Newly refurbished in 2019, Aqua Blu is a one-of-a-kind long-range explorer yacht that is steeped in history and prestige. It began life as the British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle, and was later acquired by an aristocratic family as a private yacht. Today Aqua Blu is a unique luxury liveaboard ship that sails to some of Indonesia’s most exotic locations. Measuring in at 60 metres and boasting 15 cabins across five decks that can sleep up to 30 people, the cruiser is swift, sturdy and a superb option for families and large groups who want to sail in style.
With five decks and ample indoor and outdoor spaces, there is plenty of room to spread out on Aqua Blu. The contemporary interiors feature smooth wooden floors and brass and ivory accents throughout, while the outdoor living areas offer endless views of the ocean and passing scenery. On the main deck there is a stylish indoor salon, separate dining room, and an outdoor seating area. The forecastle deck has a lounge, library, and TV room inside and an outdoor dining and lounging area, plus the sky lounge bar. The bridge deck is where you will find the spa, Jacuzzi and exercise zone, and the sun deck has loungers, a lounge sofa, and a BBQ.
Aqua Blu was built for speed and stability, so it can cover large distances in little time and any sea condition. This means it can sail year round to a wealth of destinations across the Indonesian archipelago. During the summer months, the yacht sets sail from Bali and Flores to Komodo National Park where you can see the largest lizards on Earth and explore amazing beaches and dive sites. During the winter months, Aqua Blu sails to the alluring Alor archipelago with its unspoiled nature, the historically significant Spice Islands (also known as the Banda Islands), Abon, and Raja Ampat with its world class dive sites.
Each of the 15 cabins on Aqua Blu was individually designed to be a serene sanctuary at sea. All have windows or portholes for natural light, ensuite bathrooms with rain showers and organic bath products, and modern luxuries like air-conditioning and closets with electronic safes. On the bridge there is a master suite that connects to a double room. The forecastle deck also has an interconnecting master and double room and another double cabin. On the main deck there are two double rooms and three twin rooms, and on the lower deck there are three double rooms and two twin rooms.
The crew of 25 on Aqua Blu include a cruise director, dive instructor, English speaking guides, and a team of talented chefs who prepare gourmet dishes from a menu designed by Michelin-starred chef David Thompson. Guests also have access to top-of-the-line water sports equipment like stand-up paddle boards, diving and snorkelling gear and kayaks. Should you require assistance or have any request, the Aqua Blu crew is happy to oblige.
Aqua Blu was built in 1968 and fully refurbished in 2017 ahead of her launch in 2019. She spans 60.4m with a beam of 11.4m and a draft of 4.2m. 15 cabins accommodate up to 32 guests. She has a cruising speed of 10 – 12 knots.