Spice Islands and Coral Triangle

Overview

Discover the legendary Spice Islands and vibrant Coral Triangle on an 8-day voyage of rich culture, pristine reefs, and tropical adventure.

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon. Board Aqua Blu and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon.

Approach the Banda Islands at sunrise, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes at the harbor. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Nassau on Banda Neira – which used to be the most hotly contested island in the world back in the 16th and 17th century. Walk through ancient passageways now bustling with modern life, yet still showcasing a treasure trove of history. After lunch, head out for a snorkeling or diving excursion, and end the evening with a sundowner at Fort Belgica.

Spend the day exploring some of the finest reefs on the planet. Off the remote island of Koon, divers and snorkelers can look forward to visiting ‘Too Many Fish’, an aptly named site with plenty of reef fish sightings as well as occasional popins by leopard sharks and hammerhead sharks.

The Wayil region of Raja Ampat features a number of uncharted islands, each harboring pristine beaches and secret lagoons. Enjoy kayaking among the reefs or head out for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. After lunch, head out to Yillet – an island featuring some of the world’s most iconic diving and snorkeling sites, before returning to Aqua Blu.

Wake up to the magnificent Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex. In the morning, we explore mysterious jellyfish lakes and karst island seascapes, witnessing ancient rock art before touring the magnificent caverns of Tomolol Cave. In the afternoon, visit the remote Fibiacet Island – home to some of Indonesia’s most biodiverse waters – before returning to Aqua Blu for sundowners.

Head out early in the morning to the lush forests of Kapatcol, home to the Lesser and King birds of paradise. After the morning’s bird-watching excursion, plunge into the surrounding lapis lazuli waters for a refreshing dive or snorkel. ​In the afternoon, visit the remote Blue Water Mangroves and Crocodile River in search of saltwater crocodiles basking in the sun. Cap off the day with a tender tour of the mangrove channels with cocktails and canapes.

Arrive early morning at Boano, a small island located between the Ceram and Banda Sea. Head out for a dive or snorkel along the island’s coral fringed walls, where you may encounter sharks and schools of pelagic fish. After lunch, revel in a cocktail demonstration, and spend your final evening relaxing on the sun deck, taking in the ocean breeze.

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