Embrace culture, nature and wildlife on this 8-day Banda Sea cruise aboard the 30-passenger luxury Indonesia yacht Aqua Blu. Cruise among the Spice Islands, famous for their nutmeg with some of the oldest spice plantations on Earth. Enter a living museum where time appears to have stood still for decades and centuries-old relics, such as the Dutch Fort Belgica, exist alongside rich Indonesian local traditions such as nutmeg cultivation and kora-kora war canoe racing.

Embark on a unique itinerary exploring the culture-rich Spice Islands and the biodiversity hotspots of Raja Ampat. Revel in the rich colonial heritage of the Banda Islands, then sail onwards to the uncharted islands of Wayil and Thousand Temples, home to remarkable snorkel & dive sites, jellyfish lakes and mangrove forests.

Various alternative departures complete positioning routes, each offering some unique stops over 11-12 days, for a longer cruise that blends two of Aqua Blu’s regularly occurring itineraries. Motor between Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands to seek out endemic and rare bird species, experience the most diverse marine habitats in the world and discover centuries-old traditions at the former center of the global spice trade. Alternately, cruise between Flores and Ambon to discover intriguing native tribes, active volcanoes, rare and unusual marine habitats, and the epicenter of the Old World spice trade. The unlisted Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua itinerary goes further, adding time exploring West Papua’s waterfalls, beaches and whale sharks.

Cruise Indonesia in style aboard the 30-guest, all-suite, luxury yacht Aqua Blu. Her brass-and-beige appointments, 5-star cuisine, inviting Jacuzzi, collection of adventure gear and attentive crew will ensure an unforgettable experience. And her history as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle means she is equipped for this expedition to lesser-visited parts of Indonesia. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises.

Spice Islands & South Raja Ampat Expedition Itinerary

Ambon, IndonesiaAmbon, Indonesia

Tthe main 8-day Spice Islands & South Raja Ampat cruise operates round-trip from Ambon, Indonesia. Visit the Spice Islands of Banda Neira, Pulau Koon and Boano, and the southern Raja Ampat islands in and around Misool for an itinerary full of culture, nature and wildlife.

Route map of Aqua Blu Spice Islands & South Raja Ampat cruise round-trip from Ambon with visits to the islands of Banda Neira, Pulau Koon, Misool & Boano.

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon. Board the ship and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast  of Ambon.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Dinner

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Spend the day exploring some of the finest reefs on the planet. Off the remote island of Koon, divers and snorkelers can look forward to visiting ‘Too Many Fish’, an aptly named site with plenty of reef fish sightings as well as occasional pop-ins by leopard sharks and hammerhead sharks.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

The Wayil region of Raja Ampat features a number of uncharted islands, each harboring pristine beaches and secret lagoons. Enjoy kayaking among the reefs or head out for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. After lunch, head out to Yillet – an island featuring some of the world’s most iconic diving and snorkeling sites – before returning to the ship.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Wake up to the magnificent Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex. In the morning, explore mysterious jellyfish lakes and karst island seascapes, witnessing ancient rock art before touring the magnificent caverns of Tomolol Cave. In the afternoon, visit the remote Fibiacet Island – home to some of Indonesia’s most biodiverse waters – before returning to the ship for sundowners.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Head out early in the morning to the lush forests of Kapatcol, home to the Lesser and King birds of paradise. After the morning’s bird-watching excursion, plunge into the surrounding lapis lazuli waters for a refreshing dive or snorkel. In the afternoon, visit the remote Blue Water Mangroves and Crocodile River in search of saltwater crocodiles basking in the sun. Cap off the day with a tender tour of the mangrove channels with cocktails and canapes.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Arrive early morning at Boano, a small island located between the Seram and Banda Sea. Head out for a dive or snorkel along the island’s coral fringed walls, where you may encounter sharks and schools of pelagic fish. After lunch, revel in a cocktail demonstration, and spend your final evening relaxing on the sun deck, taking in the ocean breeze.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark, after a sumptuous breakfast, for your outbound flight.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.

Exclusions

All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main, Spice Islands & South Raja Ampat cruise begins and ends in Ambon, Indonesia (AMQ). Plan flights to arrive to Ambon by 3:00pm, ahead of the 4:30pm embarkation. On Day 8, disembarkation in Ambon is at 7:00am. Plan flights to depart Ambon no earlier than 8:30am on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.  Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.

Families & Children

Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $780(2026) per night.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Forgotten Islands & Spice Islands Expedition Itinerary

Labuan Bajo, Flores, IndonesiaAmbon, Indonesia

The 12-day Forgotten Islands & Spice Islands cruise positions north from Flores (via Labuan Bajo) to Ambon. Move east along the chain of Flores’s neighboring islands which offer intriguing native tribes, active volcanoes and unusual marine habitats. Then move north to visit the Spice Islands, including Banda Neira, the focal point of the Old World spice trade.

Route map of Aqua Blu Flores to Spice Islands Indonesia cruise, operating from Labuan Bajo to Ambon, with visits to Maumere; Alor; The Forgotten Islands of Wetar, Romang, Nyata & Telang; Serua Island; Nil Desperandum Atoll; Pulau Manuk; Banda Islands; Banda Neira; Pulau Ai & Pulau Run; and Nusa Laut.

Arrive to a warm welcome at Labuan Bajo. Savor an appetizing lunch at Ayana resort before boarding the ship.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Lunch

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Arrive at Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water and vibrant coral reefs, a must-visit for divers and snorkelers alike. Witness centuries-old tradition come to life in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe. Later, sail overnight to Wetar.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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. Hope to spot rare silver-tip sharks here.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Savor a sunrise breakfast aboard the ship against the backdrop of the 985-foot-tall (300m) cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 1.8 miles (3km) 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 spring.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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 Ambon.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.

Exclusions

All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 12-day Flores to Spice Islands cruise begins in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia (LBJ), and ends in Ambon, Indonesia (AMQ). Plan flights to arrive to Labuan Bajo ahead of the 3:30pm embarkation. On Day 12, disembarkation in Ambon is at 7:00am. Plan flights to depart Ambon no earlier than 8:30am on Day 12. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.  Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.

Families & Children

Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $820(2027) per night.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Spice Islands & Forgotten Islands Expedition Itinerary

Ambon, IndonesiaLabuan Bajo, Flores, Indonesia

The 12-day Spice Islands & Forgotten Islands Expedition cruise positions south from Ambon to Flores (via Labuan Bajo). Move south to visit the Spice Islands, including Banda Neira, the focal point of the Old World spice trade. Then move west along the chain of Flores’s neighboring islands which offer intriguing native tribes, active volcanoes and unusual marine habitats.

Route map of Aqua Blu Spice Islands to Flores Indonesia cruise, operating from Ambon to Labuan Bajo, with visits to the islands of Hila, the Bandas, Ai, Run, Manuk, Serua, Nil Desperandum Atoll, Telang, Wetar, Pantar, Maumere & Sablulon.

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon. Board the ship and enjoy a delicious dinner on board, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your suite and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Dinner

Head out for your first excursion to explore the historical Dutch 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 the ship continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, partake in the old “hands to bathe” naval tradition.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

At sunrise, arrive at Pulau Ai & Pulau Run, 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 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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Savor a sunrise breakfast on board against the backdrop of 985-foot-tall (300 meters) cliffs of Pulau Manuk–a volcanic island rising nearly 2 miles (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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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. In the afternoon, discover the hard coral formations of Nil Desperandum, and find yourself surrounded by shoals of big fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel, swimming by without worry.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Upon arriving at Maumere, head out on an afternoon excursion to the nearby village of Watubalpi, where you’ll witness a traditional welcome by the local women. Observe the culture and lifestyle of the people, known for their famous Ikat textiles. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious dinner on board before you sail towards Sabulon.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Spend the afternoon swimming from the ship and enjoying the calm reefs around Sabulon before viewing your final Komodo sunset of the expedition.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Blu
MEALS Breakfast

Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board before your disembarkation at Labuan Bajo.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.

Exclusions

All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 12-day Spice Islands to Flores cruise begins in Ambon, Indonesia (AMQ), and ends in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia (LBJ). Plan flights to arrive to Ambon by 3:00pm, ahead of the 4:30pm embarkation. On Day 12, disembarkation in Labuan Bajo is at 8:00am. Plan flights to depart Labuan Bajo no earlier than 9:30am on Day 12. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.  Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.

Families & Children

Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $780(2026) or $820(2027) per night.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

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The Aqua Blu carries her guests in high luxury, comfort and safety while sailing through Eastern Indonesia. Embrace history and luxury on this unique cruise ship.

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