Seram Island, Maluku Islands

1. Introduction to Seram Island
2. Where is Seram Island?
3. What can I see there?
4. Which boats cruise there?
5. Tips for planning your visit

1. Introduction to Seram Island

Mysterious, mountainous, and almost entirely cloaked in rainforest, Seram Island is the largest of Indonesia’s Maluku Islands — yet one of the least known to travellers.

Seram, meaning “the island of spirits” in local legend, has long been regarded as a sacred land. Its dramatic landscapes — from mist-shrouded peaks to coral-fringed bays — have inspired stories for millennia. The island’s remote character has helped preserve its ecosystems and the ancient traditions of its Indigenous communities, who still live in close harmony with nature.

To read more about my trip to Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands aboard Coral Discoverer, click here.

Snorkelling in the warm waters of Raja Ampat. Image of me (Melissa Connell) copyright Grace Picôt.

2. Where is Seram Island?

Seram Island is located in Maluku Province, eastern Indonesia, between the larger islands of Buru to the west and Ambon to the south. It lies in the Banda Sea and is part of the Maluku archipelago. The island is known for its rugged mountains, dense tropical forests, and rich biodiversity, including endemic wildlife and traditional villages.

3. What can I see there?

One of the oldest villages in the Maluku islands, Saleman is set in the middle of the Banda Sea, with simple stilt homes over the ocean and a spectacular Karst landscape. Take a meandering walk through the village, engage in local life or go snorkelling in the afternoon.

Towering limestone mountains, hidden caves, and dense rainforest make Seram Island a paradise for naturalists and photographers alike. The island’s rugged topography supports crystal-clear rivers and cascading waterfalls that tumble through jungle valleys. On the coast, mangroves give way to idyllic beaches and vibrant coral gardens — ideal for snorkelling excursions.

• Cultural visits to a traditional village, like Saleman Village.

• Snorkelling along Seram’s coral-fringed bays, exploring pristine marine environments.

• Wildlife photography expeditions, capturing the island’s extraordinary diversity and misty volcanic backdrops.

• Beach landings and swimming in hidden coves

4. What boats cruise there?

Coming soon …

5. What to pack

For a visit to Seram Island, pack light, practical items:

• Breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes or sandals for uneven paths

• Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen for sun protection

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

• Insect repellent

• Camera or smartphone for photos

• Small local currency if you wish to support villagers or buy souvenirs

Keep your pack minimal to move easily through the village and along the shoreline.