Spice Islands to Flores

Overview

Travel from the historical Spice Islands up through some of Indonesia’s most impressive scenery and underwater worlds to Flores. On board the luxurious Aqua Blu, this 13 day voyage is one that will be sensational.

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon and board the Aqua Blu at Laha Bay, a famous muck diving site. There are also opportunities for trekking and birdwatching inland.

Early morning, depart for the island outpost of Saparua, sailing along the scenic north coast of Ambon. Disembark en route at the coastal town of Hila to explore the old Dutch fortification, Fort Amsterdam. Continue onto Saparua, where a host of water activities await, or discoverer local pottery-making at Ouw village, visit a local market, see European relics or explore bird habitats.

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.

Spend the day exploring the oldest nutmeg plantations in the world, learning about the cultivation and history of the spice. Hike the active volcano of Gunung Banda Api. In this remote part of Indonesia, experience local life with traditions unchanged for decades before departing Banda Harbour at night.

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. After finding the ruins of an old British fort, arrive at a pristine beach where a cocktail party awaits.

Snorkel, swim, kayak and spear-fish in the numerous blue pools and over the sparkling coral reefs on the Koon Island, also known as the Marine Superhighway because of its location along a migratory route. Kayak into the narrow waterway entrance in Manawoka of Gorong island to view shallow reefs and deep drop-offs. Set sail to Misool after dinner.

Savour a sunrise breakfast on board against the backdrop of 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.

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.

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 at Nusleur.

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. Spot rare silver-tip sharks here.

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.

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

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard before your disembarkation at Maumere.