Spice Islands Cruises

A small group of islands scattered across the Indonesian archipelago’s remote northwest, the aptly-named Spice Islands are best-known for their highly-prized spices, especially cloves, nutmeg and mace. Dutch colonialists seized control here in the 16th century and monopolized the lucrative spice commerce for two centuries. Ambon Island was the world center of clove production and became the location for headquarters of the famous Dutch East India Company, whilst the nearby Banda Islands were the world’s sole source of nutmeg and mace.

Today the Spice Islands have been overlooked by modern-day adventurers and time appears to stand still. These and other spices are still cultivated and magnificent colonial legacies, along with traditional villages, remain intact. Be one of the privileged few to join pioneering Spice Islands cruises, sailing through this enchanting archipelago, where rich culture, historical significance and raw natural beauty reveal themselves. Experience picture-perfect beaches and staggeringly beautiful underwater gardens and marine life aboard our luxurious Ambon and Banda Islands cruises.