Asmat Tribe & Raja Ampat Expedition:Kaimana – West Papua-Raja Ampat (Aqua Expeditions)

Arrive to a warm welcome in Kaimana. Board Aqua Blu and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, curated by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your cabins and bid farewell to the harbor as you set sail from the port town of Kaimana.

Head out early in the morning for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with whale sharks in crystal-clear waters that make up Triton Bay. This region features sublime dive sites, home to a wealth of rare marine life and reefs decorated with some of the finest soft corals in the world. Over on land, the scenery consists of forest-covered limestone cliffs and prehistoric artwork high up on the rocky walls.

Spend the day exploring the luxurious Aqua Blu and enjoy its variety of social spaces – a jacuzzi, spa and exercise area, sky lounge bar, and a sun deck offering panoramic views of the vast seas. Gain a deeper insight into Indonesian culture through onboard cooking demonstrations and presentations from our expert guides.

Arrive in the uncharted Asmat region – a remote part of West Papua which very few have ever had the opportunity to visit. On board private speedboats, we head down the waterways and deep into the jungle to visit traditional villages inhabited by Asmat’s namesake tribe. Known for their rich heritage and traditions, the Asmat people have a complex social and religious system with a focus on ancestor worship and the use of rituals to maintain the balance of the natural world.

Today, we continue our exploration of Asmat and gain a deeper insight into the lives of the locals. Along with our expert guides, guests will have the chance to visit the Asmat tribe’s communal houses, which serve as the center of Asmat social, religious, and political life, and are used for significant cultural events and rituals. There will be time to observe the tribe’s unique art and crafts, and witness their traditional dances.

Another day at sea offers the chance to relax, unwind, and share stories with your fellow explorers about the two incredible days spent in Asmat. Indulge in a cocktail-making session, a documentary screening, or speak to our knowledgeable guides and find out more about this remote region which remains largely undocumented. Get yourself back in form for another day of adventure by indulging in a traditional Balinese massage at our on board spa.

Cape Papisol offers a panoramic view of the Bomberai Peninsula from its forested outback which rises to over 1,300 meters. Starting from the island’s magnificent white-sand beach, guests can embark on a trek up-river to a spectacular waterfall close to the Karawawi village. This area is characterized by gusty winds and mist – a micro-weather system created by the river plunging from high above onto a rocky pool.

The central attraction of Momon is a spectacular waterfall that thunders directly into the sea from the high forests above. Guests who are feeling adventurous may jump into the ocean and swim to the waterfall’s plunge pool for a refreshing, cold shower. Momon also features fantastic snorkeling and kayaking spots along the jungle-fringed shoreline with a reasonable chance of spotting quirky hornbills up in the trees. Endemic forest kangaroos can occasionally be sighted in the wooded areas as well.

The magnificent land and seascape of Misool are said to be home to some of the finest reefs on the planet. Guests can embark on an easy trek on small, sandy coves and land-locked lakes. There will also be options to swim, snorkel, or kayak in the numerous blue pools hosting sparkling coral reefs.

The next destination on our expedition itinerary is the magnificent One Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex. There is plenty to see and do at this astonishing location, both on land and sea. Look forward to incredible cave systems, mysterious jellyfish lakes, unforgettable tender trips through karst island passages, and ancient rock art.

We start the day with an early arrival at Dayang Island, known for its dazzling white-sand beach and extensive coral reefs. Over on Arborek Island, guests will have the opportunity to discover a plethora of marine life, especially Reef Manta Rays and, occasionally, Oceanic Manta Rays. Snorkelers and divers alike will revel in the close presence of such majestic creatures at the Manta Cleaning Station.

Today, we explore the forested landscapes and mangroves of Mayalibit Bay. Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular 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.

Wake up in Sorong and enjoy a delicious breakfast on board prior to disembarkation.