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

Sorong, Papua→Sorong, Papua

18.05.27 - 29.05.27

M8127051811SH MINERVA

Ports15

Pays1

Nuits11

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise with Swan Hellenic through one of the most remote and biodiverse regions of the Indonesian archipelago — the untouched wonders of West Papua and Raja Ampat. This extraordinary voyage reveals the raw natural beauty, vibrant marine ecosystems, and deeply rooted island cultures of a region few travelers ever reach. Sailing through secluded lagoons, coral atolls, and jungle-covered coastlines, you’ll explore the heart of Indonesia’s hidden paradise by small ship, where nature reigns supreme and discovery awaits at every turn

Itinéraire jour par jour

Your curated itinerary takes you far beyond the usual routes, from the crystal-clear waters of Cenderawasih Bay — home to graceful whale sharks — to the surreal limestone karsts of Wayag and Misool. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, relax on golden sand beaches only accessible by sea, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of local island life. April and May offer ideal conditions to navigate this untouched region, with calm seas and warm, humid days providing the perfect backdrop for exploration and connection with nature. Designed for curious and conscious travelers, this Raja Ampat cruise offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and pristine beauty. Whether you're swimming with giant whale sharks, trekking through lush rainforests, or engaging with remote island communities, Swan Hellenic ensures every moment is unforgettable. Discover West Papua’s most breathtaking landscapes and marine sanctuaries in signature Swan Hellenic style — refined, intimate, and deeply enriching

Jour 7

Kabui Bay, Raja Ampat

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

Activités :

Facultatif

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.