Banda Sea
Welcome to El Aleph and a luxury cruise through Indonesia’s tropical Forgotten Islands in the Banda Sea. The Forgotten Islands (also known as the Southeast Moluccas) are a 1,000km chain of archipelagos which stretch from Timor to West Papua in the Banda Sea. If you are looking to cruise a remote destination and explore uninhabited, pristine islands then the aptly named Forgotten Islands are a dream cruise destination.
Experience sailing through this stunning chain of islands, stopping en route to swim, snorkel or scuba dive in crystal clear waters of the Banda Sea. Vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life make this an underwater paradise. This is the perfect place to get away from it all and loose yourself in the beauty of nature.
Couples will appreciate the privacy on board, groups of friends or family will be able to reconnect and enjoy time together with a range of activities including paddle boarding, island trips, trekking, water sports (snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, wake boarding, sea kayaking, water skiing, scuba diving and even a donut ring), bird watching, wildlife discovery or just relaxing on deck and watching the islands glide by. Children will love the feeling of exploring a remote area on board a real life pirate ship and have the chance to learn how to sail such a magical vessel.
If you prefer to take things at a more leisurely pace, soak up the sun, enjoy fine dining and watch your loved ones unwinding, smiling and laughing around you.
The Forgotten Islands are culturally Austronesian and the small communities that inhabit some of the islands have strong beliefs in myths and folklore. Powerful woodcarvings are used to symbolise ancestral figures and are believed to embody spirits. Distinctive and meaningful had woven ikat fabrics and plaited palm and bamboo baskets are among the other handicrafts made by the people here. As you pass by small waterside villages expect to see the carefree and smiling children waving, running along the beach splashing in the surf.
If being under or in the water is your preference, these volcanic islands offer some of Indonesia’s best dive sites and include pinnacles, drop offs, seamounts and slopes. Dive and snorkel sites are simply teeming with life and bursting with colour. The forgotten Islands are well known for attracting big fish, as pinnacles rise up from the deep ocean floor and attract fish like metal to a magnet. Schooling fish are the norm here and jacks, barracuda, reef sharks, hammerheads, Spanish mackerel, manta rays and even whale sharks are frequent sights. The Banda Sea is home to several species of whale which we often spot while cruising from island to island.
On land there are endless possibilities in the Forgotten Islands and with El Aleph privately chartered you have the freedom to choose your own route, schedule and itinerary. El Aleph and her dedicated crew will take you where you want to go, when you want to go.
Pulau Lembata is a traditional whaling island and also a great spot for rare, macro marine life. For the adventurers on board, take a trip to Pulau Wetar where the local villagers live in harmony with salt water crocodiles or stop off at any number of the uninhabited Forgotten Islands and step foot on pristine white sand beaches, trek to the islands’ peak for stunning views and end the day with a barbeque on the beach before watching shooting stars streaking across the clear night skies.
On Board El Aleph
El Aleph’s owner, who commissioned and over saw the building of El Aleph has exacting standards and as such, El Aleph offers unprecedented luxury, space and comfort. El Aleph’s experienced crew are always on hand to meet whatever needs you may have whilst understanding the need for discretion and your desire for privacy while on board. Your needs will not only be met, they will be exceeded.
El Aleph is a beautifully hand crafted vessel and her lavish design is unsurpassed by any other phinisi schooner ever built. She’ll be your exclusive, luxury home away from home while you explore this unique destination with your friends, family and loved ones. For more detailed information about El Aleph, view our full vessel specifications.
To enquire about our rates and availability or to book your Raja Ampat cruise on board El Aleph please contact us on: info@elalephcruising.com.
Please note that to ensure your privacy and an exclusive experience we only offer full charters and do not take bookings for individual cabins.
Sarah Wormald
