The forgotten islands and Banda islands are a chain of tiny volcanic islands lying between Timor and West Papua. Often known as the Southwest Moluccas, this group of very remote and rarely accessible islands has a rich history and incredible diving.

Banda Neira or Banda Naira is one of ten volcanic islands in the Banda Archipelago in the Maluku province, in eastern Indonesia. The Banda Islands, probably better known as the fabled Spice Islands of ancient times, are covered with towering, aromatic, tropical-evergreens. The Myristica Trees, indigenous to the Banda Islands, are the source of two rare and lucrative spices: nutmeg and mace, once found exclusively on the Banda Islands. A sparkling, sapphire sea surrounds these already incredible islands, brimming with exquisite corals and abundant ocean life, making the Banda Islands not only a historically significant destination, but also an internationally recognized diving spot.

It is generally considered by those in the know to be the big fish capital of Indonesia. If you join a liveaboard cruise in the area you could see practically anything there. Have a read through our Banda dive site descriptions to learn of some of the wonderful creatures and breathtaking dives this part of the country has to offer.

The region has already been nominated as a World Heritage Site, and talks are under way to create a national marine park in the islands too.

Best Season : October to November

Banda Islands | Banda Neira | Banda Diving | Alor Liveaboard | Banda Phinisi | Dive Banda | Sailing Trip Indonesia