Unraveling the secrets of the Banda Sea
The 60-meter Aqua Blu is the first ever long-range ocean explorer yacht permanently based in East Indonesia.
On board, 15 individually designed cabins and refined social spaces are accompanied by innovative cuisine curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross, drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s fabled spice trade route. Led by highly experienced crew and guides, guests explore the world’s most biodiverse marine habitats, embark on adventurous hikes across active volcanoes, and explore relics from centuries-old history in small groups.
Aqua Blu’s naval pedigree makes it the perfect vessel to navigate Eastern Indonesia’s vast seas. Having attained the highest international classifications (RINA, SOLAS, ISM) in safety, the vessel is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilisers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing.
The explorer yacht’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 with utmost comfort— 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.
Inside the five-deck, 15-cabin Aqua Blu, Cor has tastefully paired a brass-and-ivory interior theme with generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a sun deck.
Spread across five decks, Aqua Blu raises the standard for modern explorer yachts with its elegant interior design and luxurious social spaces.
A mouth-watering gastronomic voyage
Beyond the twice-daily excursions – from swimming with whale sharks to having sundowners at historical forts – your discovery of East Indonesia continues on board with world-class cuisine by Australian chef Benjamin Cross.
Experience an immersive culinary journey, featuring delicacies of the East Indonesian spice route. Watch Aqua Blu’s chefs cook up a storm with their on-board demonstrations and if you wish, join them at bustling local markets as they procure the day’s finest catch.
Special dietary needs
At Aqua Expeditions, we believe in creating exceptional culinary experiences which cater to every guest’s unique needs. With cuisine being an integral part of our expeditions, we do our best to accommodate special dietary requirements and preferences.
Our talented chefs are well-versed in a variety of preparations and can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences. Whether it’s allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle preferences, our team will do their best to serve you world-class meals of your choice.
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The Aqua Blu dining experience promises refreshing and inspiring food, with its menu drawing inspiration from Indonesian, European and Mediterranean cuisines. Chef Cross has crafted over 160 recipes to incorporate a variety of Indonesia’s spices and flavors, allowing diners to go on a culinary journey of the region. Some highlights include the 48-hour beef short rib rendang, Balinese suckling pig with regional spices, organic Javanese prawns marinated in fragrant oil and lime, and Cross’s personal favorite, freshly handline-caught fish grilled with Balinese sambal.
Chef Cross' illustrious 20 year career began at the award-winning Byron Bay boutique hotel and restaurant Rae’s on Watego’s in his native Australia. He honed his craft under some of the top icons of Australian cuisine: Janni Kyritsis from the former MG Garage, and Neil Perry of Rockpool as part of the re-opening team of XO. Later, Cross went on to become a Sous Chef for Rockpool in Sydney.
Over the years, Cross has also made his presence felt in the USA and Spain at Tom Colicchio’s Craft in New York, Seamus Mullen’s Tertullia New York, and Santi Santamaria’s three-Michelin star restaurant Can Fabes in Sant Celoni, Catalonia. On Aqua Blu, Cross showcases delicacies using the freshest, sustainably sourced seafood which the pristine waters of East Indonesia have to offer.
Aqua Blu offers guests the opportunity to embark on the first true superyacht luxury experience in the Indonesia, with the choice of four five-star itineraries that sail across the islands of the...
