This was my first experience on a liveaboard and I could not have asked for a better crew and fellow diving companions. The diversity of the reef life in the Raja Ampat area and the Banda islands was awe-inspiring. On one dive we were drifting along on a channel dive with steep walls, clear water teaming with coral & fish, including nudibranchs & pygmy seahorses, overhung by sheer limestone cliffs. A day later, we were lying in a sand channel, while 8-10 immense manta rays swooped in through the azure waters to a cleaning station, centimetres above our heads. We were fortunate to be guided by Karl & Tommy, and although a novice diver, I always felt safe in their capable hands. The dawn trek to see the elusive Bird of Paradise on Gam island and the stroll through the historic port of Banda Neira were highlights. The Seven Seas experience was impeccable throughout – fantastic food & a well-run operation. I will be back, best wishes! Raja Ampat and Banda Sea, April 2011.