This morning board a chartered private jet for your flight from Darwin to Biak (additional expense). Enjoy a short tour of the town before boarding Coral Discoverer, where there is time to settle in and enjoy the onboard facilities before your departure. In the evening, join your fellow travelers, the Captain, and his crew at the Captain’s Welcome Drinks in anticipation of what promises to be a remarkable journey.

Enter the marine life haven that is Cenderawasih Marine Park and go in search of an encounter with the biggest fish in the sea, the beautiful whale shark. This region is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to swim with these majestic animals, and with luck, you may have a chance to snorkel amongst them. Spend the afternoon with the local West Papuans at Kwatisore Village, being welcomed into their community and learning about their traditional lifestyle and culture. Enjoy a walk through their village garden, with time to shop at the vibrant market stalls.

Your exploration of Cenderawasih Bay continues today as you discover some of the bay’s eighty square kilometers of pristine coral reefs which support over 200 species of tropical fish. Join the Marine Biologist aboard the glass bottom boat or a kayak tour and snorkel amongst the corals. Make your way to beautiful Papaya Island for an Island walk before cruising through the stunning Cenderawasih National Park.

Cruise along the magnificent coastline of Cenderawasih, passing tropical islands and majestic mountain ranges. Join the Expedition Leader and Guest Lecturers in the Lounge for an informative introduction to Raja Ampat and an overview of activities planned for the coming days, which are sure to be a highlight of the voyage.

Awaken as the ship cruises the Dampier Straits, named in honor of famed explorer William Dampier. Enjoy your first morning in Raja Ampat discovering a true gem, Hidden Bay. The narrow entrance to the bay, which is located on Gam Island, is easy to overlook and visits from cruise ships are rare. Aboard Xplorer travel through the long, narrow channel which splits into two picturesque bays featuring a maze of small rock islands. An extremely scenic and atmospheric place to explore, there is ample time to kayak, enjoy glass bottom boat tours over the coral reefs, snorkel and SCUBA dive, and join the expedition staff on a guided nature walk. In the afternoon meet the locals of Gam and explore their traditional village.

Returning to Pulau Gam early this morning, a local Papuan guide joins you on a walk through the shady forests around Sawinggrai Village. Your guide’s local knowledge may allow you to catch a glimpse of one of nature’s finest creations, the ethereal red bird of paradise. Alternatively you may choose to take the opportunity for an early morning snorkel.  An afternoon visit to Penemu offers a walk to the lookout for awe-inspiring views and time for a swim and snorkel in the pristine waters. This evening cross the equator and celebrate with sunset drinks and shipboard festivities.

Savor a day of exploration, starting with an optional early morning hike at Kawe Island, where the reward is breathtaking views over the island and its spectacular lagoon. Cruise to Wayag Island, which is currently being considered as a UNESCO World Heritage location. Discover the lagoon’s white sand beaches and a magical maze of limestone karst ‘gumdrop’ islands. Enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling, glass bottom boat tours, and discovering the area on Xplorer.

The Misool Islands, one of the famed ‘Four Kings’ of the Raja Ampat region, are a bracelet of islands that are a mecca for snorkelers and divers alike. The islands boast dramatic scenery, with towering limestone pinnacles jutting out of the water and white sand beaches adorned with palm trees.  At Mesemta, see the breathtaking coral gardens while snorkeling or viewing from the glass bottom boat, or paddle at your leisure through these amazing karst islands on kayaks. This evening join the Captain and his crew on the sun deck for a gourmet barbeque at sunset.

Enjoy an early morning snorkel at Mesemta before a short cruise to Wagmab Island. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of water activities with a last opportunity to snorkel or dive Raja Ampat’s splendid soft coral reefs, with their vibrant shades of color and multitude of marine life. Paddle through the aqua sea and enjoy glass bottom boat tours before enjoying pre-dinner drinks.

In the middle of the Banda Sea lies an enchanted fragment of history, the center of the Spice Island trade. Originally the world’s sole source of nutmeg and mace, these nine tiny islands have attracted traders since at least 2,000 years ago. In the 16th century, European explorers discovered entire continents in their quest for these islands. On the approach to Banda Island the outline of Gunung Api Volcano, with its thin plume of smoke drifting from the summit, is clearly visible. See Banda’s famous Kora Kora canoes in action - with up to 38 oarsmen aboard they are a sight to behold as they glide across the water. Later in the afternoon there is time to explore Fort Belgica. Built by the first Governor General of the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1611, the fort is extremely well preserved and provides an interesting insight into Dutch colonization. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of champagne as the sun sets over the fort.

This morning enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the colors and aromas of the Spice Islands. Travel through the wide, tree-lined streets and past the remnants of mansions constructed during Dutch colonialism on a town tour. See the museum, the former VOC Governor’s Mansion, the old church, and a cultural presentation. Explore a nutmeg plantation and taste local treats on the waterfront. There is also a unique opportunity to dive or snorkel over the corals growing on the sunken volcanic lava flow.

Today say farewell to the Spice Islands and cruise towards Darwin. Spend the day on board to relax and enjoy, reminiscing over the highlights of Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as you cross the Timor Sea. Join Expedition Staff in the ship’s lounge for a recap of the expedition experiences.

This morning at 8:00am, arrive at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf, marking the end of your great adventure discovering Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands.