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    Spice Islands & Asmat Tribe

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    2481
    12 Days / 12 Nights
    Dates : Mid & Late Nov 28
    Ambon / Ambon
    Aqua Blu
    All shore excursions + Snorkelling & diving equipment + Kayaking & paddleboarding + Group transfers + Laundry + Unlimited WiFi
    HighlightsMap/ItineraryInclusions/ExclusionsPricesPhotosContact Us

    Set sail aboard Aqua Blu on a 12-night expedition through the remote Spice Islands and the extraordinary landscapes of eastern Indonesia. From the historic Banda Islands and Banda Neira to the pristine waters of Triton Bay and the remote Aru and Kei Islands, discover a region shaped by volcanic landscapes, rich marine biodiversity and deeply rooted cultural traditions. Journey across the Arafura Sea and explore some of Indonesia’s least-visited islands through immersive excursions, snorkeling, diving, hiking and encounters with local communities.

    • Discover Banda Islands and Banda Neira, the historic heart of the Old World spice trade.
    • Explore Pulau Koon and its spectacular marine environment, renowned for pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life.
    • Experience Triton Bay, one of eastern Indonesia’s exceptional destinations for diving and snorkeling.
    • Sail across the remote Arafura Sea and explore little-visited islands and coastal environments.
    • Discover the Aru and Kei Islands, with their secluded beaches, rich marine biodiversity and distinctive local cultures.
    • Explore Pulau Manuk and Pulau Ai & Run, combining volcanic landscapes, pristine waters and remarkable underwater ecosystems.
    • Experience the remote communities and natural environments of eastern Indonesia aboard Aqua Blu.

    Map/Itinerary

    Day 1Ambon

     
    Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon, and board Aqua Blu. After settling in, bid farewell to the harbor as we set sail towards the Banda Islands.​

    Day 2Banda 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 3Pulau Koon​

     
    Spend the morning 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 4Momon

     
    Arrive at Momon in the morning, and head out to see the spectacular Kitikiti waterfall. Guests who are feeling adventurous may jump into the ocean and swim to the waterfall’s plunge pool for a refreshing, cold shower. Momon also features fantastic snorkeling and kayaking spots along the jungle-fringed shoreline, as well as the chance to spot endemic kangaroos in the wooded areas.

    Day 5Triton Bay

     
    Head out in the afternoon for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with whale sharks in crystal-clear waters that make up Triton Bay. This region features sublime dive sites, home to a wealth of rare marine life and reefs decorated with some of the finest soft corals in the world. Over on land, the scenery consists of forest-covered limestone cliffs and prehistoric artwork high up on the rocky walls.

    Day 6Sailing The Arafura Sea

     
    Spend the day exploring the luxurious Aqua Blu and enjoy its variety of social spaces –  a jacuzzi, spa and exercise area, sky lounge bar, and a sun deck offering panoramic views of the vast seas. Gain a deeper insight into Indonesian culture through onboard cooking demonstrations and presentations from our expert guides.

    Day 7Yuan Yufri

     
    Arrive in the uncharted Asmat region – a remote part of West Papua which very few have ever had the opportunity to visit. On board private speedboats, head down the Lorentz River deep into the jungle to visit the village of Yuan Yufri. Enjoy a friendly welcome as the tribal members pass by in their handcrafted canoes. Spend the afternoon interacting with the locals, viewing their art, and learning about their daily lives. End the day with sundowners as we sail to Biwar Laut.

    Day 8Biwar Laut & Ouws

     
    Today, we continue our exploration of the Asmat region and gain a deeper insight into the traditions of the locals. Enjoy a scenic skiff ride to the village of Biwar Laut, escorted by tribal members in their canoes. Upon arrival, witness the traditional Spirit Mask ceremony, which is conducted by the Asmat people to honor their ancestors. After lunch on Aqua Blu, head over to the nearby village of Ouws to witness the Mbis Pole Ceremony which depicts how, after death, a soul manifests as a spirit in the image of a bird.

    Day 9Aru Islands

     
    Enjoy a relaxing morning at sea before we arrive at the shores of the Aru Islands. Take the plunge and go on a snorkeling and diving excursion in the island’s sparkling waters. Afterwards, unwind on the island’s tranquil beach, drinks in hand, as you take in the breathtaking sunset.

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    Day 10Kei Islands

     
    Discover the remote white-sand beaches of the Kei Islands, known to be some of the most pristine in East Indonesia. Swim and snorkel from the shore in the crystal-clear waters, home to marine life including pygmy seahorses and olive sea snakes.

    Day 11Pulau 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 12Pulau Ai & Run

     
    At Pulau Ai, 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.

    Inclusions/Exclusions

    Inclusions

    • All meals while on board
    • Selected house wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
    • Twice-daily excursions with expert local guides
    • Group transfers to/from vessel when traveling on recommended flights
    • Snorkeling equipment and wetsuits
    • Scuba diving equipment
    • Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding equipment
    • Laundry
    • Unlimited access to high-speed Wi-Fi

    Exclusions

    • International and domestic flights
    • Airport taxes
    • Travel insurance
    • Visa fees and reciprocity fees, where applicable
    • Medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation
    • Gratuities for crew
    • Personal expenses, including souvenirs, spa treatments and additional services
    • Any services or expenses not specifically listed as included

    Photos

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