This itinerary brings together the best of Spice Islands and Raja Ampat in an adventure-filled seven-night excursion. Experience the cultural tapestry of the Banda Islands – which used to be the heart of the spice trade – and the otherworldly landscapes of Raja Ampat, a tropical bucket list destination known to be one of the world’s best diving sites.
- Explore the historic Banda Islands, once the global centre of the spice trade, with well-preserved colonial architecture and deep cultural heritage.
- Discover Raja Ampat’s dramatic limestone islands and marine-rich waters, regarded as one of the world’s premier diving and snorkelling regions.
- Experience remote island life across Misool, Arborek and surrounding bays, with opportunities for pristine coral reef exploration and wildlife encounters.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Aqua Blu
| Built | 1968 as HMS Beagle |
|---|---|
| Refurbished | 2019 |
| Suites | 15 |
| Length | 60 metres |
| Stabilizers | Quantum Zero Speed |
Presenting a brand-new cruise experience in the pristine East Indonesian Archipelago, Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing the region’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands and Raja Ampat on unforgettable 7- and 12-night itineraries.
Where modern luxury meets naval heritage
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 is a compelling maritime statement. A 2019 refurbishment overseen by Dutch yacht design maestro Cor D. Rover brings the vessel to world-class cruising specifications. Guests can expect to embrace an distinguished sense of history and seafaring evolution when they set foot on this one-of-a-kind cruise ship.
Inside the four-deck, 15-suite Aqua Blu, Cor has tastefully paired with a brass-and-ivory interior theme with generous and inviting indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a sun deck.
Unlocking access to the Earth’s most intriguing destinations
Faster, further, greater safety and comfort — Aqua Blu’s naval pedigree makes it the perfect vessel to navigate East Indonesia’s vast seas. Having attained the highest international classifications (RINA, SOLAS, ISM) in safety, the vessel is additionally equipped with Quantum Zero Speed stabilizers for optimal comfort at rest or while sailing.
Aqua Blu’s range stands heads and shoulders above that of its peers in East Indonesia. Able to cover vast distances in a short span of time — and in any sea condition — the vessel enables explorers on board to experience the most varied, enjoyable and rewarding coastal cruise itineraries in this wild and stunningly beautiful region of the world.
On Board Living and Social Areas
Sun Deck with Outdoor Seating, Lounge Sofa and Barbecue
Bridge Deck with Jacuzzi, Outdoor Lounge Area, Spa and Exercise Zone
Forecastle Deck with Outdoor Dining and Seating Area, Indoor Lounge Bar, Library and TV Room
Main Deck with Outdoor Seating, Salon and Dining Room
Vessel Type: Yacht
Length: 198 feet / 60 meters
Passenger Capacity: 30
Built/Converted/Refurbished: 1968/2006/2019
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
