The luxury cruise ship AQUA BLU with dozens of travelers ran aground onto a reef off Wayag Island (Raja Ampat, West Papua Indonesia), on December 18. The vessel refloated with high tide and then headed for Batanta island.
Aqua Blu did not suffer serious damages. However, the reef was damaged and the local community and authorities are assessing the damage. Wajag Island is popular for its underwater life and atolls.
MV Aqua Blu cruise ship is a premium yacht designed by Cor D Rover BV (Amsterdam Holland-based yacht exterior and interior design studio). The ship was previously named HMS Beagle (1968-built British Royal Navy survey vessel) and drydock reconstructed and refurbished in 2018-2019 before entering service for the new shipowner Aqua Expeditions. A 7-day Aqua Blu cruise with 3 port calls costs USD 7525 per person (double-occupancy cabin rates).