Secrets of Indonesia: Spice Islands & Raja Ampat

Darwin is Australia's most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it's a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia's shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.

Your voyage begins in Darwin, the crossroads of Australia, Asia and the Pacific Islands. The capital city of the Norther Territory is packed with galleries and museums that celebrate its unique cultural blend, and delicious restaurants that draw from nearby Asian nations. 

Be warmly greeted by the Scenic Eclipse II crew as you board this afternoon and familiarise yourself with your spacious suite. Ask your butler to bring a glass of Champagne to your suite and toast the start of an unforgettable voyage from your private verandah.

Please book your flight to arrive into Darwin prior to 02:00 PM.

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.  

Included Excursion
Community Visit: Explore well preserved Fort Belgica on your walking tour, providing a fascinating insight into Dutch colonisation and enjoy a traditional dance and music performance. 

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. Away from the city, the beaches of Ambon are some of the magnificent Indonesia. Powdery white sand that feels like flour is flanked by crystal clear water and vivid green jungle. 

Freechoice:
Ambon City: History & Culture: Experience Ambon’s culture and history with a traditional welcome, cultural show, and visits to key sites like Lapangan Merdeka and the WWII War Graves Cemetery. Enjoy the local market and stops at Pattimura and World Peace Parks. 

Maluku Museum and Forest Music Experience: Discover Ambon’s rich heritage at Siwalima Museum, featuring exhibits on Maluku’s history and marine life, and stop at a nearby Hindu temple for unique photo opportunities. Continue to the “Sound of Green” forest retreat, where you'll enjoy a live Totobuang and Tifa drum performance surrounded by native nutmeg trees. 

Spend a quiet morning on board today as Scenic Eclipse II will arrive in port after lunchtime. Enjoy breakfast in the sun on the Yacht Club Terrace, take a dip in the Vitality pool on the Sky Deck or book in for a treatment# at the indulgent Senses Spa. 

Then go ashore on the island of Ternate, a bustling city perched on the side of an active volcano in the North Maluku Islands. These islands were once the world’s only source of cloves and the spice trade supported powerful Islamic sultanates and wealthy trading ports in the Middle Ages.  

Included Excursion
Ternate History and Highlights: Take a tour of three fascinating sites on Ternate. The Sultans Palace reflects the region’s rich history and features an entertaining traditional welcome celebration. A short drive away is Fort Tolukko, built by the Dutch to defend the valuable spice trade base on the islands. Finally, Batu Angus is a geo-park featuring a unique landscape of red hot lava cooled by seawater.  

Today sail into the otherworldly 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 the world’s most biodiverse marine region; 75% of the world’s known coral species can be found here and the waters are home to more than 1,600 species of fish. Its remote location means Raja Ampat is largely untouched by mass tourism.

Included Excursion
Yenwaupnor; West Papuan Experience: This afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional performance at Yenwaupnor Village. Enjoy traditional dances, music, and rituals performed by the indigenous community, providing a deeper understanding of the local heritage and way of life. 

Discover Penemu, the crown jewel of Raja Ampat! Famous for its jaw-dropping viewpoints and vibrant underwater world, this iconic destination boasts turquoise waters, lush karst islands, and pristine beaches. Whether you're snorkeling among vibrant corals or soaking in the serenity, Penemu promises unforgettable beauty and adventure. Experience the heart of Raja Ampat and create memories that will leave you in awe! 

Discovery: The bay’s numerous coves and inlets are perfect for snorkeling or enjoying a scenic cruise by Zodiac. The calm waters are also ideal for exploring under your own steam, so set out for the day in one of kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. 

Famous for it's natural beauty, Wayag island, is characterized by turquoise lagoons, lush karst islands and dramatic rock formations rising from crystal-clear waters. As your Discovery Yacht sails into the bay, you will be in awe of this postcard-perfect panorama that captures the essence of an untouched tropical paradise 

Discovery: The bay’s many coves and inlets make for good snorkelling or scenic cruising by Zodiac. The calm waters are also ideal for exploring under your own pace, so set out for the day in one of the kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or dive with a SEABOB. 

One of the four largest islands of the group, known collectively as the Four Kings, Misool has a permanent population of around 5,000 scattered around a few villages. 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. Misool also features intriguing ancient rock art and limestone caves. 

Scenic Eclipse II will spend the night in the calm waters off Misool Island. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and then head to the Sky Deck for breathtaking stargazing. 

Discovery: The calm waters are ideal for exploring under your own pace, so enjoy a snorkelling session or set out for the day in one of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or dive with the SEABOB. 

Today, 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. 

After one last swim, you’ll be back on board for the sail to the Kai Islands. This afternoon could be a great opportunity to stretch your muscles in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio or soak in the revitalising properties of the KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. 

Discovery: View the incredible limestone karst formations, wander along trails that give unique birds eye views of the area, and snorkel on the world’s most diverse reefs. 

The Kei islands are home to some of the most beautiful, pristine and untouched beaches in the world. They are the most accessible islands of southern Maluku and offer visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling nature of Darwin. Referred to as the hidden gems of Indonesia, Kei Islands are relatively unknown and therefore make for the perfect place to enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.

There are millions of beaches in Indonesia yet the ones you’ll see today might be the country’s most beautiful. The Kai Islands are part of the Maluku Province and are made entirely of white sand and coral. Talcum powder beaches are lapped by the strikingly blue waters of the Banda Sea and fringed with lush rows of palm trees. Despite their jaw-dropping beauty, these islands remain far off the tourist trail, and you’ll be unlikely to see another visitor. 

Discovery: Spend today relaxing on the beach, swimming or snorkelling in the warm water. 

Hidden in Indonesia’s southern Maluku province, the remote Tanimbar Islands offer a stunning mix of wild landscapes, rare wildlife, and white-sand beaches. 

Beyond their natural beauty, the Tanimbar Islands invite you to discover a vibrant cultural heritage. 

Included Excursion
Step into the heart of island life with a warm welcome from the people of Matakus. Experience authentic local culture through traditional music, dance, and vibrant community performances. Discover time-honored crafts and customs that reflect the spirit and heritage of this remote island village. 

Discovery: Join the Discovery Team for a range of thrilling activities, from Zodiac beach landings to exciting water sports. 

Darwin is Australia's most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it's a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia's shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.

Your voyage ends in Darwin, giving you another chance to explore this captivating capital of the north.
After an unforgettable Discovery Voyage, it’s time to farewell your fellow guests and the Scenic Eclipse II crew. Take with you fond memories of the places you have seen, once-in-a-lifetime moments and the unrivalled ultra-luxury experience on board your Discovery Yacht.  

Please book your flight to depart out of Darwin after 12:00 PM.

Helicopter and Submersible not operational on this voyage.

^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and tidal conditions. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Helicopter and submersible is not in operation in Indonesia.  

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.