Asmat Tribe & West Papua Expedition

Asmat Tribe & West Papua Expedition 8 Days

Prices From £9,602pp
November Only | 7 nights

Asmat Tribe & West Papua Expedition 8 Days

Aboard: Aqua Blu

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the remote corners of East Indonesia, where you'll dive into pristine coral reefs, swim alongside majestic whale sharks, and engage with the intriguing Asmat tribe. This once-in-a-lifetime expedition promises an extraordinary blend of culture, wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery. Delight in a diverse array of activities, from exploring mesmerising waterfalls and navigating jungle waterways to immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of traditional villages. Set sail aboard a luxurious long-range explorer yacht, accompanied by seasoned guides who possess an unparalleled passion for and knowledge of these remarkable lands. Prepare for an immersive adventure that unveils the hidden treasures of some of Indonesia's most remote and remarkable destinations.

An extended 13 day voyage which also includes Raja Ampat is also available. Please enquire for full details.

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.

Cape Papisol & Momon
2Day

Cape Papisol & Momon

Your first day of adventure will see you head for shore as we make our way to Momon to discover its 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.

Later that day, we head for 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.

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.

Triton Bay
7Day

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. The perfect way to conclude your unforgettable adventure.

Kaimana - Disembark
8Day

Kaimana - Disembark

Your Indonesia expedition cruise concludes back in Kaimana, 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.

Sheena Ogley Senior Travel Expert

Sheena’s abiding love of adventure travel has taken her to some of the most incredible wildlife-rich places on Earth. Her vast experience and genuine desire to share her knowledge makes her an outstanding and invaluable person to help you organise your wildlife adventure trip.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

With a lifetime of unforgettable nature and adventure based travel under his belt, Simon shares his passion, enthusiasm and hands-on experience to help create the perfect itinerary for every client.

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.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us
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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