Spice Islands & West Papua 8 Day Expedition

Description

World-class diving spots, spectacular waterfalls, and a treasure trove of history all await on this one-off voyage to uncover the secrets of East Indonesia.
This dual-destination itinerary offers the best of the Spice Islands and West Papua. Starting in Ambon, discover the rich colonial heritage of the Banda Islands, known to harbor the impressive Fort Belgica which towers over the town of Banda Neira. Next, explore the Koon group of islands, home to renowned snorkeling and diving sites with chances to spot hammerhead and leopard sharks. Discover the mangrove bays of Teluk Sebakor, the Kitikiti waterfall in Momon, the beaches of Cape Papisol, and finally, enjoy swimming with whale sharks at Triton Bay.

Trip Name

Spice Islands & West Papua 8 Day Expedition

Days

Overview

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

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Indonesia Ambon

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.

Day 2 - Day 2 Indonesia Banda

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.

Day 3 - Day 3 Indonesia Koon, Gorong, And Watubela

Spend the day exploring three remote island groups, defined by their pristine beaches, sandy atolls, and colorful coral reefs. 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.

Day 4 - Day 4 Indonesia Teluk Sebakor

Channel your inner Indiana Jones at Teluk Sebakor, a marine and terrestrial wonderland tucked in the Bomberai Peninsula. This region is a prime spot for kayaking and tender rides along mangrove bays that dot the eastern shoreline. Over in the north, we get to marvel at a collection of karst limestone islands, as well as a shoreline cave inhabited by a colony of screeching bats.

Day 5 - Day 5 Indonesia Momon

The central attraction of Momon is a spectacular waterfall that thunders directly into the sea from the high forests above. Guests who are feeling adventurous may jump into the ocean and swim to the waterfall’s plunge pool for a refreshing, cold shower. Momon also features fantastic snorkeling and kayaking spots along the jungle-fringed shoreline with a reasonable chance of spotting quirky hornbills up in the trees. Endemic forest kangaroos can occasionally be sighted in the wooded areas as well.

Day 6 - Day 6 Indonesia Cape Papisol

Cape Papisol offers a panoramic view of the Bomberai Peninsula from its forested outback which rises to over 1,300 meters. Starting from the island’s magnificent white-sand beach, guests can embark on a trek up-river to a spectacular waterfall close to the Karawawi village. This area is characterized by gusty winds and mist – a micro-weather system created by the river plunging from high above into a rocky pool.

Day 7 - Day 7 Indonesia Triton Bay

Head out early in the morning for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with whale sharks in crystal-clear waters that make up Triton Bay. This region features sublime dive sites, home to a wealth of rare marine life and reefs decorated with some of the finest soft corals in the world. Over on land, the scenery consists of forest-covered limestone cliffs and prehistoric artwork high up on the rocky walls.

Day 8 - Day 8 Indonesia Kaimana

After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to Aqua Blu and disembark in the port town of Kaimana.

Day 9 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

Explore the best of East Indonesia on board the luxurious Aqua Blu.
Sail the region with our expert guides and embark on twice-daily excursions including snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and enjoying sundowners at private beaches.
While on board, relax in a spacious suite or make yourself at home with social spaces such as the spa & exercise area, jacuzzi, sky lounge bar, and sun deck.