Spice Islands and Coral Triangle Expedition

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon and board Aqua Blu. Enjoy a delicious dinner curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon. (D)

Begin your first excursion with a visit to the historical Dutch fortification, Fort Amsterdam, in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon while learning about the fascinating history of the spice trade. Enjoy a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues its journey to the Banda Islands. During the voyage across the deep Banda Sea, partake in the old naval tradition of 'hands to bathe,' where you can jump into the water and swim over depths of thousands of meters. (B,L,D)

Arrive at the Banda Islands at sunrise, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes at the harbour. Explore Dutch Fort Nassau on Banda Neira, once the world's most contested island in the 16th and 17th centuries. Wander through ancient passageways, now alive with modern life but rich in historical treasures. After lunch, enjoy a snorkelling or diving excursion and end the evening with a sundowner at Fort Belgica. (B,L,D)

Explore the world's oldest nutmeg plantations on Banda Besar, delving into the spice's history and the conflicts fought over it. After lunch, resume sailing to Pulau Hatta for a dive and snorkel amidst vibrant coral walls and tropical fish. Return to Aqua Blu for a screening of the Ring of Fire documentary, followed by sunset drinks and the exceptional cuisine of chef Benjamin Cross. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a sunrise breakfast with the stunning backdrop of Pulau Manuk's 300-metre-tall cliffs, a volcanic island rising three kilometres from the seabed. For early risers seeking adventure, a unique opportunity awaits with ocean swimming from Aqua Blu towards the island’s active volcano. Pulau Manuk is home to fish-hunting birds, sea snakes and reef sharks attracted to its underwater thermal springs. As the sun sets, unwind with drinks on the floating bar, taking in the tranquil sea views. (B,L,D)

At sunrise, arrive at Pulau Ai & Pulau Run, the westernmost islands of the Banda archipelago. Dive, snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters, exploring stunning coral gardens and vibrant reef fish. Afterwards, disembark on Pulau Ai for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its historic nutmeg storehouses. Spend the afternoon at a pristine beach on Pulau Run, famously traded for Manhattan Island in 1667 by the British and Dutch. Enjoy a cocktail party as the sun sets over these historic sands, creating a memorable end to the day. (B,L,D)

Start your day with an early morning ocean swim, followed by a diving or snorkelling adventure. Explore the picturesque fishing villages of Ameth and Akon on the north side of Nusa Laut, known for their resident dugongs, Southeast Asia's equivalent of the American manatee. After a cooking lesson before lunch, sail to Molana Island, a small yet densely forested island renowned for its magnificent reefs. (B,L,D)

Wake up to the bustling city of Ambon and disembark after a satisfying breakfast for your departing flight. (B)