The focal point of the global spice trade in the 16th and 17th century, this region is endowed with well-preserved European relics alongside vibrant local traditions. Enriched by lava flows from the immense active volcano of Gunung Banda Api, nutrient-rich underwater gardens flourish in a kaleidoscope of colors. Watch for unique wildlife both on land and underwater, and experience the rich local culture. Explore the Spice Islands of Indonesia from the luxurious Aqua Blu.
Highlights
Discover local pottery-making at Ouw village
Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira
Explore the oldest nutmeg plantations in the world, found in Indonesa
Watch out for wildlife while cruising like, fish-hunting birds
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Be greeted warmly upon arriving in Ambon. Embark on Aqua Blu and indulge in a delectable meal by acclaimed chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and depart the harbor, cruising along Ambon's scenic northern coast.
Begin your adventure by exploring the historic Dutch Fort Amsterdam in the coastal town of Hila. Spend the afternoon sailing and discovering the fascinating history of the spice trade. Later, relish a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues its sailing to the Banda Islands. While traversing the deep Banda Sea, participate in the traditional 'hands to bathe' ritual, diving in for a swim over waters thousands of meters deep.
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 on Banda Besar. Learn about the history of the spice and the wars which were fought over it. Resume sailing at lunch to Pulau Hatta, for a dive and snorkel along beautiful walls inhabited by corals and schools of tropical fish. Return to Aqua Blu for a screening of the Ring of Fire documentary, followed by sunset drinks and the remarkable cuisine of chef Benjamin Cross.
Savor a sunrise breakfast against the backdrop of the 300-metertall cliffs of Pulau Manuk – a volcanic island rising 3 kilometers from the seabed. For those wishing for an early workout – oceanswimming from Aqua Blu towards the island’s active volcano is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Pulau Manuk is a haven for fishhunting birds, as well as sea snakes and reef sharks which flock to enjoy the area’s underwater thermal springs. At sundown, take the tenders out to sea and enjoy drinks at the makeshift floating bar.
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. Afterward, head ashore to Pulau Ai for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg storehouses.
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.
Head out for an early morning ocean swim, followed by a diving or snorkeling excursion. On the north side of Nusa Laut, discover the scenic fishing villages of Ameth and Akon. This is also home of the dugong, the Southeast Asian cousin of the American manatee. Enjoy a cooking lesson before lunch, and cruise to Molana Island — a small but heavily forested island with fantastic reefs.
Day 8: Ambon | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark after a sumptuous breakfast for your outbound flight.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$9,4152-3 travelers
Category III Suite
Averaging 12-14 square meters. Located on the Main Deck and Lower Deck. Featuring twin beds, en-suite bathroom, and porthole windows.
Category II Suite
Averaging 22-31 square meters. Located on the Bridge Deck, Main Deck and Forecastle Deck. Featuring a King bed or twin beds, oval or porthole windows, lounge area in selected suites, en-suite bathroom, and interior sofas.
Category I Suite
Averaging 25-31 square meters. Located on the Bridge Deck, Forecastle Deck, Main Deck or Lower Deck. Featuring a King bed, large windows, en-suite bathroom, and interior sofas.
Notes
Single Supplement: 25% in addition to the double rate as posted.
Third Person Rates: 20% discount for a third passenger sleeping on the sofa bed.
Children Discounts: Children under age 12 will receive a 20% discount. A child sleeping on the sofa bed as a third passenger in the room will pay $500 per night.
Initial deposit is $1000, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
TrustScore 4.9 | 335 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 335 reviews on
6 hours ago
This will be the third trip I have arranged with Adventure Life and I find their customer service and helpfulness to be excellent. Sandra has been very knowledgeable in describing the details of the planned trip as well as the signing up process for the trip. I have and will continue to recommend Adventure Life as the best tour vendor I have had the pleasure to work with. Thank you for your continued excellence.
Linda Haugh
2 days ago
Super smooth with questions answered & booking in just 2 days with Mary Curry. AND, the price was great!
Roger Allen
4 days ago
Erin is such a fabulous resource! She helped us bring our target destinations to life by suggesting activities that match our interests, fabulous lodging and excursion options, and patiently coordinating a seamless experience.
Debra D - RI USA
5 days ago
I don’t have the words to describe it but the last week has been one of the best I can remember. 6 days of adventure in South East Alaska including trekking through lush rain forest, sitting in silence listening to glaciers calving, up early to see the northern lights, kayaking and stupidly swimming in iceberg frozen waters ! (That actually hurt).
Animal sightings including black and brown bears, Minke and hundreds of Humpack Whales, porpoises, sea lions, mountain goats, harbour seals, bald eagles, salmon and more birds than I can count. Wonderful friends and connections made. A huge shout out to Trevor and his totally amazing crew on the Admiralty Dream whose energy and enthusiasm made this most incredible experience.
DAVID JAMES
6 days ago
Excellent safari trip with Adventure Life and Albatross Travel. Special shout out to our guides Eric Turasha (Kenya), and Blasi Shirima (Tanzania) from Albatross Travel. Both were world class!!! The trip went off without a hitch; all the camps were amazing…worth mentioning...one of the camps we were going to stay in on the Tanzanian side was damaged by high winds so we ended up in a different camp (Mara under Canvas Camp). Can't say enough good things! A great experience and superb service!!
