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Raja Ampat & Spice Islands

Departs Darwin & Sorong18 nightsAll InclusiveFrom $19,390.00* PP

The rich history and diverse marine life of Raja Ampat and Spice Islands are brought to life on this 18-night voyage. Aboard Coral Geographer retrace the ancient trade routes of spice merchants trading Chinese silks for cloves, Indian cotton for nutmeg and Arabian coffee for pepper. Explore some of the hundreds of rarely visited islands of Raja Ampat whose waters harbour over 75% of the world’s coral and fish species. At Cenderawasih Bay, swim with the gentle whale sharks – the largest living non-mammalian vertebrate – in what guests describe as a ‘once in a lifetime experience.’ Walk through vibrant village markets. Experience a traditional welcome at Banda Neira where our ship is raced into Banda by kora kora canoes. Enjoy the view over sunset drinks at 17th century Dutch Fort Belgica. Climb atop Mount Pindito to marvel at one of the world’s most photographed marine scenes: the jagged green limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water of Wayag. 

Adventure Made Easy – Includes hosted 5 hour charter flight departing Darwin to Sorong / Sorong to Darwin, via Manado. Medical professionals onboard and links to Visa and Health information.

  • Indulge with five days in spectacular Raja Ampat, the famed ‘Four Kings’ archipelago 
  • Swim in the turquoise waters of Balbulol in Misool 
  • Discover Wayag’s ‘gumdrop’ islands and be rewarded by the view from Pindito Peak 
  • Swim with the gentle and majestic whale sharks at Cenderawasih Bay, the world’s largest fish 
  • Be welcomed to Banda Neira by the exciting spectacle of the traditional Kora Kora canoes 
  • Explore the ancient kingdoms fought over by English, Dutch, and Portuguese explorers 
  • Learn the customs & cultures of West Papua and Indonesia, and experience local culture, including traditional dances, handicrafts and fresh local food 

Itinerary

Coral Expeditions Spice Islands Raja Ampat Darwin & Sorong

This itinerary is based on a Darwin departure, slight variances occur when departing from Sorong.  

Captains-Welcome-Coral-Expeditions

Embark Darwin: Board at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 6:30am for 8:00am departure. Spend the afternoon becoming acquainted with all the facilities onboard as we cruise northwards towards the Spice Islands. 

Embark Sorong: An optional charter flight is available from Darwin to Sorong, via Manado.  

Check in at Darwin International Airport for this flight at 6:00am for a 7:30am departure. On arrival in Sorong, enjoy lunch at a local hotel before embarking Coral Geographer at 4:00pm for a 6:00pm departure. 

As dusk falls, join your fellow travellers at the Captain’s Welcome this afternoon, while your Expedition Team shares the extraordinary things you will encounter on your voyage. 

Sea-day-Coral-Expeditions

Spend a relaxing morning at sea as we cross the Timor Sea towards Yamdena Island. Join our Expedition Team in the Bridge Deck for an insightful information session on Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as well as safety procedures and protocols while visiting Indonesia.  

The artisan village of Tumbur offers a unique insight into the craftsmanship and heritage skills of the ‘pemahat kayu’ or woodcarvers and the regionalised motif of the expert Ikat weavers. Wander this seaside village amongst the villagers after a welcome ceremony. This location offers the opportunity to purchase Tanimbarese crafts from the makers. 

Day at Sea - Lectures, Presentations

Spend a day relaxing at sea listening to our guest lecturers engaging presentation’s and enjoy our onboard facilities.

Coral Expeditions Spice Islands

The Banda archipelago is the historic heart of the spice trade and was once the world’s only source of nutmeg until the mid-19th century as Portuguese, Dutch and English fought for control over the spice trade. The ten volcanic islands have attracted traders and merchants for at least 2,000 years as highly sought-after goods such as cloves, textiles, batik and rice were moved through Banda. 

The Banda Islands are lushly vegetated with tropical flora including the Myristica Tree (nutmeg) while the Banda Sea’s underwater lava flow reefs are popular for scuba diving and snorkelling. On our approach to Banda Neira, witness the outline of Gunung Api volcano. Admire the photo-worthy spectacle of Moluku paddlers propelling kora kora canoes with their elaborately carved figureheads. Snorkel and dive over the nearby lava flow reef system or explore ashore and enjoy local tea and snacks on the waterfront. 

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 pentagonal shaped 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 sparkling wine as the sun sets over the fort. 

This morning, choose to explore the nutmeg villages of Gunung Api in search of the endemic Banda myzomela, head out for another snorkel or dive in the crystal waters of the lava flow. 

Fort Duurstede

We start the day arriving early at Molana Island whose history stretches back to the Portuguese colonial era. This uninhabited private island is home to 85 species of trees, Pacific Monitor Lizards (Varanus Indicus), Moluccan Scrubfowl (Megapodius Reinwardtii) and Coconut Crabs. The island still contains the ruins of a hospital built by the Dutch, whose construction was interrupted by the Japanese occupation in World War II. 

Snorkellers can take advantage of the shallow corals and clear water with easy viewing of unique corals and plentiful fishes. We head East to nearby Saparua Island where we are welcomed by village locals. The area holds an important spot in history books which we learn at Fort Duurstede, a 17th- century Dutch fort with a complicated backstory that spans centuries. Here men and boys give us their war dance with shields, swords, and cultural adornment. This is a location of cultural immersion and learning. 

kofiau island

Enroute to Sawai Village on Seram Island stop at Besar Island for a snorkelling and diving opportunity in coral reef bound lagoons. 

In the middle of the Banda Sea, Sawai village is on Seram Island and is one of the oldest villages in the Maluku Islands. The village is in a beautiful setting with simple homes built on stilts over the ocean. Stroll the banks of the Asinahu Lake with its brilliant blue ceramic tiles to a viewpoint looking across Sawai Bay.   

Day 7 Wayag (14)10

Our introduction to the beautiful natural playground of Raja Ampat is at Misool, one of the four largest islands. Raja Ampat means ‘Four Kings’ which refers to four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool, in an archipelago comprising over 1,500 smaller islands. There is time to swim and kayak (weather permitting) amongst the conical islands of Misool. We visit the iconic waterways of Bulbulol featuring Christmas Rocks This vast primordial pool is dotted with dramatic limestone formations which look more like chess pieces than rocks. Swimming and diving in these pristine waters is an undisputed highlight of your Raja Ampat adventures. 

Kofiau

At Kofiau Island we are welcomed by village dancers from their traditional pontoon boats before leading us ashore at Deer Village (also known as Kampung Deer) where local villagers escort us through the home. Birders have the opportunity to take a jungle walk to spot the endemic Kofiau Paradise Kingfisher before rejoining the village walk. After lunch, you dive, snorkel and swim in the uniquely featured Boo Kecil – if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see Mantas! 

Early morning birders will disembark the ship to spot either the Wilsons Bird of Paradise or the Red Bird of Paradise; amongst other local species in a moderate 30-40 min jungle walk. Bring your headtorches as it will be dark when you disembark the Xplorer. In the afternoon you visit the spectacular Piaynemo. Climb the 300 stairs for incredible views across turquoise waters and limestone karst formations. 

Wayag-Coral-Expeditions

More Raja Ampat treasures await today as we explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer with time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk upon white-sand beaches amongst the many islands. After lunch, there is an opportunity for an energetic hike up to famed Pindito Peak, with hikers rewarded by panoramic views over the island and its spectacular lagoon. Alternatively, you can choose to relax by swimming, snorkelling or kayaking. 

Spend the day in this remote, biodiverse coral atoll teeming with fish. The Expedition team will source the best snorkelling and diving locations depending on the conditions. 

Spend a day relaxing at sea listening to our guest lecturers engaging presentation’s and enjoy our onboard facilities. 

Swimming with a Whale Shark

Cenderawasih Bay (translates to Bird of Paradise Bay), hosts an incredible array of marine biodiversity. The largest marine park in Indonesia, Teluk Cenderawasih National Park protects a rich marine ecosystem, and covers an area of more than 14,500 square kilometres and is home to whale sharks, dugongs, dolphins as well as over 200 known species of fish and 150 species of coral. Cenderawasih Bay is one of the few places worldwide where it’s possible to swim with the endangered Whale Shark.

There is no guarantee that whale sharks will materialise on cue – if they do, we may have the chance to snorkel amongst them. Eyeballing these enormous fish, which are completely harmless and can grow to the length of a bus, is an experience you won’t forget! Later, we will visit Kwatisore village with local guides and learn about West Papuan customs, cultures and the traditional lifestyles of the people.

Coral Expeditions Ghizo Island

One of the highlights of Roon Island is the wreckage of a Japanese Zero fighter plane lying in shallow water and is visible to snorkellers when the weather co-operates. The wreck has become a marine habitat and sports large corals, gorgonian fans as well as large populations of lionfish, surgeonfish, and turtles amongst other marine life. Connect with local villagers and take the time to learn more about their daily lives. 

Swande-Island-Coral-Expeditions

This is dynamic day as our locations is subject to prevailing weather and tides. Irrespective, you’ll have the opportunity to beachcombe, swim and snorkel in nearby reefs from the Xplorer or Dive the clear, calm waters and add to your lengthy list of species sighted during your voyage. 

Magnificent Birds of Paradise - Manokwari

Learn of the impacts of Christianity across West Papua with local guides on this unassuming island off the West Papuan mainland Snorkel nearby coral reefs or dive WWII wrecks in the afternoon. 

Part of the Su Islands (Mios Su) group, a cluster of small islands off the northern coast of West Papua, today we visit the little-known Amsterdam Island. Enjoy the opportunity to explore with local guides and a cultural welcome performance. There is also opportunity to enjoy beachcombing and swimming. 

NB: This is a seasonal stop due to local ceremonies. An alternate location will be visited if a ceremony is occurring. 

Coral Geographer in Port

Disembark Sorong: After an early morning arrival into Sorong at 8:00am, disembark the ship and if you are booked on to the Charter flight, take lunch in a local restaurant before youR flight to Darwin via Manado.

Disembark Darwin:Our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands adventure concludes in Darwin this morning as we bid farewell to new-found friends, the Master and crew, disembarking at 8:00am. A complimentary transfer is provided to CBD hotels or the airport.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, cultural ceremonies, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.  



Fares & Availability

Cruise and Fly Fare: Fare includes charter flight Sorong to Darwin / Darwin to Sorong. Connect with ease to the ship on this hosted 2 hours and 30 minutes direct charter flight transfer from Australia.

Cruise Only: You can easily opt out of the charter flight and we will adjust the fare. Please contact reservations.

Visa Information: Please review the e-VOA and follow the specific instructions assigned for your departure destination, as different instructions apply to each trip.

Standby Deals: Keep an eye on our standby page for expeditions sailing soon.

Bridge Deck Suites

Private Balcony - 37.5m2

Fully Booked

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

Fully Booked

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

Fully Booked

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

Fully Booked
Join the Waitlist

Bridge Deck Suites

Private Balcony - 37.5m2

Available

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

Available

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

Available

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

Last Staterooms
Book this Departure

Bridge Deck Suites

Private Balcony - 37.5m2

Available

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

Available

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

Available

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

Available
Book this Departure
Bridge-Deck-Suite---Coral-Adventurer

Bridge Deck Balcony Suite

Private Balcony - 55.8m2

Fully Booked

Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

Fully Booked
Explorer-Deck-Stateroom---Coral-Adventurer

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

Available

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

Available

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

Fully Booked
Book this Departure

Prices are per person twin share, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD).  Booking Terms & Conditions >
For solo traveller rates see our Solo Traveller Program >

Additional Information

Inclusions

  • Pre or post cruise charter flights
  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
  • Snorkelling & SCUBA equipment (SCUBA diving at an additional cost)
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • All meals, chef-prepared on board
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • Expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers (in most destinations)
  • Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging

Not Included

  • Pre-cruise transfers
  • Pre and post cruise accommodation
  • Travel Insurance
  • SCUBA Diving (view Scuba diving rates)
  • Entry visas & travel permits for the country you are travelling to/from
  • Alcoholic & non alcoholic specialty beverages outside of lunch and dinner service
  • Laundry service (available at a cost)
  • Items of a personal nature such souvenir purchases
  • Optional Extras (in some destinations)

OTHER INFORMATION

Coral Geographer, the newest addition to our fleet, carries a maximum of 120 guests, delivering Coral Expeditions’ renowned warm Australian hospitality, intimate onboard atmosphere, and world-class expedition experience. More About Coral Geographer >

Travel Insurance is not included in your cruise fare. We highly recommend all guests to obtain comprehensive travel insurance with remote area evacuation coverage. Please refer to our Pre-Cruise Checklist page for facts that should be considered and shared when speaking with Travel Insurance suppliers regarding travel insurance.

At Coral Expeditions dining is a celebration of great food and good company enjoyed in extraordinary destinations. People and place are key to enjoyable dining experiences, where food becomes the vehicle for conversation and creating memorable occasions.

We now offer two wine selections that guests may purchase in addition to our new house selection of wines. These packages showcase contemporary choices of Australian wines and French Champagne. More About Cuisine & Wine >

  • A Taste of Australia Selection | 6 Bottles | $280.00
  • Connoisseur Selection | 6 Bottles | $400.00

Our Cruise Collection Merchandise including expedition gear is also available for purchase in our onboard gift shop. View our Cruise Collection here >

When it comes time for the exciting time of packing for your cruise, our packing lists are available to assist you. More specific information regarding weather conditions in your destination will be included in your Cruise Documentation which you will receive prior to your cruise.

The Raja Ampat & Spice Islands packing list will be featured here shortly.

There are several easy walking options available on this departure, at locations including Banda Neira, Saparua Island, Kofiau Island, Auri Island, Roon Island and Kwatisore Village.

An alternative excursion will always be offered in place of higher impact walks. The Expedition Team will advise walking conditions and requirements prior to each excursion. Should you have any physical limitations or mobility issues, please notify our reservations team in advance prior to your departure.

There will be multiple swimming/snorkelling opportunities on this itinerary at Banda Neira Lava Flow, Molana Reef, Sawai, Misool Island, Kofiau Island, Aljui Bay, Kawe, Auri, Roon, Cenderawasih Bay (Swim with the Whale Sharks). These opportunities are a guide and not all are guaranteed.

Scuba diving is offered on this itinerary - For more information view our Snorkel & Dive Information page.

Please ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the time the expedition commences, and two blank pages. Please email a scanned colour copy of your passport identification page to our team at [email protected] no later than 45 days prior to your departure.

Important: Please bring your physical passport with you on all international departures.

The travel advice information below is for Australian guests only. If you are an non-Australian passport holder travelling on these departures, please contact your relevant government department, embassy or your travel agent for applicable information.
Travelling guests are fully responsible for arranging their own health and visa requirements to travel abroad. Further information will be provided closer to departure.

Sorong Post Cruise Transfer: We offer an optional direct charter flight connecting guests with ease between Sorong and Darwin at a cost.

Darwin Post Cruise Transfer: A complimentary transfer is provided to CBD hotels or the airport. We recommend allowing sufficient time to arrive for your flight in the event of any delays in disembarkation. If you’re not transferring directly to the airport why not spend the day enjoying the tropical city of Darwin with its landscaped waterfront and harbourside Wave Pool.

Darwin to Sorong: 
Guests travelling to Indonesia must apply for an e-VOA (e-Visa on Arrival 30 days) at https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/ before travelling. This e-VOA is at a cost of IDR 500,000 (five hundred thousand rupiah). Click HERE to view an Indonesian E-VOA website navigation guide for Darwin departures.
Please see your doctor or travel clinic to plan any vaccinations you may need at least 8 weeks before you leave.
Sorong to Darwin:
Guests travelling to Indonesia must apply for an e-VOA (e-Visa on Arrival 30 days) at https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/ before travelling. This e-VOA is at a cost of IDR 500,000 (five hundred thousand rupiah). Click HERE to view an Indonesian E-VOA website navigation guide for Sorong departures.
Please see your doctor or travel clinic to plan any vaccinations you may need at least 8 weeks before you leave.

 

Exciting news from Coral Expeditions! We've happily lifted the mandatory COVID-19 protocols for our Australian cruises thanks to the improving situation.

Some destinations on our Raja Ampat & Spice Island voyage may still require COVID-19 vaccination. If you're unvaccinated, a medical exemption letter will be required for travel. The rules for all international voyages are evolving, so we encourage all guests to thoroughly research the travel requirements for the specific regions they will be visiting.   

While COVID-19 vaccinations are no longer mandatory, we strongly encourage everyone to stay current with their COVID-19 and flu shots to ensure the safety of all passengers. Our approach aligns with Australian health advice, emphasizing illness prevention and management. Rest assured, we are dedicated to keeping you safe during your adventures and sincerely appreciate your trust in us. We're eagerly anticipating the opportunity to welcome you aboard soon!

We do not have currency exchange onboard. Guests are advised to exchange money into local currency prior to departure from their home port. Currency exchange and eftpos style point of sale is increasingly available in the regions we visit. We recommend carrying small denominations.

Indonesia: Rupiah

  • Nathaniel’s Nutmeg by Giles Wiltoa
  • Spice Islands by Ian Burnet
  • Where Australia Collides with Asia by Ian Burnet
  • Rings of Rice: An Indonesian Odyssey by L & L Blair
  • Diving Indonesia’s Birds Head Seascape by Burt Jones
  • To the Bitter End by Lex McAulay

We want to ensure that your journey with us is smooth and hassle-free. To help you prepare for your cruise, refer to our Pre-Cruise Checklist for more detailed information on the milestones leading up to your voyage.

Charter Flights are included as a part of this itinerary.

Cruise and Fly Fare: Fare includes charter flight Darwin to Sorong / Sorong to Darwin, via Manado. Connect with ease on this hosted charter flight transfer to or from Australia. Flight duration approximately 4 hours, 50 mins.
Cruise Only: You can easily opt out of the charter flight and we will adjust the fare. Please contact reservations.

Book Online: Secure your cruise reservation through our online booking system. Please note you will receive two confirmation emails: the initial automatic confirmation generated by our system, and the second, manually sent during office hours by our reservations team.

Coral Expeditions journeys to remote regions where the travel experience occurs on open seas and where shore excursions involve rugged terrain, small boat transfers, and limited infrastructure and facilities. Guests must have a moderate level of mobility and fitness to safely participate. This includes the ability to:

  • Embark and disembark tenders with minimal assistance.
  • Walk on uneven terrain such as rocky shorelines, nature tracks, and beaches.
  • Navigate stairs and decks on a moving vessel safely.

Guests with mobility or medical limitations should carefully consider travel and consult us before booking. For safety reasons, crew may deny boarding or restrict participation in certain activities at their sole discretion.

While we aim to accommodate guests, expedition cruising requires a level of physical capability to fully enjoy and safely undertake the experience. Your safety, and that of fellow guests and crew, is our top priority.

Articles You Might Be Interested In

Raja Ampat Coral Reef

Best Day On Expedition: Snorkelling Banda Neira – By Joan Winston

Corals from the Raja Ampat Archipelago, Indonesia, to South-East Cape, Tasmania. By Dr. Terry Done

Wayag Raja Ampat John Hicks

Best Day On Expedition: Wayag, Raja Ampat. By John Hicks

Voyage Log: Raja Ampat & Spice Islands

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