An Invitation to the Original Spice Islands

Deep within the Maluku province of Indonesia, the Banda Islands are an archipelago suspended in time. The air in Banda Neira, the main settlement, is still faintly scented with cloves and drying nutmeg. Colonial-era mansions and fortifications, like the imposing Fort Belgica, stand as stone sentinels, overlooking a harbour that once saw the fleets of the Dutch East India Company. This is not a curated historical theme park; it is a community where the rhythms of life are intrinsically linked to the spice trade of old.

Beyond the pages of history books, the islands offer a sanctuary of raw, volcanic landscapes and marine biodiversity that is among the richest on earth. The central volcano, Gunung Api, rises dramatically from the sea, its fertile slopes covered in lush greenery. The surrounding waters, protected by their isolation, host pristine coral gardens, steep drop-offs, and an abundance of marine life, from tiny mandarin fish to schooling hammerhead sharks. A Banda Islands yacht charter is the definitive way to access this confluence of culture, history, and nature in absolute comfort and privacy.

Our Fleet: The ‘Cengkeh Laut’ Phinisi

The soul of your journey is the Cengkeh Laut, a vessel that embodies the spirit of the archipelago. Custom-built by Konjo craftsmen in the traditional Phinisi style, this two-masted wooden sailing yacht combines heritage with contemporary luxury. Her ironwood hull glides through the Banda Sea with a stability and grace that modern vessels cannot replicate. Every detail, from the hand-carved joinery to the expansive deck spaces, has been considered to create an atmosphere of refined expeditionary travel.

Vessel Specifications

The Cengkeh Laut is more than just a boat; it is a floating private villa. We maintain our vessel to the highest international safety and service standards, ensuring your peace of mind while navigating these remote waters. Our crew’s deep familiarity with the region allows for an experience that is both seamless and authentic.

• Type: Traditional Indonesian Phinisi Schooner
• Length Overall: 40 metres
• Guest Cabins: 5 air-conditioned staterooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Guest Capacity: 10 guests
• Crew: 12, including Captain, Cruise Director, Chef, and Dive Master
• Amenities: Indoor lounge and library, al-fresco dining area, spacious sun deck, dedicated dive centre with Nitrox compressor.

Photo Gallery & Layout

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Signature Itineraries

Our itineraries are carefully curated by our experienced cruise directors, who possess intimate knowledge of the Banda Sea’s currents, seasons, and secrets. They are frameworks for discovery, designed to be flexible to your interests, whether you are drawn by the echoes of history or the call of the deep. Below is a representation of our most requested voyages.

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The Spice Route Legacy (8 Days / 7 Nights)

This voyage focuses on the unparalleled history and culture of the archipelago. We trace the path of spice traders, exploring colonial forts, ancient nutmeg plantations, and quiet villages. Days are spent walking through history on Banda Neira, Pulau Ai, and the infamous Pulau Run, balanced with snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons and enjoying the serenity of your private Banda Islands yacht.

Banda Sea Diver’s Dream (10 Days / 9 Nights)

For the dedicated diver, this itinerary explores the most celebrated and remote sites the Banda Sea has to offer. From the volcanic vents of Gunung Api to the sheer walls of Hatta Island, you will experience world-class diving. Depending on the season, this route can extend to the ‘Ring of Fire’ to witness schooling hammerheads and other pelagic species, showcasing the raw power and biodiversity of this marine frontier.

The Onboard Experience

Life aboard the Cengkeh Laut is defined by a philosophy of understated luxury and personalised service. We believe the journey should be as enriching as the destination itself. Our professional crew is dedicated to anticipating your needs, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the magic of the Banda Islands.

Gourmet Dining

Our chef crafts a daily-changing menu that is a culinary exploration of Indonesia and beyond. Using fresh, locally sourced produce—from reef fish caught that day to organic vegetables from island gardens—each meal is a celebration of flavour. We naturally incorporate the region’s famed spices into our dishes and can accommodate any dietary requirement or preference with advance notice.

Professional Crew & Watersports

Your safety and comfort are our highest priorities. The yacht is helmed by an experienced Indonesian captain and managed by a Western cruise director who ensures every aspect of your voyage is seamless. A certified PADI Dive Master guides all underwater excursions. For your leisure, the yacht is equipped with sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkelling sets, and top-tier diving equipment, all maintained to exacting standards.

Pricing & Availability

A private charter of the entire Banda Islands yacht ensures complete exclusivity and a fully tailored itinerary. Our pricing is transparent, reflecting the all-inclusive nature of the high-level service and comprehensive experience we provide. We operate during the two optimal seasons for this region: March-May and September-November.

Private Charter rates start from €7,500 per night.

What’s Included

• Exclusive use of the yacht and all its facilities
• Full crew including Captain, Cruise Director, and Chef
• All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and local beer
• Diving for certified divers (up to 3 dives per day) and dive master services
• Use of all watersports equipment
• All excursions and shore activities as per the itinerary
• Harbour fees and park permits
• Airport transfers in Ambon or Banda

What’s Excluded

• International and domestic flights
• Wine and spirits
• Dive certification courses
• Crew gratuities
• Travel and dive insurance (compulsory)

Inquire About Your Voyage

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What Our Guests Say

Our reputation is built on the experiences of those who have sailed with us. We are proud to have hosted historians, families, and avid explorers who appreciate our deep commitment to authentic, high-quality travel. Their words reflect the standards we uphold on every single charter.

“A Journey Through Time”

“Sailing into Banda Neira’s harbour felt like entering a Conrad novel. The team’s knowledge of the history was exceptional, bringing the forts and plantations to life. The service on the yacht was flawless and discreet. This was not a holiday; it was a true expedition, executed with elegance and intelligence. We are already planning our return.”
– Alistair & Eleanor, London, UK (via video testimonial)

“Diving Beyond Comparison”

“I have dived all over the world, and the Banda Sea is now firmly at the top of my list. The health of the corals and the sheer volume of fish were astounding. The dive team was professional, safe, and knew exactly where to find the most incredible marine life. The yacht itself was a perfect base, supremely comfortable after a day in the water.”
– Marcus R., Sydney, Australia

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to charter a yacht in the Banda Islands?

The Banda Sea has two distinct calm seasons ideal for yachting and diving. The primary season runs from September to November, and a secondary season occurs from March to May. During these periods, the seas are generally calm, skies are clear, and underwater visibility is at its peak. We suspend operations outside of these windows due to less predictable weather patterns associated with the monsoon.

How do we get to the Banda Islands?

The primary gateway to the archipelago is Ambon’s Pattimura Airport (AMQ), which receives daily flights from major Indonesian hubs like Jakarta (CGK) and Bali (DPS). From Ambon, you can either board the yacht directly or take a short connecting flight to the small airstrip in Banda Neira (NDA). Our team will assist in coordinating your domestic travel logistics and will arrange seamless transfers to the vessel.

What safety measures are in place on board?

Your safety is our paramount concern. Our yacht is fully equipped with modern safety and navigation equipment, including radar, GPS, satellite phone, life rafts, and extensive first aid supplies. Our crew is internationally certified and undergoes regular, rigorous training in first aid, emergency response, and firefighting procedures. We adhere to the highest maritime safety standards to ensure your complete peace of mind.

Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?

Absolutely. Our professional chef is adept at catering to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific allergies. We ask that you inform us of any requirements during the booking process so we can provision the yacht accordingly. Our goal is to create a delightful culinary experience for every guest, without exception.

Is there internet or mobile phone service available?

Due to the remote nature of the Banda Islands, connectivity is limited. While some coastal areas and larger villages may have intermittent local mobile signal, it should not be relied upon. The yacht is equipped with a satellite phone for emergency communications. We encourage guests to embrace this opportunity to disconnect and immerse themselves fully in the extraordinary surroundings.

What should I pack for a trip to the Banda Islands?

We recommend lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and sundresses. For evenings, a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt is useful. Essential items include swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarised sunglasses. For shore excursions, comfortable walking shoes are a must. All linens, towels, and basic toiletries are provided on board. We supply all dive and snorkel equipment, but you are welcome to bring your own.

What is the booking and payment process?

To confirm a charter, we require a 50% deposit upon signing the charter agreement. The remaining 50% balance is due 90 days prior to the departure date. Payments can be made via international bank transfer. Our booking team will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a smooth and transparent transaction from your initial inquiry to your final confirmation.

Can our itinerary be customised?

Yes, every private charter is inherently customisable. Our signature itineraries serve as well-planned suggestions, but we excel at tailoring the voyage to your specific interests. Whether you wish to spend more time diving a particular site, exploring historical landmarks, or simply relaxing in a secluded cove, our cruise director will work with you and the captain to craft your perfect daily schedule, subject to weather and sea conditions.

Are children welcome on board?

We warmly welcome families with children. A private yacht charter can be a wonderfully enriching experience for all ages. However, due to the adventurous nature of the destinations and the configuration of the vessel, we find it is most suitable for children aged 10 and above. We can create child-friendly activities and menus, but please note that we do not offer dedicated childcare services.

What level of diving experience is required?

The Banda Islands offer dive sites suitable for all levels, from tranquil coral gardens for beginners to challenging deep walls and currents for advanced divers. We require all divers to be certified. Our experienced dive master will assess your comfort and skill level to guide you on appropriate dives, ensuring a safe and enjoyable underwater experience for everyone.