Flores to Spice Islands

Overview

This unforgettable 12 night journey on board the Aqua Blu takes you to some of Indonesia’s best kept secrets. Starting in the culturally rich Flores, make your away across to the Spice Islands where you will be constantly amazed by the rich history and amazing landscapes that surround you.

Arrive at Labuan Bajo to a warm welcome. Board the Aqua Blu and cruise to Gili Lawa Daut as the sun sets.

Be mesmerised by the coloured lakes within the three calderas of a long dormant volcano showing the impressive display at the Kelimutu volcano, an otherworldly series of geologic cauldrons. The twisting road to the summit winds through incredible forests and criss-crosses mountain streams.

Snorkel the extensive reef complex of Bacatan or dive at the western end of the end for its spectacular deep dropoff. Trek or bike along a country land between two villages in Lewoto. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board before departing North Lembata for an overnight crossing to Alor.

Arrive at Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water over vibrant coral reefs that are a diver’s and snorkeler’s dream. Centuries-old tradition comes to life in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe. Sail overnight to Wetar.

There is plenty to do and see along this rarely visited rugged coastline of Wetar, which features impressive wall dives to meet sharks, schools of pelagic fishes, majestic manta and mobular rays. Other activities include fishing and trekking. On this largest island of the Forgotten Islands, experience local life with traditions unchanged for decades.

Dive around Nyata island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Romang and Nyata are not part of a National Park, therefore it is possible to fish here, both on the water and under the surface. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkeling and kayaking adventures. Pay close attention as you may be able to spot the rare silver-tip sharks here.

The ship arrives in Damar by day break. Trek the active volcanoes of Damar or kayak on a lagoon at Terbang Seletan when tides are favourable. Swim or snorkel next to the dazzling white sandy shore fringed by shallow coral reef and Nusleur.

Diving around both islands are great and fairly easy, featuring gentle currents, spectacular walls and flat reefs. Bike through islands and elevated settlements on Daweloor. Spend a leisurely evening on the islands’ white sand beaches bordered by beautiful coral reefs.

A playground for snorkelers and divers alike, Serua Island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls and incredible soft coral spots. Big fish and schools of fish thrive around here and there is always the chance of seeing schooling hammerheads.

Savour a sunrise breakfast on board against the backdrop of the 300 metre tall cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 3 kilometres from the seabed. This is a haven for fish-hunting birds, as well as sea snakes and reef sharks flocking to enjoy the area’s underwater thermal springs. After sundown, cruise northwards to Pulau Run, a historic island traded by the British for Manhattan in 1667.

Arrive at Pulau Run, the westernmost of the Banda Islands, at sunrise. Swim, fish, snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters, or go on village tours, trekking and birding. Attempt to search for the ruins of an old British fort before arriving at a pristine beach where a cocktail party awaits.

Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbour. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira, once the most hotly contested island in the world in the 16th and 17th century and learn about the colourful story of the Old World spice trade.

Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark after a sumptuous breakfast for your outbound flight.