Paradise Passage: from the Philippines to Raja Ampat

Paradise Passage: from the Philippines to Raja Ampat - Swan Hellenic

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.

Conférences animées par des experts

Découvrez en profondeur cette région polaire isolée grâce à notre équipe d'experts à bord.

Guided Hikes

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

Echoes of the Pacific War

Trace WWII history across the region, from island shores where rusted aircraft and shipwreck relics still sit in the landscape to places of remembrance, with expert context that brings the story into focus.

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.

Itinéraire jour par jour

From vibrant Manila through the Philippine archipelago and across open ocean to the pristine waters of Raja Ampat

REMARQUE: Cet itinéraire fournit des informations générales sur chaque destination. Veuillez également noter que certains lieux et points forts mentionnés peuvent ne pas être ouverts ou accessibles le jour de notre visite. Pour obtenir le programme d'excursions le plus précis, nous vous recommandons de contacter votre agent Swan Hellenic ou votre agence de voyage à l'approche de la date de départ.

Aperçu

Jour 1

Manila

Arrive in Manila today. The capital of the Philippines is a teeming, sprawling metropolis. Its flaws are no match for its creative, exciting energy, which infused everything from its art to food. There’s so much to see and do here: the city’s museums, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church and the Chinese Cemetery are some of the highlights. Intramuros – the old Spanish walled town at the heart of the city – is unmissable. Explore if timings allow and be sure to sample some Filipino cuisine in all its bold sour, sweet and tangy glory. Alternatively, head straight to your home for the next several days. After a seamless check-in, settle into your cabin or stateroom and take time to explore your ship’s luxurious facilities

Jour 2

Marinduque Island, LayLay Port

Marinduque, a peaceful island in the heart of the Philippines, is known for rolling hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant traditions. Small fishing villages welcome visitors and preserve time-honored crafts and festivals, including the famous Moriones Festival. Surrounding waters host rich coral reefs and diverse marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Inland, verdant forests and hidden waterfalls offer quiet exploration, blending natural beauty and cultural heritage in a serene island escape

Jour 3

Cuatro Islas, Digyo Island

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

Jour 4

Bohol Island, Baclayon

After crossing the Bohol Sea, you arrive at tiny Balicasag Island, about six kilometres southwest of Panglao. 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

Jour 5

Casulian Island

Casulian Island (or 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, while vibrant coral reefs thrive in the surrounding waters. Visitors flock here to hike the scenic hilltop trails and snorkel among the colourful marine life, making it one of Siargao's most sought-after destinations

Jours 6-7

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

Jour 8

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

Jour 8

Kabui Bay, Raja Ampat

Kabui Bay is one of Raja Ampat’s most scenic areas, shaped by a narrow waterway between the limestone islands of Gam and Waigeo known as The Passage. Cruise this natural corridor via Zodiac, following in the footsteps of naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, who travelled this route in 1860 and described its scenery as one of the most picturesque in the region. The mix of calm water, dramatic rock formations, and abundant marine life makes this area outstanding for snorkeling. Nearby, well-known dive sites such as Mioskon, Mayhem, and The Passage offer opportunities for those who want to explore deeper

Jour 9

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

Jour 9

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

Jour 10

Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat

Later, you head to Pulau Kri, one of Raja Ampat’s most important hubs of marine biodiversity. At Cape Kri, known for exceptionally high fish diversity, you’ll snorkel with the guidance of the expedition team. In these waters, you may encounter manta rays, sea turtles, mollusks, reef fish, and brilliant corals in every direction

Jour 10

Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat

Pulau Mansuar is a long, narrow island crowned by a high limestone ridge and blanketed in dense tropical jungle. The surrounding reefs link Mansuar to neighboring Kri, and several small villages line the northern coast. In traditional palm-leaf-roof homes, just over a hundred residents live a measured, sea-and-forest rhythm of daily life. A walk across the island can take you to the salt lake Telaga Yenauiyau, a perfect place to enjoy a fresh coconut and listen to the jungle. Keep an eye out for the impressive coconut crab among the palms, and snorkelers will love the underwater world, where hundreds of colorful fish swirl above the corals. Those who wish can also go diving at Yenbuda Jetty

Jour 11

Pulau Misool, Balbulol Lagoon,Raja Ampat

One of the most remote islands in Raja Ampat, Pulau Misool captivates with its untouched nature. White-sand beaches, emerald hills, and labyrinths of karst limestone cliffs create truly cinematic scenery. The island is surrounded by some of the richest coral reefs on the planet and lies within the protected Misool Marine Reserve, celebrated for extraordinary biodiversity.  One of the region’s great natural treasures is the Yap Islands lagoon, hidden among towering karst formations. With turquoise water and a soft sandy bottom, it is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. You can also swim in Lake Lenmakana among rare freshwater jellyfish that have no stinging tentacles, and explore reefs and limestone shorelines where manta rays, reef sharks, vivid mollusks, shrimp, and a wide variety of tropical fish are often seen.   Nearby lies Balbulol Lagoon, home to the famous heart-shaped “Love Lake,” a hidden gem set among the dramatic karst formations of Misool. The surrounding landscape is defined by towering limestone spires rising directly from the turquoise sea, creating a maze of narrow passages and peaceful, sheltered coves

Jour 12

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

What guests remember most

Insights from Asia-Pacific guest feedback

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35 mentions

Service, Staff & Crew

Guest comments repeatedly reflect the care behind each journey, with warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism among the strongest parts of the experience.

22 mentions

Snorkeling, Zodiac Trips, and Wildlife

Across guest comments, the strongest impressions often come from time spent at sea level: close marine encounters, whale shark sightings, and the sense of discovery that comes from exploring by Zodiac.

19 mentions

Excursions, Expeditions & Tours

Guests often described shore experience as a highlight, especially cultural encounters and guided visits.

19 mentions

Culture, Village Life, and Local Encounters

Time spent in remote communities and the warmth of the people met ashore were repeatedly mentioned in the feedback.

18 mentions

Ship, Cabins, and Onboard Comfort

Guests mentioned well-designed spaces and thoughtful amenities as well as the comfort of their private accommodation.

15 mentions

Remote Islands and Unique Destinations

Guests often highlighted the sense of reaching places far beyond the usual cruise routes.

14 mentions

Food, Meals & Beverages

The onboard culinary experience was mentioned as one of the memorable pleasures of the journey.

14 mentions

Lectures, Speakers, and Expertise

Guests often valued the deeper understanding that came from thoughtful interpretation throughout the journey.

Mille et une façons de passer la journée

Avec Swan Hellenic, la journée type n'existe pas. Nous vous offrons des possibilités infinies pour ajuster chaque moment à vos envies et à votre humeur : à bord, votre journée idéale est toujours à portée de main.

SH Minerva en bref

Croisière boutique

Les intérieurs sur mesure du SH Minerva sont spacieux et raffinés, avec un mobilier moelleux et des baies vitrées du sol au plafond qui offrent des vues dégagées sur certains des paysages les plus incroyables du monde.

Excellence culinaire

Chaque soir, le Swan Restaurant se transforme en table gastronomique servant les créations sublimes de chefs consultants étoilés au Michelin.

Sauna et spa

Le sauna est parfait pour des moments de recueillement après les activités à terre ou après le vaste choix de soins bien-être. Parmi les nombreuses options : spa balinais, soins de beauté et de bien-être, des massages aux pierres chaudes et au bambou aux soins du corps les plus doux.

Salle de sport

Salle de sport dernier cri avec appareils de cardio, élastiques et poids libres. Nous proposons aussi des cours encadrés par des instructeurs, ainsi que des coachs personnels pour tout, du renforcement musculaire au Pilates, en passant par le yoga et la méditation.

Piscine et jacuzzi

Tout est pensé pour tirer le meilleur de vues incomparables, de nos bains à remous extérieurs aux panoramas saisissants au vaste pont piscine ouvert sur la mer scintillante.

Découvertes à bord

Plongez dans la nature, l'histoire et la culture de chaque lieu visité pendant votre croisière grâce à des briefings, des conférences et des présentations dédiés. Nos guides d'expédition expérimentés rendront votre temps à bord aussi passionnant qu'instructif.

Service personnalisé

Swan Hellenic, c'est le service personnalisé et l'hospitalité sincère. Notre équipage chaleureux et accueillant n'a qu'un objectif : vous offrir la meilleure expérience possible.

Votre chez-vous loin de chez vous

Détendez-vous dans l'élégance discrète de votre cabine ou de votre suite. Mélange raffiné de tons sourds, de matières naturelles et de technologie intuitive, le design d'inspiration scandinave marie avec évidence le monde naturel et un confort d'exception.

Swan's Nest

À la proue du navire se trouve le Swan's Nest, l'endroit idéal pour de superbes vues sur la mer.

SH Minerva en bref

Croisière boutique

Les intérieurs sur mesure du SH Minerva sont spacieux et raffinés, avec un mobilier moelleux et des baies vitrées du sol au plafond qui offrent des vues dégagées sur certains des paysages les plus incroyables du monde.

Excellence culinaire

Chaque soir, le Swan Restaurant se transforme en table gastronomique servant les créations sublimes de chefs consultants étoilés au Michelin.

Sauna et spa

Le sauna est parfait pour des moments de recueillement après les activités à terre ou après le vaste choix de soins bien-être. Parmi les nombreuses options : spa balinais, soins de beauté et de bien-être, des massages aux pierres chaudes et au bambou aux soins du corps les plus doux.

Salle de sport

Salle de sport dernier cri avec appareils de cardio, élastiques et poids libres. Nous proposons aussi des cours encadrés par des instructeurs, ainsi que des coachs personnels pour tout, du renforcement musculaire au Pilates, en passant par le yoga et la méditation.

Piscine et jacuzzi

Tout est pensé pour tirer le meilleur de vues incomparables, de nos bains à remous extérieurs aux panoramas saisissants au vaste pont piscine ouvert sur la mer scintillante.

Découvertes à bord

Plongez dans la nature, l'histoire et la culture de chaque lieu visité pendant votre croisière grâce à des briefings, des conférences et des présentations dédiés. Nos guides d'expédition expérimentés rendront votre temps à bord aussi passionnant qu'instructif.

Service personnalisé

Swan Hellenic, c'est le service personnalisé et l'hospitalité sincère. Notre équipage chaleureux et accueillant n'a qu'un objectif : vous offrir la meilleure expérience possible.

Votre chez-vous loin de chez vous

Détendez-vous dans l'élégance discrète de votre cabine ou de votre suite. Mélange raffiné de tons sourds, de matières naturelles et de technologie intuitive, le design d'inspiration scandinave marie avec évidence le monde naturel et un confort d'exception.

Swan's Nest

À la proue du navire se trouve le Swan's Nest, l'endroit idéal pour de superbes vues sur la mer.

Paradise Passage: from the Philippines to Raja Ampat

Expedition Highlights

Conférences animées par des experts

Guided Hikes

Echoes of the Pacific War

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Snorkeling & Diving

Itinéraire jour par jour

Aperçu

Manila

Marinduque Island, LayLay Port

Cuatro Islas, Digyo Island

Bohol Island, Baclayon

Casulian Island

Days at sea

Sorong, Papua

Kabui Bay, Raja Ampat

Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat

Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat

Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat

Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat

Pulau Misool, Balbulol Lagoon,Raja Ampat

Sorong, Papua

What guests remember most

Service, Staff & Crew

Snorkeling, Zodiac Trips, and Wildlife

Excursions, Expeditions & Tours

Culture, Village Life, and Local Encounters

Ship, Cabins, and Onboard Comfort

Remote Islands and Unique Destinations

Food, Meals & Beverages

Lectures, Speakers, and Expertise

Mille et une façons de passer la journée

SH Minerva en bref

Croisière boutique

Excellence culinaire

Sauna et spa

Salle de sport

Piscine et jacuzzi

Découvertes à bord

Service personnalisé

Votre chez-vous loin de chez vous

Swan's Nest

Cabines

Vue sur l'océan

Balcon

Suite

Suite Premium

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Expedition Highlights

Conférences animées par des experts

Guided Hikes

Echoes of the Pacific War

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Snorkeling & Diving

SH Minerva en bref

Croisière boutique

Excellence culinaire

Sauna et spa

Salle de sport

Piscine et jacuzzi

Découvertes à bord

Service personnalisé

Votre chez-vous loin de chez vous

Swan's Nest