CRUISES

Aqua Blu lines up new cruises

These seven- and 12-night expeditions immerse travelers in some of the world's most uncharted territories, characterised by lush jungles, impressive cave systems, vibrant underwater ecosystems, and Indigenous communities.

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Aqua Expeditions, known for its small-ship expeditions, is expanding its offerings in 2025 with three new itineraries that explore the remote and untamed regions of East Indonesia.

These seven- and 12-night expeditions immerse travelers in some of the world’s most uncharted territories, characterized by lush jungles, impressive cave systems, vibrant underwater ecosystems, and Indigenous communities. Exciting snorkeling and diving excursions offer the potential to encounter rare wildlife such as whale sharks and hammerhead sharks. Furthermore, private tenders transport guests deep into the jungle, providing opportunities to explore local villages, engage with members of the Asmat tribe, and possibly spot endemic forest kangaroos.

Here are the details of the new itineraries:

1. Ambon to Kaimana Expedition (Seven Nights):

   • This itinerary combines two destinations, The Spice Islands and West Papua.
   • Starting from Ambon, Aqua Blu sails along the picturesque northern coast, visiting the historic Banda Islands.
   • Stops include remote island groups like Koon, Gorong, and Watubela, known for their diverse marine life.
   • Guests will explore Teluk Sebakor with its mangrove forests and bat-inhabited cove.
   • The journey ends in Triton Bay, where guests can swim with 40-foot whale sharks and visit Kiti Kiti waterfall.

2. Kaimana to Kaimana Expedition (Seven Nights):

   • Beginning in Kaimana, this expedition heads south to Triton Bay and Namatote, renowned for diving and marine life.
   • The journey then takes guests to the Asmat region, a remote part of West Papua, for a unique cultural experience.
   • Private tenders provide access to Asmat villages and their rich heritage.
   • The final stop includes Momon, home to the impressive Kiti Kiti waterfall.

3. Kaimana to Sorong Expedition (Twelve Nights):

   • This itinerary combines West Papua and Raja Ampat destinations.
   • Guests will explore the Asmat region and its communal houses, arts, and traditional dances.
   • The journey includes discovering the One Thousand Temples, unique karst islets.
   • Tenders take travelers through jellyfish lakes and cave systems.
   • The expedition concludes in Mayalibit Bay, offering canoe excursions, bird watching on Waigeo Island, and a swim in the Kali Biru River.

Aqua Blu, a long-range ocean explorer yacht, serves as the base for these expeditions. Originally built as a British Royal Navy Explorer, it provides top-notch non-motorized water sports equipment, personalized service with a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and world-class cuisine inspired by the region’s ingredients and spice routes.

Expedition package prices start at USD 12,290 per person for seven nights and USD 19,640 per person for 12 nights (based on double occupancy).