Dreaming underwater ONBOARD THE AQUA BLU
The Spice Islands and Raja Ampat sit in the very heart of the Coral Triangle, the most biodiverse marine area in the world. Beneath the surface live more than 1,400 species of fish and over 550 types of coral. While above it await verdant islets, turquoise lagoons, and white-sand beaches to charm your senses. This is one magical corner of the world.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Learn about the legacy of the old world spice trade and marvel at the past as you stroll through the UNESCO Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira.
Search for pygmy seahorses, manta rays, and sea turtles while you snorkel through some of the world’s most biodiverse seas in the world.
Enjoy the camaraderie of traveling with your group, while being led by Mike, Rich and Shirley, leaders who’ve been to Indonesia many times.
Go With
Day 1
Welcome
Arrive in Jakarta and transfer to Anara Airport Hotel, conveniently located in Terminal 3 of the airport. After a chance to relax and freshen up, join your fellow travelers and expedition team for a welcome dinner and briefing.
Day 2
Jakarta / Ambon / Embark the Aqua Blu
Today, board our flight to Ambon, capital of the Maluku (Moluccas) Province, a region that was once known collectively as the Spice Islands. Enjoy lunch and upon arrival in Ambon embark the Aqua Blu, a luxurious 15-suite vessel and former British Naval Explorer, HMS Beagle.
day 3
Banda Neira, Banda Islands
Explore the Dutch Fort Belgica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site., and climb to the top of one of the towers for sweeping views over the harbor, spice plantations, and an impressive volcano.
day 4
Pulau Koon & Pulau Gorong
Spend the morning snorkeling or swimming through tranquil blue pools. This afternoon, kayak to Pulau Gorong’s lagoon to view shallow reefs and deep drop-offs.
day 5
Mommon Peninsula
The spectacular Mommon Peninsula is covered in dense forest, often veiled in wisps of cloud. If tides permit, we may land on a small nearby beach where snorkelers will delight.
day 6
Pulau Sabuda
Make an expedition stop in the vicinity of Pulau Sabuda, an uninhabited, privately-owned island, for scenic cruising, snorkeling, and nature walks.
day 7
Misool & Wayil
Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking among the kaleidoscopic reefs. This afternoon, cruise among Wayil’s labyrinth of lagoons before sunset cocktails on a remote beach.
day 8
Wayil
Spend the day snorkeling in and around Wayil’s secret lagoons and hidden beaches, with plenty of time to enjoy nature walks and beachcombing.
day 9
One Thousand Temples
Weave your way through hundreds of spires of all shapes and sizes and view ancient rock art. Visit Tomolol Cave, set within a turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush plant life.
day 10
Penumu Islands
Cruise among dramatic landscapes and placid lagoons and go snorkeling at Melissa’s Garden, considered to be one of the oldest and most pristine coral reefs in Raja Ampat.
day 11
Gam Island / Aljui Bay
Birders depart before dawn to search Gam’s bird-filled rain forest. Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay to learn about this important industry, and perhaps pick up a few high-quality souvenirs.
day 12
Wayag Island
Go ashore on Wayag for an optional hike to the top of Mount Pindito for magnificent panoramic views of your surroundings. Then go for a refreshing swim or snorkel in protected lagoons.
day 13
Dayang Island
Take an early morning trek through the lush forests of Dayang, which may reveal fantails, whistlers and a variety of honeyeaters.
Day 14
Sorong / Disembark / Jakarta
After a final breakfast onboard, disembark in Sorong and board our flight for Jakarta. Check into the now familiar Anara Hotel, located in Terminal 3. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Gather with your fellow travelers and expedition team at the hotel this evening for a final farewell dinner.
day 15
Jakarta / Depart
Board your independent homeward flight.
OPTIONAL PRE-EXTENSION: CULTURAL JAVA
6 DAYS
Jakarta / Borobudur / Yogyakarta
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Java while taking in the unique landscape of smoldering volcanoes, lush rice paddies, and ethereal temples. Visit the ninth-century Buddhist monument of Borobudur at sunrise – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most inspiring sights in all of Asia. Stroll through peaceful Kauman Village learning about Indonesia’s ancient art form of batik production. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Prambanan, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and spend time wandering through the awe-inspiring complex containing 240 temples.
OPTIONAL Post-EXTENSION: Diving Raja Ampat
7 DAYS
Raja Ampat
Located off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea, Raja Ampat is one of the world's premiere dive destinations. Part of Indonesia’s West Papua province, the area is made up of around 1,500 islands, cays, and shoals and boasts some of the greatest marine biodiversity in the world. The Papua Paradise Eco Resort is located in the very heart of the Raja Ampat Archipelago on the small, but pristine island of Birie. The variety of corals and marine life found in this area is phenomenal, which we will experience right from our luxurious over-water bungalows and numerous dive excursions.
Departure
The trip starts and ends in Jakarta
“My first and each subsequent visit to Indonesia have been with my two dear friends, Mike Messick and Shirley Campbell. Mike knows Indonesia like the back of his hand, and always finds the off-the-beaten-track gems that most people would miss. Shirley, a talented educator, has the ability to eloquently bring to life the people and culture of Indonesia. There are no two people I’d rather travel with to Indonesia—what an adventure we are going to have! I can’t wait!”
— rich pagen
Onboard the Aqua Blu
With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle, a 2019 refurbishment has transformed this vessel into a world-class luxury experience.
15 Suites from 14 sqm to 34 sqm on 4 decks
All cabins have personal temperature control and with ensuite bathroom with rain shower
More Detail
Pricing
Category 1 – Double Occupancy
$22,990 per person
Category 2 – Double Occupancy
$20,990 per person
Category 3 – Double Occupancy
$17,990 per person
What’s Included
All sightseeing, excursions and transportation
All meals and non-alcoholic beverages
Premium wine and beer onboard Aqua Blu
Snorkeling equipment, kayaks and stand up paddle boards
2 nights hotel accommodation
Internal flights within Indonesia
Arrival and Departure Transfers to Airport transfers
Taxes, gratuities and tips
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
