Raja Ampat & Spice Islands 11 Days Expedition

Description

Discover the karst limestone islands of Raja Ampat, the culture-rich towns of the Spice Islands, and the biodiverse waters surrounding both of these destinations on an epic 10-night expedition on board Aqua Blu. This cross-destination sailing offers the best of both worlds with opportunities to encounter rare marine life, while also immersing yourself in the rich traditions which have been cultivated in this region over centuries.

Trip Name

Raja Ampat & Spice Islands 11 Days Expedition

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Yacht Length: 198 feet / 60 meters Passenger Capacity: 28 Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019 Aqua Blu is a one-of-a-kind long-range explorer yacht, purposefully stationed in East Indonesia to provide unrivalled access to the Coral Triangle—one of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. Originally a British naval vessel and later a private yacht for European aristocracy, she underwent a world-class refit in 2019 by Dutch designer Cor D. Rover. Now reimagined with 14 elegant suites, Aqua Blu offers the perfect blend of refined luxury, comfort, and adventure, carrying just 28 guests with personalised service from 32 expert crew. Designed for both underwater exploration and stylish relaxation, Aqua Blu features expansive decks, an outdoor gym, spa with Balinese massage, a hot tub, and chic lounges. Guests enjoy cuisine by acclaimed chef Benjamin Cross, who draws inspiration from the region’s spice trade heritage. Onboard life is relaxed yet elevated, with options for diving (at no extra cost for certified divers), snorkelling, kayaking, or simply unwinding with sunset cocktails on the sundeck. With its naval pedigree and modern refinement, Aqua Blu is the ultimate base for discovering the remote beauty of East Indonesia’s seas and shores.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Sorong

Arrive at Sorong to a warm welcome. There will be a private transfer to Aston Sorong Hotel to rest and relax before embarkation at noon. Board Aqua Blu and cruise to Mioskon Island, while enjoying the world-class cuisine of chef Benjamin Cross for dinner.

Day 2 - Day 2 Mioskon Island & Mayalibit Bay

Awake to the beauty of Mioskon Island, and head out for a relaxing snorkel and dive excursion. In the afternoon, venture into the heart of the jungle on board our private tenders, then enjoy a canoe ride up-river through Kali Biru’s mystical blue waters. Cool off and swim downstream past the jungle canopy.

Day 3 - Day 3 Yangeffo Bay & Yeben

While at Yangeffo Bay, experience an exhilarating dive excursion at the renowned Mayhem reef, or snorkel the mangroves at Citrus Ridge. Sail over to Yeben island while fueling your appetite on board. Yeben Island is a hidden treasure of Raja Ampat known for its clear water and beautiful beaches. Head out and watch the sunset from a tender ride out at sea. Dine underneath the stars once you are back on board.

Day 4 - Day 4 Aljui Bay & Wofoh Island

We’ll have an early departure to Aljui Bay, followed by a visit to a local pearl farm. Later in the day, we head to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling, and water sports. 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 5 - Day 5 Wayag Island

Witness the magnificence of Wayag Island’s limestone islets and lagoons as the sun rises. Jump in for a refreshing early morning swim and listen to the sounds of the surrounding nature, before a hearty breakfast on board. Next, we’ll be diving at Figure Eight Rock or snorkeling at the Ranger station to spot black tip reef sharks. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden lagoons aboard kayaks at “Castaway” beach.

Day 6 - Day 6 Penemu Island & Arborek Island

Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of Penemu Island, home to the renowned Melissa’s Garden. This iconic dive and snorkel site is surrounded by a hard coral garden, teeming with a vibrant array of marine life. In the afternoon, set out in search of manta rays near the charming island village of Arborek. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the village, immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of island life.

Day 7 - Day 7 One Thousand Temples & Yillet

Wake up to the magnificent Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex. In the morning, we explore mysterious jellyfish lakes and karst island seascapes, witnessing ancient rock art before touring the magnificent caverns of Tomolol Cave. After lunch, we head out to Yillet – an island featuring some of the world’s most iconic diving and snorkeling sites, before returning to Aqua Blu.

Day 8 - Day 8 Pulau Koon

Spend the day 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 9 - Day 9 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 10 - Day 10 Nusa Laut

Head out for an early morning ocean swim, followed by a diving or snorkeling excursion. On the north side of Nusa Laut, discover the scenic fishing villages of Ameth and Akon. This is also home of the dugong, the Southeast Asian cousin of the American manatee. Enjoy a cooking lesson before lunch, and cruise to Ambon.

Day 11 - Day 11 Ambon

Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board before your disembarkation at Ambon.

Day 12 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Explore the spectacular limestone islands and turquoise lagoons of Raja Ampat, one of the world's most biodiverse marine environments.
Discover the historic Spice Islands, where centuries of trade, culture and colonial history have left a rich and fascinating legacy.
Snorkel and dive among vibrant coral reefs while encountering rare marine life in some of Indonesia’s most pristine waters.