Guests on Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise take a tender boat to explore turquoise sea & green gumdrop islands in Indonesia.
White-sand beach set up with ornate umbrellas & camping chairs by turquoise water with 3 small ships offshore at sunset.
2 small tender boats sit at edge of turquoise sea as guests on Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise snorkel beside bright green mountains.
Diver floats beside an oceanic manta ray as it preys on a school or small silver fish on the Aqua Blu Raja Ampat dive cruise in Indonesia.
Aerial view of 2 tender boats cruising in turquoise water among gumdrop green islands on the Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise.
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Asia / Pacific Indonesia Cruise

Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise

Sailing towards the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this 8-day Raja Ampat cruise expedition is a visual spectacle with unmatched marine diversity on show at some of the best dive and snorkel sites on Earth. Indonesia’s Raja Ampat features beautiful limestone karst island clusters that enthrall explorers with secret lagoons, bays and beaches. During this Indonesia cruise aboard the 30-guest luxury yacht Aqua Blu, explore the world’s most biodiverse environments and also tuck into perfect private hideaways.

Enjoy world-class wildlife excursions both on the ground and underwater. Go in search of birds of paradise that exist nowhere else on Earth. These winged wonders live alongside 350 other bird species, including forest kingfishers and king parrots, making the region a mecca for birders. Scour beaches for turtle species including the Pacific leatherback, the largest of all living turtle species on Earth. And don either dive gear or a snorkel and fins to discover the underwater delights of this Marine Protected Area.

Start the trip by relaxing at Swiss-Belhotel before boarding the ship on day 1, then begin enjoying various highlights of the itinerary. Tour “The Passage”–a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860, experience Yangeffo Island, enjoy water activities at Wofoh Island, dive at Figure Eight Rock or snorkel at the Ranger station to spot black tip reef sharks while visiting Wayag Island, take in traditional dancing at the Papuan village of Yensawai on Birie Island and visit Mayabilit Bay.

The alternative Spice Islands to Raja Ampat itinerary completes a positioning route, offering some unique stops for a blend of Aqua Blu’s regularly occurring itineraries. Motor from the Spice Islands to Raja Ampat to experience centuries-old traditions at the former center of the global spice trade, then explore endemic and rare bird species in the most diverse marine habitats in the world.

Passage is aboard Aqua Blu, a luxury long-range explorer yacht with a military past, specifically refurbished for cruising among Indonesian waters. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size. Enjoy her fine appointments, 5-star Indonesian cuisine with menus developed by a world-renowned chef, and state-of-the-art safety equipment for a unique way to cruise Indonesia.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises, Southeast Asia cruises and Pacific Island cruises.



Itinerary

Raja Ampat Itinerary

The 8-day Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise operates Saturday-Saturday, round-trip from Sorong, Indonesia. Highlights include dives operating almost daily, seeking out birds of paradise, visiting a pearl farm, taking in a cultural excursion at a Papuan village and time to relax in tucked-away coves.

Route map of Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise, operating round-trip from Sorong, Indonesia, with visits to Mioskon Island, Kabui Bay, Cape Kri, Yangeffo Island, Aljui Bay, Wofoh Island, Wayag Island, Dayang Island, Arborek Island & Mayabilit Bay.
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Day 1
SAT - Embark Sorong, Indonesia

Arrive at Sorong to a warm welcome. Take a private transfer to the Swiss-Belhotel Sorong to rest and relax, before embarkation at lunchtime. Board the ship and cruise to Mioskon Island, while enjoying the world-class cuisine of chef Benjamin Cross for dinner.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
SUN - Mioskon Island & Kabui Bay

Awake to the beauty of Mioskon Island. Take an easy dive and snorkel excursion. Enjoy an afternoon tour on tenders or kayak of “The Passage”–a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860. Enjoy the mangrove views and catch sight of saltwater crocodiles, hawksbill turtles and hornbills before returning to the ship for sundowners and dinner.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
MON - Cape Kri & Yangeffo Island

Rise in the morning to birdsong for an early tender tour of Kabui Bay’s magnificent karsts. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast while cruising to Cape Kri. Snorkel or dive at a site which holds the world record for most species spotted in a single 90-minute dive. On to Yangeffo Island, go on an exhilarating afternoon dive excursion at Mayhem reef or enjoy a sunset cocktail tender tour of the mangroves. Dine underneath the stars once you’re back on board.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
TUE - Aljui Bay & Wofoh Island

Make an early departure to Aljui Bay and an eye-opening visit to a pearl farm before cruising to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling and water sports in the afternoon. Lay back and enjoy the ship’s beach club on a private beach, sipping on bespoke cocktails and frolicking in family fun as the sun sets.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
WED - Wayag Island

Watch the magnificence of Wayag Island’s limestone islets and lagoons unveil before your eyes as the sun rises. Jump in for a refreshing early morning swim and listen to the sound of the surrounding nature. Attempt to spot rare birds of paradise before a hearty breakfast back on board and diving at Figure Eight Rock or snorkeling at the Ranger station to spot black-tip reef sharks. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden lagoons aboard kayaks from “Castaway” beach.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
THU - Dayang Island & Arborek Island

Arrive early at Dayang Island, known for its plethora of marine life, especially reef manta rays and occasionally oceanic manta rays. Snorkelers and divers alike will revel in the close presence of such majestic creatures at the Manta Cleaning Station. Afterwards, cruise to Arborek Island for a cultural excursion at the Papuan village before returning on board to dine beneath the stars.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
FRI - Mayabilit Bay

Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular nature excursion on tender, local canoe and a hike to spot the rare birds of paradise on the island of Waigeo. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed snorkel excursion at Friwinbonda Island. In the afternoon, test your sense of adventure before a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river. The afternoon brings a relaxed snorkel excursion at Friwinbonda Island, before departing for Sorong for the last night of the trip.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
SAT - Disembark Sorong, Indonesia

Enjoy a healthy breakfast on board in Sorong before your outbound flight.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, premium wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.

Exclusions

All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise begins and ends in Sorong, Indonesia (SOQ). Plan flights to arrive to Sorong by 6:30am ahead of the 12:15pm embarkation. On Day 8, disembarkation in Sorong is at 6:30am. Plan flights to depart Sorong no earlier than 8:30am on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.  Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.

Families & Children

Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $700(2024), $750(2025) or $780(2026) per night.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Spice Islands to Raja Ampat Itinerary

The 8-day Spice Islands to Raja Ampat cruise positions north from Ambon to Sorong. Begin with the Spice Islands’ relics and centuries-old traditions, then discover Raja Ampat’s rare bird species and world-renowned dive sites.

Route map of 8-day Aqua Blu Spice Islands to Raja Ampat Indonesia cruise, operating from Ambon to Sorong, with visits to Banda Islands, Pulau Koon, Wayil, Misool, Pulau Dayang, Penemu, Pulau Yeben, Yangeffo, Mioskon & Mayabilit Bay.
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Day 1
SAT - Embark Ambon, Indonesia

Arrive to a warm welcome in Ambon. Board the ship and enjoy a delicious dinner on board, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail along the scenic northern coast of Ambon.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
SUN - Banda 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.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
MON - Pulau Koon

Spend the day 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.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
TUE - Wayil & Misool

The Wayil region of Raja Ampat features a number of uncharted islands, each harboring pristine beaches and secret lagoons. Enjoy kayaking among the reefs or head out swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

Next, make a stop at Misool, one of the four major islands in Raja Ampat. While here, embark on an easy trek on small, sandy coves and land-locked lakes. There will also be options to swim, snorkel, or kayak in the numerous blue pools hosting sparkling coral reefs.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
WED - Dayang Island & Penemu Islands

Today, sail to Dayang island, known for its abundance of marine life, especially Manta Ray. Snorkeling and diving the bordering reef systems to witness oceanic and reef manta ray is spectacular. After lunch, explore the mesmerizing terrains and lagoons of the Penemu Islands. These remote reefs are bursting with color and life. Snorkel at Batu Burung (Melissa’s Garden) considered to be amongst the oldest and most pristine coral reefs in Raja Ampat. Inside the lagoon, on Penemu Island, take a short walk up the wooden stairs and be rewarded with a panoramic view across the lagoon. End the day at a pristine beach where a cocktail party awaits.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
THU - Yeben & Yangeffo Bay

Yeben Island is a hidden treasure of Raja Ampat known for its clear water and beautiful beaches. Spend the morning exploring the island and observing marine life in the surrounding waters. Head back on board the ship to refuel your appetite while sailing to Yangeffo Bay.

While at Yangeffo Bay, experience an exhilarating dive excursion at the renowned Mayhem reef, or snorkel the mangroves at Citrus Ridge. Watch the sunset from a tender ride out at sea.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
FRI - Mioskon & Mayabilit Bay

Awake to the beauty of Mioskon Island, and head out for a relaxing snorkel and dive excursion. In the afternoon, venture into the heart of the jungle on board the ship’s private tenders, then enjoy a canoe ride up-river through Kali Biru’s mystical blue waters. Cool off and swim downstream past the jungle canopy.

Accommodations

Aqua Blu

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
SAT - Disembark Sorong, Indonesia

Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board in Sorong before your outbound flight.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, premium wines and beer; all excursions; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; SCUBA diving (certified divers age 10 and over only); laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); and group transfers to/from vessel on recommended flights.

Exclusions

All air tickets; visas; private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $200 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 8-day Spice Islands to Raja Ampat cruise begins in Ambon, Indonesia (AMQ), and ends in Sorong, Indonesia (SOQ). Plan flights to arrive to Ambon by 3:00pm, ahead of the 4:30pm embarkation. On Day 8, disembarkation in Sorong is at 6:30am. Plan flights to depart Sorong no earlier than 8:00am on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.  Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting local communities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.

Families & Children

Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $700(2024), $750(2025) or $780(2026) per night.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

This ship is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter. Contact us for charter pricing and details.

Dec 21 - Dec 28, 2024
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $9415USD
Per Person
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Dec 28 - Jan 04, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $9415USD
Per Person
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Jan 11 - Jan 18, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Jan 18 - Jan 25, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Jan 25 - Feb 01, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Feb 01 - Feb 08, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Feb 15 - Feb 22, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Feb 22 - Mar 01, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Mar 01 - Mar 08, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Dec 06 - Dec 13, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Dec 13 - Dec 20, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10290USD
Per Person
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Dec 20 - Dec 27, 2025
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10780USD
Per Person
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Dec 27 - Jan 03, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10780USD
Per Person
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Jan 03 - Jan 10, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Jan 10 - Jan 17, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Jan 17 - Jan 24, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Jan 24 - Jan 31, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Jan 31 - Feb 07, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Feb 07 - Feb 14, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Feb 14 - Feb 21, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Feb 21 - Feb 28, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Feb 28 - Mar 07, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Mar 07 - Mar 14, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Dec 05 - Dec 12, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
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From $10710USD
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Dec 12 - Dec 19, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $10710USD
Per Person
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Dec 19 - Dec 26, 2026
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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Dec 26 - Jan 02, 2027
Aqua Blu • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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Luxury
Aqua Blu

The Aqua Blu carries her 30 guests in high luxury, comfort and safety while sailing through Eastern Indonesia. Embrace history and luxury on this unique cruise ship.

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Save Up To 30% On Southeast Asia Cruises Aboard Aqua Blu & Aqua Mekong

Book your Southeast Asia cruise aboard Aqua Blu or Aqua Mekong to save 20-30% per person.

Testimonial

Hear It From Travelers Who Have Explored With Us

"Marvelous"

The ship was marvelous, food top quality, crew was tremendous. We had a famous vocalist, photographers, comedian, and rock band talent - all graciously willing to share their talent.

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