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An 8-day immersive cruise to the Banda Islands: volcanoes, spices, and diving in the heart of the Moluccas

Main characteristics
Type of boat: gulet
Number of cabins: 5
Maximum capacity: 10 travelers
Crew members: 17

Cabins

Asmat cabin
Capacity: 2 Beds maximum
The Asmat cabin is a spacious 4 meters by 6.6 meters. Decorated with original artwork from the Asmat culture, it offers optimal comfort. You will find a king-size bed designed for two adults, guaranteeing a comfortable and luxurious experience. With exceptional attention to detail, this cabin offers a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of the Asmat culture.
Java Cabin
Capacity: 2 Beds maximum
The Java cabin features original artwork that reflects the cultural richness of Java. Spacious and measuring 4 meters by 6.6 meters, it offers plenty of room for you to relax. It is equipped with a king-size bed, a true haven of peace for two adults. Immerse yourself in Indonesian culture and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this carefully designed cabin.
Bali Cabin
Capacity: 2 Beds maximum
Step into the Bali Cabin, named after the famous “Island of the Gods,” and let yourself be enchanted by authentic Balinese art. Spacious (4 meters by 5.6 meters), this cabin offers plenty of room to relax. It features a king-size bed for two adults, combining comfort and luxury in a setting that celebrates Bali’s rich heritage. Every detail of this cabin reflects the island’s unique charm and elegance.
Sumba Cabin
Capacity: 2 Beds maximum
The Sumba cabin immerses you in the heart of Sumba's culture and natural beauty. Measuring 4 meters by 2.8 meters, it offers a space that is both intimate and welcoming. Decorated with original artwork from the island, it creates a unique atmosphere. The queen-size bed guarantees a comfortable stay for two adults as they discover the cultural and natural wonders of Indonesia.
see more cabins
NB: The photos, information and visuals presented are not contractually binding. The indicated itinerary and program may be modified without prior notice for technical reasons (decision of the captain).

Sailing itineraries

Ambon
Upon arrival in Ambon, capital of the Maluku archipelago, you will be welcomed by the crew and... see+ taken by dinghy to the nearby boat. A short distance from our anchorage in Ambon Bay are several excellent dive sites, including a remarkable critter dive site. Just outside Ambon Bay are several other interesting dive sites, including Pintu Kota. At sunset, we will set sail for the legendary Spice Islands, following in the wake of many of the world's most famous explorers, for a 120-nautical-mile crossing. 
Included activities: Discovering dive sites, see+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Ambon Banda Neira
At sunrise, as we approach Banda, the outlines of the islands gradually come into view, dominated... see+ by the imposing, conical silhouette of Gunung Api, from which a thin plume of smoke rises. The fertile volcanic soil, combined with the cool sea breezes, creates an ideal environment for Banda’s iconic tree, the majestic Myristica fragrans, whose fruit yields both nutmeg and mace. Our arrival in Banda Neira echoes the tales of explorers of yore and sparks the imagination, as our two-masted schooner glides over the calm, deep waters of the Zonnegat Passage, framed by the volcano, where we drop anchor.

The history-laden ruins of the old Dutch mansions, along with two historic forts, overlook the peaceful town of Banda Neira. Stroll through its wide, shaded streets, visit the museum, the former residence of the VOC governor, the old church, and Fort Belgica, now silent but still the guardian of the Zonnegat Strait between Banda Neira and Pulau Lonthor. Every morning, small dugout canoes supply the open-air market with freshly caught tuna, tasty local specialties, wild almond sweets, and an abundance of spices and tropical fruits.

On May 9, 1988, Gunung Api erupted after centuries of dormancy. Lava flowed northward from the volcano’s heights down to the sea, solidifying into undulating formations and destroying nutmeg plantations and coral reefs in its path. Today, years later, these lava flows have given rise to one of the region’s most spectacular dive sites: vast sea fans and a wide variety of corals thrive there against a dark volcanic backdrop. Coral growth is remarkable, aided by crystal-clear waters and nutrient-rich currents. Fascinatingly, the lava itself seems to accelerate this process, a phenomenon that continues to amaze scientists and experts from around the world.

Finally, the sunsets, enjoyed over a cocktail on the ancient ramparts of Fort Belgica as the sun slowly disappears behind Gunung Api, offer an unforgettable spectacle. 
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Banda Neira Lonthor Besar Island Batu Kapal
Early morning is the ideal time to go fishing for some of Banda's big tuna close to Batu Kapal, a... see+ large rocky monolith rising from the depths of the sea that strangely resembles a large ship floating on the water. After a light breakfast on the deck and, hopefully, some freshly cut sashimi, get ready for a dive on the vibrant reef surrounding Pulau Pisang.

Schools of yellowfin tuna and swirling masses of barracuda, turtles, and rays glide close to perfect coral walls, sometimes dropping to depths of 70 meters, with visibility often reaching 40 meters. Snorkeling is also excellent, with a constant parade of small colorful fish.

In the afternoon, take a hike through the world's oldest nutmeg gardens, shaded by ancient kenari or wild almond trees, on the small crescent-shaped island of Pulau Lonthor. Pulau Lonthor is the ancient caldera of a now-extinct volcano, and its rich volcanic soils once produced most of the world's nutmeg.

At dusk, a dip in the shallow waters just off the Maulana in the town of Banda Neira offers the chance to watch colorful mandarin fish gather to display their magnificent hues. 
Included activities: Fishing in Banda close-hauled to Batu Kapal, Diving on the vibrant reef surrounding Pulau Pisang, see+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Batu Kapal Pulau Run
Full-day cruise to Pulau Run: discover the old church and marvel at the twist of fate that caused... see+ Run to migrate from the center of world trade to become a very isolated island, now inhabited by a single remaining family. Hike and explore the ruins of old houses and former nutmeg factories.

Pulau Run is also renowned for diving, with its impressive underwater walls teeming with marine life, as well as the small neighboring island of Neijalaka. Return to Banda Neira for sunset, with a night at the anchorage.

In the past, some villages celebrated battles through energetic rituals involving drums, dancing, singing, and invoking powerful forces, lasting several months. 
Included activities: Hiking and exploring the must-see sights of Pulau Run, see+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Pulau Run Volcano Hatta Island
We set off at dawn to climb Gunung Api volcano. Although it stands only 666 meters tall, the climb... see+ is somewhat challenging due to the volcanic scree and the steep slope, but every effort is richly rewarded by the breathtaking view of Banda Neira and the crystal-clear waters of the Banda Sea. Return to the boat for a swim and a well-deserved breakfast, then sail to Pulau Hatta, formerly Rozengain Island, renowned for some of the best diving in the Banda Islands. Sir Alfred Russel Wallace, the renowned naturalist and co-founder with Darwin of the Theory of Evolution, wrote in the 19th century that “living coral and even the smallest objects are clearly visible on the volcanic sand at a depth of six or seven fathoms.” Hatta offers magnificent deep dives with spectacular drop-offs and large schools of pelagic fish. Return to the calm and picturesque anchorage in Banda Neira Bay, where a traditional Rijsttafel dinner will be served. 
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Hatta Island Pulau Ai
Pulau Ai remains one of the most traditional islands in the archipelago, home to a large village... see+ where the ever-victorious team of 40 men rows their sacred war canoes, known as Kora-Kora, to the beat of drums and songs. Traditions and rituals are still very much alive: offerings must be prepared several weeks in advance before the adat rituals or dances are performed, perpetuating their violent history for future generations. Visit the village and hike to the ruins of the old Dutch fort Revingil, where a few cannons remain. Diving around Pulau Ai is considered among the best in the Banda Islands, with its crystal-clear waters, magnificent soft corals, and large schools of fish. From Pulau Ai, we will bid farewell to these almost-precious islands and set sail for Ambon for an overnight crossing. 
Included activities: Hike on Pulau Ai: from the village to the ruins of the old Dutch fort Revingil, see+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Pulau Ai Nusa Laut
Pulau Nusa Laut is a small, quiet island in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia, renowned for its... see+ pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and strong cultural traditions. Often overshadowed by the neighboring islands of Banda and Saparua, it offers a slower pace of life, historic colonial ruins, and warm village hospitality, making this island a real treasure for travelers seeking authentic Maluku heritage and unspoiled nature. 
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Nusa Laut Ambon
Transfer in a dinghy to the airport, then flight to Makassar, before continuing on to Bali.
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Included

The price includes
250 GB of internet at sea / 7 nights (excess charged)
Snacks, bottled water, and refreshments
Alcoholic beverages (local beers and 4 bottles of local wine per night)
Entry fees and permits in seasonal home ports
Transfers to/from the shore to the ship (airport transfer)
National concierge fees
Services of an English- and Spanish-speaking expedition leader
Crew service
Laundry
Massages with a spa therapist
Access to all water sports equipment: diving, snorkeling, kayaks, water skis, wakeboards, buoys, and fishing equipment
The activities included in the program
Meals included in the program
The price does not include
Beverages other than those listed
Visa
Flights
Repositioning costs
All government taxes
Insurance (cancellation, health, travel)
PADI certification courses for diving
Nanny on board - upon request
Yoga instructor - upon request
Guides in other languages are available upon request and for an additional fee
Transfers possible by private plane, helicopter, outboard, or domestic flights to the boat
Meals not included in the program
Tips for guides and/or crew
VAT - Compulsory : 12%
Further information
Even if the boat is equipped with sails, it will mainly be powered when the conditions are too pitch for the sails to be used
A surcharge may be applied in the event of exceptional expenses related to regulatory changes, exchange rate fluctuations, or increases in fuel prices
The captain reserves the right to modify the itinerary in the event of bad weather or for technical reasons
Optional services
Flights not included in the program are available on request

Activities

Discovering dive sites
Included
Fishing in Banda close-hauled to Batu Kapal
Included
Diving on the vibrant reef surrounding Pulau Pisang
Included
Hike through the oldest nutmeg gardens
Included
Hiking and exploring the must-see sights of Pulau Run
Included
Hike on Pulau Ai: from the village to the ruins of the old Dutch fort Revingil
Included

Information about the partner

Commercial history with Filovent

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    • Pierre
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