Day 1: Arrive Bali, Indonesia
Welcome to Bali! Your Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay expedition begins on this beautiful Indonesian island, known for its tropical landscapes, warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage.
Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, you will be met and transferred to the Hyatt Regency Bali, located along the beachfront in Sanur. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, this beautiful resort offers a relaxing start to your Indonesian adventure.
After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll along Sanur’s beachfront promenade, explore the local shops and cafes or simply relax by the resort’s swimming pools. Alternatively, enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants before tomorrow’s flight to Sorong, where your expedition cruise aboard SH Minerva begins.
MEALS: Nil
OVERNIGHT: Hyatt Regency Bali
Day 2: Bali ~ Sorong ~ Embark Ship
After breakfast at the Hyatt Regency Bali, it’s time to begin your Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay expedition cruise. Transfer to Denpasar Airport for your included flight to Sorong, the gateway to Indonesia’s spectacular Coral Triangle.
Your flight from Bali to Sorong is arranged and booked by Swan Hellenic as part of your Cruise Plus package. Your flight details and departure timings will be provided upon arrival in Bali.
Located on the western coast of Papua, Sorong is surrounded by tropical islands and some of the world’s richest marine ecosystems. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the cruise terminal to board SH Minerva, your home for the next 10 nights.
Once onboard, settle into your cabin, explore the ship’s facilities and meet your expedition team. As you prepare for the adventure ahead, enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and beautiful views from the ship’s decks.
At 5:00 pm, SH Minerva departs Sorong, beginning an unforgettable voyage through remote Papuan islands, colourful coral reefs and secluded tropical lagoons. Enjoy your first evening onboard as you sail towards Pulau Manim, your first expedition destination.
DEPARTURE: 5:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 3: Pulau Manim, Numfoor, Papua, Indonesia
Today, your expedition cruise takes you to Pulau Manim, a beautiful island near Numfoor, off the northern coast of Papua. Surrounded by clear tropical waters, colourful coral reefs and secluded lagoons, this peaceful island offers your first opportunity to experience Indonesia’s remote island landscapes.
Arriving in the afternoon, discover an island of quiet beaches, lush tropical vegetation and rich marine life. The surrounding waters are home to vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish, making the area particularly appealing for snorkelling and diving. Meanwhile, the island’s small communities maintain traditional fishing practices and a close connection to the sea.
Depending on local conditions, your expedition team may offer opportunities to explore the island, enjoy guided walks or discover the surrounding marine environment. Take in the beautiful tropical scenery and experience the tranquillity of this rarely visited part of Papua.
Later, return to SH Minerva and enjoy a relaxing evening onboard as you sail towards Pulau Padaidori, your next destination in this remarkable Indonesian archipelago.
ARRIVAL: 2:00 pm
DEPARTURE: 6:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 4: Pulau Padaidori, Papua, Indonesia
Today, your expedition cruise continues to Pulau Padaidori, a remote island surrounded by the beautiful waters of northern Papua. Part of a collection of small, mostly uninhabited islands and coral atolls, Pulau Padaidori is known for its secluded beaches, tropical scenery and remarkable marine biodiversity.
Spend the day discovering this peaceful island paradise, where swaying coconut palms line white sandy beaches and calm, sapphire waters shelter colourful coral gardens. Beneath the surface, schools of tropical fish move among the vibrant reefs, making this a wonderful destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts. Along the coastline, mangrove forests provide shelter for crabs, snakes and other wildlife.
Depending on weather and local conditions, your expedition team may offer opportunities to explore the island, discover its beautiful coastline or experience the surrounding marine environment. With its untouched landscapes and clear tropical waters, Pulau Padaidori offers a wonderful glimpse into one of Indonesia’s lesser-visited regions.
Later, return to SH Minerva and enjoy a relaxing evening onboard as you continue your journey towards Cenderawasih Bay, renowned for its rich marine life and remote island communities.
ARRIVAL: 8:00 am
DEPARTURE: 5:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 5: Pulau Roon & Pulau Row, Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia
Today, your expedition cruise enters the beautiful waters of Cenderawasih Bay, one of Indonesia’s most remarkable marine environments. Your first stop is Pulau Roon, a tropical island known for its pristine beaches, colourful coral reefs and rich Papuan cultural heritage.
Arriving in the morning, discover an island surrounded by clear waters that support an incredible variety of marine life, including reef sharks, tropical fish and occasionally dugongs. Beyond its natural beauty, Pulau Roon is home to local communities who maintain traditional crafts, music and customs passed down through generations. Depending on local conditions and the expedition programme, you may have opportunities to explore the island and learn more about its people and traditions.
After departing Pulau Roon around midday, continue cruising through Cenderawasih Bay towards Pulau Row. Arriving in the afternoon, enjoy another opportunity to experience the remote islands and beautiful coastal scenery of Papua. Your expedition team will determine the day’s activities based on weather, sea conditions and local opportunities.
Later, return to SH Minerva and enjoy dinner onboard as you sail deeper into Cenderawasih Bay. Tomorrow brings one of the voyage’s most anticipated experiences, with a visit to Kwatisore, famous for its encounters with whale sharks.
PULAU ROON ARRIVAL: 7:00 am
PULAU ROON DEPARTURE: 12:00 pm
PULAU ROW ARRIVAL: 3:00 pm
PULAU ROW DEPARTURE: 7:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 6: Kwatisore, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua, Indonesia
Today brings one of the highlights of your expedition cruise as SH Minerva arrives at Kwatisore, famous for its incredible whale shark encounters. Located along the remote coastline of Cenderawasih Bay, this beautiful region is home to a resident population of whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean.
Arriving early in the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the waters where these gentle giants are frequently seen gathering around traditional fishing platforms, known locally as bagans. Attracted by fish caught in the nets, whale sharks often swim close to the platforms, providing a remarkable opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
Depending on sea conditions and local regulations, your expedition team may arrange opportunities to observe the whale sharks from the water or by boat. Watching these enormous yet graceful animals glide through the clear tropical waters is an experience that makes Cenderawasih Bay such a special destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts.
After an unforgettable morning exploring Kwatisore, return to SH Minerva for lunch as your ship continues its journey through Papua’s spectacular coastline. Spend the afternoon relaxing onboard, enjoying the ocean views and reflecting on one of the most memorable wildlife experiences of your Indonesian expedition.
ARRIVAL: 5:30 am
DEPARTURE: 1:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 7: Pulau Mansinam, Papua, Indonesia
Today, your expedition cruise continues to Pulau Mansinam, a small island in Manokwari Bay with an important place in Papua’s history and cultural heritage. Surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery, the island offers a fascinating opportunity to discover another side of this remote Indonesian region.
Arriving in the morning, explore an island where traditional village life meets significant historical landmarks. Pulau Mansinam is recognised as the birthplace of Christianity in Papua, following the arrival of missionaries in 1855. Today, historic churches, monuments and local traditions reflect the island’s lasting cultural and spiritual importance.
Depending on local conditions and the expedition programme, you may have the opportunity to visit cultural landmarks, explore the island’s villages and learn more about the communities who call this beautiful region home. Along the way, enjoy views across Manokwari Bay towards the impressive Arfak Mountains, which rise above Papua’s lush tropical coastline.
After your morning of exploration, return to SH Minerva for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon onboard. As your ship continues west towards Raja Ampat, take in the spectacular ocean scenery and prepare for the next chapter of your expedition, where limestone islands, turquoise lagoons and some of the world’s most colourful coral reefs await.
ARRIVAL: 7:00 am
DEPARTURE: 2:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 8: Kabui Bay, Waigeo Island, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Today, your expedition cruise arrives in the spectacular Raja Ampat archipelago, one of Indonesia’s most beautiful and biodiverse regions. Your destination is Kabui Bay, located along the coast of Waigeo Island, where dramatic limestone islands rise from crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Arriving around midday, discover a breathtaking landscape of towering karst formations, sheltered lagoons and narrow waterways surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Often compared to a tropical maze, Kabui Bay is known for its remarkable scenery, with countless small islands scattered across the calm waters.
Depending on weather and sea conditions, your expedition team may offer opportunities to explore the bay by Zodiac, discover its secluded waterways or admire the impressive limestone formations from the water. For certified divers, an optional diving excursion may also be available, providing an opportunity to experience Raja Ampat’s extraordinary underwater world and its colourful marine life.
After an afternoon exploring this beautiful corner of Raja Ampat, return to SH Minerva and enjoy the stunning scenery as your ship prepares to depart. Relax onboard and enjoy dinner as you continue your journey through the archipelago, with more incredible islands, coral reefs and tropical lagoons waiting to be discovered.
ARRIVAL: 12:00 pm
DEPARTURE: 7:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 9: Pulau Penemu & Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Today, your Raja Ampat expedition cruise takes you to two beautiful island destinations, Pulau Penemu and Pulau Fam. Surrounded by turquoise waters, colourful coral reefs and dramatic limestone formations, these remote islands showcase some of the most spectacular scenery in Indonesia’s Coral Triangle.
Arriving at Pulau Penemu in the morning, discover a tropical paradise of limestone islands, sheltered lagoons and lush green landscapes. The island is particularly famous for its breathtaking views across the surrounding archipelago, where small islands rise from brilliant blue waters. Depending on local conditions and the expedition programme, you may have opportunities to explore the coastline, enjoy the scenery or discover the island’s remarkable marine environment.
For certified divers, optional excursions may be available to Melissa’s Garden and Batu Rufas, two renowned dive sites known for their beautiful coral formations and extraordinary variety of tropical marine life.
After departing Pulau Penemu around midday, continue to nearby Pulau Fam, another beautiful part of the Raja Ampat archipelago. Spend the afternoon surrounded by secluded beaches, limestone islands and clear tropical waters. Depending on conditions, your expedition team may offer further opportunities to explore the surrounding coastline or marine environment. An optional diving excursion at Keru Channel may also be available for certified divers.
Later, return to SH Minerva and enjoy dinner onboard as you sail towards Pulau Mansuar and Pulau Kri, where more of Raja Ampat’s spectacular coral reefs and marine wildlife await.
PULAU PENEMU ARRIVAL: 7:00 am
PULAU PENEMU DEPARTURE: 12:00 pm
PULAU FAM ARRIVAL: 2:00 pm
PULAU FAM DEPARTURE: 7:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 10: Pulau Mansuar & Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Today, your Raja Ampat expedition cruise continues to Pulau Mansuar and Pulau Kri, two islands surrounded by some of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Famous for their colourful coral gardens, crystal-clear waters and incredible variety of marine life, these islands offer another unforgettable day exploring Indonesia’s Coral Triangle.
Arriving at Pulau Mansuar in the morning, discover a beautiful island surrounded by thriving coral reefs and tropical waters. The surrounding marine environment is home to colourful reef fish, sea turtles and magnificent manta rays. Depending on weather conditions and the expedition programme, you may have opportunities to explore the island’s coastline or experience its remarkable underwater world.
For certified divers, optional excursions may be available to Manta Ridge and Sawandarek Jetty, two well-known dive sites offering opportunities to encounter Raja Ampat’s extraordinary marine biodiversity. Manta Ridge is particularly famous for its manta ray sightings, although wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed.
After departing Pulau Mansuar around midday, continue to nearby Pulau Kri, a small tropical island renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and impressive marine biodiversity. Spend the afternoon surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful beaches and clear waters teeming with marine life. An optional diving excursion at Cape Kri may also be available, offering the chance to explore one of Raja Ampat’s most celebrated dive sites.
Later, return to SH Minerva and enjoy a relaxing evening onboard as your ship continues towards Pulau Misool, where dramatic limestone islands and secluded lagoons await on your final full day of exploration.
PULAU MANSUAR ARRIVAL: 7:00 am
PULAU MANSUAR DEPARTURE: 12:00 pm
PULAU KRI ARRIVAL: 2:00 pm
PULAU KRI DEPARTURE: 7:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 11: Pulau Misool – Balbulal Lagoon & Yapap, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Today, your Raja Ampat expedition cruise takes you to Pulau Misool, one of the most spectacular islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago. Known for its dramatic limestone formations, hidden lagoons and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Misool offers a beautiful setting for your final full day of exploration.
Arriving in the morning, your first destination is Balbulal Lagoon, where towering limestone cliffs rise above calm tropical waters. Surrounded by lush vegetation and striking rock formations, this secluded lagoon is one of Misool’s remarkable natural attractions. Depending on weather and sea conditions, your expedition team may offer opportunities to explore the sheltered waterways and admire the breathtaking scenery from the water.
After returning to SH Minerva around midday, continue to Yapap, another beautiful location within the Misool island group. Here, impressive limestone formations emerge from brilliant blue waters, creating a maze of small islands, sheltered passages and secluded lagoons. Spend the afternoon discovering this stunning landscape, with opportunities for further exploration depending on local conditions and the expedition programme.
Later, return to SH Minerva for your final evening onboard. Enjoy dinner and reflect on the incredible experiences of your expedition, from encountering whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay to exploring Raja Ampat’s colourful coral reefs and remote tropical islands. Your ship will sail overnight towards Sorong, where your cruise concludes tomorrow morning.
BALBULAL LAGOON ARRIVAL: 7:00 am
BALBULAL LAGOON DEPARTURE: 12:00 pm
YAPAP ARRIVAL: 2:30 pm
YAPAP DEPARTURE: 6:00 pm
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: SH Minerva
Day 12: Sorong ~ Disembark Ship ~ Bali, Indonesia
After an unforgettable expedition through Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay, your cruise comes to an end as SH Minerva arrives back in Sorong this morning. Enjoy your final breakfast onboard before saying farewell to the expedition team and fellow travellers.
Following disembarkation, you will be transferred to Sorong Airport for your included return flight to Bali (Denpasar), arranged by Swan Hellenic as part of your Cruise Plus package. Your flight details and departure timings will be provided during your voyage.
Upon arrival in Bali, your Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay expedition officially comes to an end. From here, make your own arrangements for your onward journey or consider extending your stay to enjoy more of Bali’s beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and tropical scenery.
Take home wonderful memories of your Indonesian adventure, from unforgettable whale shark encounters in Cenderawasih Bay to the spectacular limestone islands, turquoise lagoons and colourful coral reefs of Raja Ampat.
ARRIVAL: 8:00 am
MEALS: Breakfast