Forgotten Islands & Spice Islands Expedition

Description

This voyage from Labuan Bajo to Ambon unveils the hidden treasures of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands and beyond, weaving through a tapestry of remote archipelagos and vibrant ecosystems. Travelers will explore historic spice islands like Banda Neira, marvel at the untouched reefs of Nil Desperandum, and witness the volcanic splendor of Pulau Manuk, where seabirds soar above steaming landscapes. From the rugged shores of Pantar and Alor to the tranquil beauty of the Forgotten Islands, this journey offers an intimate encounter with Indonesia’s diverse marine life, cultural heritage, and natural wonders, culminating in the bustling port of Ambon.

Trip Name

Forgotten Islands & Spice Islands Expedition

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Yacht Length: 198 feet / 60 meters Passenger Capacity: 28 Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019 Aqua Blu is a one-of-a-kind long-range explorer yacht, purposefully stationed in East Indonesia to provide unrivalled access to the Coral Triangle—one of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. Originally a British naval vessel and later a private yacht for European aristocracy, she underwent a world-class refit in 2019 by Dutch designer Cor D. Rover. Now reimagined with 14 elegant suites, Aqua Blu offers the perfect blend of refined luxury, comfort, and adventure, carrying just 28 guests with personalised service from 32 expert crew. Designed for both underwater exploration and stylish relaxation, Aqua Blu features expansive decks, an outdoor gym, spa with Balinese massage, a hot tub, and chic lounges. Guests enjoy cuisine by acclaimed chef Benjamin Cross, who draws inspiration from the region’s spice trade heritage. Onboard life is relaxed yet elevated, with options for diving (at no extra cost for certified divers), snorkelling, kayaking, or simply unwinding with sunset cocktails on the sundeck. With its naval pedigree and modern refinement, Aqua Blu is the ultimate base for discovering the remote beauty of East Indonesia’s seas and shores.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Indonesia Labuan Bajo

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

Day 2 - Day 2 Indonesia Maumere

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.

Day 3 - Day 3 Indonesia Pantar & Alor

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.

Day 4 - Day 4 Indonesia Wetar

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.

Day 5 - Day 5 Indonesia Romang, Nyata, Telang (the Forgotten Islands)

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.

Day 6 - Day 6 Indonesia Nil Desperandum

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.

Day 7 - Day 7 Indonesia Serua Island

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.

Day 8 - Day 8 Indonesia Pulau Manuk

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.

Day 9 - Day 9 Indonesia Banda Islands & Banda Neira

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.

Day 10 - Day 10 Indonesia Pulau Ai & Run

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.

Day 11 - Day 11 Indonesia Molana & Nusa Laut

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 12 - Day 12 Indonesia Ambon

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

Day 13 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Banda Islands & Banda Neira: Step into history on these spice-rich islands, once the heart of the global nutmeg trade, with charming colonial relics.
Nil Desperandum: Dive into the pristine waters of this remote reef, teeming with vibrant marine life in Indonesia’s untouched wilderness.
Pulau Manuk: Encounter a volcanic island alive with seabirds and steaming vents, offering a raw glimpse of nature’s wild beauty.