Port Guide | Indonesia | Dive Deep
Ambon
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-06-12
Congratulations-you've washed ashore in Ambon, a scrappy, spice-scented corner of Indonesia that's managed to dodge the mainstream travel radar while quietly hoarding some of the planet's most spectacular marine life. Yes, Ambon is famously rich in biodiversity, but it's also delightfully quirky: this is a place whose colonial claim to fame was once nutmeg, a spice Europeans once valued so highly they cheerfully traded away Manhattan to secure steady shipments. (We leave it to you to decide who got the better end of that deal.) As you disembark, expect a port city where Dutch fortresses play backdrop to chaotic, motorbike-stuffed streets, and heaping plates of fresh seafood practically leap from grill to table-order the ikan bakar and thank us later. First things first: hydrate rigorously, slap on mosquito repellant like war paint, and surrender gracefully to Ambon's noisy charm. Two suggestions to start: snorkel or dive the technicolor waters, and afterwards, wander through the crumbling-yet-fascinating ruins of Fort Victoria, pondering all the trouble nutmeg once caused.
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Notes from the Editor
Ambon is known for its stunning marine biodiversity and historical sites. Travelers should try local cuisine, including seafood specialities. Always stay hydrated and protect against mosquitoes.
Where do cruise ships dock in Ambon?
Port Name Ambon
Country Indonesia
Region Southeast Asia
Ship Terminal Pelabuhan Yos Sudarso
Port Type Dedicated Port
Accessibility Accessible by road from the city center, approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) away. Taxi and local transport options are available.
What's the weather like in Ambon?
Best Season to Visit June to August (dry season)
Climate Tropical rainforest climate, warm and humid throughout the year.
Weather Notes The dry season (June to August) is generally ideal for visiting, with minimal rainfall. However, sudden thunderstorms can occur occasionally.
Temperature Range 75F to 85F (24C to 29C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 71F
Average Temp 80F
What do I need to know about Ambon?
Language Indonesian
Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 350,000 (approx.)
Timezone WIT (UTC+9)
How do I get around Ambon?
Taxis, ride-hailing services, local buses, and motorcycle taxis (ojek) are available for local transport.
What are The Best Things to do in Ambon?
Discover what you should do while you're in Ambon.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Ambon War Cemetery
Jl. Halong Negeri Lama, Halong
A sobering yet peaceful memorial dedicated to soldiers from World War II.
Distance from Terminal: 3.2 miles
Siwalima Museum
Taman Makmur, Nusaniwe
Explore Ambon's rich cultural and natural history in this extensive museum.
Distance from Terminal: 4.7 miles
Maluku Traditional Dance Workshop
Art centers across Ambon City
Participate in a workshop and learn dances traditionally performed at Maluku festivals.
Distance from Terminal: 2.8 miles
Clove Plantation Tour
Leihitu District plantations
Visit expansive clove plantations, learning about Ambon's historical spice trade significance.
Distance from Terminal: 22.4 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Natsepa Beach
Suli, Salahutu
Famous for its unique local snack, Rujak Natsepa, with crystal clear waters and sandy shores.
Distance from Terminal: 9.3 miles
Sunset at Pintu Kota Beach
Latuhalat Village, Nusaniwe
Iconic rock formation creating a unique natural doorway, breathtaking at sunset.
Distance from Terminal: 9.2 miles
Snorkeling at Hukurila Cave
Hukurila Village
Explore stunning underwater caves and vibrant marine life, a rare snorkeling experience.
Distance from Terminal: 10.8 miles
Kayaking around Pombo Island
Boat rides from Tulehu
Explore hidden coves and coral reefs around picturesque Pombo Island in a kayak.
Distance from Terminal: 11.2 miles
Swim with Sea Turtles at Liang Beach
Liang Beach, Salahutu
Chance to encounter friendly sea turtles in their natural habitat off stunning Liang Beach.
Distance from Terminal: 17.2 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Sago Worm Culinary Experience
Traditional markets and eateries around Ambon
Try this local delicacy of nutritious sago worms, a memorable and daring culinary adventure.
Distance from Terminal: 2.7 miles
Eel Watching at Larike Eel Sanctuary
Larike, West Leihitu
Witness gigantic tame Moray eels in a unique community-maintained natural sanctuary.
Distance from Terminal: 20.5 miles
Ambonese Spice Cooking Class
Various locations around Ambon
Learn to cook dishes infused with cloves, nutmeg, and other authentic Malukan spices.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Ambon City Tricycle Food Tour
Ambon City streets, multiple stops
Explore authentic Ambonese street food aboard traditional becak tricycles.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Overnight Trips
Overnight Trip to Seram Island
Fast boat from Tulehu harbor
Stay overnight in rustic homestays, experiencing authentic Malukan village life and wildlife.
Distance from Terminal: 15.4 miles
Night Fishing with Local Fishermen
Ambon coastal villages
Experience traditional night fishing techniques under the stars guided by local fishermen.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
A Little Extra
Traditional Ambon Massage and Spa
Select spas around Ambon City
Relax with an invigorating massage featuring Malukan essential oils and spices.
Distance from Terminal: 2.6 miles
Indonesia Regional Tip
Disrespecting religious symbols or figures Actions deemed harmless in other countries—like posing disrespectfully near temples—can be criminal offenses.