Pulau Ai
Pulau Ai is an island that is part of the Banda Islands.
Understand
The island is limited to a single village with nutmeg and kenari almond plantations. This is a very relaxing place. Ai Island is a popular snorkeling and diving destination.
Get in
At least one daily boat leaves Ai Island in early morning for Banda Neira, then returns from Neira Island to Ai Island around 11:00-12:00.
Get around
On foot or you may ask the locals to ride you by motorbike or rent their motorbike.
See
White sand beaches, fort, and plantations.
- 🌍 Fort Revengie (Fort der Wrake, Benteng Revenge). A fort built by Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC, "Dutch East India Company") on Pulau Ai in 1616.
Do
Snorkelling or scuba diving.
Buy
There are only few small convenience stores selling cigarettes and other usual stuff.
Eat
All guesthouses include 3 meals a day.
Drink
There is nowhere to get alcohol on this island.
Sleep
There are several cheap options:
- 🌍 Green Peace Homestay. Just on the left (when coming from the sea) of the jetty. Rp150,000/night, including 3 meals. Nice basic rooms, with private bathroom (western toilet). You can swim/snorkel directly from the house. Great views on the sea and Pulau Ai. Snorkelling gear available for rent.
- 🌍 Green Coconut Guest House, ☏ +62 812 424 10667. Further on the left (when coming from the sea), yellow building visible from the sea. Rp200,000.
- 🌍 Ardy Guesthouse. In the village (not on the sea front).
- 🌍 CDS Bungalow. More luxury option.
Connect
No Internet is available here (no Wifi, and cellphone data does not work).
Go next
You may charter a boat to go to Pulau Run, but using public transport you'll have to track back to Banda Neira.