Spice Islands & Raja Ampat 8 Day Expedition
This itinerary brings together the best of Spice Islands and Raja Ampat in an adventure-filled seven-night excursion. Experience the cultural tapestry of the Banda Islands – which used to be the heart of the spice trade – and the otherworldly landscapes of Raja Ampat, a tropical bucket list destination known to be one of the world’s best diving sites.
Highlights
• Explore the historic Banda Islands, once the global centre of the spice trade, with well-preserved colonial architecture and deep cultural heritage.
• Discover Raja Ampat’s dramatic limestone islands and marine-rich waters, regarded as one of the world’s premier diving and snorkelling regions.
• Experience remote island life across Misool, Arborek and surrounding bays, with opportunities for pristine coral reef exploration and wildlife encounters.
Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon. Board Aqua Blu and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon.
Approach the Banda Islands at sunrise, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes at the harbor. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Nassau on Banda Neira – which used to be the most hotly contested island in the world back in the 16th and 17th century. Walk through ancient passageways now bustling with modern life, yet still showcasing a treasure trove of history. After lunch, head out for a snorkeling or diving excursion, and end the evening with a sundowner at Fort Belgica.
Spend the day exploring some of the finest reefs on the planet. Off the remote island of Koon, divers and snorkelers can look forward to visiting ‘Too Many Fish’, an aptly named site with plenty of reef fish sightings as well as occasional pop-ins by leopard sharks and hammerhead sharks.
The Wayil region of Raja Ampat features a number of uncharted islands, each harboring pristine beaches and secret lagoons. Enjoy kayaking among the reefs or head out swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Next, we make a stop at Misool, one of the four major islands in Raja Ampat. While here, embark on an easy trek on small, sandy coves and land-locked lakes. There will also be options to swim, snorkel, or kayak in the numerous blue pools hosting sparkling coral reefs.
Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of Penemu Island, home to the renowned Melissa’s Garden. This iconic dive and snorkel site is surrounded by a hard coral garden, teeming with a vibrant array of marine life. In the afternoon, set out in search of manta rays near the charming island village of Arborek. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the village, immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of island life.
Yeben Island is a hidden treasure of Raja Ampat known for its clear water and beautiful beaches. Spend the morning exploring the island and observing marine life in the surrounding waters. Head back on board Aqua Blu to refuel your appetite while sailing to Yangeffo Bay. While at Yangeffo Bay, experience an exhilarating dive excursion at the renowned Mayhem reef, or snorkel the mangroves at Citrus Ridge. Watch the sunset from a tender ride out at sea.
Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular nature excursion to spot the rare birds of paradise on the island of Waigeo. After breakfast enjoy a relaxed snorkel excursion at Friwinbonda Island. In the afternoon test your sense of adventure heading inland on a local canoe before a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river. Depart for Sorong for your last night.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board in Sorong before your outbound flight.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Cabin. From
Vessel Type: Yacht
Length: 198 feet / 60 meters
Passenger Capacity: 28
Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019
Aqua Blu is a one-of-a-kind long-range explorer yacht, purposefully stationed in East Indonesia to provide unrivalled access to the Coral Triangle—one of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. Originally a British naval vessel and later a private yacht for European aristocracy, she underwent a world-class refit in 2019 by Dutch designer Cor D. Rover. Now reimagined with 14 elegant suites, Aqua Blu offers the perfect blend of refined luxury, comfort, and adventure, carrying just 28 guests with personalised service from 32 expert crew.
Designed for both underwater exploration and stylish relaxation, Aqua Blu features expansive decks, an outdoor gym, spa with Balinese massage, a hot tub, and chic lounges. Guests enjoy cuisine by acclaimed chef Benjamin Cross, who draws inspiration from the region’s spice trade heritage. Onboard life is relaxed yet elevated, with options for diving (at no extra cost for certified divers), snorkelling, kayaking, or simply unwinding with sunset cocktails on the sundeck. With its naval pedigree and modern refinement, Aqua Blu is the ultimate base for discovering the remote beauty of East Indonesia’s seas and shores.
Inclusions
• Elegant design suite accommodations
• All onboard meals
• Non-alcoholic beverages and house wines, and beer
• Small-group excursions with expert guides
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Wet suits
• Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
• Onboard lectures and evening entertainment
• Laundry service
• Complimentary high-speed satellite internet
• Entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park (for Galapagos cruises only).
• Provide group transfers from/to the airport if you arrive and depart on our recommended flights
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Private transfers
• Spa costs
• Gratuities (Recommended USD20-30 per person per day for crew. Guide gratuities additional)
• Cocktails
• Optional boutique purchases
Yacht
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