Indonesia - Spice Islands to Flores (Maumere) Cruise

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon, and board Aqua Blu. After settling in, bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon.

Head out for your first excursion to explore the historical Dutch fortification, Fort Amsterdam, in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon and learn about the incredible history of the spice trade. Next, enjoy a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, enact an old naval tradition – ‘hands to bathe’ – where you jump into the water and swim, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.

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 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 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 AI & Pulau Run, the westernmost of the Banda Islands, at sunrise. Swim, snorkel, and dive in the crystal-clear waters, where you’ll discover stunning coral gardens and reef fish. Afterwards, head ashore to Pulau Ai for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg store houses. Spend the afternoon at a pristine beach on Pulau Run, which was traded for the island of Manhattan in 1667 by the British and the Dutch. Witness the sun setting into the sea while enjoying a cocktail party on these historic sands.

Savor a sunrise breakfast onboard against the backdrop of 300-metre tall cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 3 kilometers 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. Schools of fish thrive around here, and there is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks.

A tiny atoll located in the Banda Sea, Nil Desperandum is blessed with incredible hard coral formations. Spend a full day here, diving and snorkeling near the impressive coral and sponge formations. Revel in the experience as shoals of big fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel swim by without worry.
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Arrive in Damar by daybreak. Trek the island’s active volcanos or kayak at a lagoon in Terbang Seletan when tides are favorable. At Nusleur, swim or snorkel next to the dazzling white sandy shore fringed by a shallow coral reef.

Dive around Nyata island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Since Romang and Nyata are not part of a National Park, there are opportunities to go fishing here as well. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkeling and kayaking adventures, with a chance to spot rare silver-tip sharks.

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

Arrive at Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water and vibrant coral reefs which are a must-visit for divers and snorkelers alike. Centuries-old tradition comes to life in the traditional dance performances
by the friendly Abui Tribe.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard before your disembarkation at Maumere.