Asmat Tribe & Raja Ampat Expedition

Asmat Tribe & Raja Ampat Expedition 13 Days

Prices From £15,345pp
November Only | 12 nights

Asmat Tribe & Raja Ampat Expedition 13 Days

Aboard: Aqua Blu

Bringing together the best of West Papua and Raja Ampat, this comprehensive and truly unforgettable exploration will offer you an outstanding combination of culture, wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Swim with the whale sharks of Triton Bay, immerse yourself in the culture of the Asmat region as you discover one of Indonesia’s most enigmatic indigenous communities, and enjoy a wide range of activities as you explore around spectacular waterfalls, karst limestone landscapes, and sparkling seas, rivers and lakes. Sailing aboard a luxurious long-range explorer yacht in the company of expert guides who know and love these lands like no other, this wonderful expedition offers a fully immersive experience in some of Indonesia’s most far-flung and remarkable lands.

8 day variation also available.

Highlights

  • Sail aboard the luxurious Aqua Blu to uncover the very best of East Indonesia, in the company of expert guides and a maximum of 30 passengers
  • Get up-close to the world’s biggest fish as you swim with the gentle and majestic whale sharks of Triton Bay
  • Immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of the incredibly remote Asmat tribe
  • Embark on an in-depth exploration of the spectacular Raja Ampat area
  • Enjoy breathtaking vistas at every turn, from spectacular waterfalls and crystal clear lakes to karst limestone landscapes and picture-postcard beaches
  • Uncover the area’s incredible marine biodiversity on unforgettable snorkelling, diving and kayaking excursions

What's Included

  • All meals while on board
  • Selected premium wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
  • Excursions with knowledgeable local guides
  • Group transfers to/from vessel when travelling on recommended flights
  • Snorkelling equipment and wet suits
  • Scuba diving
  • All available non-motorised water sports
  • Laundry
  • Unlimited access to SpaceX’s high-speed Starlink Satellite internet for all guests

Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Kaimana - Embark
1Day

Kaimana - Embark

Arrive independently to Kaimana in Indonesia’s West Papua province and transfer to the port for embarkation on the Aqua Blu. Settle into your beautiful cabin and enjoy your first delicious dinner on board, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross, as we set sail for an Indonesian adventure.

Triton Bay
2Day

Triton Bay

This morning it’s time for a once-in-a-lifetime moment as you experience the thrill of swimming with the enormous whale sharks of Triton Bay! On land, you will discover the area’s stunning landscapes of forest-covered limestone cliffs and prehistoric artwork high up on the rocky walls, whilst the crystal-clear waters of this fascinating region feature superb dive sites which are home to an abundance of rare marine life and reefs.

Sailing the Arafura Sea
3Day

Sailing the Arafura Sea

Spend a relaxing day at sea today enjoying the luxuries of your ship, such as the beautiful social spaces which include an outdoor deck with jacuzzi, exercise area, sky lounge bar and panoramic views. You may wish to join a cooking demonstration, or a presentation delivered by your onboard experts offering you an insight into Indonesia culture, or simply relax in the welcoming lounge with your fellow travellers.

Asmat Region
4 - 5Days

Asmat Region

On the morning of day 4 we will arrive in West Papua’s uncharted Asmat region where we will have the privileged opportunity to explore this remote area that few have ever had the chance to visit. Your first excursion here will see you board a private speedboat to journey along the Lorentz River into the heart of the jungle where you will reach the remote village of Yuan Yufri. Receive a warm welcome as tribal members glide by in their beautifully handcrafted canoes. Spend the afternoon engaging with the locals, admiring their artwork, and gaining insight into their daily traditions. Conclude the day with refreshing sundowners as we cruise towards Biwar Laut.

On day 5, our journey through the Asmat region continues, offering a deeper understanding of the local traditions. Embark on a picturesque skiff ride to the village of Biwar Laut, accompanied by tribal members paddling alongside in their canoes. Upon arrival, experience the mesmerising Spirit Mask ceremony, a sacred ritual performed by the Asmat people to honour their ancestors. After a delightful lunch aboard Aqua Blu, venture to the nearby village of Ouws to witness the captivating Mbis Pole Ceremony, which symbolises the soul’s transformation into a spirit in the form of a bird.

Sailing the Arafura Sea
6Day

Sailing the Arafura Sea

Today you can enjoy another day at sea relaxing after a memorable few days and sharing stories with your fellow travellers about your adventures so far. You may wish to join a cocktail-making session, take in a documentary screening, meet with your expert guides to gain more insight to this fascinating region, treat yourself to a massage at the spa, or simply relax on deck soaking up the beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Cape Papisol, Momon & Sabuda
7 - 8Days

Cape Papisol, Momon & Sabuda

Today we head for shore again as we reach Cape Papisol and take a launch boat over to a magnificent white-sand beach. From here you may choose to join a guided trek up-river to a spectacular waterfall close to the Karawawi village, gaining outstanding panoramic views of the Bomberai Peninsula along the way. Alternatively, you may simply wish to relax on the beach and soak up your idyllic surroundings.

Next up is more waterfall delights as we make our way to Momon to see its equally impressive waterfall that thunders directly into the sea from the high forests above. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may wish to take a jump into the ocean and swim to the waterfall’s plunge pool for a refreshing, cold shower. Alternatively, this is an ideal spot for a snorkelling or kayaking excursion, or you may wish to scour the surrounding woodland areas for sightings of the endemic forest kangaroos that can be spotted here along with hornbills in the trees above.

The next day we will head to the lush, forested island of Sabuda which stands majestically at nearly 150 meters above sea level, encircled by a vibrant coral reef, pristine beaches, and secluded coves. Spend the day discovering the island’s rich marine life, snorkelling among thriving reefs, swimming alongside schools of fish, and spotting the occasional manta ray at The Dome. As the sun sets, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the beach, sipping refreshing drinks from nearby tenders while listening to the gentle waves lapping against the white sand.

Misool & One Thousand Temples
9 - 10Days

Misool & One Thousand Temples

As we delve deep into the outstanding natural wonders of Raja Ampat, we make our way to the famous Misool area which is said to be home to some of the finest reefs on the planet. Sure to be a memorable day for many reasons, you could swim, snorkel or kayak in the sparkling blue pools, or take an easy guided trek through the area’s small, sandy coves and land-locked lakes.

The following day we will arrive at the magnificent karst island and lagoon complex of One Thousand Temples, an astonishing location that is home to incredible cave systems, mysterious jellyfish lakes and ancient rock art which you can discover on unforgettable tender trips through the karst island passages.

Dayang, Arborek & Mayalibit Bay
11 - 12Days

Dayang, Arborek & Mayalibit Bay

Day 11 will see us arise early to discover the dazzling white-sand beach and extensive coral reefs of Dayang Island, before heading to Arborek Island where we will have the best snorkelling opportunities of our trip. Take a dip beneath the water to discover a plethora of marine life, especially Reef Manta Rays and, occasionally, Oceanic Manta Rays, and make your way to the Manta Cleaning Station.

Concluding our exploration of the incomparable Raja Ampat regency, our final stop will take us to the forested landscapes and mangroves of Mayalibit Bay. An early rise this morning will see you embark on an unforgettable excursion on a tender and canoe, followed by a hike to spot the rare birds of paradise on Waigeo Island. Test your sense of adventure and follow it up with a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river. This will offer the perfect conclusion to your truly memorable Indonesia cruise.

Sorong - Disembark
13Day

Sorong - Disembark

Your Indonesia expedition cruise concludes in Sorong, where after one last delicious breakfast on board, it will be time to bid a fond farewell to your newfound friends as you disembark to make your way homewards or onwards.

A view from Above

All Aboard

Aqua Blu
Luxury vessel

Aqua Blu

This luxury long-range explorer yacht sets the standard for expeditions within the enchanting Coral Triangle. With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle, and later as the private yacht of a European aristocratic family, Aqua Blu’s 2019 refurbishment brought the vessel up to world-class cruising specifications. This one-of-a-kind expedition cruise ship offers 15 beautiful suites across five decks of style and sophistication, with sumptuous interiors and generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including an indoor spa and a sun deck equipped with a luxurious jacuzzi, exercise zone and relaxing lounge areas. The perfect vessel to navigate East Indonesia’s vast seas, the ship has attained the highest international classifications (RINA, SOLAS, ISM) in safety and is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilizers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing. Onboard kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling and diving gear leave it primed for guest adventures, and the ship is manned by a highly experienced crew and guides.

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Indonesia adventure for you.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike lives and breathes adventure travel and has a wealth of experience in some of the most exciting and inspirational destinations in the world. His expertise and first-hand experience afford him the skills to help build holidays to remember.

Sheena Ogley Senior Travel Expert

Having amassed a host of extraordinary adventures in destinations all over the world, Sheena’s experience, skills and enthusiasm for helping clients plan their ideal itinerary will help make your holiday unforgettable, action packed and life-changing.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

As Senior Travel Expert, Simon has an absolute wealth of experience in adventure travel in some of the most fascinating places in the world. With in-depth knowledge and fantastic organizational skills, Simon’s first-hand experience and genuine passion drive him to work to create your perfect itinerary.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

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0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43

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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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