Raja Ampat and Philippines: the Last Paradise on Earth

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.

Guided Hikes

Enjoy guided walks along island trails and coastal paths, with plenty of time to pause for scenic views, wildlife watching, and photography

Expert-led Talks

Gain deeper insight into this remote Asian region through engaging talks from our onboard team of experts.

Echoes of the Pacific War

Follow the legacy of World War II across the region, from island coastlines where remnants of aircraft and shipwrecks still rest to memorial sites, enriched by expert insights that bring the history vividly to life.

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Immerse yourself in fascinating indigenous performances, including traditional rituals and dances, visit tribal villages, and browse unique handicrafts.

Snorkeling & Diving

Discover crystal-clear, warm waters teeming with colorful coral gardens, attracting reef fish, rays, and occasionally reef sharks.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

This voyage begins in Raja Ampat — the planet's most biodiverse marine sanctuary — where coral reefs, limestone islands, and small coastal villages define daily life. From there, the route continues north through the lesser travelled islands of the southern Philippines, combining snorkeling, diving, Zodiac landings, and cultural encounters before reaching Manila

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

The bustling port city of Sorong in West Papua is known as the gateway to the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat, the world's most biodiverse marine habitat, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 75 percent of the world's known coral species. In town, the Buddhist pagoda of Sapta Ratna stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats come in with their catch at the bustling Pasar Jembutan Puri fish market.

Day 2. Ayu Atoll, Raja Ampat, Papua

Pulau Ayu, the main island in the Ayu Atoll, is a remote jewel of Raja Ampat. Ivory beaches and lush rainforest meet vibrant coral reefs. The shoreline is a sanctuary for nesting leatherback turtles. Beneath clear water, tropical marine life thrives. Once a WWII outpost, its isolation made it a key strategic base for Japanese forces

Day 3. Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat

Pulau Penemu is one of Raja Ampat’s most striking landscapes, with towering limestone pinnacles rising straight from the water. Piaynemo peak is the signature viewpoint here. A short hike takes you up to the top for wide views over lagoons and limestone islets. Just offshore, the Piaynemo Geosite is also one of the area’s best known snorkeling and diving zones, with dense coral diversity in the surrounding reefs and abundant fish life. Two dives are scheduled today, Melissa’s Garden, a coral rich plateau with three pinnacles and frequent macro life, and Batu Rufas, a drift along an island wall with swim throughs, fusilier schools, and regular turtle and shark sightings

Day 3. Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat

The Fam Islands form a small cluster of islets in the Raja Ampat Geopark, with Pulau Pam as the inhabited centre. Three villages sit near hidden lakes, one where crocodiles are known to live. The local community produces high quality virgin coconut oil, supporting both livelihoods and cultural traditions. Fascinating and seldom visited, this stop allows time to explore a cultural village, experience the warm hospitality of local communities, and see daily island life up close. Fam’s reefs are among the most pristine in the region, with rich coral gardens and marine life that can include reef sharks, ribbon eels, turtles, schooling fusiliers, and manta cleaning stations

Activities:

Included

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).

Included

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

Day 4. 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. Two dives are scheduled, Manta Ridge, a reliable manta ray cleaning station that can run with strong currents, and Sawandarek Jetty, a sloping reef beneath the jetty where batfish and fusiliers gather and whitetip sharks may rest on the sand

Activities:

Included

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.

Days 5-6. Days at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 7. Casulian Island

Casulian Island, also known as Corregidor Island, lies off Siargao’s southern coast. Rolling palm covered hills lead to a summit with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Pristine white sand beaches and secluded turquoise coves ring the shoreline. Vibrant coral reefs thrive in the surrounding waters. Visitors come to hike scenic hilltop trails and snorkel among colourful marine life, making it one of Siargao’s most sought after destinations

Day 8. Bohol Island, Loay

After crossing the Bohol Sea, you arrive at tiny Balicasag Island, about six kilometres southwest of Panglao. A marine sanctuary reef circles the island, and it is one of the Philippines’ most popular diving spots. The sea drops away into deep submarine cliffs. Soft and hard corals surround the reef, with multicoloured shoals moving through the water. Afterwards, head to Tagbilaran, a gateway to Bohol’s jungly interior. Tarsiers live here, nocturnal primates less than 16 cm tall with disproportionately large eyes. These adorable animals can be seen at the conservation centre and sanctuary. Bohol is also famous for the Chocolate Hills, a striking quirk of geology

Activities:

Included

Tarsier and Chocolate Hills

5 hours

Explore the natural wonders and unique biodiversity of Bohol. Begin with a poignant visit to a dedicated 100-hectare forest reserve committed to the protection of the Philippine Tarsier (Tarsius syrichta). Often recognized by their extraordinarily large, round eyes, these small, nocturnal primates are among the world's smallest—measuring only 4 to 5 inches long and weighing a mere 113 to 142 grams. You will enjoy a closely supervised encounter with these delicate creatures within a secure, naturalized one-hectare enclosure, guided by a trained ranger. Enhance your understanding by meeting Lito Pizarras, the renowned 'Tarsier Man,' whose lifelong dedication to studying and conserving tarsier behavior has been instrumental in the species' protection. Continue your journey into the ecological heart of the island at the Rajah Sikatuna National Park in Bilar. This stop offers an opportunity to hike through a regenerating secondary forest, providing a deeper insight into Bohol's rich native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and unique plant life thriving within this protected habitat. Conclude the experience at the majestic Chocolate Hills, a globally recognized geological marvel and an aspiring UNESCO Global Geosite. Spread across a vast 50-square-kilometer area, this landscape features over 1,776 symmetrical, dome-shaped hills that turn a distinct chocolate-brown color during the dry season. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from the elevated Visitor Complex, easily accessible by vehicle, or choose to ascend the 230 steps to the observation deck for the ultimate vantage point.

Included

Tagbilaran Heritage Tour

4 hours

Start the tour with a walking tour to the National Museum, the 1860 building which served as tribunal & military quarters for the Spanish forces. It was then used at a government office and was converted into the National Museum-Bohol. It now houses the comprehensive documentation of the cultural properties of the province. Across the road is the Plaza Rizal where significant events in local history. And the Cathedral of St. Joseph the worker, it was built by the Jesuits in 1595 & turned over to the Recollects in 1798. Although the structure has been renovated, the original silver pieces in its altar are well preserved and still being used. Continue the experience with a short ride on a local tricycle, a three wheeled motorized vehicle that offers an authentic glimpse of local life. Enjoy a brief drive along Tagbilaran’s main street before transferring to the coach bound for Loboc. Upon arrival, visit the St. Peter the Apostle Parish Church, also known as Loboc Church. Established in 1602, the present coral stone structure was completed in 1734. Due to its strategic location, the church became the center of Jesuit missionary activity in Bohol. It is recognized as both a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines. Severely damaged during the 7.2 magnitude earthquake of October 15, 2013, the church underwent extensive restoration beginning in 2017 and was reopened to the public on May 16, 2021. After the visit, re-board the coach and proceed to the Loboc River Resort for refreshments before returning by zodiac to the ship

Day 9. Cuatro Islas

Tucked away in Western Leyte, the Cuatro Islas are a serene tropical escape, offering a distinct charm on each of the four islands. Apid, the most populated, offers a cultural touch with its fishing community and traditional mat weaving. Digyo is the smallest, known for its stunning sandbars and quiet beauty. Mahaba features a long beach, marine sanctuary, and sea turtles, while Himokilan enchants with a curving sandbar and a hidden tidal pool

Activities:

Included

A Hidden Paradise Of Beach And Culture

4.5 hours

We will have an unforgettable journey to Quatro Islas (Four Islands), a pristine and serene archipelago comprising the enchanting islands of Apid, Digyo, Mahaba, and Himokilan. Have a blend of authentic cultural immersion and breath-taking island exploration. Our exploration starts at Apid Island here we will land by zodiac directly onto the pristine beachfront. Enjoy the warm, traditional arrival reception from the local community. Our expedition team will take you on a short, guided walk into the heart of the community, setting the stage for a rich cultural exchange. Spend about two hours engaging with the vibrant local culture through five distinct, interactive stations. Witness an engaging local performance showcasing the region's tradition, learn the ancient craft of making tuba (fermented coconut sap) and enjoy a taste of this local delicacy. Observe and participate in the meticulous art of traditional mat weaving or gain insight into the crucial local skill of traditional boat construction. Meet the local fishermen and learn about their way of life and sustainable fishing practices. If whether allow board a traditional local boat for a scenic panoramic tour around the neighbouring islands. Cruise past the striking coastlines of Digyo Island and Himokilan Island, capturing stunning photographs of their untouched beauty or just enjoy some time to swim.

Day 10. Romblon Island

Romblon is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for tranquillity. Bon Bon Beach is a standout, with a beautiful sandbar and few visitors. Crystalline waters offer excellent snorkeling amid vibrant coral gardens, home to angelfish, parrotfish, and clownfish. Above Romblon town centre stands Fort San Andres, a centuries old fortress from the Spanish colonial era with sweeping ocean views

Activities:

Included

Romblon Heritage Tour

2 hrs 35 min

Explore the history and traditions of Romblon during this picturesque, 3-hour sightseeing excursion. Board the van going to St. Joseph Cathedral Parish. This cultural and historical landmark dates from the 15th century, and is the oldest church in Romblon. Walk towards Old Municipal Building, it is built out of coral limestone during the Spanish colonial era, it housed the cuartel or headquarters of the local Guardia Civil. Re-board the van and proceed to Fort San Andres. Upon arrival, walk up the stairs that takes around 120 steps to the Spanish ruins of this crumbling 17th- century Fort. Here, take in splendid panoramic vistas overlooking the town centre, Romblon Bay and nearby islands. Continue the tour and re-board a van and proceed to marble processing plant. During your visits, see how it is processed in the marble workshop. Romblon's marble can be compared to Italy's Carrara marble, as it comes in a spectrum of shades ranging from white-to-black, with a gamut of tints that include mottled white, tiger white, onyx and jade. Last stop will be in Marble Shopping Centre, where some free time is made available to browse the processed and finished marble products for sale. Walk across and take a stroll to Romblon Plaza for photo op. Take a short walk going back to the port.

Included

Bonbon Beach Getaway

4 hours

Indulge in a serene, at Bonbon Beach, the unspoiled gem on Romblon Island. Romblon Island is the capital of its archipelagic province, famous not only for its stunning coastline but also as the "Marble Capital of the Philippines." Bonbon Beach itself is renowned for its pristine white sand and strikingly clear, turquoise waters. The beach's most distinctive feature is its natural, glistening sandbar, which stretches out to the uninhabited Bang-og Island. Depending on the tide, guests may have the unique opportunity to walk across the exposed sandbar, a truly unforgettable experience and a magnificent photo opportunity. A local tide check will determine the full visibility of the sandbar. Following this restorative visit, you will re-board the jeepney for a short drive back to the pier.

Day 11. LayLay Port, Marinduque Island

Boac is the historic gateway to Marinduque, with colonial era houses, cobbled streets, and a hilltop cathedral overlooking the coast. On the island’s eastern side, Santa Cruz pulses with tradition through lively markets, the melodic Tubong ritual, and a centuries-old church at its heart. Across the island, cacao farms and the age-old Lukad method of coconut oil extraction reflect deep-rooted culture and island spirit

Activities:

Included

Cultural Immersion Tour

3 hrs 57 min

Depart from Laylay Port for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural immersion in Marinduque. Discover the heart of the Philippines in the island province of Marinduque, a destination rich in natural beauty, tradition, and warm hospitality. Your journey begins at Cawit Port, leading to a carefully curated island experience that includes a visit to the enchanting Butterfly Farm, where vibrant native species dance among tropical blooms and guests learns about the delicate balance of nature and conservation. Be warmly welcomed with Putong, a traditional Marinduqueño ceremony of song, dance, and blessings, a unique cultural expression of hospitality reserved for honored guests. Witness the fascinating Kalutang performance, where local musicians create melodic rhythms using wooden instruments made from native trees, showcasing the island’s indigenous musical heritage. Explore centuries-old churches and heritage houses, offering a glimpse into the island’s Spanish colonial past. Watch skilled artisans craft handmade souvenirs and Morion masks, tied to the province’s world famous Moriones Festival. Take in breath-taking views from mountain viewpoints, stroll through serene rice fields and coconut groves. With every stop, guests will hear island stories passed down through generations and feel the soul of Marinduque come alive.

Included

Cacao Roots: A Farm To Tablea Making Experience

7 hours

Depart from Laylay Port for once in a lifetime cacao farm experience at Panuluyan Farmstay. Upon arrival, guests will be warmly welcomed with a brief introduction to the word of cacao- from how it’s lovingly nurtured on the farm to how it transforms into a rich, comforting cup of chocolate. Get hands-on craft your own tablea, the traditional Filipino chocolate which you can take home as a delicious souvenir of your journey. The experience ends with a sumptuous lunch spread made from fresh, local ingredients-a true taste of the land and culture. Note Drive to the Farm is about 1h30 minutes.

Day 12. Manila

Disembark in Manila. The capital of the Philippines is a teeming, sprawling metropolis. Its flaws are no match for its creative energy, seen across art and food. Highlights include museums, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and the Chinese Cemetery. Intramuros, the old Spanish walled town at the heart of the city, is unmissable. Explore if timings allow and sample Filipino cuisine in its bold sour, sweet, and tangy range

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Nicki de Souza

Nicki brings more than 25 years of experience in expedition cruising, along with a passion for nature, exciting new destinations, people and their cultures. Born in Bavaria, she has travelled around the globe and to all seven continents, exploring everything from the Arctic to Antarctica to the tropics and remote gems in between. Nicki is a skilled leader with a passion for nature and a gift for sharing and revealing the world’s many wonders

Jacqueline Windh

Jacqueline is passionate about the early mariners who explored and settled the Pacific. A captivating speaker, she shares her knowledge of geology, anthropology, and traditional navigation both in lectures and informally—whether on a hike, over dinner, or during a zodiac cruise

Dannii Creagh

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

Brent Alloway

Brent Alloway is a former professor of Quaternary earth science and volcanology at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. He is a very experienced earth scientist and he is particularly interested in landscape histories, volcanism, paleoenvironmental change and human origins. Brent worked several years as an exploration & project geologist in SE Ecuador. Though recently retired from academic teaching and responsibilities - Brent is still very much actively involved in earth science research in southern Chile and Argentina, New Zealand, western Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and United States

Conrad Weston

With over 30 years of experience, he brings tropical ecology to life through his deep knowledge of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and plants. He has led birding and natural history tours across the Tropical Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia, the Indian Ocean, and beyond— offering rich insight into the ecosystems we explore

Frank Allica

Frank Allica brings a remarkable blend of naval and expedition experience to Swan Hellenic as a guest lecturer. A veteran of the Royal Australian Navy, he served for 28 years as a seaman and warfare officer, including tours in Vietnam and Cold War NATO operations, and became the youngest commanding officer of an Attack Class Patrol Boat at age 24. He was also the first Australian Commanding Officer of the sail training ship STS Young Endeavour, establishing a youth development program that still thrives today. Following his naval career, Frank spent over 20 years commanding expedition cruise ships, exploring remote regions from Alaska to Antarctica, including the research vessel MV Alucia, used in the filming of BBC’s Blue Planet II. In 2019 he captained the HM Bark Endeavour for the Tuia 250 commemoration in New Zealand. Today he continues sailing his own yacht and mentoring youth on development voyages. Based in Opua, New Zealand, Frank combines a lifelong passion for the sea with a keen interest in maritime history, particularly Pacific WWII

Wade Davis

Wade Davis is an acclaimed explorer, anthropologist, and bestselling author whose work has taken him to more than 80 countries. Formerly an Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society, he has lived among 15 indigenous groups in the Amazon and Andes, explored the Arctic, Himalayas, Borneo, and Polynesia, and investigated Haiti’s folk traditions in his international bestselling book, The Serpent and the Rainbow. His books have been published in 23 languages, and his TED Talks have inspired millions worldwide. A recipient of the Explorers Medal, the Gold Medal of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and the Order of Canada, Wade continues to champion cultural and ecological diversity

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Minerva at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Minerva’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes.

Culinary Excellence

Every evening, the Swan Restaurant transforms into a gourmet venue serving the sublime creations of Michelin star award-winning consultant chefs.

Sauna & Spa

The sauna is perfect for meditative moments after onshore activities or following the wide choice of wellness treatments. The many options here include Balinese spa, beauty and wellness treatments, ranging from hot stone and bamboo massages to pampering body care.

Gym

State of the art gym with cardio machines, stretch bands & free weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes, along with personal trainers for everything from resistance training and Pilates to yoga and meditation.

Pool & Jacuzzi

All is designed to make the most of the unparalleled views, from our outdoor hot tubs with stunning views to the extensive pool deck with stellar views of the glistening sea.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.