Max Passengers:
30
Ship Type:
Expedition Cruise Ship
Operated By:
Aqua Expeditions
Aqua Lares is a superyacht sailing in Seychelles and Tanzania. An awe-inspiring presence in the Indian Ocean, it is the first superyacht to offer both charter and individual suite bookings for expeditions to these destinations. Historic legacy meets contemporary sophistication as Aqua Lares brings its bespoke small-ship sailing experience to the remote shores of East Africa.
Featuring 15 bespoke suites, a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, and expert-led excursions, Aqua Lares offers a superyacht experience unlike any other in East Africa. While sailing on this small-ship expedition, guests have the opportunity to discover biodiversity hotspots such as Aldabra and La Digue, as well as remote islands including the African Banks which are generally inaccessible to larger cruises.
Purpose-built for exploration, the 77-meter Aqua Lares is a luxurious world-class floating safari, seamlessly blending European prestige with the earthy elegance of African craftsmanship — a fusion of timeless heritage and contemporary refinement. Warm paneled interiors, textiles, and bespoke Gaya Ceramics dishware weave together an enchanting ambiance of relaxed luxury. The superyacht offers just as much to discover as the islands which it sails — sleek pieces by Minotti and Poltrona Frau contrast with antique maps and prints, blending traditional and contemporary aesthetics in a celebration of nature and timeless design. Designed for intimate and awe-inspiring expeditions, Aqua Lares invites you to retrace a legendary spice route and discover East Africa’s island jewels.
Accommodating a total of 30 guests, Aqua Lares features 15 elegant design suites across five categories, including three Owner’s Suites sized between 419 and 710 sqft (39 and 66 sqm). The remaining suites are sized between 139 and 322 sqft (13 and 30 sqm), each one individually designed and custom-furnished down to the smallest detail. Every room features warm, paneled interiors which create an inviting atmosphere, complemented by wallpaper and fabrics sourced from Italian renowned Dedar. Their sophisticated, artistic patterns subtly tie into the natural surroundings, reflecting the vibrant cultures and rich textures of both Europe and Africa.
Cabin Specifications
Aqua Lares has 12 luxurious ocean-facing suites and 3 smaller twin cabins. Includes 3 Owner's Suites with the largest at 66 sqm, equipped with a sitting room. All cabins feature ample closet space, an ensuite bathroom, windows or portholes, and either double or twin beds. Cabins are equipped with an electronic safe and a hairdryer among other complimentary amenities.
Features onboard
Aqua Lares pairs days of adventure with all the comforts of a five-star hotel, including a curated fine dining experience, highly personalized service, and a range of social spaces for rest and relaxation. Whether it's sipping cocktails on the sun deck, cooling off at the jacuzzi, or indulging in a spa treatment, moments on board can be just as special as those spent exploring the pristine beaches and island towns of Seychelles and Zanzibar. Other social areas you can enjoy on board include the Lounge & Bar, Heli Deck Lounge, Shaded Dining Area, Main Saloon & Bar, cinema, exercise area, sauna, and massage room.
Ship specifications
- Guest Capacity: 30 guests
- Crew Capacity: 33 crew, including a Cruise Director and English-speaking Naturalist Guides
- Number of Cabins: 15 cabins across four decks
- Type of Vessel: Ice Class Explorer Yacht (Ice Class 1B FS)
- Build/Refit: 1980/2020, refurbished in 2025
- Builder: IHC Verschure, Netherlands
- Interior Designer: Birgit Galli Zugaro, Hot Lab
- Port of Embarkation: Mahe, Seychelles & Stonetown, Zanzibar
- Vessel Length: 77.4 meters (254 feet)
- Gross Tonnage: 2,407 tons
- Beam: 13.5 meters (44 feet)
- Draft: 6.5 meters (21 feet)
- Cruising Speed: 10-12KT
- Engines: Smit Bolnes (308 HDK, 3400 BHP / 2500 kW)
- Generators: 3 x John Deere
- 2 x 320 kW
- 1 x 210 kW
- 1 x Cummins 200 kW (Emergency)
- Stabilizers: Rolls Royce Aquarius 50