Aqua Blu Itinerary
Spice Islands and Asmat Tribe Expedition13 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
- Dive reefs with exceptional biodiversity in the heart of the Coral Triangle
- Swim with whale sharks as they feed at the fishing platforms of Triton Bay
- A day diving around Pulau Koon – home to the aptly-named ‘Too Many Fish’ dive site
- Explore the Banda Sea's swim-throughs and deep walls
- Refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kei Islands
Day 1: Ambon
Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon, and board Aqua Blu. After settling in, bid farewell to the harbor as we set sail towards the Banda Islands.
Day 2: Banda Islands & Banda Neira
Day 2: Banda Islands & Banda Neira
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: Pulau Koon
Day 3: Pulau Koon
Spend the morning 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.
Day 4: Momon
Day 4: Momon
Arrive at Momon in the morning, and head out to see the spectacular Kitikiti waterfall. 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, as well as the chance to spot endemic kangaroos in the wooded areas.
Day 5: Triton Bay
Day 5: Triton Bay
Head out in the afternoon for a once-in-a-life time 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 6: Sailing the Arafura Sea
Day 6: Sailing the 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 sun deck offering panoramic views of the vast seas. Gain a deeper insight into Indonesian culture through onboard cooking demonstrations and presentations from our expert guides.
Day 7: Yuan Yufri
Day 7: Yuan Yufri
Arrive in the uncharted Asmat region – a remote part of West Papua which very few have ever had the opportunity to visit. On board 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 8: Biwar Laut & Ouws
Day 8: Biwar Laut & 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 Aqua Blu, head over to the nearby village of Ouws to witness the Mbis Pole Ceremony which depicts how, after death, a soul manifests as a spirit in the image of a bird.
Day 9: Aru Islands
Day 9: Aru Islands
Enjoy a relaxing morning at sea before we arrive at the shores of the Aru Islands. Take the plunge and go on a snorkeling and diving excursion in the island’s sparkling waters. Afterwards, unwind on the island’s tranquil beach, drinks in hand, as you take in the breathtaking sunset.
Day 10: Kei Islands
Day 10: Kei Islands
Discover the remote white-sand beaches of the Kei Islands, known to be some of the most pristine in East Indonesia. Swim and snorkel from the shore in the crystal-clear waters, home to marine life including pygmy seahorses and olive sea snakes.
Day 11: Pulau Manuk
Day 11: Pulau Manuk
Savor a sunrise breakfast onboard against the backdrop of 300-meter-tall cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 3 kilometers from the seabed. This is a haven for fish - hunting birds, as well as sea snakes and reef sharks flocking to enjoy the area’s underwater thermal springs.
Day 12: Pulau Ai & Run
Day 12: Pulau Ai & Run
At Pulau Ai, the western most of the Banda Islands, swim, snorkel, and dive in the crystal - clear waters, where you’ll discover stunning coral gardens and reef fish. Afterwards, head ashore for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg store houses. Spend the afternoon at a pristine beach on Pulau Run, which was traded for the island of Manhattanin 1667 by the British and the Dutch. Witness the sun setting into the sea while enjoying a cocktail party on these historic sands.
Day 13: Ambon
Day 13: Ambon
Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark after breakfast for 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.
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
12:00pm
Ambon
Pattimura International Airport: AMQ
Return
12:00pm
Ambon
Pattimura International Airport: AMQ
Current availability and prices: https://www.zubludiving.com/itineraries/aqua-blu/itn-2602030646321-spice-islands-and-asmat-tribe-expedition