Aqua Blu Itinerary
Spice Islands - Raja Ampat13 days / 12 nights
About Aqua Blu
- Expertly designed interiors combining naval heritage and modern luxury
- Choice of itineraries exploring Indonesia’s most famous dive destinations
- Enjoy free use of top-of-the-line watersports equipment
- Sample a tempting menu of recipes crafted by a renowned international chef
Spread across five decks, Aqua Blu liveaboard is the archetypal modern explorer yacht with a rich naval heritage and stylish, five-star service. Refurbished in 2019 by an expert Dutch yacht designer, this vessel comes equipped with state-of-the-art relaxation and recreation facilities and impeccable design all-round - from the sumptuous suites to the expansive sun deck. Offering both week-long and 12-night itineraries throughout renowned dive destinations such as Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands and Raja Ampat, Aqua Blu is the ultimate setting for a luxurious dive expedition, venturing deep into Indonesia’s unspoiled sanctuaries to witness the beauty of nature.
Itinerary details
Length of trip 13 days / 12 nights
Number of dives TBA
Experience Open Water - Minimum 30 dives
Insurance Required
Highlights
- One-way itinerary combining Raja Ampat with the Banda Sea
- Dive the well-known and action-packed Dampier Strait
- Discover dramatic underwater landscapes and stunning reefs in Misool
- Dive reefs with exceptional biodiversity in the heart of the Coral Triangle
- Explore the Banda Sea's swim-throughs and deep walls
- Enjoy Ambon’s world-class muck diving and spot the psychedelic frogfish
- Dayang island is known for plenty of marine life, especially manta rays
- Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay and a 17th-century fort on Banda Neira
- Night dives included in the itinerary
Day 1: Ambon
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.
Day 2: Hila
Head out for your first excursion to explore the historical Dutch fortification of Fort Amsterdam in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon and learn about the incredible history of the spice trade. Next, enjoy a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, enact an old naval tradition—'hands to bathe'—where you jump into the water and swim, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.
Head out for your first excursion to explore the historical Dutch fortification of Fort Amsterdam in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon and learn about the incredible history of the spice trade. Next, enjoy a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, enact an old naval tradition—'hands to bathe'—where you jump into the water and swim, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.
Day 3: Banda Islands and Banda Neira
Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbour. 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 centuries, and learn about the colorful story of the Old World spice trade.
Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbour. 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 centuries, and learn about the colorful story of the Old World spice trade.
Day 4: Pulau Koon and Pulau Gorong
Snorkel, swim, kayak, and spearfish in the numerous blue pools and over the sparkling coral reefs on 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 drop-offs. Set sail to Misool after dinner.
Day 5: Misool
The magnificent land and seascape of Misool are said to own some of the finest reefs on the planet. Take an easy trek on small sandy coves and landlocked lakes. Snorkel, swim, kayak, and spearfish in the numerous blue pools over the sparkling coral reefs.
Day 6: Wayil
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.
Day 7: One Thousand Temples
Arrival at the 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.
Day 8: Dayang Island and Arborek Island
We’ll be arriving early at Dayang Island, known for its plethora of marine life, especially Reef Manta Rays and occasionally Oceanic Manta Rays. Snorkelers and divers alike will revel in the close presence of such majestic creatures at the Manta Cleaning Station. Cruise to Arborek Island for a cultural excursion at the Papuan village. Then, return onboard to dine beneath the stars.
Day 9: Pulau Wayag
Watch the magnificence of Pulau Wayag’s limestone islets and lagoons unfold 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.
Day 10: Aljui Bay and Wofoh Island
Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay. Next, it’s off to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling, and water sports in the afternoon. Lay back and enjoy Aqua Blu’s Beach Club on a private beach, sipping on bespoke cocktails and frolicking family fun as the sun sets.
Day 11: Yangeffo Island and Cape Kri
Rise in the morning to birdsong for an early tender tour of Kabui Bay's magnificent karsts. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast while cruising to Cape Kri. Snorkel or dive at a site that holds the world record for most species spotted in a single 90-minute dive. Dine underneath the stars once you’re back onboard.
Day 12: Mayalibit Bay
Wake up before sunrise to embark on a spectacular hike to spot the rare birds of paradise on the island of Waigeo. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed snorkeling excursion at Friwinbonda Island. In the afternoon, test your sense of adventure by heading in land on a local canoe before a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river.
Day 13: Sorong Harbour
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard in Sorong before your outbound flight.
Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.
Transfer details
Departure
04:30pm
Ambon
Pattimura International Airport: AMQ
Return
06:30am
Sorong
Sorong Airport: SOQ
Current availability and prices: https://www.zubludiving.com/itineraries/aqua-blu/itn-2212130238341-spice-islands-raja-ampat