Maluku & The Banda Islands

Maluku & Banda Season: April and September – October

Tucked away in southern Maluku, the ten volcanic islands that form the Banda Islands are as rich in history as they are remote. Centuries ago, the tiny cluster of islands was the world’s only source of nutmeg, the gold of the spice trade. Banda nutmeg and mace fetched exuberant prices, attracting attention from the Dutch who colonised the islands from the early 17th century. Today, the old colonial buildings are still standing, set against an idyllic backdrop of tropical jungle, spice plantations, and volcanic peak of Banda Api.

Below the water, Banda is a diver’s dream. Vibrant coral gardens give way to impressive drop-offs teeming with life, and the water is so clear you can see right into the depths. Mobula ray, dogtooth tuna, Napoleon wrasse, turtles, dolphins and hammerhead sharks are just a few of the highlights.

Our Banda tour begins in Ambon Bay, traversing the Banda Sea’s untouched islets and dive sites on the way.