At a Glance
Discover the best dive and snorkel sites on Earth on this luxury, 8-day cruise of Indonesia’s Raja Ampart islands. Experience a National Geographic moment with dramatic karst island landscapes, unmatched marine diversity and a chance to see the beautiful and elusive Birds of Paradise.
Departing from Sorong, Indonesia, set sail on the luxurious Aqua Blu cruise ship to explore the magnificent Raja Ampat. Translated to mean “Four Kings”, Raja Ampat captivates with the enigmatic beauty of its limestone karst island clusters, secret lagoons, bays and beaches. Dive and snorkel mesmerising turquoise waters: home to the world’s most diverse underwater habitats: rainbow reefs, swift channels and more than 1,300 species of tropical fish (about 50% of all known species) including manta rays, sea turtles and friendly reef sharks. Hike through lush green ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals while on board
- Premium selected wines and beer, non-alcoholic drink
- Excursions with knowledgeable local guides
- Group transfers between vessel on recommended flights
- Snorkelling equipment and wet suits
- Scuba diving
- All available non-motorized water sports
- Laundry
- Internet connection (intermittent depends on locations)
- 7 nights’ on board the luxurious Aqua Blu cruise ship in Category 3 cabin on a twin share basis (upgrades available at an additional cost).
Itinerary
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Departing from Sorong, the crew warmly welcome you aboard the Aqua Blu to discover the magic of Raja Ampat: the cradle of life between the Indian and Pacific Ocean. Here, you will find stunning limestone karst island landscapes, the world’s most diverse underwater habitats and the beautiful and elusive Birds of Paradise. Settle into your luxurious suite and take time to explore your home away from home. Sip a cocktail in the Sky Lounge Bar. Mingle with other guests in the Alfresco dining area. Splash around in the jacuzzi or laze on the lounge day beds. Pamper yourself Balinese massage and aromatherapy in the onboard spa. Or, simply look out over the stunningly blue water and keep an eye out for marine life including manta rays and sperm whales. As the sun sets, cruise towards Gam Island and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua Blu
Lunch, Dinner |
“One of the most picturesque landscapes I have ever seen…” is what Alfred Russel Wallace wrote travelling through the narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island as the first Westerner in 1860. Since then, not much has changed. Spend the morning hiking on Gam Island and in nearby Waisai where you will find pristine beaches, sharp limestone hills and heavy jungle, brimming with birdlife including Western Crowned Pigeons, Palm Cockatoos and spectacular Birds of Paradise, whose mesmerising behaviour is arguably one of life’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. In the afternoon, hug the untouched coastline around the Kabui Bay where you will find the famed diving and snorkelling site of Kabui Passage. Near where the Passage begins is a lookout atop a high peak that offers incredible 360-degree views of the Bay’s karst island seascape. If you would prefer a more leisurely stroll, venture into the local village where you will have the opportunity to visit a nearby bat cave. In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Dive into Cape Kri, a strikingly beautiful dive site famous for the highest number of different species observed on one-tank dive: 374! Explore its sandy coastline by foot or whether you choose to dive or snorkel, you will see hundreds of fish: large schools of barracuda, batfish, snapper and trevallies, just to name a few. In the late afternoon, sail to Arborek Island, a tiny sand cay you can walk around in just 30 minutes. While there is no jungle here, the small village is worth exploring: you will find souvenir stores selling noken (traditional Papuan woven sling bags), bayay (woven baskets) and colourful manta ray shaped hats. In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
As the sun rises, look on as the splendour of Pulau Wayag limestone islets and lagoons unveil before your eyes like a mini Ha Long Bay. The fairy tale panorama you will find here is more captivating than Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach. Climb to the top of Mount Pindito – the highest peak on Wayag at 760 metres (2,500 feet) – for a bird’s eye view of the unique karst islands that look like mushrooms sprouting from the sea. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for rare Birds of Paradise, whose colourful red feathers are a stark contrast to the lush green jungle. In the afternoon, make the beach your home. In front of the ranger station, you will find an incredible turquoise bay where you can swim with scores of harmless baby blacktip sharks – what a beautiful day in paradise! In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Head to the most western part of Waigeo Island to find the remote, mangrove lined Aljui Bay with its mysterious pocket bays and coves. Visit the local pearl farm where you will get a glimpse into the skill, time and energy it takes to cultivate these natural miracles: each pearl grows in the bay for four years before being harvested! Continue on to Pulau Pef and Yangello to find a mini Raja Ampat all in one. The karst limestone islets and hidden lagoons are ideal to explore aboard tenders and kayaks, while the colourful reef is perfect for diving and snorkelling. If you would prefer to stay dry, take a hike 42 metres up the nearby mountain for a 360-degree view or trek through the jungle in search of rare birds including cockatoos and parrots. In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Start your day with a trek through Dayang Island’s lush forest to look for the magnificent Birds of Paradise. If you haven’t already spotted these beautiful birds, this could be your chance to get the photo of a lifetime! In the afternoon, take advantage of the Island’s peaceful waters for diving and snorkelling. Manta rays and whale sharks are common in this area, so keep an eye out for these gentle giants as they feed among the colourful coral. Adventurous divers should venture further out to explore the sunken wreckage of a WW2 P47D fighter plane and the beautiful reefs and sea-mounts of nearby Tapok. In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Discover Mother Nature at her finest on Birie, a group of islands, bays and lagoons that lie just off the coast of north Batanta. Take a short walk through the mangroves to a small but beautiful waterfall before venturing on through clear jungle streams to the larger falls. When you get to the falls, you are free to swim in the fresh water, explore the cave behind or recline on the rocks. Along the way, there are plenty of birds, butterflies and other wildlife to see! In the afternoon, continue your swimming, diving and snorkelling routine in the surrounding reefs. In the evening, head back to the ship and enjoy relaxed communal style dining courtesy of the onboard chef. |
Aqua BluBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Come full circle back to Sorong and disembark after a sumptuous breakfast to commence your onward journey. If you have time before your flight, visit the local market, Pasar Jimbutan Puri, for a taste of local life. If you’re early enough, you will see fishing boats coming in with their catch from the night before and local fisherman haggling for the best prices and the best catch. Check out the nearby souvenir shops for traditional goods including Indonesian cloth and tribal mask – this shopping experience is a great opportunity to learn about Paupanese culture and history. If you’re feeling energetic, get in touch with the spiritual side of the island by taking a hike to the Buddhist temple perched on a hill overlooking town. The beautiful pagoda is the perfect place to appreciate the sunset over the city. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Dates & Prices
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Sorong, Indonesia.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Sorong. The closest major airport is Sorong’s Donny Eduard Osok International Airport (SOQ) which is 5km from the centre of Sorong. Domestic flights serve Sorong’s Donny Eduard Osok International Airport (SOQ) from Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Garuda Indonesia Airlines provide convenient flight time connections to coincide with the Aqua Blu’s embarkation and disembarkation times.
In the Far East of Indonesia where Raja Ampat is located, the monsoon season runs opposite to most of the country. This means that from October through to May, the region receives little rainfall.
Due to its equatorial location, Raja Ampat’s temperature remains fairly constant, with daytime maximums of 31 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit) and night-time lows of 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall in Raja Ampat from December to February remains constant at an average of 211mm per month. The region of Raja Ampat is dominated by microclimates, which means weather can differ from island to island and hour by hour. It’s not uncommon for rain to fall for a short period (five to 50 minutes) only for bright sunshine and blue skies to return afterwards!
- 16 luxurious design suites ranging from 130 sq. ft (12 sq. m) to 366 sq. ft (34 sq. m) with portholes or windows, inclusive of ensuite bathrooms
- Deluxe ensuite bathrooms with spacious walk-in shower, and overhead rain-shower
- Premium king-sized bed or twin beds
- All suites are fully air-conditioned
- Equipped with pampering organic natural hair and bath amenities
- Nespresso machines available in select cabins
- Closet with electronic safe
- 15 individually-designed suites in 3 categories across four decks. 2 pairs of interconnecting suites available.
- Cat I: 8 suites – Bridge Deck (1 suite), Forecastle Deck (2 suites), Main Deck (2suites) and Lower Deck (3 suites)
- Cat II: 4 suites – Bridge Deck (1 suite), Forecastle Deck (1 suite) and Main Deck (2 suites)
- Cat III: 3 suites – Main Deck (1 suite) and Lower Deck (2 suites)
Sun Deck: With an elevated vantage point, the Sun Deck offers spectacular 360-degree views wherever you sail in the picturesque East Indonesia region. Equipped with a barbecue, outdoor seating with umbrellas and wraparound lounge sofas, this is the perfect location for sunrise yoga, evening grill party or night stargazing.
Jacuzzi & Lounge Daybeds: The outdoor jacuzzi is complete with plush daybeds for sunbathing and lazing perfect after a diving or snorkelling session
Spa & Exercise Area: Indulge in Balinese massage and aromatherapy from our onboard therapist or work up a sweat in the outdoor exercise area. Take your massage outdoors, if you wish.
Sky Bar Lounge: Exchange the days’ tales of marine sightings over a cocktail at the stylish Sky Lounge Bar, while looking out to gorgeous views of the surrounding seas.
Dining Room: Experience refined Indonesian-inspired cuisine onboard Aqua Blu in an inviting and stylishly-appointed dining room on the Main Deck.
Alfresco Dining Area: Located on the Forecastle Deck, the alfresco dining area is the ideal spot to enjoy freshly prepared meals. Choose to mingle with other guests, or retain a sense of privacy while enjoying the fresh breeze and stunning sea views.
Private Speedboat: boasts two Alson Flash private speedboats used for daily excursions to nearby islands, each with a capacity of 16 passengers. One tender with a capacity of eight divers is used exclusively for diving activities.
Watersports Equipment: a comprehensive suite of top-of-the-line, non-motorized watersports equipment, including diving and snorkelling gear, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
