Embark on Aqua Blu’s most comprehensive sailings, exploring the top highlights in destinations including Bali-Komodo, Spice Islands, Raja Ampat, and West Papua.
Apart from its regular itineraries, Aqua Blu offers highly exclusive dual-destination cruises as one-off itineraries each year. These 9- and 12-night voyages sail to a number of East Indonesia’s uncharted and rarely explored islands. This is the perfect opportunity for those looking to discover the hidden gems of this region, which not many get a chance to see.
These journeys incorporate key aspects of Aqua Blu’s regular itineraries with unique additions along the route. Each of the 12-night expeditions include one-of-a-kind excursions such as visits to the intriguing Abui tribe of Flores at Alor, journeys to the multicolored Kelimutu volcano crater lakes in Flores, and explorations of the stunning landscapes of southern Raja Ampat and the Forgotten Islands.
A magnificent exploration of both culture and nature, this 7-night expedition takes us from Ambon to Sorong, bringing together the best of our Spice Islands and Raja Ampat itineraries. Experience the cultural tapestry of the Banda Islands – which used to be the heart of the spice trade – and the otherworldly landscapes of Raja Ampat, a tropical bucket list destination known to be one of the world’s best diving sites.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Pattimura International Airport (AMQ), 03:15 PM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Pattimura International Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Ambon Harbor. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at around 04:30 PM.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Star Marina at 6:30AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short transfer to Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ).
Upon arrival, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Garuda Indonesia GA683 at 08:15 AM, which flies to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta. Guests may choose to terminate their journey at Domine Eduard Osok Airport or arrange their own transport from Jakarta.
Discover East Indonesia's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes on this exceptional 7-night expedition from Ambon to Sorong. Combining highlights from both our Spice Islands and South Raja Ampat itineraries, this journey takes you through the Banda Islands – once the epicenter of the global spice trade – and into the remote wonders of South Raja Ampat, renowned for its pristine and biodiverse diving sites.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Pattimura International Airport (AMQ), 03:15 PM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Pattimura International Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Ambon Harbor. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at around 04:30 PM.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Ambon Harbor at 5:30 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short transfer to Pattimura International Airport (AMQ).
Upon arrival at Pattimura International Airport, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik ID6171 at 07:00 AM, which flies to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta. Guests may choose to terminate their journey at Pattimura International Airport or arrange their own transport from Jakarta.
This sailing takes us from Sorong down to Ambon, merging the best of our Spice Islands and Raja Ampat itineraries. In a single expedition, experience the cultural tapestry of the Banda Islands – which used to be the heart of the spice trade – and the otherworldly landscapes of Raja Ampat, a tropical bucket list destination known to be one of the world’s best diving sites.
Over the next few days, we continue to explore the region’s limestone karst island clusters. Known to harbor one of the richest coral reef ecosystems and incredibly biodiverse waters, Raja Ampat has commonly been dubbed the “Amazon of the seas”. While we’re here, choose your own adventures, whether it’s snorkeling, swimming, diving, or kayaking at the finest reefs on the planet. Revel in the presence of majestic rays at the Manta Cleaning Station and encounter black tip reef sharks in these pristine waters.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ), 06:15 AM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Domine Eduard Osok Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Swiss Bell to rest and freshen up after their flight. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at 12:15 PM and have lunch on board.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Ambon Harbor at 06:00 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short transfer to Pattimura International Airport (AMQ).
Upon arrival at Pattimura International Airport, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik ID6171 at 7:50 AM, which flies to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta. Guests may choose to terminate their journey at Pattimura International Airport or arrange their own transport from Jakarta.
This coastal expedition takes us from Ambon all the way down to Labuan Bajo, with stops along the eastern end of the Nusa Tenggara archipelago, the mythical Banda group, and the Forgotten Islands – a distant and isolated islands chain which isn’t often visited by expeditions and cruises in East Indonesia. Experience hikes through uncharted landscapes, cultural excursions to discover colonial relics, and snorkeling and diving in some of the world’s most biodiverse waters.
Next, we venture towards the Forgotten Islands – a chain of islands in the north-east of Indonesia, famed for being a remarkably beautiful diving area with palm-lined beaches. Their crystalline waters sit in the heart of the Coral Triangle, hosting vibrant coral reefs and a teeming population of marine life. On board Aqua Blu, divers and snorkelers alike can look forward to a variety of sharks, rays, and schools of pelagic fish.
The epicenter of the Old World global spice trade, Banda Neira is a kaleidoscope of tradition, culture, nature and wildlife. Banda Neira’s claim to fame originated with the myristica tree. Once found only on the Spice Islands, the tree was the source of nutmeg and mace. Today in Banda Indonesia, the oldest nutmeg plantations in the world remain, and like the Alba truffles of Italy, Banda nutmeg is still regarded as the highest grade varietal of the spice in the world. In addition to its rich history and cultural heritage, Banda Neira boasts breathtaking natural scenery. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with colorful coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Pattimura International Airport (AMQ), 03:15 PM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Pattimura International Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Ambon Harbor. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at around 04:30 PM.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Le Bajo Flores at 8:00 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short 15-minute transfer to Komodo Airport (LBJ).
Upon arrival, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik Air ID6332 at 9:50 AM to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
This coastal expedition takes us from Flores all the way up to Ambon and includes the eastern end of the Nusa Tenggara archipelago, the mythical Banda group, and the Forgotten Islands – a distant and isolated islands chain which isn’t often visited by expeditions and cruises in East Indonesia. Experience hikes through uncharted landscapes, cultural excursions to discover colonial relics, and snorkeling and diving in some of the world’s most biodiverse waters.
Throughout this itinerary, there are plenty of opportunities to choose your own adventure for the day. Those who have had their fill of snorkeling can indulge in hikes to nearby volcanoes and kayaking excursions discovering hidden lagoons.
The epicenter of the Old World global spice trade, Banda Neira is a kaleidoscope of tradition, culture, nature and wildlife. Banda Neira’s claim to fame originated with the myristica tree. Once found only on the Spice Islands, the tree was the source of nutmeg and mace. Today in Banda Indonesia, the oldest nutmeg plantations in the world remain, and like the Alba truffles of Italy, Banda nutmeg is still regarded as the highest grade varietal of the spice in the world. In addition to its rich history and cultural heritage, Banda Neira boasts breathtaking natural scenery. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with colorful coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Komodo Airport (LBJ), 12:55 PM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Komodo Airport and escorted on a 20-minute transfer to Ayana Resort where lunch will be served at 2:00 PM. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at around 03:30 PM.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Ambon Harbor at 06:00 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short transfer to Pattimura International Airport (AMQ).
Upon arrival at Pattimura International Airport, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik ID6171 at 07:50 AM, which flies to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta. Guests may choose to terminate their journey at Pattimura International Airport or arrange their own transport from Jakarta.
This 12-night expedition weaves together the highlights of our Spice Islands and Asmat itineraries, offering a deep dive into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of two distinct regions. Starting in Ambon, explore the Banda Islands and uncover its storied past as the heart of the spice trade, before venturing into the uncharted Asmat region -- home to one of Indonesia's most secluded and enigmatic indigenous communities. Along the way, discover some of the most sublime diving and snorkeling sites the world has to offer.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Pattimura International Airport (AMQ), 03:15 PM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Pattimura International Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Ambon Harbor. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at around 04:30 PM.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Ambon Harbor at 5:30 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short transfer to Pattimura International Airport (AMQ).
Upon arrival at Pattimura International Airport, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik ID6171 at 07:00 AM, which flies to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta. Guests may choose to terminate their journey at Pattimura International Airport or arrange their own transport from Jakarta.
This sailing takes us from Sorong down to Flores, merging the best of our Raja Ampat, West Papua, and Forgotten Island itineraries. In a single expedition, experience the cultural tapestry of the Banda Islands – once the heart of the spice trade – and the otherworldly landscapes of Raja Ampat, renowned for its pristine diving sites. Experience hikes through uncharted landscapes of the mythical Forgotten Islands – a remote island chain rarely explored by cruises in East Indonesia.
Embarkation
Meeting Point: Arrival terminal, Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ), 06:15 AM
Guests will be welcomed by the Aqua Blu team at Domine Eduard Osok Airport and escorted on a short transfer to Swiss Bell to rest and freshen up after their flight. Following this, they will board Aqua Blu at 12:15 PM and have lunch on board.
Disembarkation
Guests will disembark Aqua Blu at Le Bajo Flores at 8:00 AM. Following this, they will be taken on a short 15-minute transfer to Komodo Airport (LBJ).
Upon arrival, guests will be able to board the recommended flight Batik Air ID6332 at 9:50 AM to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
