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Embark on a captivating journey through Indonesia, where the rich tapestry of culture and nature awaits. Experience the wonders of Komodo National Park and embark on a special nature hike to encounter the majestic Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard. Throughout your journey aboard the luxurious Aqua Blu, explore kaleidoscopic and biodiverse reef systems, sail along picturesque islands, trek to volcanic lakes, and partake in immersive local traditions.
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Receive $1000 off if you combine this trip with Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands, ending September 20, 2024
Three moments you’ll never forget
Discover the legacy of the spice trade at the Dutch Fort Belgica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore waters renowned for their status as some of the most biodiverse in the world
Search for the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, in its native habitat on the islands of the Komodo National Park
Go With
As a cultural anthropologist, Shirley’s made it her life’s work to dig her way through the world and share what she’s learned. Her admiration for remote peoples is infectious.
Rich’s serious love for all things nature have propelled him throughout the world. He’s spent just some of his life tagging sea turtles, teaching marine science, and spying on Arctic seabirds.
As a naturalist and expedition leader, Kristin’s been showing the world to eager explorers since 2005. Her stories of where the wild things are will keep you asking for more.
Day 1
Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Arrive at Andaz Bali Hotel before joining fellow travelers and leaders for a welcome dinner and briefing.
Day 2
Bali / Lubuan Bajo, Flores Island
Take a midday flight to Flores and settle into the Anaya Komodo Resort, nestled in Indonesia's dramatic landscape.
Day 3
Komodo National Park
Explore Rinca Island, home to the majestic Komodo dragon, amidst the UNESCO-recognized beauty of Komodo National Park.
Day 4
Lubuan Bajo / Embark Aqua Blu
After a leisurely morning, enjoy lunch at the hotel before embarking the Aqua Blu in the afternoon. Aqua Blu, our home away from home, is a luxurious 15-suite vessel and former British Naval Explorer, HMS Beagle.
Day 5
Watublapi Village
Journey inland to Watubalpi for a cultural immersion with skilled artisans and vibrant local life.
Day 6
Lembata Island
Explore the picturesque bays of Lembata Island and immerse yourself in Lamalera Village's charm. Witness stunning scenery with views of smoke from nearby volcano Lewotolo and stroll along a serene lane connecting villages.
Day 7
Kalabahi Bay, Alor Island
Learn about the traditional free diving techniques of the locals and witness their unique homemade equipment. Then, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Abui Tribe as they showcase centuries-old dance traditions.
Day 8
Wetar Island
The rugged coastline of Wetar Island features impressive walls that attract large schools of pelagic fish, a variety of sharks, majestic mantas, and mobula rays. After a relaxing snorkel, go ashore for a nature walk and meet with locals to learn about their lifestyle and traditions.
Day 9
Forgotten Islands
Spend the morning snorkeling through gin-clear waters, alongside towering walls teeming with life, and over breathtaking drop-offs. This afternoon go kayaking and snorkeling near Telang Island in search of silver-tip sharks.
Day 10
Damar Islands
Today, choose an exciting trek to the active volcanoes of Damar or spend the morning kayaking along a lagoon. This afternoon, explore a shallow fringing reef where you may spot bump-head parrotfish among the corals.
Day 11
Dawera and Dawaloor
Enjoy a tranquil underwater experience and a scenic bike ride through elevated settlements.
Day 12
Nil Desperandum Atoll & Serua Island
In the Banda Sea, Nil Desperandum is a captivating atoll with stunning hard corals, while Serua Island offers a snorkeling haven with vibrant reefs, walls, and the chance to spot hammerhead sharks among bustling schools of fish.
Day 13
Manuk Island / Pulau Run
After a sunrise breakfast onboard, explore the towering cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a haven for fish-hunting birds, sea snakes, and reef sharks. Later, cruise to Pulau Run, historically traded by the British for Manhattan Island in 1667.
Day 14
Banda Neira
This morning, warriors in war canoes greet the ship as we arrive at the Banda Islands. Climb to the top of the Dutch Fort Belgica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for sweeping views of the harbor, spice plantations, and an impressive volcano.
Day 15
Pulau Ai
Arrive at Pulau Ai at sunrise, diving into clear waters for a swim among vibrant coral gardens and reef fish. Later, disembark for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its historic nutmeg storehouses before setting sail northward overnight toward Ambon.
Day 16
Ambon / Disembark / Jakarta
Disembark in Ambon and fly to Jakarta, checking in to Anara Airport Hotel with leisure time.
Day 17
Jakarta / Depart
Board your homeward flight.
trip dates
August 23—September 8 2024
with optional Cultural Java pre-trip extension with Shirley Campbell August 18 – 23, 2024
Departure
The trip starts in Denpasar, Bali and ends in Jakarta
book back-to-back voyages with Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands: September 6–20, 2024
“What I love about this itinerary is its incredible diversity of offerings! From snorkeling through the world's most biodiverse water, to learning about the whale-hunting culture of the people of Lembata, to gazing in awe at the colored lakes in Kelimutu’s volcanic caldera, this expedition really covers it all. Add to this the opportunity to search for the Komodo Dragon in the wild and this is an adventure not to be missed! This is the trip of a lifetime.”
— RICH PAGEN
Onboard the Aqua Blu
With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle, a 2019 refurbishment has transformed this vessel into a world-class luxury experience.
15 Suites from 14 sqm to 34 sqm on 4 decks
All cabins have personal temperature control and with ensuite bathroom with rain shower
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PRICING
Category 1
Double Occupancy: $25,990 per person
Category 2
Double Occupancy: $23,990 per person
Category 3
Double Occupancy: $19,990 per person
Due to limited capacity, a single rate is not available for this trip. Please inquire for more details.
What’s Included
4 nights hotel accommodations
12 nights onboard the Aqua Blu
All sightseeing, excursions and transportation
All meals and non-alcoholic beverages
Premium wine and beer onboard Aqua Blu
Snorkeling equipment, kayaks and stand up paddle boards
Internal flights within Indonesia
Arrival and departure transfers
Taxes, gratuities and tips
