |
| Trip Length | 8+ Nights |
| Internet | Yes (free) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | 21-50 |
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