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All Star Aurora Expedition Charters
One of the Most Biodiverse Places on Earth
Journey through the spectacular islands of the Raja Ampat archaepelago, Banda Sea, one of the four seas surrounding the Maluka Islands and through the waters of eastern Indonesia aboard All Star Aurora, aboard a Phinisi-style vessel designed and built in Indonesia.
All Star Aurora takes you beyond the ordinary – from vibrant coral reefs and remote volcanic islands to rare birds, hidden lagoons and traditional villages. Every voyage combines world-class diving, breathtaking landscapes, remarkable wildlife, rich cultural encounters and warm Indonesian hospitality to create an adventure unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Aurora offers an immersive journey through the heart of the Coral Triangle, a rich bio-diverse marine area encompassing Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, The Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste. Organize a private group charter or join one of our scheduled expeditions.
Vessel Highlights
- Traditional handcrafted Indonesian Pinisi-style boatÂ
- Designed specifically for extended expeditions throughout Indonesia
- Accommodates up to 18 guests
- Nine (9) comfortable staterooms/cabins with private ensuite bathrooms
- Purpose-built dive deck with camera facilities
- Nitrox included
- Two dive tenders for efficient access to dive sites
- Gourmet Indonesian and international cuisine
- Spacious indoor lounge and dining salon
- Comfortable outdoor deck areas
- Experienced cruise director, dive guides and professional crew
Private Group Charter
Charter the entire All Star Aurora and create an expedition tailored to your group’s interests.
While All Star Aurora is renowned for exceptional diving, private charters can be customized to include the perfect balance of diving, snorkeling, island exploration, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, cultural experiences, beach excursions, photography and relaxation. Whether your group is made up entirely of divers or a mix of divers and non-divers, our experienced expedition team can help craft an unforgettable Indonesian adventure.
Perfect for:
- Dive clubs
- Underwater and nature photographers
- Nature and wildlife enthusiasts
- Family and friends
- Conservation organizations
- Corporate and incentive retreats
Join a Scheduled Expedition
All Star Aurora’s scheduled departures are designed primarily for scuba divers looking to experience Indonesia’s legendary marine biodiversity. However, it can offer non-divers amazing opportunities to discover Indonesia and be captivated by its natural beauty.
Depending on the itinerary, guests enjoy up to four dives each day guided by experienced dive professionals, while also taking part in unforgettable topside excursions including scenic hikes, village visits, birdwatching opportunities, snorkeling, beach barbecues and cultural experiences.
Because All Star Aurora visits remote destinations on carefully planned seasonal routes, scheduled itineraries cannot be customized for individual reservations.
Accommodations
After a day spent exploring one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems, Aurora’s nine (9) comfortable staterooms/cabins with ensuite private bathrooms provide a welcoming environment to relax and recharge. All Star Aurora’s staff exemplifies personalized service to assist you during your travels.
Each stateroom/cabin features:
- Private ensuite bathroom
- Individually controlled air conditioning
- Comfortable bedding
- Fresh towels and linens
- Daily housekeeping
- Satellite internet (2 GB free)
Between adventures, sit back and take it easy in the spacious indoor lounge, enjoy panoramic views from the outdoor decks, or unwind with fellow guests while cruising through some of Indonesia’s most spectacular island scenery.
The Vessel
This beautiful Pinisi-styled teak motor-sail dive liveaboard combines tradition with comfort and modern conveniences. The two-masted Indonesian vessel’s architectural term is determined by its shape and type of hull, as well as its rigging and sail configurations. Pinisis were built and continue to be built in shipbuilding villages along the southern coast of Sulawesi.  The vessel combines Indonesian decor with rich woods and warm colors.Â
Upper Deck
- The Captain’s bridge primarily limited to staff.
- Open sitting corner at stern; spacious sundeck with sun beds above the restaurant and lounge (main salon).
Main Deck
- Foredeck serves as the dive deck area with dive gear
- The restaurant and lounge (main salon) adjoin the dive deck
- Â Lounge area, photo and video room
- Â Guest cabins #8 and #9.
Lower Deck
Guest quarters are located on the main deck (numbered 1 to 7). Cabins have either a king bed or two single beds or a combination of the two (king and single). All cabins have private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Dining
Exceptional cuisine is an essential part of every All Star Aurora expedition.
Our talented culinary team prepares a variety of fresh Indonesian specialties alongside international favorites using locally inspired ingredients whenever possible. Whether you’re fueling up before the day’s first dive or sharing stories after another unforgettable adventure, every meal is served with warm Indonesian hospitality.
Throughout your expedition, guests can enjoy:
- An à la carte breakfast featuring a wide variety of cooked-to-order favorites – eggs, pancakes, bacon,and other classics
- Traditional Indonesian breakfast specialties
- Fresh tropical fruit available throughout the day
- Buffet-style lunches – Indonesian and international cuisine
- Buffet-style dinners with a rotating selection of local and international dishes
- Fresh seafood and locally inspired specialties
- Afternoon snacks between activities
- Coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks
- Beer and wine available for purchase
- Guests are welcome to bring their own beer, wine and spirits to enjoy onboard
- Dietary accommodations available with advance notice
One of the highlights of every All Star Aurora expedition is the farewell beach barbecue, where guests gather on a secluded tropical island for an unforgettable evening beneath the stars. Enjoy an incredible buffet prepared by the crew while they entertain with live music, celebrating the friendships, adventures and memories made during your journey across Indonesia.
Activities
Underwater Adventures
Indonesia’s Coral Triangle is widely recognized as the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on the globe, making All Star Aurora a dream destination for both scuba divers and snorkelers.
Scheduled expeditions are designed around exceptional diving, offering up to four dives each day, while private charters have the flexibility to create a customized balance of diving, snorkeling, island exploration and wildlife encounters.
Depending on your itinerary, highlights may include:
- Vibrant coral gardens
- Dramatic walls and drop-offs
- Manta ray cleaning stations
- Whale sharks
- Macro diving with the tiniest creatures
- Drift dives
- Wobbegong and walking sharks
- Pygmy seahorses
- Historic volcanic reefs
- World’s most biodiverse reefs
Extraordinary Experiences Above the Water
Indonesia’s natural beauty extends far beyond its incredible reefs. Every All Star Aurora expedition includes unforgettable island adventures that showcase the landscapes, wildlife and cultures of this remarkable region.
Raja Ampat
- Swim among massive numbers of non-stinging jellyfish at Jellyfish Lake
- Hike to the spectacular viewpoints at Pianemo Landing
- Snorkel the vibrant coral gardens of Melissa’s Garden
- Visit the stunning heart-shaped Love Lagoon
- Experience an early morning bird-of-paradise excursion
- Snorkel beneath the famous Arborek Jetty
- Visit the welcoming community of Arborek Village
- Enjoy a secluded island beach barbecue
Banda Sea
- Visit historic Banda Neira
- Explore the impressive Dutch Fort Belgica
- Walk through centuries-old nutmeg plantations
- Discover the fascinating history of the Spice Islands
- Visit remote villages rich in Indonesian culture
- Cruise among dramatic volcanic islands rising from the sea
Biodiversity Above & Below the Surface
All Star Aurora’s expeditions explore portions of hte Coral Sea, one of the most biologically diverse marine regions in the world.
Marine Life
Depending on the season and itinerary, guests may encounter:
- Reef and oceanic manta rays
- Wobbegong sharks
- Walking sharks
- Whale sharks (select itineraries)
- Hammerhead sharks (Banda Sea season)
- Pygmy seahorses
- Mandarin fish
- Napoleon wrasse
- Giant trevally
- Barracudas
- Sea turtles
- Dolphins
- More than 1,700 species of reef fish
Wildlife & Birdwatching
Indonesia’s islands are equally remarkable above the water. Guests may experience:
- Wilson’s bird-of-paradise
- Red bird-of-paradise
- Eclectus parrots
- Cockatoos
- Hornbills
- Flying foxes (fruit bats)
- Monitor lizards
- Tropical rainforest
- Spectacular island vistas unlike anywhere else in the world
Signature Expeditions
Raja Ampat
Explore one of the world’s most celebrated dive destinations, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, limestone islands, crystal-clear lagoons, manta rays, spectacular viewpoints and unforgettable cultural experiences. Expeditions range from 8 to 11 nights, depending on the season and itinerary.
Banda Sea
Journey through Indonesia’s legendary Spice Islands, combining exceptional diving with fascinating history, volcanic landscapes, colonial architecture and seasonal encounters with schooling hammerhead sharks.
Seasonal Expeditions
Throughout the year, All Star Aurora also explores destinations such as Triton Bay, Cenderawasih Bay, the largest marine park in Indonesia, and other remote regions of eastern Indonesia, each offering its own unique blend of marine life, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
Why Explore Indonesia?
Indonesia’s Coral Triangle is considered the global epicenter of marine biodiversity, but the adventure doesn’t end beneath the surface.
From the long-tail featured birds-of-paradise and pristine tropical rainforests to centuries-old spice trading history and welcoming island communities, Indonesia offers one of the richest combinations of natural beauty, wildlife, culture and exploration found anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re diving vibrant reefs, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, photographing rare wildlife or simply enjoying the scenery from All Star Aurora’s deck, every day reveals another unforgettable experience.
Trip Information
Rates vary due to the number and variety of itineraries.Â
Please reconfirm arrival/departure ports and departure/return times on the specific trip (date) you are interested in. AND WHERE DO THEY FIND THIS INFO????
Park fees and nitrox are included in the trip cost. Single supplements are available for a 75% surcharge. Non-divers receive a 10% discount.
See “The Vessel” for boat diagram above: Cabins #8 and #9 on the main deck are $40.00 extra per night.
*Subject to change
Raja Ampat
9 – 12 night itineraries
DEPARTS FROM: Â
Sorong (SOQ)
RETURNS TO: Â
Sorong (SOQ)
Banda Sea, Banda Neira
12 – 14 night itineraries
DEPARTS FROM:
Ambon (AMQ), Maumere (MOF) or Saumlaki (SXK)
RETURNS TO:Â Â
Maumere (MOF), Saumlaki (SXK) or Ambon (AMQ)
Lembeh Straits
9 – 12 night itineraries
DEPARTS FROM:
Sorong (SOQ) or Bitung (MDC)
RETURNS TO:
Sorong (SOQ) or Bitung (MDC)
Airfares
All Star Aurora Booking Request
Included
- Accommodations
- All meals and snacks
- 2 – 3 dives plus 1 night dive per day according to program and weather conditions
- Tanks and weightbelt
- COFFEE, TEA, JUICES AND Soft drinks on board
- Round-trip ground transfers to/from the airport or local hotel
- Eco adventures and cultural excursions
- Nitrox
- National park admission and other fees
- Satellite internet (2 GB free)
Not Included
- Airfare
- Diving and snorkeling gear
- Beer, wine and spirits
- PADI scuba courses (upon request, subject to instructor availability)
- Pre and post hotel stays
Deposits / Payments
30% per person confirms the space. The balance is due 4 months prior to departure.
Method of Payment
Mastercard, Visa, Discover, personal check, money order and wire transfer are all accepted.
Cancellation Policy
Individuals:
- More than 12 months prior to departure, a full refund, less 5% cancellation fee.
- Less than 12 months prior to departure, all payments are forfeited.
If the trip departs full, then we will issue a full refund, less a 5% cancellation fee.
Diving Experience Required
For Raja Ampat, we recommend that you have at least 25 logged dives and the Open Water (OW) Diver certification. However, due to water conditions, the OW certification will not allow you to do some of the dives.
For the cruises of Banda Sea and Triton Bay, we recommend 50 logged dives and the Advanced Open Water (AOW) Diver certification.
Please note that if your last logged dive is more than one (1)Â year ago, you will need to participate in a refresher dive.
Travel Protection
Dive insurance is required due to the remote location of the trips, and it is highly recommended that all passengers purchase travel protection to help protect you and your trip investment. For more information and to purchase dive and travel insurance, visit the providers below:Â Â
Diveassure: For annual combination trip and dive accident insurance. Â
Travelex: Travel protection for a single trip. You may choose the ULTIMATE policy and select the optional ADVENTURE COVERAGE upgrade, which waives the policy exclusions for extreme sports such as scuba diving at depths more than 75′. Purchase of Travelex insurance must be within 21 days of your initial deposit date to be eligible for pre-existing medical condition coverage and certain trip cancellation or interruption reasons.
Short-term dive insurance policies can be purchased through DAN World.
Hotels in Jakarta​
Depending on your travel arrangements, you may be interested in hotel accommodations in Jakarta, Sorong, Ambon, or Bali, if you wish to extend your stay. The closest or most convenient airports for All Star Aurora are:
- Jakarta International Airport (CGK)
- Sorong (SOQ)
- Bali Airport (Ngurah Rai) Denpasar (DPS)
FM7 Resort Hotel – Jakarta Airport
The sleek, full-service resort hotel features many amenities including restaurants, lounges, a fitness center, a spa and sauna, a swimming pool, a hot and cold whirlpool and a business center. Located 1.25 miles (2 km) from the Jakarta International Airport (CGK).
Website:Â Â FM 7 Resort Hotel
Swiss-Belhotel, Sorong
This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of the city. It offers a restaurant, lobby lounge and an outdoor swimming pool. Guest rooms feature TVs and high-speed Internet access. Situated a 10-minute drive from the Sorong Airport (SOQ).
Website:Â Swiss-Belhotel Sorong
Swiss-Belhotel, Ambon
Located in the heart of the city, it is also near the city’s docks overlooking Ambon Bay. The tall, air-conditioned 4-star international hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and airport shuttle, complimentary Wi-Fi, restaurants, live music in its lounge and bar, non-smoking guest rooms, spa/wellness center, fitness center and room service. The hotel is a 45-minute drive from the Ambon Airport (AMQ).
Website:Â Swiss-Belhotel Ambon
Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport, Bali
The hotel offers restaurants serving international cuisine, a rooftop bar, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, room service, complimentary Wi-Fi and well-appointed guest rooms. Guests can walk 15 minute to Jerman Beach to watch the sunset. Bali’s major tourist attractions are within a 30-minute drive. The property is located within Bali’s International Airport compound, requiring only a 5-10 minute walk to the terminals.
NOTE: Day-use rooms are available for guests in transit.
Website: Â Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport
Hilton Garden Inn Denpasar, Bali
Ideally located in the city of Kunta, the hotel offers a restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness center, room service, free Wi-Fi and non-smoking guest rooms. Downtown, 10 minutes away, offers a vibrant nightlife, shopping and dining. Situated one-third mile (.5 km) from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Website:Â Â Hilton Garden Inn Denpasar
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa, Bali
This former fishing village, along the beach, has been transformed into a seaside destination. Sanur embodies Bali’s relaxed chic lifestyle. Discover restaurants with indoor and alfresco dining, cafes and bars, pools, a spa and yoga studio, a fitness center and an art gallery. A short walk to an eclectic collection of international boutiques. Located approximately 25 minutes from the Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Website:Â Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
FAQs
Can I rent dive gear on All Star Aurora?
Yes, with prior arrangement, you can rent dive equipment. For rentals rates, click here. Please request these items on your Trip Application. Payment is made while on board.
How do I get to the All Star Aurora?
Aurora will arrange transfers to and from the dock and airport or local hotels. Transfers between the airport and hotels are not provided.
What are the meals like on the All Star Aurora?
A continental breakfast is available before the first dive. After the first dive a full made to order breakfast is served. Lunch and dinner are served buffet style with entrÂŽe choices, vegetable, starch, salad and dessert. Snacks, fruit and treats are offered throughout the day as well.
What time can we board the All Star Aurora?
If staying at a hotel, the Dune Aurora team with pick you up at 9 am. If you are flying in directly on the day of boarding, we will pick you up at the airport and transfer you directly to the boat. We want all guests on board by 1:00pm at the latest.
What time do we disembark All Star Aurora?
We ask that all guests disembark after breakfast on the last day. If you have a flight later in the day, you can remain on board, but clear your cabin out and linger on the deck or in the salon until your transfer time. If you have an early flight, they will get you off in time to catch it.