The Spice Islands in the Maluku region was once the center of the global spice trade. Centuries-old traditions and European relics on Banda Neira, once a booming spice hub, sit against the backdrop of Gunung Banda Api (“Fire Mountain”), an active volcano that’s also a hiker’s and birdwatchers’ favourite. Lava flows into the sea has created magnificent underwater gardens.
Raja Ampat, a land of glittering blue waters and strange rock formations, is part of the Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua, the Indonesia’s second easternmost province. The region is home to endemic and rare bird species, including the exquisite Wilson’s bird of paradise. As well as the most diverse marine habitats in the world.

Highlights


• A magnificent exploration of culture and nature, discover the best of the Spice Islands and Raja Ampat on this 12-night odyssey


Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon and board Aqua Blu at Laha Bay, a famous muck diving site. There are also opportunities for trekking and birdwatching inland.
Early morning, depart for the island outpost of Saparua, sailing along the scenic north coast of Ambon. Disembark en route at the coastal town of Hila to explore the old Dutch fortification, Fort Amsterdam. Continue onto Sarapua, where a host of water activities await, or discover local pottery-making at Ouw village, visit a local market, see European relics or explore bird habitats.
Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbor. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira, once the most hotly contested island in the world in the 16th and 17th century, and learn about the colorful story of the Old World spice trade.
Snorkel, swim, kayak and spear-fish in the numerous blue pools and over the sparkling coral reefs on the Koon Island, also known as the Marine Superhighway because of its location along a migratory route. Kayak into the narrow waterway entrance in Manawoka of Gorong island to view shallow reefs and deep dropoffs. Set sail to Misool after dinner.
The mignificient land and seascape of Misool are said to own some of the finest reefs on the planet. Take a easy trek on small sandy coves and land-locked lakes. Snorkel, swim, kayak and spear-fish in the numerous blue pools over the sparkling coral reefs.
Explore Wayil's secret lagoons and limestone peaks on Aqua Blu's fleet of tenders, and discover your very own snorkeling/swimming spot or beach. Relax on the tranquil beaches with sunset cocktails.
Arrival at One Thousand Temples group after breakfast. Explore cave systems, mysterious moon jellyfish lakes and embark on unforgettable tender trips through karst island seascapes with the opportunity to discover ancient rock art. Venture into the inner sanctum of Tomolol Cave, Misool’s famed subterranean experience featuring a river-sized waterway that flows through its massive interior.
Explore the mesmerizing terrains and lagoons of the Penumu Islands on a tender. Snorkel at Batu Burung (Melissa’s Garden) before ending the day at a pristine beach where a cocktail party awaits. Dinner onboard while cruising towards Arborek.
Watch the magnificence of Pulau Wayag’s limestone islets and lagoons unveil before your eyes as the sun rises. Climb to the top of Mount Pindito for a bird’s eye view of the stunning surroundings and attempt to spot rare birds of paradise before making the lagoons and reefs your home for the day.
Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay before cruising to Pulau Pef and Yangello for snorkeling and watersports in the afternoon. Explore hidden lagoons and karst limestone islets aboard our tenders or kayaks. Arrive at Dayang Island for dinner.
Embark on a morning trek with our guides to look for birds of paradise in the lush forest. Dayang island is known for plenty of marine life, especially manta rays. Snorkeling is excellent at Wai along the bordering reef systems. For adventurous divers, explore the sunken wreckage of a WW2 P47D fighter plane and the beautiful reefs and sea-mounts of Tapok.
Arrival in Birie, a group of islands, bays and lagoons that lie just off the coast of north Batanta. Discover mangrove-fringed bays and plenty of wildlife en route to the spectacular waterfall in Batanta mainland. Ship will cruise eastwards towards Sorong during dinner.
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard in Sorong before your outbound flight.
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.

Cabin. From

$16,140 USD pp
Cabin. From
15 individually-designed suites in 3 categories across four decks. 2 pairs of interconnecting suites available.

Vessel Type: Yacht

Length: 198 feet / 60 meters

Passenger Capacity: 30

Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019

Presenting a brand-new cruise experience in the pristine East Indonesian Archipelago, Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing the region’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands and Raja Ampat on unforgettable 7- and 12-night itineraries.

Where modern luxury meets naval heritage

With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle and later as the private yacht of a European aristocratic family, Aqua Blu is a compelling maritime statement. A 2019 refurbishment overseen by Dutch yacht design maestro Cor D. Rover brings the vessel to world-class cruising specifications. Guests can expect to embrace an distinguished sense of history and seafaring evolution when they set foot on this one-of-a-kind cruise ship.

Inside the four-deck, 15-suite Aqua Blu, Cor has tastefully paired with a brass-and-ivory interior theme with generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a sun deck.

Unlocking access to the Earth’s most intriguing destinations

Faster, further, greater safety and comfort — Aqua Blu’s naval pedigree makes it the perfect vessel to navigate East Indonesia’s vast seas. Having attained the highest international classifications (RINA, SOLAS, ISM) in safety, the vessel is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilizers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing.

Aqua Blu’s range stands heads and shoulders above that of its peers in East Indonesia. Able to cover vast distances in a short span of time — and in any sea condition — the vessel enables explorers on board to experience the most varied, enjoyable and rewarding coastal cruise itineraries in this wild and stunningly beautiful region of the world.

On Board Living and Social Areas

Sun Deck with Outdoor Seating, Lounge Sofa and Barbecue

Bridge Deck with Jacuzzi, Outdoor Lounge Area, Spa and Exercise Zone

Forecastle Deck with Outdoor Dining and Seating Area, Indoor Lounge Bar, Library and TV Room

Main Deck with Outdoor Seating, Salon and Dining Room

Cabin layout for Aqua Blu

Inclusions


• All meals while on board
• Selected premium wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
• Excursions with knowledgeable local guides
• Group transfers between vessel and meeting point
• Laundry
• Internet connection (intermittent depends on locations)
• Group transfers to/from ship in conjunction with recommended flights
• Internet on board (limited connection, subject to coverage)
• Snorkelling equipment and wet suits
• Scuba diving
• All available non-motorised water sports

• NOTE: Transfers not included on itineraries embarking/disembarking in Bali
• NOTE: Scuba diving is limited to qualified scuba divers, aged 10 and above, only (PADI, SSI, NAUI, BSAC)

Exclusions


• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Private transfers
• Spa costs
• Gratuities (Recommended USD20-30 per persom per day for crew. Guide gratuities additional)
Aqua Blu
Indonesia YachtYacht
13 Days from
$16,140 USD pp

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NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

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