Hi John
We did the Darwin to Ambon last year and in 2008 and had a ball both times. Last year we spent a couple of weeks in Ambon and sailed on to Banda. Dived at the foot of Gunung Api on the lava flow which was a spectacular
coral reef. Heaps of other spots to snorkel or dive around nearby islands too. The
water was crystal clear and free from rubbish. The locals are doing a great job to properly dispose of their rubbish on Banda. We then sailed onto Saumlaki for another 2 weeks.
The
race committee organised our CAIT and
Customs Bond Exemption Certificate for us. All gov officials met us on arrival and we were cleared to go ashore within 30 min of dropping the pick. The committee organised interpreters to help, and it was really easy.
Cheers Greg