Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral Triangle

Sorong, Papua→Sorong, Papua

10–11 nights3 departures · Apr 2027 – Apr 2028

from$ 10,650

What Awaits You

Set sail on the ultimate expedition into the world's richest marine ecosystem — the legendary Coral Triangle and the remote islands of West Papua and Raja Ampat. This is more than a cruise; it's a deep dive into biodiversity and culture, journeying through pristine Indonesian archipelagos accessible only by sea. Your voyage begins and ends in Sorong, the frontier port that guards the gateway to Raja Ampat. Navigate Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia's largest marine national park, to explore hidden gems like Pulau Padaidori, Pulau Roon and Pulau Row, with the unparalleled thrill of encountering whale sharks near Kwatisore. Continue to the Raja Ampat archipelago, the epicenter of marine life, exploring serene Kabui Bay, dive sites at Pulau Kri and Pulau Mansuar, and the dramatic karst islands and lagoons of Pulau Fam, Penemu and Pulau Misool. The vibrant underwater world here is unmatched, and on this Indonesia cruise you'll be welcomed by island communities connected to the ocean's ancient rhythms. Engage in onboard lectures on marine biodiversity and Papuan culture, refine your skills in photography workshops, and choose from exceptional shore excursions: snorkeling or diving Raja Ampat's pristine reefs, kayaking Misool's limestone lagoons, meeting the Roon community at their stilt village on Jende jetty, and immersing yourself in Cenderawasih Bay's coastal traditions. Few cruises to Indonesia reach this many remote landfalls — every stop reveals new wonders in nature, heritage and human spirit, an unforgettable adventure in one of Earth's last true wildernesses.

Dates & Prices

3 departures · Apr 2027 – Apr 2028

All Asia & Pacific cruises

16.04.27 – 26.04.2710 nights
Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral TriangleSH Minerva · M0727041610
Price from
$10,650
per person
Explore — Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral Triangle
18.05.27 – 29.05.2711 nights
Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia’s Coral TriangleSH Minerva · M8127051811
Price from
$11,725
per person
Explore — Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia’s Coral Triangle

Expedition Highlights

A region of vivid contrasts, from coral seas and island cultures to ports shaped by trade and deep-rooted traditions, all brought to life by expert context.

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about the region you're exploring from our team of expedition experts.

Guided Hikes

Take guided walks on island trails and coastal paths, with time to stop for views, wildlife spotting, and photos.

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Experience captivating indigenous performances, such as ritual traditions and dances, explore tribal villages and shop for handicrafts.

Snorkeling & Diving

Explore clear, warm waters where coral gardens attract reef fish, rays, and, at times, reef sharks.

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Day by day for the April 16, 2027 departure. Other dates may differ.

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1

Sorong, Papua

Arrive in Sorong, the gateway to the clear waters of Raja Ampat. Use the day for embarkation and final preparations before you sail into the world’s most biodiverse marine region

Day 2

Pulau Manim, Numfoor, Papua

Pause at Pulau Numfoor, an oval, coral rimmed island on the northern side of Cenderawasih Bay. The interior is built from limestone and coral terraces topped by tropical forest, with coastal villages around the shore. Numfoor was a major Pacific War air base and the site of a 1944 campaign, a layer of history that still sits beneath the island’s quiet surface

Day 3

Pulau Padaidori, Papua

Pulau Padaidori is one of a cluster of tiny, mostly uninhabited islands and atolls off the northern Papuan coast. This remote stop combines secluded Pacific Rim beaches with a rich, protected marine ecosystem in its calm sapphire waters, where schools of shimmering tropical fish weave amid colourful coral gardens. Mangrove forests shelter snakes and crabs in their twisted root systems and swaying coconut palms decorate white-sand beaches

Day 4

Pulau Roon, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

Roon Island is cloaked in lush evergreen rainforest. Home to approximately 1,100 members of the Roon tribe, the island offers a captivating adventure with its unique seaside village homes built on stilts. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the iconic Old Church, which showcases a Bible published in 1898. Birdwatchers might spot birds-of-paradise, cockatoos, and eclectus parrots. Сoral gardens and walls that surround the island flourish with marine life and are ideal for snorkeling

Activities:

Included

Meet the locals at Roon Island

Roon Island is home to approximately 1,100 members of the Roon tribe. The island offers a captivating adventure with its unique seaside village homes built on stilts. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the iconic Old Church, which houses a Bible published in 1898. Begin by disembarkation at the village jetty of Jende, where you will be greeted by the village dignitaries, afterward follow the group of traditional music to walk to Old Church where the local culture performance take place. Explore the historic of the Old Church and take a look at the Bible published in 1898. From here our tour is continued to the village hamlet where you will observe how locals process sago, local handicrafts making, and traditional fishery-culture systems. Before returning to the ship, enjoy a coffee break provided by the locals

Day 4

Pulau Row, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

Pulau Row (or Pulau Rouw) is a remote island where pristine nature, local culture, and World War II history meet. Accessible wreck dives recall the wartime past, when American and Japanese aircraft and vessels sank in these waters. Today, these relics, slowly claimed by the reef, form part of a remarkable underwater landscape. Around the island, Cenderawasih Bay reveals its extraordinary marine world, with diverse fish life, including several species of sharks

Day 5

Kwatisore, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

A signature day in Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia’s largest marine national park. Kwatisore is the bay's most renowned spot for close whale shark encounters. Here, the gentle giants gather beneath local fishing platforms (bagans), drawn by the catch. This unique interaction site offers rare, up-close experiences with resident whale sharks in calm, clear waters, making it a world-class destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts

Activities:

Included

Snorkelling With Whale Shark & Kwatisore Village

Discover the extraordinary biodiversity of Cendrawasih Bay, a world-class marine sanctuary situated just one degree south of the equator where the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates converge. Formed from ancient geological structures dating back to the Jurassic period, this bay is a vital part of the renowned Coral Triangle, the planet's richest marine ecosystem, boasting an astonishing variety of coral and sea life. The unparalleled highlight of this journey is an encounter with the magnificent Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) in the southern bay. These gentle giants congregate near local fishing platforms, a fascinating tradition where local fishermen regard the sharks as a symbol of good fortune. Following a safety briefing led by National Park rangers, prepare for a truly unforgettable experience: a chance to swim or snorkel alongside the largest fish in the ocean. After this thrilling morning, return to the ship for refreshment and a leisurely lunch. The afternoon offers a captivating cultural immersion as we visit a local village. You will be welcomed with a traditional group dance and ceremony, followed by the opportunity to explore the community, observe local life, and view authentic handicrafts available for purchase.

Day 6

Pulau Mansinam, Papua

Mansinam sits in Doreh Bay near West Papua's coastal capital Manokwari and is tied to the history of Christianity in Papua, linked to the arrival of German missionaries in 1855. Expect impressive local cultural presentations from ritual traditions to dances, including the most interesting Tumbur Tanah Dance from Arfak Mountain tribes. This low-lying coral island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a premier destination for snorkelling with your expert guides

Day 7

Kabui Bay, Waigeo Island, Raja Ampat Archipelago

Start with Zodiac cruising through Kabui Bay’s limestone waterways and the narrow channel between Gam and Waigeo, often called “the Passage”. Follow in the footsteps of naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, who travelled this route in 1860 and wrote about its scenery, which still feels like a river run through karst cliffs and mushroom shaped islands. Dive at world-class sites such as Mioskon, Blue Magic, Mayhem and the Passage. In the afternoon, continue to Pulau Kri for snorkeling and a dive at Cape Kri. Look for manta rays, turtles, nudibranchs and vibrant corals

Activities:

Included

Snorkeling With the Expedition team - Ayu Atoll

This low-lying coral island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a premier destination for snorkelling with your expert guides. Here, you can explore colourful coral reefs and encounter an array of tropical fish, providing an unforgettable underwater experience

Optional

Diving in Kabui Bay (2 Tanks)

Mioskon (5 to 25 m) and Blue Magic (8 to 30 m) Starting up-current, you’ll drift toward the site’s spectacular southeastern point through clouds of Yellowtail and Blue-lined Snappers. Mioskon is famous for its 'carpet sharks,' so look closely beneath the overhangs for the camouflaged Tasselled Wobbegong. From the tiny, white Pontohi Pygmy Seahorse hiding on the reef to the sprawling gardens of hard and soft corals, every inch of this site celebrates the incredible marine diversity of Raja Ampat. Blue Magic is an underwater pinnacle that starts around 7 meters and goes down to less than 30 meters. On the top, you will find all sorts of different fish species and several cleaning stations, as you descend you find bigger schools of fish and the larger predator fish, sharks and manta rays in season are common sittings. What to expect: Tasselled Wobbegong sharks (hiding under ledges) and massive schools of Yellow-stripe Snappers. Pontohi Pygmy Seahorses (tiny and white) and various nudibranchs Oceanic Manta Rays (at cleaning stations), Grey Reef Sharks, and Blacktip Sharks. "Tornadoes" of Bigeye Trevally (Jacks) and Pickhandle Barracuda. Bargibanti Pygmy Seahorses on the sea fans. Mayhen ( 7 to 30 m) and Passage (7 to 20 m) Mayhem Reef is a vibrant sea-mountain dive where conditions determine which side you begin on, descending onto the top of the seamount before slowly circling your way upward. The sloping structure is rich with life, and divers are encouraged to check the gorgonian fans for pygmy seahorses while exploring the mid-levels. Marine activity here can be spectacular, with tuna, trevally, yellowtail fusiliers, and the occasional blacktip shark hunting in the blue. The site is especially famous for its wobbegong sharks, as well as cuttlefish and colourful nudibranchs hidden across the reef. Towards the end of the dive, take your time on the shallow top of the seamount, where even more surprises often await. Passage offers a true spectacle that must be seen to be believed. Reaching the narrowest point of only 20m, this is where ocean meets jungle. The water that flows through the channel is drawn in by the tides, bringing nutrients with it and allowing marine life to flourish in the area. The tree canopies and limestone cliffs above the water make it a really beautiful and unique dive. What to expect: Wobbegong sharks and the occasional Manta Ray or Eagle Ray. Incredible density of Fusiliers, Batfish, and Unicornfish that can block your view of the surface. Giant Trevally and Spanish Mackerel hunting the schools.

Day 8

Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat, Papua

Pulau Penemu, or Piaynemo Island, is the main island of the Fam Islands archipelago. Famous for its panoramic viewpoint reached via 300 wooden steps, it offers views over karst islets at Hidden Bay and a star-shaped lagoon. The largely uninhabited island features diverse landscapes like rolling hills, limestone cliffs and karst formations like Pencil Rock. Vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life are perfect for snorkelling

Activities:

Optional

Diving: Melissa’s Garden (7 to 30m) and Batu Rufas (5 to 30m) - 1 Trip 2 Dives

4 hours

Melissa’s Garden, named by Max Ammer after his daughter, it is truly an underwater garden. Three pinnacles sit atop a shallow plateau of glorious hard and soft corals. The slopping reef drops only to 20 meters where it bottoms out to sand. Divers will be able to spot many bright nudibranchs and anemone fish nesting. In deeper parts barracudas and sometimes manta rays. Also known for sightings of the tasselled Wobbegong shark. Batu Rufas, Big diversity of marine life as soon as you drop below the surface. You will see all kinds of fusilier fish in big schools as soon as you start your descent. Notice spotted garden and duck eels, cover below the sand as you approach the bend of the slope. Drift with the current along the island wall and observe the spectacular reef and underwater swim-through. This is common grounds for sea turtles, reef and wobbegong sharks as well as Moorish Idol and long-finned batfish. What else can be spotted: o Incredible health and variety of coral. o Whitetip Reef Sharks and Wobbegongs. o Schools of Anthias and Damselfish that look like "confetti" over the coral. o Leaf Scorpionfish and Ornate Ghost Pipefish. o colourful reef fish (Chromis and Anthias).

Day 8

Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat

Fam is a quieter corner of Raja Ampat, with time ashore and warm village welcomes, then back to the water for reef snorkeling. Dive on Galaxy Reef, where schooling barracuda gather over hard and soft corals, and Melissa’s Garden, a shallow coral plateau with pinnacles and a lot of small life. In the afternoon at Mansuar, dives will focus on the reefs and jetties. Yenbuba Jetty is a clear water slope that suits easy snorkeling and underwater photos, with chances of turtles, reef sharks, and dense coral close to the jetty

Activities:

Optional

Diving: Keru Channel (3 to 45m) (1 Dive)

1 hour

Keru Channel is an exciting drift dive that takes you along a sloping wall on the right-hand side, where changing surface and mid-water currents create a dynamic and fast-moving descent. Divers should be prepared to drop quickly due to the stronger surface current and keep an eye on depth, as the wall reaches down to about 35 metres while the dive generally settles around 18 metres. Once you exit the main channel, you can shelter behind the reef to escape the flow and take your time exploring the vibrant marine life. The site offers a mix of action and detail, with nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and sweeping schools of fusiliers adding colour and movement throughout the dive. What else can be spotted: o Blacktip reef sharks are frequently seen o Green sea turtles are common inhabitants of the sloping sections o Sweetlips and Yellowback

Optional

Diving: Galaxy Reef (7 to 25m) and Melissa’s Garden (7 to 30m)

Galaxy Reef is particularly alive with thousands of schooling Barracudas. Hard and soft corals compete for space on this reef that are bursting with life and colour. Barracuda reef have moderate currents and depth for a relaxed dive and plenty of species including the bicolour angelfish, carpet shark and octopus. Melissa’s Garden, named by Max Ammer after his daughter, it is truly an underwater garden. Three pinnacles sit atop a shallow plateau of glorious hard and soft corals. The slopping reef drops only to 20 meters where it bottoms out to sand. Divers will be able to spot many bright nudibranchs and anemone fish nesting. In deeper parts barracudas and sometimes manta rays. Also known for sightings of the tasselled Wobbegong shark. What to expect: Galaxy Reef (The "Coral Garden") o Incredible health and variety of coral. o Whitetip Reef Sharks and Wobbegongs. o Schools of Anthias and Damselfish that look like "confetti" over the coral. o Leaf Scorpionfish and Ornate Ghost Pipefish. o colourful reef fish (Chromis and Anthias).

Day 9

Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat

Pulau Mansuar is a long, high ridge of limestone covered in jungle, fringed by rich coral reefs that connect it to nearby Kri Island. Three villages line its northern coast, while a fourth village sits midway along the southern shore. The island is home to just over 100 people living in traditional houses with leaf roofs

Activities:

Optional

Diving: Manta Ridge ( 5 to 30) and Sawandarek Jetty (3 to 30m) - 1 Trip 2 Dives

1 hour

Manta Ridge a shallow six-meter dive located in central Raja Ampat and is considered one of the most reliable sites in the marine protected area for manta ray encounters, where groups of 5 to 30 mantas gather at cleaning stations serviced by black-lip butterflyfish, with strong currents often requiring divers to hook in and observe these majestic animals drifting effortlessly above the reef. Sawandarek Jetty: a renowned dive site featuring a gently sloping reef along the bay, vibrant coral formations, and rich marine life, where batfish and fusiliers gather beneath the jetty, Napoleon wrasse often cruise past, and in deeper water divers may spot schools of yellow sweetlips and resting whitetip sharks on the sandy bottom, making it an unforgettable experience for all skill levels.

Optional

Diving: Yenbuda Jetty (6 to 25m)

1 hour

From the Jetty you will see schools of sergeant major fish enjoying the crystal clear 30c water. With a depth of 5m and viz so clear you can see the future this is a great place for snorkelling and underwater photography, the slape descents 25m to a sandy bottom. The 7 - 18 m stretch is where the magic happens though. At this depth the water temperature ranges from 28 - 29c and the viz up to a 100m. This is common playing ground for sea turtles, Wobbegong and reef sharks as well as the blue spotted stingray. All sorts of coral can be found here such as funnel, boulder and maze coral, to add a little more colour to the spectrum you will see a big diversity of nudibranchs and colourful striped Angel fish. What else can be spotted: o Large schools of Batfish and Sweetlips that live under the jetty. o A hotspot for Blue-ringed Octopus (rare but possible), Nudibranchs, and Frogfish.

Day 9

Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Raja Ampat, this small island packs a punch with crystal-clear waters teeming with some of the richest marine biodiversity on Earth. From colorful coral gardens to schools of exotic fish, every swim reveals a new wonder. Above water, the island’s lush greenery and serene beaches offer a perfect escape into nature’s untouched beauty

Activities:

Optional

Diving: Cape Kri (5 to 40m)

Cape Kri offers excellent biomass, phenomenal activity and diversity with some interesting currents. It one of the best known sites in Raja Ampat due to the record-breaking 283 species (and growing) recorded in a single dive! Here the top of the reef offers shallow coral gardens interspersed with sandy patches. The drop off is a little further and gives way to a steady sloping reef offering a mixture of both soft and hard corals all the way to 40 meters. What to expect: o Giant Sweetlips (usually in a huddle), Napoleon Wrasse, and Hawksbill Turtles. o Barracuda, Snappers, and Surgeonfish in massive numbers. o Reef sharks are almost guaranteed here.

Day 10

Balbulal Lagoon, Pulau Misool, Raja Ampat

Misool is known for steep limestone outcrops, caves, mangroves, and bright reef shallows. Expect Zodiac cruising through karst channels, with time for snorkeling in sheltered water. Yapap and Balbulol Lagoon bring calm, glassy lagoons that are well suited to short kayak paddles between the islets, plus swimming and photography in clear turquoise shallows

Activities:

Included

Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team - Pulau Misool

Swim in Lenmakana Lake (take your mask) and witness a sea of stingerless freshwater jellyfish. Or Snorkel amongst the limestone landscape to discover some of the best nudibranchs, clams and shrimp.

Included

Zodiac Cruise with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team - Pulau Misool

Characterized by its spiky karst limestone formations, pristine coral reefs, and lush mangrove forests, Misool is a sanctuary for biodiversity both above and below the waterline. Zodiac cruise with your onboard experts to discover this surreal landscape.

Day 11

Sorong, Papua

Arrive in Sorong in the early morning for disembarkation, with the reefs and islands of Raja Ampat still fresh in mind. Take a last look at the water and the jungle edged coastline as you step ashore, then continue onward with the sense of having reached one of the most biodiverse corners of the planet

Activities:

Included

Discover Sorong and its culture

4 hours

Disembark from the ship, where our tour guide will warmly greet you and escort you to the coach. As we depart from the port, we will make our way through Sorong City, giving you the opportunity to observe the daily activities and authentic atmosphere of the local community. The journey continues toward the protective forest located on the outskirts of town. Our next stop is Taman Wisata Alam Sorong, a natural sanctuary where you will explore the rich flora and fauna unique to the region. This park serves as an important center for scientific research and conservation, dedicated to preserving the remarkable biodiversity of West Papua. It plays a vital role in studying local ecosystems and promotes sustainable tourism practices that support long-term environmental protection. After your visit, reboard the local bus and continue to the Papuan community houses. Upon arriving at Rumah Etnik Sorong (also known as the Sorong Ethnic House), you will discover a cultural landmark that celebrates the diverse ethnic traditions of Papua, both from the coastal and inland regions. This traditional-style house highlights the distinctive architecture, customs, and heritage of various indigenous Papuan tribes, offering meaningful insight into their lifestyles, rituals, and cultural identity. In addition to its cultural exhibits, Rumah Etnik Sorong often hosts traditional performances, community events, and exhibitions. It serves as an important venue for preserving and promoting the artistic expressions and ancestral practices of Papua’s indigenous communities, while also educating visitors about the region’s rich cultural diversity. Guests will also have the chance to browse a selection of locally crafted handicrafts, accessories, and traditional clothing.

Meet Our Expedition Experts

Ralf Klug

Expedition Leader

With a degree in Hotel Management alongside a wealth of first-hand hotel and hospitality experience, Ralf is a highly accomplished dive instructor, Zodiac driver and Antarctica field guide. Originally from Germany, his career has taken him the world over, from luxury resorts across Europe and the Caribbean to the wilds of Antarctica and many more in between. His unique skillset has since led him to life as an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable cruise expedition guide

Joe Chan

Assistant Expedition Leader

Joe grew up in Malaysia in a multicultural and multilingual environment. He has been working in the travel industry for 6 years. Joe loves nature and one of his favourite activities is hiking. 

Julia Klug

Assistant Expedition Leader

Originally from Germany, Julia moved to the Caribbean 26 years ago, beginning a lifelong adventure shaped by different cultures, nature and travel. With a background in hospitality and tourism, she spent 23 years in the industry, progressing to General Hotel Manager and Resort Manager before joining Swan Hellenic as a Guide and later Assistant Expedition Leader. A certified Rescue Diver with 30 years of diving experience, Julia is passionate about marine life and conservation. Based in Bonaire, she also works as a local tour guide and volunteers to protect turtles and flamingos and keep the island clean.

Mara Unkefer

Expedition Coordinator

Fascinated by nature since childhood, Mara has built a career exploring how animals adapt to some of the planet’s most extreme environments — from scorching deserts to frozen polar tundra. As a biologist and science writer, she has observed wildlife around the world, working with renowned organizations such as the Smithsonian and NIH. Passionate about engaging storytelling, Mara loves inspiring others to appreciate and protect the natural world through her curiosity and enthusiasm.

Margherita Lucadello

Assistant Snorkel

Born in Bassano del Grappa in northern Italy, Margherita grew up with a deep love for nature that led her to study marine biology in Portugal and later conduct Arctic research in Spitsbergen. Inspired by these remote environments, she moved to Tromsø to guide whale-watching and northern lights tours. She now works as a polar expedition guide across the Arctic and Antarctic. When home in Italy, she enjoys the outdoors, creating art, and photographing wildlife during her time off there.

Benn Berkeley

Photo/Videographer

Benn is a British-born filmmaker who currently resides in Cornwall in the UK. Benn left home at a young age, keen to explore the world, and has been chasing the thrill of adventure ever since. He worked as a mountain guide for several years before retraining as a specialist rope access technician for oil rigs in the Middle East. His travels inspired his passion for capturing the moment - Benn has filmed for the likes of BBC Earth, Springwatch, and multiple well-known travel and tourism organisations.

Dannii Creagh

Senior Guide & Marine Biologist

Dannii grew up alongside the Great Barrier Reef, developing a lifelong passion for marine life and conservation. She earned a Bachelor of Marine Science at James Cook University, contributing to turtle rehabilitation and fish tagging programs. As an expedition guide and naturalist, she has worked across Australia, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia. Dannii brings warmth, expertise, and enthusiasm to Zodiac cruises, beach walks, and lectures, helping guests connect with the ecosystems they explore

Javier Cotin

Senior Guide Ornithologist

Javier's love for birds and nature has taken him to some of the world's most remote comers. From studying Eleonora's Falcons in the Mediterranean to exploring seabird habitats in Tasmania, he's dedicated his career to understanding and protecting wildlife. With a PhD from the University of Barcelona, Javier's research focuses on how human activity affects bird populations. Now, based in the Pyrenees, his passion for birding and adventure never faces Javier's tales from his ornithology research in faraway lands are as thrilling as they are interesting, and he Can't wait to share them with curious Swan Hellenic guests!

Natalia Timofeewa

General Guide

A historian by training and guide by passion, Natalia brings together a love of history, culture and exploration. With experience living and working in remote environments, she enjoys sharing the stories, traditions and landscapes of the places she visits. Curious and passionate, Natalia is dedicated to helping guests discover each destination from both a historical and local perspective. 

Slava Nikitin

Guide

After graduating from the Russian State University of Sport in Moscow, Viacheslav spent 15 years travelling around the world. He's worked as photographer, writer, guide and translator, and has explored everywhere from Russia, Europe, Asia, and Africa, to North America, South America, Australia, and the polar regions. Viacheslav has spent four full seasons working as a guide in the Arctic and Antarctic, and also runs onboard sports programs

Guest Reviews

Each Swan Hellenic journey is designed to inspire curiosity, broaden horizons, and create lasting memories. Our guests' experiences bring to life the spirit of cultural discovery and exploration that defines our voyages.

What elevates Swan Hellenic above competitors is the expedition team and the dedication to immersive travel. The expert lecturers, naturalists, and guides are world-class, offering fascinating lectures and ensuring safe, intimate excursions.

Rachel TaylorAustralia

Everything was absolutely perfect! There was not a single thing to complain about. It was incredibly fun, and that fantastic atmosphere was maintained by the entire crew from the very first to the very last minute of our stay!

Alexander KorneevFinland

A terrific expedition trip! Small number of guests, very attentive staff, very interesting ports of call. Excursions were varied & fun!

Katie BrownCanada

I highly recommend Swan Hellenic! Every single aspect of my cruise was outstanding. The food was fantastic and the ship is awesome. The crew supported my every need in an excellent manner.

Robbie AsherUnited States

From the captain to the expedition guides, from the service staff to housekeeping. 100 out of 100 points!

Annette ClavinDenmark

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time for an Indonesia cruise is from October through May, a popular season for exploring the remote islands of Raja Ampat, Cenderawasih Bay, and the Coral Triangle. Swan Hellenic's cruises to Indonesia sail in April and May, at the tail end of this season, with opportunities for diving and snorkeling among some of the world's richest coral reefs, as well as Zodiac excursions, kayaking, and wildlife encounters.

Swan Hellenic offers more than one way to cruise Indonesia's islands, allowing travelers to choose the itinerary that best matches their interests. ‘Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral Triangle’ focuses entirely on the remote islands of West Papua, visiting Numfoor, Pulau Padaidori, Pulau Roon, Kwatisore in Cenderawasih Bay, and the iconic islands of Raja Ampat, including Waigeo, Penemu, Fam, Mansuar, Kri, and Misool. Travelers looking to continue beyond Indonesia can also choose ‘Raja Ampat and Philippines cruise: the Last Paradise on Earth’, which begins in Raja Ampat before sailing north to the Philippines, combining the spectacular Coral Triangle, pristine coral reefs, world-class diving, and remote island communities across two of Southeast Asia's most biodiverse destinations.

Luxury cruises in Indonesia with Swan Hellenic start from €8,175 per person for the Cruise Plus fare. This itinerary includes pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Bali, charter flights between Denpasar and Sorong, airport and port transfers, a selected stateroom, all meals onboard, complimentary beverages, one included shore excursion in every port, expert lectures, Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities, port taxes, and a full range of expedition amenities. Combining all-inclusive comfort with immersive exploration, this luxury Indonesia cruise offers an unforgettable journey through Raja Ampat, Cenderawasih Bay, and the extraordinary Coral Triangle.

Raja Ampat is widely regarded as one of the world's most spectacular destinations for an Indonesia cruise, thanks to its extraordinary marine biodiversity and remote island landscapes that are best accessed by expedition ship. On ‘Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral Triangle’, travelers explore iconic destinations such as Kabui Bay, Penemu, Fam, Mansuar, Kri, and Misool, where dramatic limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs create world-class opportunities for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and Zodiac cruising. Combined with visits to Cenderawasih Bay to encounter whale sharks and authentic Papuan communities, the voyage offers one of the most immersive cruises around Indonesia and a truly unforgettable way to experience this remarkable region.

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Set sail from Jayapura to Sorong and dive into one of Earth’s most vivid marine paradises — where coral kingdoms meet jungle-clad shores on a Swan Hellenic expedition.

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DESTINATIONS

Where ocean meets memory

Oct 26, 2025

Journey from the Solomon Islands to Papua New Guinea on a cultural expedition where ocean, history and ancestral memory intertwine.

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OUR WORLD

Sail to the Heart of Asia - Pacific Culture

Aug 31, 2025

Sail with Swan Hellenic in 2026 to uncover Asia–Pacific’s hidden heritage, from Papua New Guinea to Japan, on seven immersive cultural cruises.

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Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition: Indonesia's Coral Triangle

What Awaits You

Dates & Prices

Expedition Highlights

Expert-led Talks

Guided Hikes

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Snorkeling & Diving

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Overview

Sorong, Papua

Pulau Manim, Numfoor, Papua

Pulau Padaidori, Papua

Pulau Roon, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

Activities:

Meet the locals at Roon Island

Pulau Row, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

Kwatisore, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua

Activities:

Snorkelling With Whale Shark & Kwatisore Village

Pulau Mansinam, Papua

Kabui Bay, Waigeo Island, Raja Ampat Archipelago

Activities:

Snorkeling With the Expedition team - Ayu Atoll

Diving in Kabui Bay (2 Tanks)

Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat, Papua

Activities:

Diving: Melissa’s Garden (7 to 30m) and Batu Rufas (5 to 30m) - 1 Trip 2 Dives

Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat

Activities:

Diving: Keru Channel (3 to 45m) (1 Dive)

Diving: Galaxy Reef (7 to 25m) and Melissa’s Garden (7 to 30m)

Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat

Activities:

Diving: Manta Ridge ( 5 to 30) and Sawandarek Jetty (3 to 30m) - 1 Trip 2 Dives

Diving: Yenbuda Jetty (6 to 25m)

Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat

Activities:

Diving: Cape Kri (5 to 40m)

Balbulal Lagoon, Pulau Misool, Raja Ampat

Activities:

Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team - Pulau Misool

Zodiac Cruise with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team - Pulau Misool

Sorong, Papua

Activities:

Discover Sorong and its culture

Meet Our Expedition Experts

Meet Our Expedition Experts

Ralf Klug

Joe Chan

Julia Klug

Mara Unkefer

Margherita Lucadello

Benn Berkeley

Dannii Creagh

Javier Cotin

Natalia Timofeewa

Slava Nikitin

Guest Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to cruise Indonesia?

What islands do Indonesia cruises visit?

How much is a luxury Indonesia cruise?

Is Raja Ampat worth visiting on a cruise?

Similar routes

New Zealand in Depth

Cruising the Pacific Islands: New Caledonia, Vanuatu & Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands Secrets: cruise from Guadalcanal to the Sepik River

Raja Ampat and Philippines cruise: the Last Paradise on Earth

Philippines to Japan Cultural Discovery cruise

Japan and Korea cruise: Cultural Shores and Northern Landscapes

Journal

Expedition Highlights

Expert-led Talks

Guided Hikes

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Snorkeling & Diving

Meet Our Expedition Experts

Meet Our Expedition Experts

Ralf Klug