Spice Islands to Southern Raja Ampat:8-Night Private Yacht Expedition Through the Indonesian Islands

Arrive at Ambon Airport and take a short 15-minute transfer to board the Kudanil. Set sail from a quiet sandy bay known for its surreal marine life — a fitting prelude to the days ahead. As the yacht crosses the Banda Sea, watch for playful pods of dolphins or the distant spouts of migrating whales.

Wake to the sight of Rhun, the small island once traded by the British for Manhattan. Walk through nutmeg plantations and along narrow paths scented with spice. Continue to Ai Island, where colonial relics and a centuries-old church tell of a tumultuous past. Beneath the waves, encounter towering coral walls and perhaps a passing hammerhead shark.

Anchor in the heart of Banda Neira, shadowed by the dramatic cone of Gunung Api volcano. Explore by motorbike with local guides, stopping at old forts and spice plantations. Snorkel over coral gardens shaped by ancient lava flows, then sail to Hatta Island, where crystal-clear water and a hidden sunlit cavern await.

Pulau Koon sits at the meeting point of the Spice Islands and Papua, a haven for marine life and swirling schools of fish. Kayak through coral gardens and along white sandbars that vanish with the tide. Visit a nearby island where locals lead the way to hidden inland lakes, perfect for swimming or cliff jumping. By sunset, begin the overnight crossing to Misool.

Enter the coral-rich waters of Raja Ampat, diving and snorkeling around Fiabacet, Yilliet, and Boo Islands — home to manta rays, reef sharks, and extraordinary biodiversity. Above water, discover natural rock arches and turquoise lagoons. End the day on a secluded beach as the sunset paints the sea in shades of gold and rose.

Explore Karawapop, also known as Love Lagoon, for its heart-shaped curve visible from a short viewpoint hike. Swim in its warm turquoise waters, then drift through coral passages adorned with sea fans. At Wayilbatan, snorkel a reef shaped like a wedding cake and enjoy a cocktail at sunset on a hidden beach framed by limestone cliffs.

Venture into Tomolol’s vast limestone caves, where emerald light dances on the water’s surface. Continue to Dapunlol, where ancient handprints mark the cliffs — a haunting reminder of the islands’ early settlers. Climb to a lookout for sweeping views of the “Thousand Islands” and later, swim in a secluded lake filled with golden stingless jellyfish.

Paddle through Balbulol’s tranquil lagoon, its towering karsts mirrored perfectly on glassy water. Explore secret channels and natural arches before sailing to Farondi, where cathedral-like sea caves and colorful reefs create an ethereal underwater world — the perfect finale to your Raja Ampat journey.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the crew. Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to Sorong Airport, carrying home the stories, colors, and calm of Indonesia’s most remote seascapes.