Secrets of Indonesia: Spice Islands & Raja Ampat

Embark in the Northern Territory’s multicultural capital of the ‘Top End’ of Australia. Despite surviving two cyclones and several air raids, Darwin is distinguished by its relaxed lifestyle. Your journey of wonder begins on board Scenic Eclipse II. Please book your flight to arrive into Darwin prior to 02:00 PM.

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want. Start your day off with breakfast brought to your suite by your personal butler, enjoyed on the verandah as the endless ocean slips by outside. Or perhaps begin your day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates studio.

Arrive in the capital of the Maluku Islands, Ambon. The most populous island of the group, Ambon is lush and mountainous, surrounded by sparkling turquoise seas. Come ashore at the busy town of Kota Ambon, also known as ‘Ambon Manise’, meaning beautiful Ambon. Immerse yourself in Ambon with a tour celebrating the history and culture of the region, from a traditional welcome to the dynamic city market full of sensory delights. Time to reflect on how WWII also touched the Pacific regions with a visit to the WWII War Graves Cemetery. Away from the city, the beaches of Ambon are some of the most magnificent in Indonesia. Powdery white sand that feels like flour is flanked by crystal clear water and vivid green jungle.

The heart of the Old World global spice trade, Banda Neira has retained a unique historic mix of culture, nature and wildlife. At the focal point of Indonesia’s Spice Islands, Banda was prized by European, Arab and Chinese traders until the late 1800s. Experience a flashback to these times as you watch traditional war canoes guide us into Banda Harbour.  Explore well preserved Fort Belgica on your walking tour, providing a fascinating insight into Dutch colonisation and enjoy a traditional dance and music performance. 

This small isolated island is a hidden gem located off the north coast of the Bomberai Peninsula. Known for its limestone formations, Papuan rock art and burial caves, the area has around 24 endemic species of rainbow fish. Discovery: Join your discovery team and travel by Zodiac to explore the 20,000-year-old rock art between Arguni and Andamata villages.  Enjoy watching village life as you pass the shores of this beautiful island.

Today sail into the other-worldly splendour of the Raja Ampat Islands. With more than 1,500 sparsely populated islands peppered across the ocean north of West Papua, this isolated archipelago is often called ‘the last paradise on earth’. Because of its remote location, Raja Ampat is largely untouched by mass tourism. Today, you can explore Gam Island. Just a few villages sit on the coast and there are no roads or paths across the island. It’s known for its incredible bird life, including the red birds of paradise, western crowned pigeons, palm cockatoos and the ground-dwelling maleo. Kri island is home to some of Raja Ampats lushest forests, long white beaches, magnificent coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Discovery: Visit the local village to be welcomed with traditional performances and experience their way of life before you immerse yourself in the beauty of the region snorkeling or kayaking in the beautiful turquoise waters.

Scenic Eclipse II will sail north overnight, bound for one of the northernmost islands in Raja Ampat. Uninhabited and breathtakingly beautiful, Wayag is one of Indonesia’s most recognisable sights, the star of many television commercials and billboards. Crystal clear waters are fringed by white sand beaches and dramatic karst islands sprout straight up from the sea. Even seasoned travellers will be dazzled by its natural beauty. Take this idyllic time to explore on excursions for swimming, snorkeling and wildlife spotting, cruising through the sapphire seas on a Zodiac. You’ll spend a full day here, giving you time to explore everything Wayag has to offer and soak in the splendour of this pristine paradise.

One of the four largest islands of the group, known collectively as the Four Kings, it has a permanent population of around 5,000 scattered around a few villages. In a region of spectacular biodiversity, Misool manages to stand above the rest of Raja Ampat. It is surrounded by one of the most pristine reef systems left on earth and is one of the few places where biodiversity is improving, rather than declining. Today, enjoy more swimming, snorkeling and watersports in an unforgettable location. Misool also adds the intrigue of ancient rock art and limestone caves to your complete island experience.

We spend another day at magnificant Misool Island. After enjoying another morning of exploring, swimming or just taking in the views of this picturesque location, unwind on board in one of the cabanas with your drink of choice. 

Made entirely of white sand and coral, the Kei Islands are completely flat, except for the coconut trees - a true relaxing paradise framed by the pristine waters of the Banda Sea.   Discovery: Take the time to swim and snorkel in this tropical island known for its spectacular limestone scenery - the definition of a holiday dream.

White sand and turquoise waters surround this tropical-island village. As the hub of Maluku’s boat culture, Sangliat Dol is famous for its megalithic sites and an ancient stone boat built as a tribute to the original inhabitants who arrived by sea.  The local chief and singing villagers will welcome you on the beach before a fascinating ritual ceremony. Be amazed by the cultural dances performed by the locals adorned in colourful bird-of-paradise head-dresses, enjoy demonstrations of local handicrafts and traditional ways of cooking. See the old Dutch colonial Catholic Church that overlooks the stone boat.  

Choose to enjoy a relaxed morning in your spacious suite, watching the ocean drift by as you reflect on all the wonderful experiences you have enjoyed throughout Indonesia. Today might be the day you call upon your personal butler to bring you breakfast in-suite, perhaps enjoyed on your private patio in the sunshine. Catch up with newfound friends in the Sky Bar to enjoy shared experiences on the last evening of your voyage.

Your cruise ends in Darwin. Sitting at the crossroads of Australia, Asia and the Pacific Islands, this tropical capital is closer to Bali than Bondi. After an unforgettable voyage, it’s time to farewell your fellow guests and Scenic Eclipse II crew. Take with you your fond memories of the incredible places you have seen, once-in-a-lifetime moments and the unrivalled ultra-luxury experience on board your Scenic Eclipse II Discovery Yacht. Please book your flight to depart out of Darwin after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.