Raja Ampat, West Papua, & Forgotten Islands 22 Day Expedition

Description

Embark on our most comprehensive exploration in East Indonesia, with 21 nights exploring the pristine wonders of Raja Ampat, West Papua, Spice Islands, and the Forgotten Islands. Snorkel and dive in the world’s most biodiverse waters, discover untouched beaches and remote lakes, and revel in a rich heritage shaped by centuries of colonial rule.

Trip Name

Raja Ampat, West Papua, & Forgotten Islands 22 Day 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 for a sunset sail to Wayil.

Day 8 - Day 8 Wayil

The Wayil region of Raja Ampat features a number of uncharted islands, each harboring pristine beaches and secret lagoons. Enjoy kayaking among the reefs or head out for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

Day 9 - Day 9 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 10 - Day 10 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 11 - Day 11 Ambon

We dock in Ambon as the ship replenishes itself for the next leg of the journey. Spend this morning partaking in R&R on board Aqua Blu. Enjoy an outdoor gym session, relax in the jacuzzi, or book yourself a spa session. In the afternoon, head out on a tour of the commonwealth war cemetery.

Day 12 - Day 12 Hila

Head out for an excursion to explore the historical Dutch fortification, Fort Amsterdam, in the coastal town of Hila. Sail through the afternoon and learn about the incredible history of the spice trade. Next, enjoy a sundowner as Aqua Blu continues sailing to the Banda Islands. While traveling through the deep expanse of the Banda Sea, enact an old naval tradition–‘hands to bathe’–where you jump into the water and swim, floating over depths stretching thousands of meters.

Day 13 - Day 13 Banda Islands & Banda Neira

Back to the Banda Islands, spend the day free roaming around Banda Neira and discovering its rich history. Take in the picturesque views and head out on another snorkeling or diving adventure if you like, for more opportunities to spot the region's endemic marine life. Else, take your pick of Aqua Blu's lavish social spaces and spend some time relaxing on board.

Day 14 - Day 14 Pulau Ai & Pulau Run

At sunrise, arrive at Pulau Ai& Pulau Run, the westernmost 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 Manhattan in 1667 by the British and the Dutch. Witness the sun setting into the sea while enjoying a cocktail party on these historic sands.

Day 15 - Day 15 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 16 - Day 16 Serua Island & Nil Desperandum

A playground for snorkelers and divers alike, Serua Island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls, and incredible soft coral spots. Schools of fish thrive around here, and there is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. A tiny atoll located in the Banda Sea, Nil Desperandum is blessed with incredible hard coral formations. Spend a full day here, diving and snorkeling near the impressive coral and sponge formations. Revel in the experience as shoals of big fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel swim by without worry.

Day 17 - Day 17 Romang, Nyata, & Telang (The Forgotten Islands)

Dive around Nyata island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Since Romang and Nyata are not part of a National Park, there are opportunities to go fishing here as well. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkeling and kayaking adventures, with a chance to spot rare silver-tip sharks.

Day 18 - Day 18 Wetar

The rugged coastline of Wetar is rarely visited and offers plenty of hidden gems to experience. It features impressive wall dives to encounter sharks, schools of pelagic fishes, as well as majestic manta and mobular rays.

Day 19 - Day 19 Alor

Arrive at Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water and vibrant coral reefs which are a must-visit for divers and snorkelers alike. Centuries-old tradition comes to life in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe. After lunch, enjoy a relaxing afternoon on board as we sail towards Maumere.

Day 20 - Day 20 Maumere

Upon arriving at Maumere, take an afternoon visit to a nearby village. Immerse yourself in the local culture and take in picturesque views of the tropical hills. Return to the ship for a sun set departure.

Day 21 - Day 21 Sabulon

Spend the afternoon swimming from the ship and enjoying the calm reefs around Sabulon before viewing your final Komodo sunset of the expedition.

Day 22 - Day 22 Labuan Bajo

Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board before your disembarkation at Labuan Bajo

Day 23 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Explore the spectacular islands of Raja Ampat, home to some of the world's richest marine biodiversity, with exceptional snorkelling, diving and wildlife encounters.
Discover the historic Spice Islands, where centuries of spice trade, colonial history and local culture have shaped a fascinating maritime heritage.
Venture far beyond the usual tourist routes to the remote Forgotten Islands, pristine beaches, volcanic islands and untouched tropical landscapes of eastern Indonesia.