Aurora
Exhilarating dive voyages aboard a traditional phinisi exploring Indonesia’s pristine islands
per person
per person



































Overview
- Eight to 12-day adventures in Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, Komodo, and the remote regions in between
- Spacious solid teak cabins complete with all the comforts of home
- Intimate and adventurous voyages with 18 guests onboard
- Outstanding facilities for photographers with a dedicated indoor camera room
Operated by the world-renowned Dune Fleet, Aurora offers intimate, adventurous voyages to some of Indonesia’s most exceptional diving destinations, home to pristine coral reefs, mighty mantas, minuscule macro, and everything in between. This sailing phinisi features a passionate and professional crew, outstanding diver and photographer-friendly facilities, and all the comforts of a modern boat - without losing its traditional charm. And, with a nearly 1:1 staff to guest ratio and less than 20 explorers onboard, you’re guaranteed highly personal experiences at sea - both above and below the waterline.
Upcoming trips
Cabins
- If you are a solo traveller, we aim to allocate shared cabins on a same-sex basis.
- Non-shareable cabins can not be shared with another single traveler outside your party. A single occupancy surcharge will be applied.
Amenities
Boat
Dive facilities
- If you are a solo traveller, we aim to allocate shared cabins on a same-sex basis.
- Non-shareable cabins can not be shared with another single traveler outside your party. A single occupancy surcharge will be applied.
Vessel
Vessel information
The Aurora is a traditional sailing phinisi, entirely custom outfitted for multi-day liveaboard safaris in Indonesia’s most remote and unspoilt regions. This vessel brings together all the elements of a perfect vacation at sea, with world-class diving, adventurous shore excursions, onboard marine biologist-led presentations, and an enthusiastic service-oriented crew. Aurora navigates the Indonesian archipelago throughout the year based on the season, with itineraries in Raja Ampat, Komodo, and the remote regions between the two. This boat’s speciality trips and truly unforgettable experiences include a stunning variety of wildlife-themed experiences, citizen science expeditions, and photography-focused voyages.
Dune is a well-established worldwide dive operator founded in 1997 in Safaga, Egypt. With over 20-years of experience operating liveaboards around the globe, this company - founded by divers for divers - keeps its focus on accessibility, with itineraries for all. No matter where in the world you dive with Dune, you can expect outstanding guest service - and on Aurora, the crew to guest ratio is nearly 1:1. Whether you’re planning a special trip or experience, celebrating an occasion or milestone, or hoping to book an exotic custom charter, their team can help! Just let them know what you have in mind, and trust that every detail will be expertly planned.
Onboard Aurora
Aurora is a classic Indonesian phinisi constructed in the famous boatyards of Sulawesi. This stunning liveaboard offers all the advantages of a modern boat while keeping its traditional, solid teak charm. This spacious sailing vessel can accommodate up to 16 guests in eight perfectly comfortable cabins, with above and below deck options available. The onboard chef creates a range of international and Indonesian specialities, with different offerings each day according to guests’ preferences. Meals are served in the large dining area, which features a bar and comfortable seating as well as an entertainment centre. A second comfortable lounge area is located towards the stern, as is a generous solarium furnished with sun loungers on the upper deck.
Diving from Aurora
Aurora offers three custom tenders as well as a shaded dive deck, with plenty of space for each guest to gear up and store equipment. This area also features outdoor showers and dedicated camera rinse bins, as well as a photography room with workbenches, charging points, and storage - just a few steps away. High-quality rental equipment is available onboard, as is nitrox for certified divers. 12-litre aluminium tanks are used, with both DIN and Int connections, and 15-litre tanks are available on request. While most of this boat’s trips are best for experienced and advanced divers, the crew is happy to offer as much hands-on guidance as each guest prefers, helping intermediate explorers feel perfectly comfortable during each dive.
Top tips
- Pack some extra pocket cash for onboard spending on gear rental, courses, gratuities, and drinks from the bar.
- Book one of Aurora’s special seasonal trips to the Banda Sea for a chance to dive with hammerheads.
- Pack comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and plenty of sun protection for shore excursions.
- Plan your trip close to the new or full moon for stronger currents and more manta action!