8 DAYS REMOTE SPICE ISLANDS – AQUA BLU
Ambon, Hila, Banda Islands - Banda Neira, Hatta Island, Manuk Island, Ai Island, Run Island, Nusa Laut, Molana Island
Cruise, Family Travel, Off the Beaten, Relaxing Getaways, Nature & Wildlife
Discover the legendary Spice Islands, once fiercely coveted by European powers for their valuable nutmeg, mace, and cloves—spices that were often worth more than gold. Their aromatic fragrances could be detected from miles away, enticing explorers like Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan to the islands.
Reviving an almost-forgotten chapter of history, this remote Indonesian archipelago now serves as a living museum, showcasing colonial forts, nutmeg plantations, and quaint villages where time seems to stand still. Coupled with azure waters and vibrant marine biodiversity via the Coral Triangle, the Spice Islands offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure and exceptional diving and snorkelling opportunities unlike any other.
The best time to visit the Spice Islands is October-November.
Please note that the itinerary for the Spice Islands may vary depending on the selected sailing, departure date, as well as sea and weather conditions.
Upon arrival at Pattimura International Aiport in Ambon, you will be met and transferred to the harbour to board Aqua Blu. Embarkation time is at 4:30pm. Enjoy a delicious dinner as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon.
We head towards the coastal town of Hila to explore our first excursion – the historical Dutch Fortification – Fort Amsterdam. As we sail towards the famous Banda Islands, learn about the fascinating history behind the spice trade as you enjoy a sundowner. As you traverse the azure Banda Sea, you may also enact an old naval tradition – “hands to bathe” – where you take a dip in the sea, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.
Arriving into the Banda Islands during sunrise, the sight of Kora-Kora war canoes welcomes you as you enter the harbour. In Banda Neira, you will stroll the historic Dutch Fort Belgica and learn about the colourful history of the highly contested Old World spice trade.
After visiting the world’s oldest nutmeg plantation at Banda Besar, we sail to Pulau Hatta for a dive or snorkel. There, explore stunning corals and schools of tropical fish along beautiful walls beneath the deep blue.
An expansive view of the Manuk Island’s 300-metre tall volcanic cliffs accompanies you during your sunrise breakfast. Plenty of wildlife frequents this area, including fish-hunting birds, sea snakes and reef sharks, which flock into the underwater thermal springs. At sunset, we take the tenders out to sea to enjoy drinks at a makeshift floating bar.
After a delicious breakfast, enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear sea. We head to Ai Island for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg store houses. In the afternoon, laze away on a pristine beach at Run Island, traded by the British for the Island of Manhattan in 1667. Bask in gorgeous sunset hues as you enjoy a cocktail party on the pristine beach.
Enjoy an early morning ocean swim followed by a diving or snorkelling excursion. Then, bike through the Ameth and Akon fishing villages at the north side of Nusa Laut. This is also the home of the dugong, the Southeast Asian cousin of the manatee. Enjoy a cooking lesson before lunch, and cruise to the heavily forested Molana Island, blessed with breathtaking reefs and marine life.
After a sumptuous breakfast, we bid farewell to Aqua Blu and disembark around 6am. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Aqua Blu
Conceptualised with modern luxury and ultimate comfort in mind, Aqua Blu's naval pedigree makes it the perfect vessel to navigate Eastern Indonesia's vast seas. All suites were refurbished by renowned Dutch yacht designer Cor D. Rover in 2019, and feature classy brass-and-ivory interiors, a private bathroom, a hairdryer, air conditioning, and organic hair and bath amenities. Facilities include an indoor dining room and lounge bar, outdoor dining and seating areas, a jacuzzi, spa, exercise zone, library, TV room, and saloon. (Refurbished: 2019; Rooms: 15; Maximum Capacity: 30)
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Please note that all prices provided are indicative and may be adjusted based on your travel dates, party size, and any specific requirements you may have.
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