Indonesia - Flores (Labuan Bajo) to Spice Islands Cruise

Description

This coastal expedition takes us from Labuan Bajo all the way up to Ambon, part of the Lease Islands of the Central Maluku Region and includes the eastern end of the Nusa Tenggara archipelago, the Forgotten Islands and the mythical Banda group along our proposed route.
Along the way, discover intriguing native tribes, active volcanoes, rare and unusual marine habitats, as well as Banda Neira, the epicentre of the Old World spice trade where well-preserved relics coexist with rich local tradition.

Trip Name

Indonesia - Flores (Labuan Bajo) to Spice Islands Cruise

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Yacht Length: 198 feet / 60 meters Passenger Capacity: 30 Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019 Presenting a brand-new cruise experience in the pristine East Indonesian Archipelago, Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing the region’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands and Raja Ampat on unforgettable 7- and 12-night itineraries. Where modern luxury meets naval heritage With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle and later as the private yacht of a European aristocratic family, Aqua Blu is a compelling maritime statement. A 2019 refurbishment overseen by Dutch yacht design maestro Cor D. Rover brings the vessel to world-class cruising specifications. Guests can expect to embrace an distinguished sense of history and seafaring evolution when they set foot on this one-of-a-kind cruise ship. Inside the four-deck, 15-suite Aqua Blu, Cor has tastefully paired with a brass-and-ivory interior theme with generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a sun deck. Unlocking access to the Earth’s most intriguing destinations Faster, further, greater safety and comfort — Aqua Blu’s naval pedigree makes it the perfect vessel to navigate East Indonesia’s vast seas. Having attained the highest international classifications (RINA, SOLAS, ISM) in safety, the vessel is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilizers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing. Aqua Blu’s range stands heads and shoulders above that of its peers in East Indonesia. Able to cover vast distances in a short span of time — and in any sea condition — the vessel enables explorers on board to experience the most varied, enjoyable and rewarding coastal cruise itineraries in this wild and stunningly beautiful region of the world. On Board Living and Social Areas Sun Deck with Outdoor Seating, Lounge Sofa and Barbecue Bridge Deck with Jacuzzi, Outdoor Lounge Area, Spa and Exercise Zone Forecastle Deck with Outdoor Dining and Seating Area, Indoor Lounge Bar, Library and TV Room Main Deck with Outdoor Seating, Salon and Dining Room

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 INDONESIA Labuan Bajo

Arrive at Labuan Bajo to a warm welcome. Board Aqua Blu and cruise to Gili Lawa Daut as the sun sets.

Day 2 - Day 2 INDONESIA Ropa, Kelimutu Volcano Lake Excursion

Coloured lakes inside the three calderas of a long dormant volcano are on impressive display at the Kelimutu volcano, an otherworldly series of geologic cauldrons. The twisting road to the summit winds through incredible forests and crisscrosses mountain streams.

Day 3 - Day 3 INDONESIA North Lembata

Snorkel the extensive reef complex of Bacatan or dive at the western end of the end for its spectacular deep drop-off. Trek or bike along a country lane between two villages in Lewoto. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard before departing North Lembata for an overnight crossing to Alor.

Day 4 - Day 4 INDONESIA Pantar & Alor

Arrival in Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water over vibrant coral reefs that are a diver's and snorkeler's favorite. Centuries-old tradition comes to live in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe. Sail overnight to Wetar.

Day 5 - Day 5 INDONESIA Wetar (The Forgotten Islands)

There is plenty to do and see along this rarely visited rugged coastline of Wetar, which features impressive wall dives to meet sharks, schools of pelagic fishes, majestic manta and mobular rays. Other activities includes fishing and trekking. On this largest island of the Forgotten Islands, experience local life with traditions unchanged for decades.

Day 6 - Day 6 INDONESIA Romang, Nyata, Telang (The Forgotten Islands)

Dive around Nyata island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Romang and Nyata are not part of a National Park, therefore it is possible to fish here, both on the water and under the surface. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkeling and kayaking adventures. Spot rare silver-tip sharks here.

Day 7 - Day 7 INDONESIA Damar

The ship arrives in Damar by day break. Trek the active volcanos of Damar or kayak on a lagoon at Terbang Seletan when tides are favourable. Swim or snorkel next to the dazzling white sandy shore fringed by shallow coral reef at Nusleur.

Day 8 - Day 8 INDONESIA Dawera & Daweloor

Diving around both islands are great and fairly easy, featuring gentle currents, spectular walls and flat reefs. Bike through islands and elevated settlements on Daweloor. Spend a leisurely evening on the islands' white sand beaches bordered by beautiful coral reefs.

Day 9 - Day 9 INDONESIA Serua Island

A playground for snorkelers and divers alike, Serua Island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls and incredible soft coral spots. Big fish and schools of fish thrive around her and there is always to chance of seeing schooling hammerheads.

Day 10 - Day 10 INDONESIA Manuk

Savour a sunrise breakfast on board against the backdrop of 300-metre tall cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 3 kilometres 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. After sundown, cruise northwards to Pulau Run, a historic island traded by the British for Manhattan in 1667.

Day 11 - Day 11 INDONESIA Banda Islands & Banda Neira

Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises, greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbor. Stroll through history at the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira, once the most hotly contested island in the world in the 16th and 17th century, and learn about the colorful story of the Old World spice trade.

Day 12 - Day 12 INDONESIA Pulau Run

Arrive at Pulau Run, the westernmost of the Banda Islands, at sunrise. Swim, fish, snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters, or go on village tours, trekking and birding. After finding the ruins of an old British fort, arrive at a pristine beach where a cocktail party awaits.

Day 13 - Day 13 INDONESIA Ambon

Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark after a sumptuous breakfast for your outbound flight.

Day 14 - Please Note:

All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Sail across the Banda Sea back in time with a journey into a fabled spice trading hub and one-of-a-kind cruise excursions to mythical locales in Eastern Indonesia