Remote and rarely explored, the Banda Sea offers some of Indonesia’s most extraordinary diving and dramatic island landscapes.
These longer expeditions journey through isolated volcanic islands and remote archipelagos far from the usual travel routes.
Sail between destinations such as Alor, the Tanimbar Islands, Saumlaki, Ambon, and the historic Banda Islands, where pristine reefs, deep ocean drop-offs, and vibrant marine life create exceptional underwater experiences. This region also lies at the heart of the legendary Spice Route, where nutmeg and cloves once shaped global trade and attracted explorers from around the world.
These voyages combine spectacular diving, seasonal wildlife encounters such as the hammerhead shark migration, and authentic cultural exploration in one of Indonesia’s most fascinating and least visited regions.
SEE & EXPERIENCE
BANDA ISLAND
In order to secure control of the nutmeg trade in the early 1600s, the Dutch built their first fort on the island of Banda – Fort Nassau. This was shortly followed by Belgica to fortify the hill. The fort served as the main military and administrative base of the Dutch in the Banda Islands for many years.
FLORES
Set at 1,639m above sea level are the three crater lakes of Kelimutu, a dormant volcano on the island of Flores. Each lake’s colour changes periodically according to the volcanic activity and varying mineral content at the time. The water tends to be a varying shade of reds or greens.
KOMBA
Witness the power of the pacific ring of fire on which Indonesia sits by watching an active volcano in all its glory. From the comfort of the deck, marvel at fiery eruptions and lava cascading into the sea – at a safe distance, of course.
ALOR ISLAND
There are over 100 tribes living on the islands of Alor. Set in relative isolation, a traditional way of life continues in many of its villages. Witness the traditional lego-lego dance, binding together young and old, with everyone dancing hand in hand.
Not included: marine park fees (US$150 per person) and PADI courses.
Venture deep into the Banda Sea through some of Indonesia’s most remote islands including Alor, the Tanimbar Islands, Saumlaki, and Ambon.
14 nights / 15 days
Labuan Bajo round trip via Alor
A long-distance expedition through the remote islands of the Flores Sea to Alor and back, combining remote diving, island exploration, cultural encounters and time at sea. For adventurous guests who enjoy longer passages and remote anchorages.
Request the full itinerary →10 nights / 11 days
Alor to Saumlaki
A remote expedition through the southern arc of the Banda Sea, across some of Indonesia’s least-visited islands: remote diving and snorkelling, wild beaches, village visits, waterfall hikes and hot springs. Hammerheads are occasionally sighted in October and November.
Request the full itinerary →10 nights / 11 days
Route on request
A voyage through the heart of the legendary Spice Route, where nutmeg and cloves once shaped global trade. Ask us for this season’s route and dates.
Request the full itinerary →10 nights / 11 days
Saumlaki to Ambon
Cross the Banda Sea by way of white-sand islands, turquoise lagoons, volcanic outposts and the historic Banda Islands, finishing with Ambon’s famous macro diving. October and November are peak season for schooling hammerheads.
Request the full itinerary →Every journey is tailored to the season, the conditions and your group. Day-by-day itineraries are sent on request.
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These twice-yearly trips sail between Komodo and Raja Ampat, in both directions, to relocate the boat as the weather changes, taking in a choice of destinations including the islands of Banda, Flores and Alor. Discover the history of the spice trade, explore colonial fortresses, hike up a volcano, and enjoy diverse wildlife in and out of the water.
Rates & schedule
Available for Private Charter. Tiger Blue is perfect for family adventures, bucket list trips with friends, or simply escaping the stresses of modern day life. When & where: recommended minimum 9 nights. Current routes: Labuan Bajo & Alor Explorer (14 nights, round trip from Labuan Bajo), The Forgotten Island Journey (10 nights, Alor to Saumlaki) and The Banda Sea Crossing (10 nights, Saumlaki to Ambon). Not included: marine park fees, a flat US$150 per person.
For more information or to make a reservation:
Call: +971 50 553 8013
Email: sail@tigerblue.info
