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Secrets of Indonesia: Spice Islands & Raja Ampat: 15 days Darwin to Darwin

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Operated by Scenic
Tripcode: NZ-41ea1bda22d71a680
Overview
Destination:
Australia
Start:Darwin, Australia
Finish:Darwin, Australia
Duration:15 days
Type:Group tour (max 228)
Travel Period
September 2025 - September 2025

In the footsteps of Wallace

Experience pure exhilaration as you voyage through Indonesia’s remote Maluku Islands and Raja Ampat on board Scenic Eclipse II. With its pristine coral reefs, untouched jungle and abundant marine life, this isolated corner of the globe will simply take your breath away.
The islands of Indonesia are some of the most biodiverse on the planet, home to thousands of unique species of flora and fauna. The archipelago has fascinated scientists for centuries, including famed naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace. Though not as famous as his contemporary Charles Darwin, he also developed an independent theory of evolution based on his remarkable finds here in the 1850s. On this voyage, you’ll follow in Wallace’s footsteps, making a 14-day loop from Darwin and calling at spectacular islands where Wallace made some of his greatest discoveries. With two days at sea bookending the journey, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the luxuries on board one of The World’s First Discovery Yachts, Scenic Eclipse II.
Standard inclusions
  • A Discovery Yacht experience for only up to 228 guests
  • Gain deep insights from the Discovery Team of up to 10 experts
  • Included program of guided Zodiac and kayak and stand-up paddleboard Discovery Excursions
  • Engaging on board lecture and education program
  • Exclusive shore excursion experiences
  • Spacious all-verandah ultra-luxury suites with personalised butler service for every guest
  • World-class service with a close to 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio
  • Up to 10 culinary experiences, from casual to fine dining
  • Up to eight bars and lounges
  • The finest selection of included beverages+, all day, every day, with a choice of over 130 whiskeys at the Scenic Bar
  • Indulgent 550sqm Senses Spa# facilities, gym, yoga and Pilates studio and Vitality pools
  • Daily entertainment in the state-of-the-art theatre and Scenic Lounge
  • Swarovski Telescopes in the Observation Lounge and in-suite binoculars
  • Return airport transfers upon arrival and departure in destination
  • All tipping on board and onshore, complimentary Wi-Fi and water bottle to take home
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Darwin, Australia

Your voyage begins in Darwin, the crossroads of Australia, Asia and the Pacific Islands. The capital city of the Norther Territory is packed with galleries and museums that celebrate its unique cultural blend, and delicious restaurants that draw from nearby Asian nations. 

Be warmly greeted by the Scenic Eclipse II crew as you board this afternoon and familiarise yourself with your spacious suite. Ask your butler to bring a glass of Champagne to your suite and toast the start of an unforgettable voyage from your private verandah.

Please book your flight to arrive into Darwin prior to 02:00 PM.

Day 2 - At Sea

Today is yours to wake up slowly with breakfast on your verandah as the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea slip by outside or perhaps start the day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.

Stop for a drink at one of the eight bars and lounges on board, or enjoy a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Be sure to check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife and activities on offer.

Day 3 - Banda Islands, Banda Neira, Indonesia

The heart of the Old World global spice trade, Banda Neira has retained a unique historic mix of culture, nature and wildlife. At the focal point of Indonesia’s Spice Islands, Banda was prized by European, Arab and Chinese traders until the late 1800s. Experience a flashback to these times as you watch traditional war canoes guide us into Banda Harbour.  

Included Excursion
Community Visit: Explore well preserved Fort Belgica on your walking tour, providing a fascinating insight into Dutch colonisation and enjoy a traditional dance and music performance. 

Day 4 - Ambon, Indonesia

Arrive in the capital of the Maluku Islands, Ambon. The most populous island of the group, Ambon is lush and mountainous, surrounded by sparkling turquoise seas. Come ashore at the busy town of Kota Ambon, also known as ‘Ambon Manise’, meaning beautiful Ambon. Away from the city, the beaches of Ambon are some of the magnificent Indonesia. Powdery white sand that feels like flour is flanked by crystal clear water and vivid green jungle. 

Freechoice:
Ambon City: History & Culture: Experience Ambon’s culture and history with a traditional welcome, cultural show, and visits to key sites like Lapangan Merdeka and the WWII War Graves Cemetery. Enjoy the local market and stops at Pattimura and World Peace Parks. 

Maluku Museum and Forest Music Experience: Discover Ambon’s rich heritage at Siwalima Museum, featuring exhibits on Maluku’s history and marine life, and stop at a nearby Hindu temple for unique photo opportunities. Continue to the “Sound of Green” forest retreat, where you'll enjoy a live Totobuang and Tifa drum performance surrounded by native nutmeg trees. 

Day 5 - Ternate, Indonesia

Spend a quiet morning on board today as Scenic Eclipse II will arrive in port after lunchtime. Enjoy breakfast in the sun on the Yacht Club Terrace, take a dip in the Vitality pool on the Sky Deck or book in for a treatment# at the indulgent Senses Spa. 

Then go ashore on the island of Ternate, a bustling city perched on the side of an active volcano in the North Maluku Islands. These islands were once the world’s only source of cloves and the spice trade supported powerful Islamic sultanates and wealthy trading ports in the Middle Ages.  

Included Excursion
Ternate History and Highlights: Take a tour of three fascinating sites on Ternate. The Sultans Palace reflects the region’s rich history and features an entertaining traditional welcome celebration. A short drive away is Fort Tolukko, built by the Dutch to defend the valuable spice trade base on the islands. Finally, Batu Angus is a geo-park featuring a unique landscape of red hot lava cooled by seawater.  

Day 6 - Pulau Joronda, Indonesia

Your Discovery Yacht will be sailing back south through the Maluku Islands this morning. Ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite while admire the view from your private verandah or take a closer look at the passing islands through the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Terrace. You will arrive in another remote outpost around lunchtime, the small Pulau Joronda, which hangs off the southern edge of the large Halmahera Island. 

This little island is home to yet more picture-perfect white sand beaches, making for exceptional snorkelling and swimming. Spend this afternoon soaking up the serenity of an undiscovered paradise. 

Discovery: Take a Zodiac cruise around Pulau Joronga, this experience provides a fantastic opportunity to get a close-up view of the local stilt houses. As you drift through the serene waters, witness the daily lives of the locals who live in these unique overwater homes. 

Day 7 - Raja Ampat Islands, Gam Island

Today sail into the otherworldly splendour of the Raja Ampat Islands. With more than 1,500 sparsely populated islands peppered across the ocean north of West Papua, this isolated archipelago is the world’s most biodiverse marine region; 75% of the world’s known coral species can be found here and the waters are home to more than 1,600 species of fish. Its remote location means Raja Ampat is largely untouched by mass tourism.

Included Excursion
Yenwaupnor; West Papuan Experience: This afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional performance at Yenwaupnor Village. Enjoy traditional dances, music, and rituals performed by the indigenous community, providing a deeper understanding of the local heritage and way of life. 

Day 8 - Raja Ampat Island, Penemu

Discover Penemu, the crown jewel of Raja Ampat! Famous for its jaw-dropping viewpoints and vibrant underwater world, this iconic destination boasts turquoise waters, lush karst islands, and pristine beaches. Whether you're snorkeling among vibrant corals or soaking in the serenity, Penemu promises unforgettable beauty and adventure. Experience the heart of Raja Ampat and create memories that will leave you in awe! 

Discovery: The bay’s numerous coves and inlets are perfect for snorkeling or enjoying a scenic cruise by Zodiac. The calm waters are also ideal for exploring under your own steam, so set out for the day in one of kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. 

Day 9 - Raja Ampat Islands, Wayag Island

Famous for it's natural beauty, Wayag island, is characterized by turquoise lagoons, lush karst islands and dramatic rock formations rising from crystal-clear waters. As your Discovery Yacht sails into the bay, you will be in awe of this postcard-perfect panorama that captures the essence of an untouched tropical paradise 

Discovery: The bay’s many coves and inlets make for good snorkelling or scenic cruising by Zodiac. The calm waters are also ideal for exploring under your own pace, so set out for the day in one of the kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or dive with a SEABOB. 

Day 10 - Raja Ampat Islands, Misool Island

One of the four largest islands of the group, known collectively as the Four Kings, Misool has a permanent population of around 5,000 scattered around a few villages. It is surrounded by one of the most pristine reef systems left on earth and is one of the few places where biodiversity is improving, rather than declining. Misool also features intriguing ancient rock art and limestone caves. 

Scenic Eclipse II will spend the night in the calm waters off Misool Island. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and then head to the Sky Deck for breathtaking stargazing. 

Discovery: The calm waters are ideal for exploring under your own pace, so enjoy a snorkelling session or set out for the day in one of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or dive with the SEABOB. 

Day 11 - Raja Ampat Islands, Misool Island

Today, spend another day at magnificant Misool Island. After enjoying another morning of exploring, swimming or just taking in the views of this picturesque location, unwind on board in one of the cabanas with your drink of choice. 

After one last swim, you’ll be back on board for the sail to the Kai Islands. This afternoon could be a great opportunity to stretch your muscles in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio or soak in the revitalising properties of the KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. 

Discovery: View the incredible limestone karst formations, wander along trails that give unique birds eye views of the area, and snorkel on the world’s most diverse reefs. 

Day 12 - Kai Islands

There are millions of beaches in Indonesia yet the ones you’ll see today might be the country’s most beautiful. The Kai Islands are part of the Maluku Province and are made entirely of white sand and coral. Talcum powder beaches are lapped by the strikingly blue waters of the Banda Sea and fringed with lush rows of palm trees. Despite their jaw-dropping beauty, these islands remain far off the tourist trail, and you’ll be unlikely to see another visitor. 

Discovery: Spend today relaxing on the beach, swimming or snorkelling in the warm water. 

Day 13 - Tanimbar Island, Indonesia

Hidden in Indonesia’s southern Maluku province, the remote Tanimbar Islands offer a stunning mix of wild landscapes, rare wildlife, and white-sand beaches. 

Beyond their natural beauty, the Tanimbar Islands invite you to discover a vibrant cultural heritage. 

Included Excursion
Step into the heart of island life with a warm welcome from the people of Matakus. Experience authentic local culture through traditional music, dance, and vibrant community performances. Discover time-honored crafts and customs that reflect the spirit and heritage of this remote island village. 

Discovery: Join the Discovery Team for a range of thrilling activities, from Zodiac beach landings to exciting water sports. 

Day 14 - At Sea

Spend the final day of your Discovery Voyage in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments# as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.  

In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary dining experiences await. From contemporary French fine dining at Lumière to the freshest Japanese at Sushi @ Koko’s, you'll experience a remarkable culinary journey.  

Day 15 - Darwin, Australia

Your voyage ends in Darwin, giving you another chance to explore this captivating capital of the north.
After an unforgettable Discovery Voyage, it’s time to farewell your fellow guests and the Scenic Eclipse II crew. Take with you fond memories of the places you have seen, once-in-a-lifetime moments and the unrivalled ultra-luxury experience on board your Discovery Yacht.  

Please book your flight to depart out of Darwin after 12:00 PM.

Helicopter and Submersible not operational on this voyage.

^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and tidal conditions. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Helicopter and submersible is not in operation in Indonesia.  

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Departure dates

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Travellers

Operator
Scenic

At Scenic, we create exceptional journeys to every corner of the world. You will enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences, indulgent truly all-inclusive luxury, and a world class crew who will ensure every detail is cared for to the Nth Degree. With more than three decades of experience, the loyalty of our Scenic guests reflects our dedication to always placing you at the heart of everything we do. With Scenic, you'll find this is worldwide discovery truly in a class of its own. Across our 5-star luxury river cruises on custom-built Scenic Space-Ships, and 6-star ultra-luxury voyages on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, it is more than taking our guests to exceptional destinations around the world. Our truly all-inclusive philosophy enables our guests to be immersed in their chosen destination, indulge in an unparalleled level of luxury, and relax knowing everything is taken care of.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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