Indonesian Spice Islands sailing opportunity
Tiger Blue, Banda Islands, Indonesia
Luxury phinisi yacht, Tiger Blue offers a very special opportunity to sail through the remote Banda Islands of Indonesia as part of an 11-night itinerary. Until the mid 19th Century, the Banda Islands – also known as the Spice Islands were the world’s only source of nutmeg and mace. Today, these picturesque islands combine natural beauty, rich marine life including spectacular multi-coloured coral gardens, with a warm local heart, and a palpable and fascinating history. Tiger Blue will be selling individual cabins from 30th September to 11th October 2018, making this rare experience all the more affordable.
Tiger Blue will set sail from Maumere Bay, located on the north coast of Flores Island, finishing at Pulau Ambon – a fertile mountainous island, which lies off the south coast of Seram Island on the northern side of the Banda Sea. The yacht will sail leisurely through seas and islands, opening up epic panoramas of lush green forests, rocks, white beaches and active volcanoes.
Guests can drop anchor and enjoy the white sandy beaches, fish, swim or dive in the straits of Alor, world renowned for its sightings of white tips, grey reef sharks, tuna, grouper, manta rays, whale sharks and pilot wales; discover the spectacular reef and marine life of Pulau Reong and the Atoll of Lucipara, whose vast drop offs enable sightings of big pelagic fish such as mackerel, tuna and giant trevallies. Kayaking, snorkeling and fishing will also be on offer.
On land, there will be an opportunity to hike up the volcanoes, such as Kelimutu, which is famous for its vibrantly coloured lakes, visit a traditional whaling village in Lemalera and meet with the local tribes of Alor Island. Guests can also delve deeper into the colonial history of Banda Neira, visiting the historical homes and buildings of Fort Belgica and Fort Nassau – former strongholds of the Portuguese and Dutch colonists. At Banda Besar Island, guests can hike up to Fort Hollandia and explore a nutmeg plantation, which is over 200 years old.
Operated by a local and international crew of 10, Tiger Blue offers a truly authentic experience of Indonesia, far removed from Bali’s developed beaches. A 34-metre phinisi yacht, crafted in ironwood and teak, Tiger Blue combines traditional design with modern comforts. Five en-suite cabins are fully air conditioned and configured to accommodate couples and families alike. All members of the crew are on hand to offer warm Indonesian hospitality, coupled with best in class service. From seeking out the ideal dive spot, to observing rare marine life, the crew is on hand to cater to guests’ each and every whim. Indeed the onboard Chef is known for cooking excellent cuisine, offering an eclectic mix of Asian and Western dishes using only the freshest local ingredients – whether it be fresh Sashimi to barbeques, cooking up the catch of the day.
The owners of Tiger Blue are extremely sensitive to preserving the clear waters through which they sail and ensure that guests are given personalised reusable water bottles to minimise single use plastic. In addition, all in-cabin toiletries and sunscreen are locally produced and derived from natural ingredients.
