Aman Spice Island Expedition
21–31 October, 2016
As the world’s largest archipelago, Indonesia is home to many of the globe’s most beautiful islands. This ten day voyage explores the ancient spice routes and the region known as Raja Ampat aboard Amandira.
Amandira, a two-masted sailing vessel measuring 52 metres from bow to stern,was handcrafted by the Konjo tribe. A traditional Phinisi vessel, it combines the ancient romance of the spice trade with cutting-edge contemporary amenities, Amandira accommodates up to ten guests and a crew of ten (including a private chef and dive master) to cater to guests’ every need.
Situated four and a half degrees south of the equator, the Spice Islands are tiny verdant islets in the Banda Sea. Sought after for their coveted nutmeg that could only be found there, the islands today are a serene tropical paradise. Offering an extraordinary experience for scuba divers, the islands boast an underwater oasis with vibrant coral reefs, teeming with marine life where guests can snorkel, dive, fish, paddleboard or kayak. Above water, the islands are covered in tropical forest and fringed with powder white beaches. Enchanting villages are scattered over five of the islands, while old Dutch forts can be explored on Banda Neira, Besar and Run, offering a glimpse into the islands’ fascinating past. All the while, Gunung Api, Banda’s ‘Fire Mountain’, broods over the islands. At 666m it is easily summited, and provides spectacular views of the archipelago.
Following the Spice Island exploration, the vessel sets course for Raja Ampat. A region renowned for its biodiversity, Raja Ampat encompasses over 40,000 square kilometres and 1,500 islands in the northeast seas of the Indonesian Archipelago, where the Pacific meets the Indian Ocean. The resulting currents stir up nutrient-rich water, which along with the tropical climate, nurtures magnificent coral reefs and unparalleled marine life. Guests are able to scuba dive and snorkel daily as well as explore the hidden jungle caves of Tolomol, kayak through giant sea caverns and visit a pearl farm.
Amanikan, Aman’s 32 metre Phinisi offers three spacious cabins with contemporary facilities,is also available for the ten day Spice Island Expedition in 2017.
With activities abound both on land and beneath the waves, this adventure of a lifetime allows guests to experience a part of the world completely untouched by time.
