Forgotten Islands & Spice Islands Expedition

Arrive to a warm welcome at Labuan Bajo. Savor an appetizing lunch at Ayana Resort before boarding Aqua Blu.

Upon arriving at Maumere, head out on an afternoon excursion to a nearby village. Immerse yourself in the local culture and take in picturesque views of the tropical hills. Return to Aqua Blu for a sunset departure.

Arrive at the Pantar Straits, home to many picturesque fishing villages which are surrounded by crystal clear waters. Enjoy a snorkeling or diving excursion exploring the vibrant coral reefs nearby. In the afternoon, witness centuries-old traditions come to life in the traditional dance performances by the welcoming Abui Tribe.

The rugged coastline of Wetar is rarely visited and offers plenty of hidden gems to experience. It features impressive wall dives to encounter sharks, schools of pelagic fishes, as well as majestic manta and mobular rays.

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.

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.

Serua is a playground for both snorkelers and divers. The island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls, and beautiful soft coral spots. Schools of fish thrive in the area, and there is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks.

Savor a sunrise breakfast aboard the ship against the backdrop of the 300-meter-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. After sundown, cruise northwards to Pulau Run, a historically significant island traded by the British in exchange for Manhattan in 1667.

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.

At Pulau Ai, the westernmost of the Banda Islands, swim, snorkel, and dive in the crystal-clear waters, where you’ll discover stunning coral gardens and reef fish. Afterwards, head ashore 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.

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.

Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark for your outbound flight.

Itineraries are subject to change.