Discover the Spice Islands: Aqua Blu sails East Indonesia in luxury

CHANGING SEASONS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcGDIKgLblQ

Spice Islands season isn’t all that far away with Aqua Blu completing its annual Bali-Komodo sailings this September. Starting off, we’re looking at an epic 12-night cruise from the volcanic lakes of Flores through the pristine forgotten islands and finally, to the home of nutmeg and cloves – spices which have started wars and toppled kingdoms. 

After settling into its new home for the next two months, Aqua Blu will sail 7-night itineraries featuring cultural and wildlife excursions unlike any other. On the islands of Pulau Run and Banda Neira, guests will discover a rich colonial past with forts and artifacts that have been untouched for centuries. There’ll be opportunities to participate in traditions such as ‘hands to bathe’ – where sailors would jump into the deep expanse of the Banda Sea – and witness a greeting by the Kora Kora war canoes which have been sailing since before the 1600s. 

This expedition also features incredible snorkeling and diving spots that tend to be overlooked when exploring Indonesia. Some highlights include the underwater thermal springs of Pulau Manuk and the coral walls of Pulau Hatta. 

Incredible sunsets are a given for any Indonesian expedition, but they are truly a class above while sailing the Spice Islands. After a sundowner at Fort Belgica, a beach wind-down on the sands of Pulau Run – an island that was traded by the British in exchange for Manhattan in 1667 – and a cocktail party courtesy of our makeshift floating bar, we promise a set of golden hours that you’ll never forget. 

The 15-suite Aqua Blu features world-class cuisine by Benjamin Cross, a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and amenities including a jacuzzi, spa, sundeck, and sky lounge. All it’s missing is you. Click the button below to book your East Indonesia voyage today. 
WHAT’S NEW

Here’s a look at all the exciting happenings over at Aqua Expeditions.
   

   
Aqua Expeditions named World’s Best River Cruise Line
At Aqua Expeditions, we constantly strive to push boundaries and set new standards for small ship expeditions. We’re thrilled to announce that Aqua has been named the World’s Best River Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure in 2023. We have also placed third in the World’s Best Intimate-Ship Ocean Cruise Line category. Discover our state-of-the-art fleet below.
Read More

   
Discover Our Exclusive Loyalty Program
We take pride in crafting unique expeditions and with sailings in seven amazing destinations across the world, no two Aqua adventures are alike. Experience our trademark personalized service and luxury in different regions  — Mekong, the Peruvian Amazon, Galapagos Islands, and East Indonesia  — and enjoy our attractive rates for returning guests. 
Read More

   
Our Mission For Sustainable Seas
From traceability to fair labor practices, Aqua Expeditions is on a journey towards sustainable food sourcing; one that starts with local fisherman and farmers in small villages and continues into our ship’s creative kitchens. Read on to find out more about our sustainable efforts.
Read More
About the author

Nicola is the Managing Director of Micro-Cruising. Small ships great trips. Micro-Cruising sells trips on ships of 100 passengers or fewer. We are the specialists in small ships with over 700 vessels worldwide.