Cruising the Moluccas (Spice Islands) in Indonesia

Created by sue. Last modified on 2009-01-15 15:31:04
Countries: Indonesia

We have just completed 3 months in Indonesia, of which more than two were spent in the Moluccas as part of the Eastern Indonesia Rally (Saumlaki, Tual/Debut, Banda, Saparua, Ambon etc).

Most of these islands have not had many visitors and the reception we got was overwhelming. The Moluccas are literally packed with friendly people, beautiful cultural displays and wonderful handicrafts. The anchorages vary from somewhat challenging to very good. If you are interested in diving or snorkelling there are some stunning sites. History is everywhere in these once very coveted islands.

We never had any problems with officials other than a natural tendency to go a little slow (Indonesia is on "rubber time").

Sail Indonesia did a marvellous job for us, but we are going back on our own next year en-route to Japan. Our CAIT was issued through Sail Indonesia, but there are agents that can deal with this process quite effectively.

We would be happy to pass on information about the Moluccas and Indonesia in general.

Eva and Jan on SY Necessity
Website Sailaway
A full account is currently posted in Norwegian, but an English version will follow shortly.

Message sent 7 January 2009:
Hi, we have been put in touch with an agent who deals in CAITS and Sponsor letters via Jakarta. We have used her on several occasions, and it has been a quick and painless transaction.

With the Rally from Darwin to Kupang having troubles in 2008, organising your own CAIT is a simple process, and allows for independent cruising if you choose not to cruise with a PACK.

The address to contact for further details is:
Rachel Robertson: seaspray66@hotmail.com