The Aqua Blu carries her guests in high luxury, comfort and safety while sailing through Eastern Indonesia. Embrace history and luxury on this unique cruise ship.
Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise
Cruise Indonesia's stunning Raja Ampat in style aboard the 30-guest Aqua Blu luxury expedition yacht. This 8-day cruise explores the world's most biodiverse environments by snorkel and diving, with secluded beach visits along the way.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Dec
FROM
$11,590
USD
PER PERSON
/
Sailing towards the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this 8-day Raja Ampat cruise expedition is a visual spectacle with unmatched marine diversity on show at some of the best dive and snorkel sites on Earth. Indonesia’s Raja Ampat features beautiful limestone karst island clusters that enthrall explorers with secret lagoons, bays and beaches. During this Indonesia cruise aboard the 30-guest luxury yacht Aqua Blu, explore the world’s most biodiverse environments and also tuck into perfect private hideaways.
Enjoy world-class wildlife excursions both on the ground and underwater. Go in search of birds of paradise that exist nowhere else on Earth. These winged wonders live alongside 350 other bird species, including forest kingfishers and king parrots, making the region a mecca for birders. Scour beaches for turtle species including the Pacific leatherback, the largest of all living turtle species on Earth. And don either dive gear or a snorkel and fins to discover the underwater delights of this Marine Protected Area.
Start the trip by relaxing at the Aston Sorong Hotel before boarding the ship on Day 1, then begin enjoying various highlights of the itinerary. Tour “The Passage”–a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860, experience Yangeffo Island, enjoy water activities at Wofoh Island, dive at Figure Eight Rock or snorkel at the Ranger station to spot black tip reef sharks while visiting Wayag Island, take in traditional dancing at the Papuan village of Yensawai on Birie Island and visit Mayabilit Bay.
The alternative South Raja Ampat itinerary explores the pristine waters and landscapes of South Raja Ampat. Dive into vibrant coral reefs, kayak through stunning limestone passages, and discover ancient rock art at Thousand Temples Island. Encounter endangered sea turtles, swim in crystal-clear lagoons and witness the magnificent biodiversity that defines this remote paradise. Opt to combine both north and south for a comprehensive 15-day itinerary.
The alternative Spice Islands to Raja Ampat itinerary completes a positioning route, offering some unique stops for a blend of Aqua Blu’s regularly occurring itineraries. Motor from the Spice Islands to Raja Ampat to experience centuries-old traditions at the former center of the global spice trade, then explore endemic and rare bird species in the most diverse marine habitats in the world.
Passage is aboard Aqua Blu, a luxury long-range explorer yacht with a military past, specifically refurbished for cruising among Indonesian waters. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size. Enjoy her fine appointments, 5-star Indonesian cuisine with menus developed by a world-renowned chef, and state-of-the-art safety equipment for a unique way to cruise Indonesia.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises, Asia cruises and Pacific Island cruises.
North Raja Ampat Expedition Itinerary
Sorong, IndonesiaSorong, Indonesia
The 8-day North Raja Ampat cruise operates Saturday-Saturday, round-trip from Sorong, Indonesia. Highlights include dives operating almost daily, seeking out birds of paradise, visiting a pearl farm, taking in the culture of a local village and time to relax in tucked-away coves.
Arrive at Sorong to a warm welcome. Take a private transfer to the Aston Sorong Hotel to rest and relax, before embarkation at noon. Board the ship and cruise to Mioskon Island, while enjoying the world-class cuisine of chef Benjamin Cross for dinner.
Awake to the beauty of Mioskon Island. Take an easy dive and snorkel excursion. Enjoy an afternoon tour on tenders or kayak of “The Passage”–a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860. Enjoy the mangrove views and catch sight of saltwater crocodiles, hawksbill turtles and hornbills before returning to the ship for sundowners and dinner.
Rise in the morning to birdsong for an early tender tour of Kabui Bay’s magnificent karsts. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast while cruising to Cape Kri. Snorkel or dive at a site which holds the world record for most species spotted in a single 90-minute dive. Over at Yangeffo Island, go on an exhilarating afternoon dive excursion at Mayhem reef or enjoy a sunset cocktail tender tour of the mangroves. Dine underneath the stars once you’re back on board.
Make an early departure to Aljui Bay and an eye-opening visit to a pearl farm. Next, it’s off to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling and water sports in the afternoon. Lay back and enjoy the ship’s beach club on a private beach, sipping on bespoke cocktails and frolicking in family fun as the sun sets.
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 sound of the surrounding nature. Attempt to spot rare birds of paradise before a hearty breakfast on board. Next, dive at Figure Eight Rock or snorkel at the Ranger station to spot black-tip reef sharks. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden lagoons aboard kayaks at “Castaway” beach.
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.
Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular nature excursion on tender, local canoe and a hike to spot the rare birds of paradise on the island of Waigeo. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed snorkel excursion at Friwinbonda Island. In the afternoon, test your sense of adventure before a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river. Depart for Sorong for the last night of the trip.
Enjoy a healthy breakfast on board in Sorong before your outbound flight.
Included
All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.
Exclusions
All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The North Raja Ampat Expedition begins and ends in Sorong, Indonesia (SOQ). Plan flights to arrive to Sorong by 6:30am ahead of the 12:15pm embarkation. On Day 8, disembarkation in Sorong is at 6:30am. Plan flights to depart Sorong no earlier than 8:30am on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $780(2026) or $820(2027) per night.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Loading rates & dates…
No upcoming departures available at this time.
Sort
No departures match your filters.
USD
Per Person
Per Person
As a former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle and later as the private yacht of a European aristocratic family, Aqua Blu is now exploring the world in a completely new fashion. This 30-guest luxury long-range explorer yacht is now the perfect ship to sail through Indonesia's vast archipelago with the 2019 refurbishment overseen by Dutch yacht design maestro Cor D. Rover. These modern updates bring the vessel to world-class cruising specifications along with luxurious appointments. Guests can expect to embrace a distinguished sense of history and seafaring evolution when they set foot on this one-of-a-kind cruise ship.
Aqua Blu Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Blu review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Aqua Blu review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Aqua Blu with other small luxury cruise ships and yachts offering Indonesia cruises, Asia cruises and Pacific Island cruises, including private charter cruises.
Choose the Aqua Blu for a newly refurbished small ship that comfortably sails the turquoise waters of Raja Ampat, the Spice Islands and Komodo National Park. She is also notable for offering an inclusive daily dive package along with snorkeling. Aqua Blu's original craftsmanship combined with modern technology and upgrades have created a fast exploration vessel that can travel further afield with safety and comfort. This ship is able to cover vast distances in a short span of time—and in any sea condition. Having attained the highest international classifications in safety (RINA, SOLAS, ISM), the vessel is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilizers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing.
Navigate East Indonesia’s vast seas on this ideal vessel to experience the most varied, enjoyable and rewarding coastal cruise itineraries in this wild and stunningly beautiful region of the world. Enjoy cruising East Indonesia in a way that no ship has ever offered before.
Common Areas Aboard Aqua Blu
Aqua Blu's tastefully paired brass-and-ivory interior theme combines well with the generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a sun deck with outdoor seating, lounge and barbecue. The bridge deck offers a Jacuzzi, outdoor lounge, spa and workout zone. Dine outside on the Forecastle deck that also includes an indoor bar, library and TV room. The main dining room, salon and more outdoor seating exist on the Main Deck. This ship comes prepared with kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling and diving gear. Enjoy complimentary internet and laundry service while aboard.
Activities Aboard Aqua Blu
Aqua Blu combines modern luxury with active adventures for a novel means of cruising Indonesia. She carries SCUBA diving gear, including regulators, buoyancy compensators, computers, gauges and tanks, along with a dedicated 8-guest tender used exclusively for diving activities. Divers and snorkelers alike are equipped with a full-body wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins. Above water, the ship's onboard kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and two other 16-guest tenders are the ticket to seek out stunning marine wildlife in comfort and safety. A staircase off the swim step improves on the ladder offered by most ships, enabling easy in and out of the water. Finally, the spa, Jacuzzi and exercise zone enable Aqua Blu's guests to maintain fitness routines and relax after a day of exploration.
Dining Aboard Aqua Blu
Central to every Aqua Blu cruise is the element of five-star dining with a menu created and overseen by a renowned chef who is supported by Consulting Chef Benjamin Cross—a renowned Australian culinarian who will be orchestrating the menu for a uniquely Indonesian-inspired five-star dining experience. Trained by Sydney’s best culinary talents, Cross has masterfully created over 100 recipes that showcase a journey of refined flavors drawn from the ancient Spice Route, relying on local ingredients such as nutmeg and cloves; as well as a variety of seafoods like the giant Papuan prawns sourced from the Indonesian seas.
The Aqua Blu experience will additionally showcase the freshest, sustainably-sourced seafood that the pristine waters of East Indonesia has to offer, as well as custom-designed vegan menu options. Guests can look forward to refined plated dishes as well as convivial communal barbecues and relaxed outdoor dining. Breakfast is served buffet style and offers items including granola, yogurt, fresh fruit and made-to-order eggs. Lunches are a mix of plated and buffet, while dinner is always a plated affair. Exquisite and scrumptious cuisine, set amidst dramatic coastal landscapes, will undoubtedly be the highlight of all Aqua Blu itineraries.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Aqua Blu
This Indonesia yacht includes 15 individually designed sea-facing suites in 3 cabin categories with premium furnishings that befit a luxury odyssey. Each cabin was designed to combine modern luxury with ultimate comfort.
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
Aqua Blu Ambon & Spice Islands Cruise
Luxury Indonesia expedition blending Spice Islands culture with world-class diving
Aqua Blu West Papua & Asmat Tribe Expedition
Remote voyage combining Asmat culture with premier diving & wildlife
Sailing Indonesia: The Spice Islands
Homegrown expedition through volcanic islands & Indonesia's spice trade heritage
Trips You Might Also Like
View All Indonesia Cruises
Aqua Blu Komodo National Park Cruise
Upscale cruise featuring dragons, reef diving & island hikes
Raja Ampat & Spice Islands
Raja Ampat's marine biodiversity, Spice Islands history & West Papua
Sailing Indonesia: Jewels of Raja Ampat
Locally-run voyage through limestone islets, reefs & secluded anchorages
Our experts will save you hours.
A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.
