Aqua Blu Itinerary

Spice Islands & Forgotten Islands Expedition

Day 1: Ambon
Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon and board Aqua Blu at Laha Bay, a famous muck diving site. There are also opportunities for trekking and birdwatching inland.

Day 2: Hila
Head out for your first excursion to explore the historical Dutch fortification of Fort Amsterdam in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon and learn about the incredible history of the spice trade. Next, enjoy a sunset as Aqua Blu continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, enact an old naval tradition—'hands to bathe'—where you jump into the water and swim, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.

Day 3: Banda Islands & Banda Neira
Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbour. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Nassau on Banda Neira, once the most hotly contested island in the world in the 16th and 17th centuries, and learn about the colourful story of the Old World spice trade.

Day 4: Pulai Ai and Pulau Run
At sunrise, arrive at Pulau Ai& Pulau Run, 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 to Pulau Ai for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg storehouses. 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 5: Pulau Manuk
Savour a sunrise breakfast on board against the backdrop of 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.

Day 6: Serua Island and Nil Desperandum
A playground for snorkelers and divers alike, Serua Island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls, and incredible soft coral spots. Schools of fish thrive around here, and there is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. In the afternoon, discover the hard coral formations of Nil Desperandum, and find yourself surrounded by shoals of big fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel, swimming by without worry. 

Day 7: Romang, Nyata, Telang (Forgotten Islands)
Dive around Nyata Island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Romang and Nyata are not part of a national park; therefore, it is possible to fish here, both on the water and under the surface. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkelling and kayaking adventures. Spot rare silver-tip sharks here.

Day 8: Wetar (Forgotten Islands)
There is plenty to do and see along this rarely visited rugged coastline of Wetar, which features impressive wall dives to meet sharks, schools of pelagic fish, and majestic manta and mobula rays. Other activities include fishing and trekking. On this largest island of the Forgotten Islands, experience local life with traditions unchanged for decades.

Day 9: Alor
Arrival in Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water over vibrant coral reefs that are a diver's and snorkeler's favorite. Centuries-old tradition comes to life in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe.

Day 10: Maumere
Upon arriving at Maumere, head out on an afternoon excursion to the nearby village of Watubalpi, where you’ll witness a traditional welcome by the local women. Observe the culture and lifestyle of the people, known for their famous Ikat textiles. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious dinner on board before we sail towards Sabulon.

Day 11: Sabulon
Spend the afternoon swimming from the ship and enjoying the calm reefs around Sabulon before viewing your final Komodo sunset of the expedition.

Day 12: Labuan Bajo 
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard before your disembarkation at Labuan Bajo.

Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.