Set sail on an unforgettable voyage amongst the islands of Raja Ampat - one of the most stunning parts in the tropical world, onboard a luxurious traditional Indonesian sailing ship known as a pinisi. Our experience of coral reefs around the world puts Raja Ampat at the very top, providing exceptional underwater colour and rarely exceeded in terms of biodiversity of fish, soft and hard corals.
There is lots of opportunity to snorkel on these voyages, in warm waters, often crystal clear with opportunities to encounter harmless black tip reef sharks, wobbegong sharks, spadefish, hawksbill turtles, and vast schools of fish. As well as this, you’ll visit one of only 20 mysterious non-stinging jellyfish lakes found worldwide, where you can swim among these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Above the surface, you will be sailing through the iconic landscape of forest-covered limestone karst islets, where every vista is a work of art. The yacht will sometimes sail close to rainforest where Birds of Paradise reside. Here you will be able to step ashore and go in search as they provide mating displays in the forest canopy.
You will also be invited to experience local cultures and traditions, engaging with the welcoming communities that call Raja Ampat their home. Many areas promote sustainability of energy and fishing, as well as efforts to protect wildlife. You will see evidence of cultures here going back 5,000 years, in rock paintings amongst sea cave cemeteries. You will be able to gaze at these as you snorkel.
Doom Island is another place of historical significance that you may visit. This island, which lies close to the West Papua ‘mainland’, became an important regional centre of the Dutch occupation. In the Second World War, it became a Japanese stronghold where the army made cave connections between defensive bunkers.
This journey promises an unparalleled blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences in a wonderfully pristine corner of our planet.
Itinerary
Day 1
In the morning, after arriving at the airport, you will be met by one of the voyage guides, before heading out to the boat. To kickstart the adventure, you will explore the southern areas of the Raja Ampat National Park.
After lunch, you will stop off for your first snorkel point to illuminate you with some of the spectacular marine life Raja Ampat has to offer.
In the evening, cocktails and dinner will be served at the stern of the ship, bringing our first day to a close.
Day 2
The next morning, you will witness the rainforest-clad limestone islets and breathtaking coral reef of the eastern end of the Misool Archipelago - the pinnacle of what Raja Ampat has to offer.
You'll be given the day to explore the landscapes, whether by trekking, swimming or snorkel - you may also have the opportunity to kayak and paddleboard for some seaborne adventuring.
Day 3
Today you can take an early swim in an ancient giant dome-roof sea cave, decorated by stalagmites and stalactites. This is one of the most unforgettable experiences of the voyage.
You will next explore one of only 20 mysterious non-stinging Jellyfish lakes found in the world, populated by thousands of these fascinating creatures.
In the afternoon, you will visit prehistoric sea cave cemeteries embellished in paintings estimated to be up to 5,000 years old. These paintings depict human figures, hands, flowers and fish.
Day 4
Before the dawn, you can set off into the forest with the ambition of spottinf graceful and glamorous Birds of Paradise in their Lekking trees. There is no guarantee of sightings, but if fortune is on your side, we will be provided with some flambouyant displays.
After lunch, you can step into the sea for coral reef snorkeling. Squads of aquatic life hang out at the coral drop off, covered in colourful sea fans protruding from the wall, catching food out of the passing water. A memorable day will end watching the sunset on the way to Batanta Island.
Day 5
Batanta offers a change of scenery as well as providing us with the opportunity to explore lush tropical jungles, housing an abundance of birds, butterflies and wonderful insects.
Starting at a local village, voyage guides will lead you to a cascade for the chance to swim and cool off. Those willing to progress further upriver have the opportunity to witness a second, larger cascade.
After lunch, you will have the chance to explore the area both on and beneath the sea surface, with opportunities to snorkel, kayak or paddleboard. In the evening the ship will head northwards to another group of pristine islands.
Day 6
You will start the day with a visit to a pearl farm, as well as a deep water cove and a tour of the local facilities. The locals will explain the significance of pearling, how it provides both employment and income to local people; and the process of harvesting and producing this commodity.
The afternoon offers a change of scene: one dominated in coral diversity and rings of white sandy beaches surrounding 3 small islands.
Day 7
This morning, you will celebrate a week in Raja Ampat by exploring coves and reefs amidst forest covered limestone islands.
After breakfast, you will be invitatedf to head ashore to witness the iconic landscapes of Raja Ampat, with time to survey your breathtaking surroundings.
At lunchtime, head out to a small, reef rich island located between Gam and Mansuar. Currents here bring rich nutrients for aquatic life and coral reefs to thrive. Underwater you may have the chance to encounter black-tip reef sharks, beautiful spadefish and giant clams amongst schools of colourful fish.
Day 8
Day 8 is a treasure hunt to find as many underwater gems as you can in central Raja Ampat.
The day will begin with a visit to a local village on Mansuar Island, whose population are passionate about sustainability, through solar powered street lights and fishing practice, as well as education. A potential highlight amongst an abundance of coral reefs is the wobbegong shark – a harmless shark which tries to hide by looking like a part of the reef.
In the afternoon, you may head to another area of underwater paradise at the eastern point of Mansuar. This area usually offers schools of larger fish, humphead wrasse and schools of giant trevally. You may even be greeted by a resident hawksbill turtle.
End the day beach BBQ under a ceiling of stars in the night sky.
Day 9
Day 9 has another early start into the forest in the search of Red Birds of Paradise. The aim is to arrive at the bird site around dawn, and if lucky, you might witness beautiful mating displays taking place on the canopy above.
Later visit a local village to understand their culture, identity and how they live their daily lives.
In the evening, head back to the boat for more snorkelling opportunities in the east of Gam Island; before sailing to an island known for its historical significance nearby Sorong.
Day 10
Start the day anchored in Sorong; and after a hearty breakfast explore Doom Island using traditional transportation known as Becak. Doom Island has a rich history - during World War I, it was an administrative centre for the Dutch Empire in West Papua. In World War II, it was occupied by Japanese forces who built tunnels and bunkers. The island was later attacked by American and Australian aircraft. Following the war, a fishing station briefly operated on the island before being relocated to Manokwari.
After your adventure, say goodbye to the ship and crew. Tenders will take you ashore for your transfer to the airport for onward travel.
Dates
Our price includes
Accommodation in a shared twin cabin
All meals onboard
Soft drinks, tea, coffee and snacks
Two items of laundry per day
Towels and linens
Complimentary sarong, cotton backpack and re-usable water bottle
Basic first aid kit
Toiletries inc sunscreen, soap and shampoo
Complimentary beer, wine and selected cocktails with beach BBQ
Port and park fees
Use of facilities onboard inc snorkelling gear, paddle boards and kayaks
Transfers to and from the boat as per the itinerary
Not included
Domestic flights
Other alcoholic drinks
Gratuities
Items of a personal nature (e.g. souvenirs)
Fuel surcharge US$400*
*may be subject to change
