Indonesia Limited Cross-Destinations Cruises (Aqua Expeditions)

Arrive to a warm welcome at Labuan Bajo. Savor an appetizing lunch at Ayana resort before boarding Aqua Blu.

After lunch, head inland and visit the mountain village of Watubalpi, where you’ll witness a traditional welcome by the local women. Observe the culture and lifestyle of the people, known for their famous Ikat textiles. Return to the ship for dinner onboard as we sail east overnight.

These two bays are incredibly scenic, and smoke and dust can often be seen rising from the closest volcano, Lewotolo. The Bacatan headland provides a stark contrast — low lying and treeless, this bay runs down to an extensive coral reef system on the east side. There is a very pleasant trek on the Lewotolo side of the bay that runs along a country lane between two villages.

Arrive at Alor, home to many picturesque fishing villages and surrounded by clear water and vibrant coral reefs, a must-visit for divers and snorkelers alike. Witness centuries-old tradition come to life in the traditional dance performances by the friendly Abui Tribe. Later, we sail overnight to Wetar.

There is plenty to see along the rarely visited, rugged coastline of Wetar, which features impressive wall dives to encounter sharks, schools of pelagic fishes, majestic manta, and mobular rays. Other activities include fishing and trekking. On the largest of the Forgotten Islands, experience local life with traditions unchanged for centuries.

Dive around Nyata island in search of hammerhead sharks and rays. Since Romang and Nyata are not part of a National Park, there are opportunities to go fishing here as well. Cruise south towards Telang for snorkeling and kayaking adventures, with a chance to spot rare silver-tip sharks.

Arrive at Damar by daybreak. Trek the island’s active volcanoes or kayak in a lagoon in Terbang Seletan when tides are favorable. At Nusleur, swim or snorkel next to the dazzling white sandy shore fringed by a shallow coral reef.

Diving around Dawera & Daweloor is a relaxing experience, featuring gentle currents, spectacular walls and flat reefs. Bike through elevated settlements on Daweloor and spend a leisurely evening on the island’s white sand beaches bordered by beautiful coral reefs.

A tiny atoll located in the Banda Sea, Nil Desperandum is blessed with incredible hard coral formations perfect for diving and snorkeling. Revel in the experience as shoals of big fish such as tuna and Spanish mackerel swim by without worry. Serua is a playground for both snorkelers and divers, the island showcases an impressive array of reefs, walls, and beautiful soft coral spots. Schools of fish thrive in the area, and there is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks.

Savor a sunrise breakfast aboard the ship against the backdrop of the 300-meter-tall cliffs of Pulau Manuk, a volcanic island rising 3 kilometers from the seabed. This is a haven for fish-hunting birds, as well as sea snakes and reef sharks flocking to enjoy the area’s underwater thermal springs. After sundown, cruise northwards to Pulau Run, a historically significant island traded by the British in exchange for Manhattan in 1667.

Approach the Banda Islands as the sun rises and be greeted by Kora-Kora war canoes as the boat enters the harbor. Stroll through the Dutch Fort Belgica on Banda Neira, once the most hotly contested island in the world. Learn about the colorful story of the Old-World spice trade.

Arrive at Pulau Ai at sunrise. Swim, snorkel, and dive in the crystal-clear waters, where you’ll discover stunning coral gardens and reef fish. Afterwards, head ashore to Pulau Ai for a guided tour of Fort Revenge and its nutmeg store houses. In the afternoon, sail north overnight towards Ambon.

Awake to the bustle of Ambon and disembark after breakfast for your outbound flight.