The Pelagian brings divers to some of the most fertile underwater landscapes on the planet. From its base at Wakatobi Dive Resort, our 35-meter luxury dive yacht embarks on cruises along the outer reefs and atolls of the Wakatobi Archipelago, and to the southern coast of Buton Island. This itinerary encompasses sites ranging from exciting drifts over towering pinnacles and steep walls to leisurely critter hunts on shallow coral gardens and sandy slopes rich in invertebrate life.

Divers board Pelagian from Wakatobi Dive Resort after a short charter flight over from Bali. Many guests opt to complement their resort stay with a cruise on Pelagian. Photo by Wakatobi Dive Resort

Guests often offer praise for the high levels of service the crew provides, and the comforts the accommodations allow. From the spacious cabins and fine cuisines to the personal attention of the dive guides, there’s certainly a lot to like. But even the best can sometimes be made better, and there are a few small things guests can do to ensure their time aboard the Pelagian is as good as it can get. Following are some of the tidbits of advice the crew and some former guests have to offer to make a Pelagian cruise the best ever.

Pelagian’s crew is dedicated to providing the ultimate service to all aspects of their guest’s cruise – whether it’s help in hunting for a particularly elusive reef creature, or meeting a special dietary requirement or culinary request. Photo by Wakatobi Dive Resort

The Pelagian crew is for you

Pelagian’s crew can be a great source for advice and assistance. “We are there to serve the divers and snorkelers in every way,” says Kaori Robinson, who worked on Pelagian as cruise director and dive experience manager for years. “As a dive guide my role included being an underwater model, a camera caddy, and of course critter expert and guide. I’ve found mating pygmy seahorses and blue-ringed octopus, among other creatures for guests. While you might call this ‘all just part of the job,’ the greatest reward is knowing that our guests are having the time of their life.” Other team members agree, saying:it’s the little things that you do not find elsewhere that set us apart. Wetsuits are hung and folded, warm towels and hot drinks are provided after each dive, and there’s always assistance for managing cameras. Guests say they love the small group atmosphere and especially enjoy the 70-plus minute dives.

Pelagian’s Chefs welcome special requests. “If you have a dietary request, your wish is their command,” says guest Scott Kramer. Photo by Didi Lotze

It’s ok to ask

The Pelagian crew’s dedication to providing the ultimate in guest service extends to all aspects of the cruise. Special requests are welcomed, whether it’s help in hunting for a particularly elusive reef creature, or meeting a special dietary requirement or culinary request. “Many guests request fresh tuna for sashimi and our crew makes a special trip to Pasar Wajo market at Buton to get the tuna,”said former cruise director Ben Robinson.

“They had to drag me kicking and screaming from the luxuries of the Pelagian. I had my own spicy sambal prepared daily by the chef! What a nice touch!” ~ Julie Lightbourn

The stewards also often make the guest’s favorite desserts or afternoon snacks. “Our chefs are always happy to oblige in creating meals and snacks around any particular dietary need or requests. Some of our guests have requested cooking classes onboard, so our chef makes it happen,” Ben says.

Pelagian is one of the world’s most comfortable and roomy liveaboard boats with ample personal space to relax and reflect. There are plenty of places inside and outside where you can take in the amazing views and enjoy a delicious snack or cool apres-dive beverage. Photo by Didi Lotze

The master suite occupies the entire bow on Pelagian’s main deck providing all the comforts of home and more. “Our cabin on Pelagian was equal if not better than a five-star hotel room,” says guest Ann Donahue. Photo by Didi Lotze

All cabins, such as the Superlux, have spacious floor plans designed for comfort and tranquility. Photo by Didi Lotze

Pelagian’s Second sight

When it comes to locating small creatures among the intricacies of a coral reef or a rubble garden, the more eyes, the better. This is where Pelagian’s dive guides can become an invaluable resource, as they are highly experienced at locating small and hidden things. “The dive guides on Pelagian are the best we have ever had at finding fish and other creatures,” says guest Richard Gamble. But don’t just rely on the guides, and learn from them. Take note of the places they focus their attention when searching for a particular animal, and may enhance your own critter sleuthing skills.

The tiny bobtail squid is a favorite subject of photographers and found on sites visited by Pelagian, such as Asphalt Pier. Photo by David Gray

Stick it

Muck diving is all about moving slowly and looking closely to discover hidden sea life. Pelagian visits a number of top-notch sites such as Asphalt Pier and Cheeky Beach, where divers can hover over seagrass and rubble terrain in search of unique finds. This type of close-quarter maneuvering can be challenging for even experienced divers, but it becomes easier when you borrow a little trick that underwater macro photographers have used for years. Rather than attempting to use fins and body language to hold position above a tiny and fragile subject, they will deploy what is known as a muck stick into an appropriate piece of bottom, and use it as an anchor point to control their distance from the sea floor. Pelagian’s dive guides might have an extra stick to lend, but just in case they don’t, they recommend you considering adding one to your dive kit.