Remote, exotic and aromatic, the Spice Islands evoke visions of 17th century Dutch explorers building a wealthy trading empire, far from their European home. The history of this region is as rich and pungent as the spices it produced. Explorers and world wars have traversed this isolated line of islands, and yet their culture remains unique and intact. Centuries of artisan’s creations are expressed in colourful and unique artworks. Naturalists will marvel at the diversity of flora and fauna demarked by the Wallace Line. Further to the west, the pre-historic dragons of Komodo remind us how short our human history is. Wallacea is the epitome of Orion’s raison d’être.

Forgotten Islands & Asmat Art
2012 Departure - April 6
Explore from Thursday Island, on Australia’s northern frontier to the distinctive Asmat region of Papua New Guinea, where village houses are built on stilts and linked by raised wooden walkways over mangrove mud flats. The Asmat region is especially respected for artworks and artefacts - the local Agats museum holds many fine carvings and the expedition team will show you where similar work is available for purchase. The Forgotten Islands have a rich indigenous maritime heritage demonstrated by impressive rituals like the ancient stone boat ceremony symbolising the arrival of the original inhabitants of Maluku. Our expedition will take us into the villages to meet the people, see ikat weaving and bargain in markets for beautiful weavings, exquisite wooden carvings and colonial Dutch artefacts.

Discover the history of ancient trade routes as we sail in the wake of the early navigators and traders who opened this new world of spices, gold and pearls. Remote islands and ancient cultures make this journey simply enthralling.