West Papua: Spice Islands and Raja Ampat

This morning board a chartered private jet for your flight from Darwin to Biak (additional expense). Enjoy a short tour of the town before boarding Coral Discoverer, where there is time to settle in and enjoy the onboard facilities before your departure. In the evening, join your fellow travelers, the Captain, and his crew at the Captain’s Welcome Drinks in anticipation of what promises to be a remarkable journey discovering Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands.

Enter the marine life haven that is Cenderawasih Marine Park and go in search of an encounter with the biggest fish in the sea, the beautiful whale shark. This region is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to swim with these majestic animals, and with luck, you may have a chance to snorkel amongst them. Spend the afternoon with the local West Papuans at Kwatisore Village, being welcomed into their community and learning about their traditional lifestyle and culture. Enjoy a walk through their village garden, with time to shop at the vibrant market stalls.

Spend the day at leisure as the ship makes its crossing towards Wayag Island. Join the Expedition Staff in the ship’s lounge for an interesting introduction to your journey, and the many wonderful experiences undertaken over the coming days in Raja Ampat.

This morning cruise to Wayag Island, which is currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage listing. Discover the lagoon’s white-sand beaches and maze of limestone karst ‘gumdrop’ islands. Explore the lagoons in Zodiacs and aboard Xplorer with time for a swim in the aqua-blue water. For those keen on an energetic climb, after lunch you can trek up famous Pindito Peak, where the reward is breathtaking views over the surrounding islands and spectacular lagoon. You may choose to relax with a swim, snorkel, enjoy a kayak paddle, or cruise in the glass bottom boat.

Crossing the equator, enjoy the morning at beautiful Aljui Bay for a high-quality snorkel and dive on one of the best reef sites in the area. Others may enjoy a cruise in this spectacular channel in a Zodiac. Set sail for Yenwapnour Village for a friendly welcome by the local Papuan band, with cultural dances. A variety of traditionally cooked food is on offer for tasting. Meet the locals on a guided stroll through the village area before returning to the ship for pre-dinner drinks.

Enjoy an early morning adventure seeking out the elusive red bird of paradise at an exclusive local vantage point (40 min uphill hike, good fitness required). If conditions are favorable, take part on an early morning snorkel. At the mid-morning navigate the narrow entrance to discover Hidden Bay. The narrow entrance to the bay is easy to overlook and visits from cruise ships are rare. Pass through the famous Wallace passage, aboard Xplorer and Zodiacs, where history abounds and the stunning surroundings keeps your cameras in action.

After lunch, enjoy snorkeling and diving on the nearby reef. The glass bottom boat is available to view the reef with a naturalist on board, or you can head off on a relaxing kayak tour around the nearby limestone karst rocks.

Awaken and enjoy the scenery as the ship cruises to a beautiful anchorage near the secret mangrove entrance for a Zodiac cruise. Meander through the mangrove system, which takes you to a jetty landing and an easy 300m walk through the tropical rainforest to a cascading waterfall known to the locals as “The Widows Water”. Local guides join the expedition as you enjoy the rainforest. Board Xplorer and cruise into the village of Yensawah and be greeted by the locals and then guided through the village. Visit the local school and see the children in full song before visiting the local market on the water front. Experience the friendliness of the locals. This afternoon, arrive at the Fam group of islands. Enjoy the opportunity for a climb up a boardwalk for spectacular views of Penemu. Otherwise, choose to relax with a swim and a snorkel in the clear waters before a well-deserved pre-dinner drink.

Today the ship enters the Misool Archipelago and anchors at beautiful Wagmab, where excellent coral gardens and steep walls allow you to snorkel and dive to your heart's content. If conditions allow, a naturalist has the glass bottom boat in action over the reef systems, before you depart for your afternoon destination.
Cruise up a stunning passage and arrive into Mesemta Bay. Enjoy snorkeling and viewing from the glass bottom boat, or paddle at your leisure through these amazing karst islands on kayaks. Finish the day with the famous BBQ on the top deck and take in the sunset looking over this spectacular backdrop.

In the middle of the Banda Sea lies an enchanted fragment of history, the center of the Spice Island trade. Originally the world’s sole source of nutmeg and mace, these nine tiny islands have attracted traders since at least 2,000 years ago. In the 16th century, European explorers discovered entire continents in their quest for these islands. On the approach to Banda Island the outline of Gunung Api Volcano, with its thin plume of smoke drifting from the summit, is clearly visible. See Banda’s famous Kora Kora canoes in action - with up to 38 oarsmen aboard they are a sight to behold as they glide across the water. Later in the afternoon there is time to explore Fort Belgica. Built by the first Governor General of the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1611, the fort is extremely well preserved and provides an interesting insight into Dutch colonization. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of champagne as the sun sets over the fort.

This morning enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the colors and aromas of the Spice Islands. Travel through the wide, tree-lined streets and past the remnants of mansions constructed during Dutch colonialism on a town tour. See the museum, the former VOC Governor’s Mansion, the old church, and a cultural presentation. Explore a nutmeg plantation and learn of its importance in Banda’s historical past. Sample local treats and watch a cultural performance on the waterfront before leaving your new-found friends.

Today say farewell to the Spice Islands and cruise towards Darwin. Spend the day on board to relax and enjoy, reminiscing over the highlights of Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as the ship sets sail for your return journey to Australia.

This morning at 8:00am, arrive at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf, marking the end of your great adventure discovering Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands.