Aqua Blu horizons

Luxurious expedition yacht Aqua Blu returns to Indonesian waters, unlocking the unique wonders of the Coral Triangle.

21 February 2023

Aqua Expeditions’ long-range ocean explorer yacht Aqua Blu has returned to East Indonesia’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands and Raja Ampat.

The once-British naval explorer was transformed into a luxury superyacht in 2006. A 2019 refurbishment overseen by award-winning Dutch Yacht designer Cor D. Rover has revealed a 60-metre world-class vessel that exudes luxury and features state-of-the-art amenities.

The vessel comprises five spacious decks and 15 individually designed suites. A tastefully paired brass-and-ivory interior theme throughout the ship lends itself to the considered mix of indoor and outdoor social spaces. Each space exudes opulence, from the Italian parquet floors throughout the bar to the custom porcelain dining and tea sets hand-painted with gold.

Setting sail on seven and 12-night itineraries, Aqua Blu is the first expedition yacht permanently based in the Indonesian Archipelago.

Aqua Blu and one of its two tenders for onshore exploration.

Wildlife adventure up close with whale sharks in the Komodo National Park.

Discover the world’s oldest nutmeg plantations on the spectacular Ambon and Spice Islands.

Komodo National Park.

Aqua Blu cruises to some of the world’s most dramatic UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Going off the beaten track to unlock remote and often hard-to-reach destinations with the aid of two private tenders, Aqua Blu is equipped to take its guests into the most rugged and captivating pockets of the enchanting Coral Triangle.

“A vessel of this pedigree is rare to come by in the vast seas of Eastern Indonesia and enables our explorers to experience the most rewarding and varied coastal cruise itineraries,” says Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions CEO and Founder.

“A 30-guest capacity and intimate 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio championed on every ship in our fleet, guarantees a highly personalised and luxurious experience for everyone.”

Itinerary highlights

Komodo National Park: Be blown away by the wonders of the Komodo National Park, home of the legendary Komodo dragons, as you hike through the stunning and unspoilt landscapes labelled as one of the world’s most dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Aqua Blu sails the Komodo National Park from April to September.

Ambon and Spice Islands: Sailing South across the Banda Sea, discover the world’s oldest nutmeg plantations on the spectacular Ambon and Spice Islands. Trek through villages steeped in historical culture, charm, and colonial architecture, and peruse the local spice markets.

Thrill-seekers of the group can hike the active volcano of Banda Api. Aqua Blu sails Ambon and Spice Islands from October to November.

Nutmeg is among the many native species in the Spice Islands.

Trek through villages steeped in historical culture, charm and colonial architecture.

Aqua Blu is fully equipped with top-of-the-line diving and snorkelling equipment, paddleboards and kayaks.

Raja Ampat

Sailing toward the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll snorkel and dive in the enchanting, underwater kingdoms of Raja Ampat alongside gentle whale sharks and manta rays.

This marine protected area is a thriving subterranean metropolis, home to over 1,300 species of tropical marine fish. Aqua Blu sails Raja Ampat from December through to February.

After days teeming with adventure, guests retreat to the comforts of Aqua Blu. The vessel’s amenities are exceptional, featuring a spacious observation deck that takes in 360-degree views, a lobby lounge and sky bar, a library, a dedicated outdoor workout zone and yoga deck, an indoor spa and an outdoor jacuzzi flanked by plush daybeds.

As well as its two private tenders, Aqua Blu is fully equipped with top-of-the-line diving and snorkelling equipment, paddleboards and kayaks, with all water-based excursions expert-led by highly experienced crew and dive guides.

Guests on board Aqua Blu are treated to an immersive five-star culinary experience designed by renowned Australian chef and restauranteur Benjamin Cross.

Discover refined Indonesian-inspired cuisine with Cross’s carefully crafted menu that features over 160 exquisite recipes, showcasing bountiful flavours inspired by Indonesian, European, and Mediterranean cuisines.

Indulge in yellowfin tuna tartare, giant Papuan prawns, and charcoal-grilled black cod with sambal and kaffir lime, freshly prepared on board each day.

Aqua Blu can be booked per cabin or for standalone charters. Cabin rates start from USD$8,505 per adult (in double occupancy) for a seven-night itinerary including all meals and beverages (non-alcoholic, premium wines, and beer), local transfer to and from recommended flights, all excursions, laundry service and internet.

Limited 12-night repositioning itineraries start from USD$13,100 per adult (in double occupancy) including all meals and beverages (non-alcoholic, premium wines, and beer), local transfer to and from recommended flights, all excursions, laundry service and internet.

aquaexpeditions.com/indonesia-cruise

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