The Spice Islands of Indonesia were once so valuable that the Dutch made a deal with the British to exchange them for New Amsterdam, now known as New York. These days the Spice Islands are highly valued by divers who cannot get enough of the incredibly rich waters of the Banda Sea. Many reports come back of vibrant reefs teeming with fish both large and small, with critters galore and a riot of colour.

Not many boats sail these seas but The Adventurer II is one luxury converted Phinisi schooner that is plying these waters bringing joy to the adventurous guests it welcomes on board. Divers that do step on board enjoy not only the fabulous reefs but also the comfort and splendour of this impressive looking liveaboard.

We sent our very own Sheldon Hey along to see whether the excited whispers about Banda’s underwater world were justified and to kick the tyres and lift the hood of the Adventurer II. Check out his ‘warts-and-all’ Adventurer II Banda Trip Report.

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