Asmat Tribe & Raja Ampat Expedition

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.

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.

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.

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. Our first excursion will see us hop into private speedboats to traverse through the waterways and deep into the jungle, stopping at traditional villages inhabited by Asmat’s namesake tribe along the way. As we make our way around the area, we get an insight into the tribe’s rich heritage and traditions, and complex social and religious system.

Continuing our exploration of Asmat, on day 5 we will join our expert guides as we are welcomed to visit the tribe’s communal houses where we can observe their unique arts and crafts, witness the traditional dances and learn about how these communal houses serve as the centre of Asmat social, religious, and political life.

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.

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.

The following day will bring us 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.

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.

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.

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.