Featured anchorage – Banda Neira
Southeast Asia Pilot – October 2025
Banda Neira, Maluku (Indonesia)
04°31.498S, 129°53.583E
Mooring buoys
Picking up moorings at an anchorage like Banda Neira, instead of dropping anchor, is increasingly necessary as authorities scramble to preserve coral. Be prepared to move if asked to do so by the mooring’s owner or a local authority. Remember, it’s your responsibility to check moorings in terms of their availability, condition and suitability for your yacht. Be aware that some moorings are suitable for small, light boats only.
Overview
Once the centre of the global spice trade, Banda Neira is steeped in history. Its one of the greatest natural harbours – and one of the safest – in the Indonesia, ringed by volcanic peaks and colonial forts.
Anchorage Notes
Anchor off Banda Neira in 28-33 metres or on the shallower Gunung Api side at 04°31S, 129°53.498E. The holding in both is good. The harbour’s protection comes mainly from the live volcano, Gunung Api, that last erupted in 1988. This cluster of 10 volcanic islands is the famed ‘Spice Islands’.
Facilities
Ashore on the main island are forts and historical architecture, small hotels, guest houses and restaurants, a fascinating museum and a small airport. Banda Neira is not a fully-stocked provisioning port for large-scale or speciality items. The town has a fresh market, a fish market and a few small shops. There are no bars but you can find a cold beer at some guest houses. You can hire a bicycle rickshaw to get around.
Why stop here
The Banda Islands are remote, requiring a committed passage, but the rewards – both cultural and scenic – are immense. This is cruising at its most authentic. The historic jewel of the Banda Sea, once you’ve visited Banda Neira, you’ll never forget it.
Southeast Asia Pilot
Before heading to Banda Neira, make sure to get hold of a copy of Southeast Asia Pilot – 7th Edition. It has detailed coverage of 600+ anchorages across nine countries. Available now in print and digital editions.
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