ETG’s Lola is known for pushing the boat out—quite literally in this case. After all, it’s when we push boundaries that we’re rewarded with the most thrilling travel experiences. For her honeymoon, she and her new husband, Fiko, set sail into remote Raja Ampat in Indonesia aboard a luxury boat (with plenty of rosé leftover from their wedding!).
Dive in and discover the magic of this wildly romantic part of the world…
Boarding our floating home for the next few days: the incredible Aliikai yacht (more about this beautiful boat at the end).
Stepping into the bluest water I’d ever seen and setting sail.
Dining at dusk, surrounded by nothing but raw, unspoilt nature.
One of many technicolour sunsets we saw that melted into burnt orange.
Diving in to explore the rich underwater world, just as vibrant and vivid.
Swimming with Nemo, and locking eyes with a turtle (I may have squealed into my snorkel!).
Taking tenders to shore for more mini adventures.
Stepping onto tiny islands and stumbling across secret coves.
Private beach set-ups and watersports galore.
Getting our fix of adrenaline, followed by ice-cold rosé.
Soaking in the pristine beauty of Penemu’s limestone islets one last time. We were devastated to leave!
A genuine dream holiday that’ll be impossible to top.
Fancy going for your own unbelievable honeymoon?
Follow in Lola and Fiko’s footsteps on these ETG adventures:
- An Indonesian Extravaganza: Java to Raja Ampat
- Sacred Trails & Secluded Bays (Komodo NP rather than Raja Ampat)
- Luxury Holidays in Indonesia
Tips for planning your once-in-a-lifetime holiday in Indonesia:
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Best time to go to Raja Ampat? November to April – calm seas and clear snorkelling conditions, ideal for luxury yacht trips.
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Getting there: Fly to Sorong (SOQ) in West Papua from Jakarta or Bali. *Not simple, but oh so worth it.
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Which beautiful boat to choose? Aliikai yacht is Lola’s top pick for off-the-scale romance but ETG also partner with SeaTrek (great for families) and Rascal Voyages (the latest addition to our holidays to this pristine paradise).
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Make a proper holiday of it: Combine with Bali or Java (or other Indonesian islands) for captivating culture, fragrant food, immersive experiences and gorgeous hotels to make the most of your time here.
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Ask ETG experts for guidance: We know the ropes. *Planning and logistics in this part of the world can be complicated, so hand over the reins to our experts. We’ll tailor your adventure to you, and eliminate the guesswork.
All about Aliikai Voyages
- A modern Phinisi yacht (refitted in 2020 by more than a dozen carpenters in the small village of Bulukumba in South Sulawesi).
- Sleeps up to 15 guests in 7 cabins, scattered over three decks.
- There are communal and private spaces to flit between: a spacious sky deck and al fresco area, a dining room and a smaller lounge.
- 5* luxury and service with on-board chef to rustle up delicious cuisine (all dietary requirements will be met).
- Super friendly team who look after your every need (including divers).
- Wildlife and cultural activities included.
- Plenty of watersports: kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, tubing, and of course, swimming, snorkelling and diving. Plus, trekking, birdwatching and cool shore excursions. Massages on board, too!
- Voyages to Raja Ampat (Nov–Apr) or Komodo National Park (May–Sept).
With thanks to Aliikai for their incredible images featured in this blog.
About the author:
Lola Pasquier is one of ETG’s Asia experts. She’s been consistently named one of Condé Nast Traveller’s Top Travel Specialists 2025.
She’s perfectly placed to plan your perfect trip, drop her an email or give her a bell using the phone number below.
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Please get in touch on 020 7924 7133 .
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