A unique and fairytale-like landscape awaits you to the west of West Papua. Raja Ampat is an archipelago consisting of more than 1,500 small islands, still untouched and sparsely populated, hosting spectacular flora and fauna both above and below the water. The best way to experience this island group is by a comfortable cruise, allowing you to explore many undiscovered spots and, most notably, the magnificent underwater world.
The cruise departs annually only from December to February/March on fixed dates.
Sample Program
Day 1: Welcome to Sorong
Early in the morning, you arrive by flight in Sorong. A shared transfer takes you to the Swiss-Belhotel in Sorong, where you can freshen up and relax. Around noon, you board the Aqua Blu. As you enjoy your lunch, the journey to Mioskon Island begins. Relax, admire the scenery, and in the evening, indulge in an exquisite dinner.
Day 2: Mioskon Island and Kabui Bay
Wake up to a stunning view of Mioskon Island. This morning is perfect for a relaxing snorkeling or diving excursion in these waters. In the afternoon, you can explore the 'Passage' by boat or kayak— a narrow channel between Waigeo and Gam islands. This is where the renowned British biologist Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860 during his expedition in this region. Admire the mangroves and perhaps spot saltwater crocodiles, sea turtles, or hornbill birds. Upon returning to the ship, you can enjoy a delicious sundowner and dinner.
Day 3: Cape Kri and Yangeffo Island
You can wake up early this morning for an early boat trip to the stunning karst limestone rocks of Kabui Bay. After returning on board, the ship will sail to Cape Kri while you enjoy breakfast. Upon arrival at Cape Kri, you can go snorkeling or diving at a location known for recording the highest number of marine species spotted in just 90 minutes.
The next destination is Yangeffo Island, where you have the choice between an adventurous dive excursion at Mayhem Reef or a relaxing 'cocktail cruise' through the mangroves. Once back on board, it will be time for a delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Aljui Bay and Wofoh Island
After breakfast, you can visit a pearl farm and see how it operates. Then, the boat sails to Wofoh Island, where in the afternoon you can go snorkeling, diving, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking. Spend a relaxing afternoon on a private beach at Aqua Blu’s Beach Club, with a refreshing drink at sunset.
Day 5: Wayag Island
When the sun rises, a completely different landscape awaits. Wayag Island is characterized by limestone islands and beautiful lagoons. Take an early dip in the water and listen to the birds singing all around you. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the rare paradise bird…
After a hearty breakfast, it is time to get back into the water. You can go diving at Figure Eight Rock or go snorkeling at the Ranger Station, where you may spot the blacktip reef shark. The rest of the afternoon can be spent in a kayak exploring the various hidden lagoons at ‘Castaway Beach’.
Day 6: Dayang Island and Arborek Island
The ship arrives early at Dayang Island, known for its vibrant underwater world. Here, various species of manta rays can be seen, including sometimes the giant manta. It remains truly astonishing how these majestic creatures glide gracefully through the water.
The journey continues to Arborek Island, where you will take a land excursion for a change. This cultural tour takes you to a local village, where you will learn more about local life. You will enjoy dinner aboard once again under the vast starry sky.
Day 8: Sorong
After one last early breakfast aboard the Aqua Blu, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and the ship. A transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.
Day 7: Mayalibit Bay
Wake up before sunrise to join a special nature excursion. On Waigeo Island, you will take a walk to spot the rare paradise bird. After breakfast, you can enjoy a relaxing snorkel trip at Friwinbonda Island.
In the afternoon, you can explore the inland in a local canoe and take a refreshing dip in the deep blue Kali Biru River. Afterwards, you will enjoy a final delicious dinner onboard as the ship returns to Sorong.
Day 2: Mioskon Island and Kabui Bay
Day 3: Cape Kri and Yangeffo Island
Day 4: Aljui Bay and Wofoh Island
Day 5: Wayag Island
Day 6: Dayang Island and Arborek Island
Day 8: Sorong
Day 7: Mayalibit Bay
Day 1: Welcome to Sorong
Early in the morning, you arrive by flight in Sorong. A shared transfer takes you to the Swiss-Belhotel in Sorong, where you can freshen up and relax. Around noon, you board the Aqua Blu. As you enjoy your lunch, the journey to Mioskon Island begins. Relax, admire the scenery, and in the evening, indulge in an exquisite dinner.
Day 2: Mioskon Island and Kabui Bay
Wake up to a stunning view of Mioskon Island. This morning is perfect for a relaxing snorkeling or diving excursion in these waters. In the afternoon, you can explore the 'Passage' by boat or kayak— a narrow channel between Waigeo and Gam islands. This is where the renowned British biologist Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860 during his expedition in this region. Admire the mangroves and perhaps spot saltwater crocodiles, sea turtles, or hornbill birds. Upon returning to the ship, you can enjoy a delicious sundowner and dinner.
Day 3: Cape Kri and Yangeffo Island
You can wake up early this morning for an early boat trip to the stunning karst limestone rocks of Kabui Bay. After returning on board, the ship will sail to Cape Kri while you enjoy breakfast. Upon arrival at Cape Kri, you can go snorkeling or diving at a location known for recording the highest number of marine species spotted in just 90 minutes.
The next destination is Yangeffo Island, where you have the choice between an adventurous dive excursion at Mayhem Reef or a relaxing 'cocktail cruise' through the mangroves. Once back on board, it will be time for a delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Aljui Bay and Wofoh Island
After breakfast, you can visit a pearl farm and see how it operates. Then, the boat sails to Wofoh Island, where in the afternoon you can go snorkeling, diving, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking. Spend a relaxing afternoon on a private beach at Aqua Blu’s Beach Club, with a refreshing drink at sunset.
Day 5: Wayag Island
When the sun rises, a completely different landscape awaits. Wayag Island is characterized by limestone islands and beautiful lagoons. Take an early dip in the water and listen to the birds singing all around you. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the rare paradise bird…
After a hearty breakfast, it is time to get back into the water. You can go diving at Figure Eight Rock or go snorkeling at the Ranger Station, where you may spot the blacktip reef shark. The rest of the afternoon can be spent in a kayak exploring the various hidden lagoons at ‘Castaway Beach’.
Day 6: Dayang Island and Arborek Island
The ship arrives early at Dayang Island, known for its vibrant underwater world. Here, various species of manta rays can be seen, including sometimes the giant manta. It remains truly astonishing how these majestic creatures glide gracefully through the water.
The journey continues to Arborek Island, where you will take a land excursion for a change. This cultural tour takes you to a local village, where you will learn more about local life. You will enjoy dinner aboard once again under the vast starry sky.
Day 8: Sorong
After one last early breakfast aboard the Aqua Blu, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and the ship. A transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.
Day 7: Mayalibit Bay
Wake up before sunrise to join a special nature excursion. On Waigeo Island, you will take a walk to spot the rare paradise bird. After breakfast, you can enjoy a relaxing snorkel trip at Friwinbonda Island.
In the afternoon, you can explore the inland in a local canoe and take a refreshing dip in the deep blue Kali Biru River. Afterwards, you will enjoy a final delicious dinner onboard as the ship returns to Sorong.
Details
Your home during this adventurous week is the stunning expedition yacht Aqua Blu. This luxury vessel has 5 decks and only 15 cabins, divided into three categories. Most cabins feature unique layouts and decor. You will have access to many facilities, including a restaurant and bar, a lobby bar, an observation deck, a jacuzzi, loungers on the deck, and a spa. Additionally, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel and diving equipment are available for use during the cruise. Excursions are conducted with a maximum of 10 guests per guide.
Included
Shared transfer from Sorong Airport to the Swiss Belhotel and to the port, shared transfer on the last day from the port to Sorong Airport, 8-day cruise on an all-inclusive basis with meals and selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, English-speaking crew, excursions, onboard lectures, use of snorkel and diving equipment, kayak and SUP board, Wi-Fi, entrance fees, and laundry service.
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