Spice Islands in December

April through October offers the most reliable weather, with less rain and calmer seas for island hopping. The southeast monsoon brings steady winds perfect for sailing between islands, and visibility underwater peaks for diving and snorkeling. July and August see the driest conditions, but also the highest prices and most crowds (though 'crowds' here means maybe 20 other tourists). Avoid November through March when the northwest monsoon brings heavy rains and rough seas. Boats often cancel during this period, leaving you stranded longer than planned. But here's a secret: the shoulder months of April and October offer the best balance. Weather's still good, prices drop, and you'll have places mostly to yourself. The nutmeg harvest happens twice yearly in June-July and November-December, so time your visit right and you can help pick spices that once launched a thousand ships.