Raja Ampat

Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel in downtown Jakarta. Enjoy the evening at leisure. 

Meet for lunch before embarking on a tour of the National Museum and a visit to the National Monument, built to commemorate the country's proclamation of independence. Take the remainder of the afternoon to rest before our very early morning flight (departing soon after midnight) to Sorong to start our cruise.

Arrive to a warm welcome in Sorong early this morning then repair to day rooms at the Swiss-Belhotel Sorong to rest. Enjoy brunch before heading to the Aqua Blu for embarkation. Cruise to Mioskon Island this evening as dinner is served.

Awake to the beauty of Mioskon Island and begin the day with an easy dive or snorkel excursion. In the afternoon we set out on tenders or by kayak to explore ‘The Passage,’ a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island through which Alfred Russell Wallace traveled in 1860. Take in magnificent views of tangled mangroves and catch sight of saltwater crocodiles, hawksbill turtles and hornbills.

Rise in the morning to birdsong for an early tender tour of the magnificent karsts around Kabui Bay. Back on board, enjoy breakfast while we sail to Cape Kri. Once there, we snorkel or dive this famous dive site that holds the world record for most species spotted in a single 90-minute dive. Next, travel to Yangeffo Island and opt for a dive excursion at the Mayhem reef or a sunset tender tour of the mangroves. Dine underneath the stars back onboard.

Visit a pearl farm in Aljui Bay this morning before cruising to Wofoh Island for diving, snorkeling and water sports. Wrap up the day on a private beach, sipping cocktails as the sun sets.

Rise early today to catch the stunning limestone islets and lagoons of Wayag Island emerge as the sun rises. Take an early morning swim and keep a lookout for rare birds of paradise. Recharge over back onboard before heading out again for diving at Figure Eight Rock or snorkeling at the Ranger station to spot black tip reef sharks. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden lagoons aboard kayaks from “Castaway” beach.

Arrive this morning at Dayang Island, known for its plethora of marine life, especially reef manta rays. Both snorkelers and divers alike revel in the close presence of these majestic creatures at the Manta Cleaning Station. This afternoon, cruise to Birie Island to visit with Papuan residents in the village of Yensawai and marvel at a traditional dance performance.

Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular nature excursion on tender, by local canoe and on foot to spot the rare birds of paradise on the island of Waigeo. Take a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru River and one last snorkel excursion at Friwinbonda Island before the ship heads back to Sorong.

Depart the ship early this morning to catch our return flight to Jakarta. Enjoy a final lecture and lunch, then spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for flights homeward bound.