Indonesia's Coral Triangle
Pianemo Island, Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay Expedition | 10 Night Sorong Roundtrip Expedition
Set sail on a remarkable 10-night expedition aboard SH Minerva, departing roundtrip from Sorong. This immersive journey with Swan Hellenic invites you to explore the very heart of the Coral Triangle—the most biodiverse marine environment on Earth.
From the prehistoric limestone karsts of Misool and Wayag to the calm, deep waters of Cenderawasih Bay, you will discover a world of untouched reefs and hidden lagoons. Whether you are swimming alongside gentle whale sharks or visiting remote Papuan villages to honour centuries-old traditions, every moment is designed for deep discovery. With boutique, five-star comfort and expert-led insights onboard, this is more than a tropical cruise—it’s a sophisticated escape into the “Four Kings” of Indonesia.
Expedition Highlights
Expert-Led Talks Gain a deeper understanding of this isolated region through engaging talks and presentations hosted by our onboard team of specialists.
Guided Hikes Take to the island trails and coastal paths with our guides, allowing ample time for photography, wildlife spotting, and spectacular panoramic views.
Echoes of the Pacific War Trace the poignant history of WWII across the region, visiting remote shores where rusted aircraft and shipwreck relics still remain as silent witnesses to the past.
Meet the Tribes of the Pacific Experience captivating indigenous performances and ritual traditions, explore tribal villages, and discover unique, locally made handicrafts.
World-Class Snorkelling & Diving Explore crystal-clear, warm waters where vibrant coral gardens attract a kaleidoscope of reef fish, rays, and the occasional reef shark.
Itinerary
-
Sorong is the energetic gateway to the Coral Triangle, where tropical landscapes meet the busy maritime life of eastern Indonesia. Your expedition begins with a charter flight to this coastal hub, followed by a group transfer to a 4/5-star hotel for a pre-cruise stay. It’s a practical, vibrant starting point that sets the stage for the remote wilderness ahead, giving you a night to settle in before we set sail into the heart of West Papua
-
Pulau Manim is a quiet, tropical retreat tucked away amidst hidden lagoons and coral islets. You’ll find deserted beaches backed by lush forests that are home to a variety of tropical birdlife. The real draw here is below the surface, with vibrant waters perfectly suited for snorkeling and diving. On land, you might encounter small local communities who still practice age-old fishing traditions, offering a grounded glimpse into the island’s enduring maritime culture.
-
Part of a scattered cluster of tiny islands and atolls, Padaidori is about as remote as it gets. The calm, sapphire waters here hide a protected marine ecosystem where schools of tropical fish dart through healthy coral gardens. On shore, white-sand beaches lined with swaying coconut palms meet tangled mangrove forests—home to a busy world of crabs and snakes. It’s a classic Pacific Rim landscape: secluded, wild, and largely untouched
-
Nestled in the turquoise waters of Cenderawasih Bay, Pulau Roon and Pulau Auri are secluded spots where nature reigns supreme. Pristine white beaches meet thriving coral reefs, while tropical forests shelter colourful birds and endemic species. In the small local villages, you'll experience genuine Papuan hospitality and get a glimpse of traditional life through fishing and handcrafted arts. Beneath the clear surface, sea turtles and schools of tropical fish animate an untouched underwater world.
-
This is a signature day in Indonesia’s largest marine national park. Kwatisore is world-renowned for its unique and reliable whale shark encounters. These gentle giants gather beneath local fishing platforms, known as bagans, drawn by the daily catch. In the calm, clear waters of the bay, you’ll have a rare, up-close opportunity to swim alongside these resident behemoths. For marine wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a world-class experience that truly defines the magic of Cenderawasih.
-
Sitting in Doreh Bay near Manokwari, Mansinam is a place where history and culture take center stage. The island is the cradle of missionary history in Papua, but the real highlight is the local welcome—expect powerful cultural presentations ranging from ritual traditions to the unique Tumbur Tanah dance of the Arfak Mountain tribes. When we aren't soaking in the heritage, the island’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs offer top-tier snorkeling. It’s a perfect blend of Papuan soul and pristine marine life.
-
A former WWII outpost, Ayu Atoll’s extreme isolation once made it a strategic base for Japanese forces. Today, that same remoteness has turned it into a pristine sanctuary for nesting leatherback turtles. Fringed by ivory beaches and thick rainforest, the atoll is surrounded by healthy barrier and ring reefs. We’ll spend the day snorkeling through these vibrant coral gardens, which are packed with reef fish and remarkably intact marine life. It’s a wild, quiet corner of Raja Ampat that feels a world away from everything.
-
Today we explore the best of Raja Ampat’s landscapes and its legendary marine life. We start at Kabui Bay on Waigeo Island, a maze of verdant karst islets and rugged cliffs sheltering hidden lagoons and surreal stalactite caves. While the dense rainforest above hides birds of paradise and cockatoos, the turquoise waters below are home to sharks and rays gliding through rising coral clusters.
Later, we head to Pulau Kri, a small island that holds world records for its staggering marine biodiversity. The crystal-clear waters here are teeming with everything from exotic schools of fish to vibrant coral gardens, making every snorkel feel like a new discovery. Between the dramatic geology of Kabui and the underwater density of Kri, it’s a day that perfectly captures the raw, untouched beauty of the archipelago.
-
Pulau Fam offers a quieter corner of the archipelago, where warm village welcomes meet legendary reef snorkeling. Dive into "Melissa’s Garden," a stunning shallow coral plateau teeming with life, or explore "Galaxy Reef," where schooling barracuda patrol over vibrant hard and soft corals. It is a world-class underwater experience set against a backdrop of limestone karst and calm lagoons.
The journey continues to Pulau Mansuar, a dramatic limestone ridge blanketed in thick jungle and home to small communities living in traditional leaf-roofed houses. The focus here shifts to the thriving reefs and jetties, particularly Yenbuba Jetty. With its clear-water slopes and dense coral, it is an ideal spot for easy snorkeling and underwater photography, offering frequent sightings of turtles and reef sharks just steps from the shore.
-
Pulau Misool showcases the raw, wild beauty of Raja Ampat with its striking white-sand beaches and emerald hills. A primary highlight is Yapap, a secluded lagoon surrounded by towering limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the sea. Known for its glassy turquoise waters and a shallow, white-sand seabed, it provides a surreal setting for snorkeling, swimming, and photography in a serene, cathedral-like atmosphere.
The exploration continues to Balbulal Lagoon, where the iconic "Christmas Tree" karst formations create a labyrinth of narrow channels and hidden coves. This remote corner of Misool is a peaceful escape from more crowded spots, offering a chance to drift through calm waters while observing the rich biodiversity that thrives within this protected marine sanctuary. It is a day defined by some of the most spectacular geological scenery in the entire archipelago.
-
Sorong serves as the key transportation and logistical hub for West Papua, reflecting the dynamic character of this remote coastal region. Surrounded by tropical landscapes and shaped by centuries of maritime activity, the city acts as the primary gateway to the Raja Ampat archipelago. As the final point of the voyage, Sorong provides the necessary connections for onward travel, marking the conclusion of the expedition and the beginning of the return journey home.
Note: Itineraries are subject to change.
Inclusions
Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk)
Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included - please enquire)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (where included - please enquire)
Complimentary onboard meals and room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages, available 24 hours per day
Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
Complimentary Standard WiFi, Onboard gratuities and port taxes
One selected shore excursion/expedition activity per port of call (kayaking not included – however this can be pre-booked)
In polar regions: Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka to take home and use of rubber boots for wet zodiac landings.
Exclusions
Kayaking, private tours, and bespoke Zodiac arrangements are available on request, and are subject to availability.
Beyond the one complimentary pre-selected excursion per port, further outings are available at an additional cost (excluding polar regions, where all Zodiac-based landings are included).
Premium wines and spirits from the bar menu are available at an additional charge.
Ship’s boutique purchases, laundry services, premium Wi-Fi upgrades, and spa treatments.
Required visas, comprehensive travel insurance, international and domestic flights, and any accommodation or transfers not explicitly stated in the itinerary.
Exclusive Bonus - Receive USD 300pp onboard credit, and a Gold Wi-Fi package valued at USD 250pp when you book by 30 June 2026.
Oceanview D4 Stateroom from AU$12,590pp share twin or Balcony D5 Stateroom from AU$14,590pp share twin based on the travel dates 15 to 26 April 2027
Prices per person share twin/double and are correct as of 04 May 26. All cruise and cabin types are subject to availability.
Terms & Conditions | Prices shown are based on per person costs in australian dollars, Special offers and exclusive bonuses available on new bookings made before 30 June 2026. For full terms & conditions please contact our Travel Experts for details.Interested in this deal? Mention this Deal Code: 1199 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.