To visit the Spice Islands is to trace the path of mystery-makers, merchants, visionaries, secret-keepers and storytellers. With a trading legacy that began over 4000 years ago, the region is steeped in tales, sometimes tall, sometimes true.
The Spice Islands, also known as the Maluku Islands, are a historical gem of Indonesia. Found between Sulawesi and New Guinea, the Spice Islands are known world-wide for their historical significance and remarkable nature. These islands were once the epicentre of the global spice trade, where coveted spices such as nutmeg, cloves, and mace were – and still are – grown. Today, the Maluku Islands offer a rich cultural experience combined with breath-taking landscapes, making them a highly desirable destination.
By far the most ideal mode of travel around the Spice Islands is boat-based on Aqua Blu, a 15-suite modern luxury expedition yacht. Spanning 5 decks over 60m, 30 guests are attended to by 30 crew during their 7 night stay. Wending its way through pristine, aquamarine oceans, guests will have access to premier dive sites of the Spice Islands, and will dive roughly twice per day. Masterfully designed by Cor D. Rover, Aqua Blu is comfortable, exquisitely crafted, and elegant. With chef Benjamin Cross overseeing the cuisine, the expedition is as much about epicurean delight as it is about exploration.
Over and above its cultural and historical legacy, the Spice Islands boast incredible natural beauty and marine life. Lush tropical rainforests, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches tempt travellers, calling them to explore the islands’ biodiversity. The uncrowded waters around Ambon are offer some of the best muck, macro, and critter, diving in the world. The rare and unique Ambon Frogfish lives within the Banda Sea, along with ghost pipefish, leaf fish, rare bobbit worms, pygmy seahorses, frogfish, nudibranchs, octopuses and harlequin and boxer shrimp. Unspoilt reefs and a shipwreck around Ambon offer additional opportunities for diving. Marine life typically spotted within the Banda Sea are sharks, sea snakes, rays, turtles, bumphead parrotfish, mackerel and sometimes, the endemic and rare Halmahara Walking Shark, making it a prime area for snorkelling and diving.
For history enthusiasts, visiting the Spice Islands is like stepping back in time. Many islands, such as Banda, feature remnants of European forts and old colonial buildings that tell stories of the once-thriving spice trade. At Banda Neira, the main island in the Banda group, you’ll find ancient trees surrounding the russet-walled Fort Belgica, a well-preserved Dutch fortress that offers a glimpse into Indonesia’s colonial past.
Culturally, the islands are home to friendly and welcoming communities with a deep connection to their history and traditions. Visitors can explore local markets, sample fresh nutmeg and cloves, and experience traditional Maluku hospitality. Gunung Api, an active volcano, offers adventurous visitors the opportunity for a scenic hike, which offers stunning views over the surrounding islands.
Remote and relatively untouched by mass tourism, the Spice Islands offer a unique and tranquil escape for those seeking both nature and culture. Trips are typically 7 nights long and run from early October to early November, with one trip happening in the month of March, as it is during these times that diving is best. Travellers will embark/disembark in Ambon.
