Maluku & Sulawesi: Rare Species, Cultures & Corals

Arrive in the historic Spice Island of Ternate, once one of the world’s most important centres of the clove trade and a pivotal crossroads of exploration, commerce and natural history. Before boarding Ombak Putih, there may be time to explore some of the island’s colonial heritage and volcanic landscapes, framed by the dramatic cone of Mount Gamalama rising above the harbour. After settling aboard the vessel and meeting the crew, the voyage begins with a short sail towards Halmahera and the village of Dodinga — a location deeply connected to the work of Alfred Russel Wallace. It was during his travels through these islands in the 19th century that Wallace developed many of the ideas that would later contribute to the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection. Later in the afternoon, enjoy the expedition’s first snorkel among the reefs of northern Maluku before returning on deck for sunset as the vessel sails south through a chain of volcanic islands. NB* Due to the unpredictability of flight schedules you need to arrive in Ternate the day before departure. Ask us about pre-tour accommodation options.

Meals:  L,D

The remote Guraici Archipelago offers an ideal introduction to the reef systems and island cultures of northern Maluku. Scattered across calm turquoise waters, these small islands are fringed with white-sand beaches, vibrant coral gardens and traditional fishing villages rarely visited by travellers. Spend the day snorkelling over healthy reefs alive with tropical fish, sea fans and colourful hard corals, with opportunities to swim, paddleboard or simply relax ashore beneath coconut palms. The protected marine environment here also provides excellent conditions for easing into the rhythm of expedition life and becoming familiar with the region’s warm tropical waters. A visit to one of the local villages offers insight into daily life within this remote island chain before Ombak Putih continues southward overnight towards Bacan Island.

Meals:  B,L,D

Dense rainforest, freshwater streams and rich volcanic soils make Bacan one of the biologically richest islands of the northern Moluccas. The island is forever associated with Alfred Russel Wallace, who travelled extensively here while documenting the extraordinary biodiversity of Wallacea. Accompanied by local guides, explore forest trails in search of some of the region’s endemic wildlife, including hornbills, parrots, cuscus and, with luck, the remarkable Golden Birdwing butterfly — described by Wallace as among the most beautiful insects he had ever encountered. Following the morning’s wildlife exploration, return to the coast for snorkelling along coral-fringed beaches where healthy reef systems support abundant marine life beneath the clear tropical waters.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today’s exploration shifts from wildlife to the rich cultural and trading history that shaped these islands for centuries. Off the coast of Obi Latu, steep forested hillsides give way to villages surrounded by clove and nutmeg plantations — reminders of the extraordinary spice trade that once drew European powers deep into the East Indies. Walking through the plantations alongside local growers provides insight into traditions that have changed little over generations. Fragrant cloves dry in the sun while nutmeg trees line the pathways leading through the village, offering a fascinating connection to the islands’ long maritime history. Back aboard the vessel, the afternoon sail through the Banda Sea reveals a remote island world still largely untouched by modern tourism.

Meals:  B,L,D

Wake among the remote islands of the Sula Archipelago, where forested shorelines, white beaches and coral reefs stretch across the heart of the Banda Sea. The reefs here are particularly vibrant, supporting an impressive diversity of tropical fish and marine species within the warm nutrient-rich waters of the Coral Triangle. The day combines snorkelling, kayaking and relaxed exploration ashore, with time to enjoy the unhurried pace of life that defines these isolated islands. Later, step ashore to explore a local village and the remnants of a 17th-century Dutch fort once established to protect valuable spice trading routes passing through the region. Layers of maritime history remain woven through the islands and communities encountered along the voyage.

Meals:  B,L,D

Cultural encounters take centre stage today on remote Taliabu Island. Ashore, a traditional cakalale war dance performed by local villagers offers a vivid insight into the ceremonial traditions that continue to shape island life throughout Maluku. Beyond the village, the surrounding reefs offer exceptional snorkelling, with coral slopes and reef walls supporting abundant fish life in remarkably clear waters. There is also time to swim, kayak or relax on secluded beaches scattered along the coastline. As evening falls, the crew prepare a beach barbecue beneath the stars, accompanied by traditional Indonesian songs and the relaxed atmosphere of life at sea in one of Indonesia’s most remote island regions.

Meals:  B,L,D

The Bokan Islands are among the expedition’s most scenic destinations, with limestone islands, hidden lagoons and coral reefs extending across brilliant turquoise waters. The day is devoted to marine exploration, with opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and tender excursions through sheltered inlets and caves. One of the voyage’s most unusual natural encounters awaits at Danau Piasu Botangan, a rare marine lake inhabited by stingless jellyfish. Found in only a handful of locations worldwide, these isolated ecosystems offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolutionary processes that have shaped life throughout Wallacea.

Meals:  B,L,D

Bustling Banggai provides a fascinating contrast to the isolated islands visited earlier in the voyage. Explore local markets, neighbourhoods and the former Sultan’s palace by colourful motorised rickshaw while gaining insight into the maritime traditions and daily life of this important regional centre. The day also highlights important conservation initiatives within the region. Visits with local organisations working in coral restoration and sustainable fishing practices reveal the ongoing efforts to protect the fragile marine ecosystems of the Coral Triangle. Later, snorkel reefs inhabited by the striking Banggai cardinalfish — a beautiful and highly threatened endemic species found only within this part of Indonesia.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning offers the opportunity to encounter one of Indonesia’s most remarkable endemic birds — the Maleo. Found only on Sulawesi, these unusual ground-dwelling birds are famous for their distinctive appearance and unique nesting behaviour. Visit a protected conservation site where Maleo birds gather at sandy nesting grounds along the coast. Observing them quietly from a concealed hide offers a rare and memorable wildlife experience within one of the region’s most important conservation areas. Later in the day, Ombak Putih sails towards the Togean Islands National Park, a remote island chain renowned for its coral reefs, rainforest-covered islands and rich marine biodiversity.

Meals:  B,L,D

The Togean Islands reveal a striking landscape of jungle-clad islands, calm lagoons and vibrant reefs scattered across the Gulf of Tomini. These isolated islands are also home to Bajau communities whose lives remain deeply connected to the sea. At Kabalutan Village, gain insight into the traditions and daily rhythms of the Bajau people, often referred to as “sea nomads” for their centuries-old maritime culture. Encounters here offer a meaningful cultural dimension to the expedition and a deeper understanding of life across remote maritime Indonesia. The afternoon is spent snorkelling pristine reefs before continuing deeper into the national park.

Meals:  B,L,D

Exceptional wildlife encounters continue throughout the Togean Islands today, both above and below the waterline. Snorkelling near Malenge reveals healthy coral systems teeming with reef fish, giant clams and colourful marine invertebrates. A second visit to a stingless jellyfish lake at nearby Lake Mariona provides another opportunity to experience one of the region’s rarest ecosystems. Later, visit a local village before a forest walk timed to witness one of the area’s most memorable natural spectacles — flocks of hornbills returning to roost overhead as evening settles across the islands.

Meals:  B,L,D

A more relaxed day at sea allows time to fully absorb the rhythm of expedition life aboard Ombak Putih. After a morning snorkel and village visit in the eastern Togeans, the vessel begins its longer crossing towards mainland Sulawesi. As the islands gradually recede into the distance, there is time to unwind on deck, watch for seabirds and flying fish, or simply enjoy the changing seascapes of the Gulf of Tomini. Guests may also join an informal Indonesian cooking demonstration led by the onboard chef. The evening brings another memorable gathering on deck as the voyage continues northward beneath the stars.

Meals:  B,L,D

One of the expedition’s most anticipated experiences awaits this morning — snorkelling alongside whale sharks in the coastal waters of North Sulawesi. Encounters with these enormous yet gentle filter feeders are often both intimate and unforgettable. After returning aboard for breakfast, continue along the coast with further opportunities for swimming and snorkelling before the crew prepare a final beach gathering and farewell dinner beneath the stars. It is a fitting final evening to reflect on a journey that has traversed some of Indonesia’s most remote islands, reefs and wildlife habitats.

Meals:  B,L,D

The voyage concludes near Bitung on the northern coast of Sulawesi. Before disembarkation, visit a local wildlife rescue and conservation centre dedicated to the protection of endangered Indonesian species including sun bears, primates and native birds. Following a short final sail into harbour, bid farewell to the crew and fellow travellers before transferring onwards to Manado for departing flights or further exploration of Sulawesi. Manado airport is approximately one hours drive from Bitung so we suggest not booking a flight out of Manadao until after 3pm.

Meals:  B