Daily Activities
Day 1
Arrive Ambon
Welcome to Ambon!
Members of the crew will meet you at the Ambon airport then transferred to the boat to embark on your journey. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome beverage, meet the rest of the crew before settling into your cabin. Time permitting, we’ll visit Liang Beach to snorkel the reef or kayak along the shore. The boat will anchor in Ambon overnight.
Day 2
Ambon
You’ll awake to a glorious sunrise over the Banda Sea. After breakfast, we’ll explore the historical sights of Ambon. Once occupied by the Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish, the remnants of its colonial past can be found throughout the city. Fort Amsterdam, initially constructed in 1642, is one of the oldest buildings on the island and known for its unique architecture and design. Located a short distance away is Wapauwe Mosque. Initially built in 1414, the original structure was crafted without the use of nails and pegs, and further renovations have stayed true to its original design. Afterward, we will enjoy lunch in Ambon, where you’ll be able to try the local delicacies such as fish soup and papeda. This afternoon we’ll spend time at a local beach for snorkeling.
Day 3
Nusa Luat
Today we’ll explore the treasures of Nusa Luat, at 27 km in length, it is a small and charming island offering fantastic dive and snorkel spots. We’ll visit the village of Sila to view one of the oldest churches in the Malukus and the Beverwyk Fort. A small Dutch fort that dates back to the 17th century. Afterward, we’ll continue along the island. The fragrance of cloves fills the air as we pass clove farms and meet the farmers to learn how they process and the spice in the sun. We’ll make our way to the village of Ameth for an afternoon of snorkeling over its beautiful and lively reef. Later tonight, the ship will set sail to Pulau Run.
Day 4
Pulau Run / Pulau Ay
After a delicious breakfast, we will set out to explore Pulau Run to learn how the smallest island in the Bandas played a strategic role during Spice Trade and changed the course of history. We’ll return the boat to enjoy a delicious lunch on the deck as we sail to Pulau Ay. Located on the western side of the island is a marvelous stretch of beach fringed with swaying palm trees where we’ll spend the afternoon exploring the water by kayak or snorkeling over the reefs.
Day 5
Banda Besar
After a relaxing breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the fragrant island of Banda Besar, the largest in the group of islands. We’ll trek our way up to the top of Lonthoir village for a spectacular view of Mt Api. Afterward, we’ll visit a local market where merchants sell their fragrant goods. Your senses will come alive amidst the sounds of a bustling market, sampling the colorful candied nutmeg flowers, and air filled with the sweet fragrance of the spices drying in the sun. We’ll retreat from the sun with a relaxing walk through the historic Kelly Plantation where century-old Kenari trees shade the ancient nutmeg trees.
Day 6
Banda Neira
This morning you’ll wake up to views of the lush island of Banda Neira where the remnants of the island’s checkered history are now reminders of a colonial world in search of power and spices more valuable than gold. Fort Belgica, initially constructed in the 16th-century by the Portuguese, the fort still keeps a watchful eye on the waters below. We’ll continue onto Banda Neira Old Town, where the Dutch influence can be seen throughout. Afterward, we’ll visit a local beach to enjoy a picnic lunch and relax in the beautiful water.
Day 7
Gunung Api / Pisang Island
The morning is yours to relax as you wish. For those intrepid souls, strap on your boots for a rigorous trek to the crater of Mt. Api. You’ll efforts will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the surrounding islands. If a rigorous workout is not in your plan, the crew will be happy to take you a secluded beach where you enjoy kayaking along the shore, snorkel, or just sit back and watch the hours pass by while enjoying a picnic lunch prepared by the chef. Afterward, we will sail to Pisang Island, where a powdery white sand beach melts into aquamarine water, with a spectacular reef located offshore.
Day 8
Ambon
We bid a fond farewell to the remote islands as we arrive Ambon. After a hearty breakfast, the crew will escort you to the harbor and continue onto the local airport for your return flight home.
