Aqua Blu Itinerary

West Papua and Asmat Tribe Expedition - 9N

Day 1: Kaimana

Arrive to a warm welcome in Kaimana. There will be a private transfer to Grand Hotel Papua Kaimana to rest and freshen up before boarding Aqua Blu. Indulge in the signature Aqua Blu dining experience, designed by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your suite and bid farewell to the harbor as we set sail. 

Day 2: 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 3: 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 magnificent white-sand beach, guests can trek upriver to a waterfall close to the Karawawi village.

Day 4: Arafura Sea

Spend the day exploring the luxurious Aqua Blu and enjoy its variety of social spaces—a jacuzzi, spa and exercise area, sky lounge bar, and a sundeck offering panoramic views of the vast seas. Gain a deeper insight into Indonesian culture through cuisine from world-class chef Benjamin Cross, who draws inspiration from the region’s fabled spice routes.

Day 5: Yuan  Yufri
Arrive in the uncharted Asmat region—a remote part of West Papua, which very few have ever had the opportunity to visit. Onboard private speedboats, head down the Lorentz River deep into the jungle to visit the village of Yuan Yufri. Enjoy a friendly welcome as the tribal members pass by in their handcrafted canoes. Spend the afternoon interacting with the locals, viewing their art, and learning about their daily lives. End the day with sundowners as we sail to Biwar Laut.

Day 6: Biwar Laut and Ouws
Today, we continue our exploration of the Asmat region and gain a deeper insight into the traditions of the locals. Enjoy a scenic skiff ride to the village of Biwar Laut, escorted by tribal members in their canoes. Upon arrival, witness the traditional Spirit Mask ceremony, which is conducted by the Asmat people to honor their ancestors. After lunch on AquaBlu, head over to the nearby village of Ouwstow to witness the Mbis Pole Ceremony, which depicts how, after death, a soul manifests as a spirit in the image of a bird.

Day 7: Arafura Sea
Another day at sea offers the chance to relax, unwind, and share stories with your fellow explorers about the two incredible days spent in Asmat. Our knowledgeable guides will be around to answer questions and share more about this remote region, which remains largely undocumented. To get yourself back in form for another day of adventure, indulge in a traditional Balinese massage at our onboard spa.

Day 8: 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 upon the rocky walls.

Day 9: Namatote
Spend the day exploring the Namatote Passage, known for its towering cliffs, which feature prehistoric artwork. The waters in this area are a hotspot for snorkeling and diving within incredible seascapes and coral reefs. Leopard and hammerhead sharks can be spotted here on occasion.
 

Day 10: Kaimana

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

Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.