Private Tour
Indonesian Spice Islands Discovery Cruise
Sorong to Ternate – 11 Days
Expedition Overview
Join an 11-day journey to Indonesia’s unspoiled archipelago, from Kri Island’s untouched beauty to Ternate’s historic charm. On a traditional Indonesian schooner, you’ll discover untouched beaches, coral reefs and warm cultures. From Gam and Boo Islands’ underwater wonders to Bacan and Tidore Islands’ rich traditions and historical sites, each stop is a nature and human heritage discovery.
This trip is a mix of relaxation, exploration and cultural immersion. Dive into crystal clear waters teeming with marine life, trek through rainforests home to unique wildlife and engage with the history of spice trade sultanates. As we finish in Ternate, you’ll have a treasure trove of memories from this diverse and enchanting region. This Indonesian odyssey is not just a trip but a journey through time and nature, an intimate look into the heart of the archipelago’s beauty and history.
Highlights
TIDORE ISLAND: Uncover Tidore’s history as you walk through Portuguese fortresses and a museum filled with royal treasures including the Sultan’s crown. Once a major player in the spice trade Tidore’s shores have stories of colonial rivalry, a must visit for history buffs and culture vultures.
BACAN ISLAND: Trek into Bacan’s rainforests to see rare black macaques and colourful tropical birds. In Labau explore a lively market full of local life. Once famous for its cloves Bacan has ecological richness and was a key player in the spice trade’s golden age.
KAYOA ISLAND CROSSING: Mark your entry into the northern hemisphere on Kayoa Island a tropical paradise. Swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters teeming with marine life. With its unspoiled landscapes and laid back pace Kayoa has the perfect mix of nature, adventure and a geographical milestone.
TERNATE’S HISTORY: Finish your journey in Ternate once a powerful sultanate at the heart of the spice trade. Visit colonial relics and sultan’s palaces that tell centuries of global competition. With an airport to connect you onwards Ternate is perfect for a historical finale or extended cultural stay.
Why Asian Geographical?
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Itinerary
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
The Indonesian Spice Islands Discovery Cruise, explores Indonesia’s hidden island gems. Visit historic Tidore, wildlife rich Bacan, vibrant Kayoa and historic Ternate, ancient fortresses, wildlife and tropical paradises along the way.
DAY 1
KRI ISLAND
Start your Indonesian adventure in Sorong where you’ll board a private Indonesian-style schooner to explore the Dampier Strait. Your first stop is Kri Island, a peaceful island with few inhabitants and great diving. Relax on pristine white sand beaches and snorkel in the crystal clear waters teeming with marine life. As the day ends, enjoy the peacefulness of the sea, with the sound of the waves lapping against your boat, lulling you to sleep.
DAY 2
GAM
Wake up surrounded by one of the world’s most coral reefs at Gam Island. Spend the morning snorkeling and immerse yourself in the underwater world full of exotic marine species. In the afternoon, visit the island’s villages, meet the locals and enjoy a freshly caught and locally prepared fish meal. The day is a perfect mix of adventure and cultural immersion in stunning natural beauty.
DAY 3
GAM
Go on a thrilling search for the Red Bird-of-paradise, one of the most beautiful and elusive birds in the world. Venture into the forests of Gam, guided by nature’s sounds, to spot this rare bird. After the day’s exploration, relax on your schooner as it sails to Pulau Kofiau overnight. Enjoy the peacefulness of the night at sea under the starry sky.
DAY 4
BOO ISLAND
Start the day as your schooner anchors near the village of Deer on Pulau Kofiau Island. Take a dinghy to explore the pristine waters, marvel at the underwater views visible through the clear sea. In the afternoon, sail to the serene Boo Islands. These uninhabited islands are a haven for lush vegetation and birdlife. Anchor in the lagoon of Boo Kecil and snorkel in the warm waters of the lagoon among the marine life.
DAY 5
DAMAR ISLAND
Sail across the Halmahera Sea all day. Enjoy the sun and sea breeze on deck as you head to the Damar Islands, arriving just in time for sunset. These tree-covered islands, southwest of Tanjung Libobo, are a peaceful haven. If time allows, visit Kampung Kukupang, the only village on the islands, on the northwestern tip and experience island life.
DAY 6
BACAN ISLAND
Today you’ll sail from the Damar Islands to the Doworas Islands, east of the Patientie Strait. Spend a few hours in this secluded paradise, swimming in the turquoise waters and relaxing on white sand. In the evening, sail to the port of Babang on Bacan Island’s east coast. As you anchor for the night, Bacan Island’s harbour is a peaceful ending to another day in this beautiful archipelago.
DAY 7
BACAN ISLAND
Start the day with a visit to Labau’s morning market. Immerse yourself in the colours and aromas of fresh produce and spices. Take photos. Learn about Bacan’s history as a 14th-century sultanate and a clove source. Later visit Fort Barneveld, a Dutch fort from 1615 guarding the spice routes. After the tour, reboard your schooner and sail to Loid Bay on Bacan Island’s north coast, a 40-mile journey through calm waters.
DAY 8
BACAN ISLAND
Today you’ll venture into Bacan’s rainforest. From the village of Geti, go on an early morning trek to spot the black macaque and other endemic wildlife. See parrots, cockatoos and lorikeets in this biodiversity haven. Visit the village on this lesser-known island and absorb its character. Return to your schooner for a relaxing evening, rocked by the waves.
DAY 9
KAYOA
Today you’ll cross the equator and enter the northern hemisphere. Your destination is the beautiful Kayoa Island, a tropical haven for snorkeling, sunbathing and hiking. Take the dinghy out to explore the coastline, discover secluded bays and marine life. As the day winds down, return to your ship to celebrate this special day, with the island as your backdrop.
DAY 10
TIDORE
Today you’ll delve into Tidore’s history. Tidore’s Sultanate, once at war with Ternate, has stories of intrigue and power struggles. Explore the Portuguese fortifications, silent witnesses to the island’s turbulent past. Visit the local museum to see the royal artifacts, including the Sultan’s crown, that tell the story of the island’s royal heritage. As the day ends, enjoy a final sunset from your schooner and reflect on the journey.
DAY 11
TERNATE - DEPARTURE
Your trip ends as you dock in Ternate. Say goodbye to the captain and crew who have been with you on this adventure. Ternate has so much more to offer, from colonial relics to spice trade stories. If you want to stay longer, you can do so and uncover its secrets. If it’s time to go home, head to Ternate’s airport for your next journey, with memories of this Indonesian adventure in your luggage.
The story
This tour was designed to immerse travellers in the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of Indonesia's archipelago.
Inspired by the desire to showcase Indonesia's vibrant marine ecosystems, historical depth, and diverse cultures, the expedition promises a unique blend of adventure and enlightenment. From snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to exploring ancient sultanates, the journey caters to those passionate about nature, culture, wildlife, and cruising.
The tour reflects a curated experience of interesting destinations and beautiful attractions, perfect for adventurers seeking to connect deeply with unique and captivating environments.
What To Expect
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Dates & Prices
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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