Raja Ampat & Forgotten Islands of West Papua

Expedition cruise on the super yacht Aqua Blu with a maximum of 30 passengers

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Indonesia's archipelago on a small ship

From Sorong (West Papua) to Labuan Bajo (Flores)

22 days (21 nights)

Maximum 30 passengers

Aqua Blue

22-day expedition voyage aboard the superyacht Aqua Blu (max. 30 passengers) from Sorong in West Papua to Labuan Bajo on Flores, including Raja Ampat, Wayag Island, Penemu Island, One Thousand Temples, Banda Neira, and the Forgotten Islands.

This superyacht expedition takes you from Sorong in West Papua to the island of Flores, showcasing the best of the Raja Ampat archipelago and the Forgotten Islands of West Papua. Experience the cultural mosaic of the Banda Islands, once the heart of the spice trade, and navigate through the almost surreal landscapes of Raja Ampat – a tropical dream destination and one of the world's best diving areas. Go hiking on the remote and legendary Forgotten Islands in eastern Indonesia, which very few ship expeditions visit.

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Your journey begins along the picturesque coastline of Mioskon Islandwhere you can explore the impressive limestone karst islands of Raja Ampat. Here you have the choice: Snorkeling, swimming, diving, or kayaking in one of the most species-rich coral reef ecosystems in the world, which is rightly known as "Amazon of the seas" is referred to.

Glide eye-to-eye with majestic rays through crystal-clear waters and swim with blacktip reef sharks in these pristine waters.
As you sail further south to the Spice Islands, you'll encounter colonial history at the scene of the action. Look forward to visiting the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira and Pulau Run —the island that was once traded by the British for Manhattan. Fort Revenge sits enthroned on the lush green island of Pulau Ai as a silent witness to bloody power struggles over the coveted nutmeg plantations of this Spice Island.

Your comfortable expedition yacht will take you even further to the Forgotten Islands, a chain of islands in northeastern Indonesia. Their palm-fringed beaches are as famous as their breathtaking diving areas: in the heart of the Coral Triangle, crystal-clear waters surround intact coral reefs and exciting marine life such as devil rays, hammerhead sharks, and silvertip sharks.

Stephanie Gräf

Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.

I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.

You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de

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Good to know

Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of customized travel packages including flights, hotels, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs to extend your trip.

Entry requirements: German citizens need only a passport (valid for at least 6 months after their return date) to enter Indonesia.

Insurance: Proof of international health insurance covering medical repatriationmust be provided.

Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.

HIGHLIGHTS

Wayag Island, the most famous island in the Raja Ampat archipelago with its epic karst landscapes and atolls
One of the world's most biodiverse underwater worlds in Yangeffo Bay, where you can also snorkel in mangroves
Visit to a traditional pearl farm at Aljui Bay
Swimming in the mysterious Kali Biru River under a tropical canopy
One Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex with jellyfish lakes, ancient rock paintings, and Tomolol Cave
Arborek Island, where you can get a glimpse of everyday life in Papua in Yensawai
Colonial history on site on the Spice Islands with Fort Belgica, Fort Revenge, and Pulau Run
Possible sightings of barracudas, tuna, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, silvertip sharks, and devilfish
Extensive activities such as tender boat trips, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, diving, snorkeling, andswimming

route

itinerary

Advance information
Your journey to Sorong and your departure from Labuan Bajo are not included in your tour price.

Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Sorong to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.

Day 1: Embarkation in Sorong

Arriving in Sorong today, you will receive a warm welcome at the airport before a private transfer takes you to the Aston Sorong Hotel, where you can rest and relax before lunch and embarkation. You will then board the Aqua Blu, which will set sail for Mioskon Island shortly afterwards, while you enjoy the first-class cuisine of Chef Benjamin Cross for dinner.

Boarding is scheduled for 6:15 p.m.

Day 2: Mioskon Island & Mayalibit Bay

Today, wake up to the beauty of Mioskon Island and set off on a relaxing snorkeling and diving excursion. In the afternoon, take tender boats into the heart of the jungle before canoeing upstream through the mystical blue waters of Kali Biru. Refresh yourself with a swim downstream under the green jungle canopy.

A clear river winds its way through the jungle.

Day 3: Yangeffo Bay & Yeben

In Yangeffo Bay, you can enjoy an exciting dive at the famous Mayhem Reef or a snorkeling tour through the mangroves of Citrus Ridge. The Aqua Blu then navigates to Yeben Island, and you can recharge your batteries on board during the crossing. Yeben Island is a hidden gem in Raja Ampat, known in particular for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. Take a tender trip out to sea and enjoy the sunset. Back on board, dinner under the stars awaits you.

Day 4: Aljui Bay & Wofoh Island

Early in the morning, you will set off for Aljui Bay, followed by a visit to a local pearl farm. Later in the day , you will head to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling, and water sports. Relax on a secluded beach with delicious cocktails and look forward to another atmospheric sunset.

Day 5: Wayag Island

Experience the stunning beauty of Wayag Island's limestone islands and turquoise lagoons at sunrise. Start with a refreshing morning swim and listen to the gentle sounds of nature before enjoying a hearty breakfast on board. Then dive at the spectacular Figure Eight Rock or snorkel at the ranger station and watch blacktip reef sharks glide elegantly by. Spend the afternoon kayaking through hidden lagoons and to the idyllic "Castaway" beach.

Day 6: Penemu Island & Arborek Island

Today you will wake up off Penemu Island, which is particularly well known for the iconic diving and snorkeling paradise Melissa's Garden. The hard coral garden is inhabited by a remarkable colorful variety of marine life. In the afternoon, you set off in search of majestic manta rays near the charming island village of Arborek. In the evening, relaxing walks through the village offer authentic insights into the everyday life and rhythms of the islanders.

Day 7: One Thousand Temples & Yillet

Today you will reach the karst island and lagoon complex known as One Thousand Temples. In the morning, you will explore mysterious jellyfish lakes and striking karst landscapes and marvel at ancient rock paintings before discovering the impressive Tomolol Cave. After lunch, you will continue on to Yillet Island, which offers some of the world's most famous diving and snorkeling spots.

Day 8: Wayil

The Wayil region in Raja Ampat consists of numerous untouched and largely undeveloped islands with beautiful beaches and secret lagoons. Go kayaking among colorful coral reefs or enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Day 9: Pulau Koon

Spend the day exploring some of the world's best reefs. Off the remote island of Koon, divers and snorkelers can expect to see numerous schools of reef fish at the "Too Many Fish" spot. There is also a good chance of encountering leopard sharks and hammerhead sharks.

Day 10: Banda Islands & Banda Neira

At sunrise, you will approach the Banda Islands and be welcomed in the harbor of Kora-Kora by war canoes. Visit the Dutch Fort Nassau on Banda Neira, which was one of the most contested islands in the world in the 16th and 17th centuries. Stroll through ancient corridors that tell a story rich in history and where the life of the islanders pulsates today. After lunch, go snorkeling or diving on the water before enjoying a sundowner at Fort Belgica later on.

Day 11: Ambon

During a stop in Ambon, the ship will be provisioned today for the next leg of the journey. Spend the morning relaxing on board the Aqua Blu. Make use of the outdoor gym, relax in the Jacuzzi, or treat yourself to a wellness treatment in the spa.

In the afternoon, you will take a tour of the Commonwealth War Cemetery.

Day 12: Hila

Today, the first item on the agenda is a trip to the historic Dutch fortress Fort Amsterdam in the coastal town of Hila. In the afternoon, you will continue sailing and learn more about the exciting history of the spice trade. At sunset, the Aqua Blu will navigate further to the Banda Islands. As you travel through the deep waters of the Banda Sea, you will experience the ancient naval tradition of "hands to bathe, " where you jump into the kilometer-deep water far out at sea.

Several people are in the water around their expedition ship on the high seas.

Day 13: Back to the Banda Islands and Banda Neira

Back on the Banda Islands, spend the day at your own pace on Banda Neira, discovering the island's rich history and picturesque views. Further snorkeling or diving excursions are also available. Alternatively, relax on board the Aqua Blu.

Day 14: Pulau Ai & Pulau Run

At sunrise, you will reach Pulau Ai and Pulau Run, the westernmost islands of the Banda Islands. Swim, snorkel, and dive in the crystal-clear waters with their impressive coral gardens and colorful reef fish. Afterwards, take a guided tour to Fort Revenge and its nutmeg warehouses. Spend the afternoon on a pristine beach on Pulau Run. The British traded this island to the Dutch for Manhattan in 1661. Watch the sun set over the sea and enjoy a cocktail party at this historic location.

Day 15: Pulau Manuk

During sunrise breakfast on board, you will enjoy impressive views of the 300-meter-high cliffs of Pulau Manuk. This volcanic island rises over 3,000 meters from the sea floor. The place is a refuge for fish-hunting birds as well as sea snakes and reef sharks, which are attracted by the underwater thermal springs.

Day 16: Serua Island & Nil Desperandum

With a variety of reefs, steep walls, and soft corals, Serua Island is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Schools of colorful fish frolic here, and with a little luck, you may spot hammerhead sharks. The small atoll of Nil Desperandum in the Banda Sea delights visitors with its unique hard coral formations. Spend a whole day diving and snorkeling among these impressive coral and sponge formations and watch large schools of fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel swim carefree past you.

Day 17: The forgotten islands Romang, Nyata, & Telang

Today, dive around Nyata Island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Outside the national park, you can also go fishing off Romang and Nyata. The journey continues south to Telang, where you can go snorkeling and kayaking and, with a little luck, spot rare silvertip sharks.

Day 18: Wetar

The rarely visited wild coast of Wetar holds many hidden treasures for you. Experience impressive wall dives where you can observe sharks, schools of pelagic fish, and majestic manta rays and devil rays.

A diver slides into the water from a boat.

Women in colorful cloth robes stand cheerfully together in a village square.

Day 19: Alor

Set amid crystal-clear waters and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, Alor is home to several fishing villages and is naturally a favorite destination for divers and snorkelers. Centuries-old traditions come to life here in the traditional dance performances of the friendly Abui tribe. After lunch, enjoy a relaxing afternoon on board as the journey continues to Maumere.

Day 20: Maumere

After arriving in Maumere, take an afternoon trip to a nearby village. Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy picturesque views of tropical hills.

Day 21: Sabulon

Spend the afternoon swimming directly from the ship and enjoy the tranquil reefs around Sabulon before experiencing the final sunset of your superyacht expedition.

Day 22: Arrival in Labuan Bajo

After a final breakfast on board, you will leave the Aqua Blu.

But after disembarking, you will surely carry the fascinating colors of the coral reefs, the gentle sound of the waves, and the images of your personal favorite islands of Raja Ampat and West Papua with you for a long time to come.

PLEASE NOTE: The daily programs described here are for your guidance only. The itinerary may vary due to local weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and organizational requirements. The expedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.

Information

Included services:

Cruise and overnight stays on board the booked ship according to the published itinerary
All meals throughout the trip on board the ship
Select premium wines and beer, non-alcoholic beverages
Daily excursions with local guides
Group transfers to/from the ship when traveling with recommended flights
Snorkeling equipment and wetsuits
Scuba diving
Kayak and stand-up paddleboard equipment
laundry service
Unlimited access to SpaceX's high-speed internet via Starlink satellites

Not included in the price:

Flights, whether scheduled or charter flights
Passport and visa fees
Arrival and departure taxes
private transfer
SPA treatments
Meals ashore
Luggage, cancellation, and personal insurance (highly recommended)
Tips for service personnel on board and guides (guidelines available on request)

Important:

Onboard language: English, English-speaking guides
Onboard currency: Indonesian rupiah (IDR), Visa, or MasterCard
Medical care: comprehensive medical care for wounds and injuries, oxygen for emergencies, automatic external defibrillator, cruise leaders and guides trained in first aid, and a dedicated health and safety officer
Children under 12 years of age receive a 20% discount, minimum age 5 years
Scuba diving is only permitted for certified divers.

Your ship during the voyage

Aqua Blu at sunset

Your ship: The Aqua Blu

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The expedition ship Aqua Blu off the green coast

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Your expedition yacht Aqua Blu

A turquoise blue crystal clear river in the jungle

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The Kali Biru River

An island with wide sandy beaches and forests lies in the azure blue sea.

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Banda Islands

Island landscape with towering green islands close together

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Wayag Island in Raja Ampat

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Play of sun and clouds over the sea

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Bay off Wayag Island

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In Raja Ampat

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Welcome by Kora-Kora warriors

Tables, chairs, and lightweight parasols on a terrace

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Sundowner at Fort Belgica

Women wearing red skirts and red headscarves dance

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Dance performance at Fort Belgica

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Visiting an island village

Traditional musicians with drums, ukulele, and bass

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Traditional musicians on the Forgotten Islands

An old wooden jetty with a wooden hut in front of palm trees on the shore

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Island impression

Light streams through open windows and doors into a vaulted, whitewashed room.

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A chapel on the Spice Islands

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Colorful coral reef

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An octopus

Several people are walking on a path under palm trees.

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On the road in the Forgotten Islands

A bay surrounded by forest with two ships

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A remote bay

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A sea turtle

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snorkeling

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