Aqua Expeditions Launches First Ever Partnership with Nihi Sumba to explore remote East Indonesia
Iconic hospitality brands Aqua Expeditions and NIHI Sumba have teamed up to create a new adventure exploring the remote and breathtaking islands and seas of East Indonesia.
Departing from Bali aboard Aqua Expeditions’ super yacht Aqua Blu, this singular experience combines a four-night private charter navigating the famed Komodo National Park, culminating in three nights at NIHI Sumba, a remote hideaway offering a socially distant, wildly connected experience like never before.
Throughout seven nights, guests will embark upon a once-in-a-lifetime journey sure to stamp indelible memories. Adventures en route from Bali to Sumba aboard ocean explorer Aqua Blu include discovering Moyo Island’s secret waterfall, diving among manta rays in the world-famous Gili Lawah, hiking Padar Island’s rugged landscape for iconic views over Flores, and observing the legendary Komodo dragon in its natural habitat at Horseshoe Bay.
Aqua Blu guests can wake up each day to spectacular sunrises, enjoy an exquisite breakfast against a Sangeang volcano backdrop, and dine on a five-star menu crafted by Bali-based chef Benjamin Cross. Inspired by the exotic flavors of Indonesia’s ancient spice routes, chef Cross has created over 160 recipes for Aqua Blu, promising an immersive culinary voyage.
At NIHI Sumba, there is an activity for every taste, whether it is stand up paddling down the Wanukaka river, mountain biking in the lush jungles of Sumba or joining a tour of The Sumba Foundation projects. Swimming with the horses and sunset rides on the shores of Nihiwatu beach will be among the highlights of the trip.
As much as this collaboration offers a journey of exploration and adventure, it is also the perfect opportunity to unwind in one of the most beautiful locations on earth, surrounded by calming nature. The wellness experience at NIHI Sumba is second to none offering serene yoga sessions with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the opportunity to indulge in NIHI’s signature Spa Safari, an incomparable experience that perfectly blends adventure with relaxation.
“This is an incredibly special collaboration between two brands of renowned hospitality that will showcase the wonders of Indonesia beyond Bali. Traversing Indonesia’s Ring of Fire across breathtaking locations and hidden gems as we sail towards the paradise that is NIHI Sumba will be an experience unlike any other. This partnership enables us to offer a holistic guest experience that combines the most unique adventures on land and sea with the highest levels of luxury, service and customization,” said Francesco Galli Zugaro, founder and CEO of Aqua Expeditions.
“Our destinations and communities are unparalleled. Chartering Aqua Blu and staying at NIHI go beyond the idea of merely a vacation—it creates a feeling and introduces our guests to a way of life. It is a glimpse into a bygone era, centuries of rituals, an unspoiled landscape, and unlimited freedom to explore. That is the true luxury both NIHI and Aqua craft for our guests—at the Edge of Wildness, but still wildly safe,” adds James McBride, partner and CEO of NIHI.
A perfect blend of nautical and land-based explorations, the synergy between the Aqua and NIHI brands is reflected in their focus on authentic, tailor-made experiences, merging off-the-beaten track adventures with unmatched levels of service, locally inspired five-star cuisine, and the finest comforts. Both brands share a commitment to protect the natural environments and support local communities which they operate in, offering guests the opportunity to immerse in traditional culture and learn about wildlife and marine conservation, while discovering the astounding biodiversity of the region.
HOW: Rates for the seven-night Aqua Blu x NIHI Sumba experience start from US$280,552, valid for international guests to travel between April and September 2021. The four-night journey onboard Aqua Blu includes: private charter accommodation for up to 30 passengers, all meals and beverages (non-alcoholic drinks, premium wines and beer), all excursions, snorkeling equipment and wetsuits, scuba diving (for certified divers only), non-motorised watersports, transfers to and from vessel on recommended flights, laundry, and internet with limited connection. The three-night stay at NIHI Sumba includes: all meals and non-alcoholic drinks, return transfer from Waikelo Harbor and Tambolaka Airport, roundtrip airport transfers, 1x 60-minute massage per person,1x Swimming with horses per person, Chocolate Making Class, tour of the Sumba Foundation Projects, mountain biking, activities by sea (stand-up paddle boarding and snorkeling around Nihiwatu beach) and scheduled group yoga & meditation classes at the Yoga Pavilion.
