Jennifer Boyd – Luxury and Expedition Cruising Expert  

My journey to Raja Ampat commenced from Sorong in West Papau, previously known as Irian Jaya. In 2002, this region was divided into two provinces; Papau and West Papau. West Papau encompasses the northwest tip of Bird’s head peninsula and the main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo – known as Raja Ampat, translating to “Four Kings”.

Raja Ampat

I visited the region on the 7 night Raja Ampat cruise on board the Aqua Blu, a luxury expedition ship accommodating only 30 guests. As you would expect on a ship operated by Aqua Expeditions (who also operate a fine vessel in the Peruvian Amazon, with one being built) the cabins where equally spacious and beautifully furnished, the cuisine was simply outstanding with a range of both local and international dishes and the service superb.

Aqua Blu

From pristine islands with coconut palms swaying on the white sandy beaches, to crystal clear turqoise blue lagoons, lush jungles rising up to mountainous peaks and mangrove trees hanging over the coastlines, Raja Ampat’s diversity of nature is simply breathtaking. Made all the more exciting with the added treasure of what lays beneath her waters, up to 540 types of coral, 600 different species of coral fish and 700 types of mollusks, the pristine marine life is a paradise for both snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

Underwater Life in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat has something for everyone, stunning beauty, unspoilt living corals reefs with an abundance of colour, and an extreme level of marine biodiversity. Aqua Blu offers diving, snorkelling, stand up paddle boarding in secluded bays as well as the opportunity to kayak in amongst the karst islands and along picturesque mangrove coastlines.

Mangrove Jungles of Raja Ampat

Magnificent Birds of Paradise

If you’re looking to explore reefs with some of the best corals and marine life in the world, take a hike at sunrise to see the spectacular Bird of Paradise, swim beneath jungle waterfalls or explore the coastline by kayak – think of the Four Kings. Raja Ampat is a slice of paradise nestled in the ocean wilderness of West Papau.

To book your holiday to Raja Ampat contact us on 1300 784 794 or email: contact@luxuryandexpeditioncruises.com.au

Jenn travelled on the Raja Ampat Cruise below: