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Undiscovered Philippines and Indonesia

Manila - Darwin - Example 15 Day Cruise aboard Heritage Adventurer
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Set sail on this 15-day trip to explore the undiscovered islands of the Philippines and Indonesia from Manila to Darwin aboard Heritage Adventurer. Highlights of this cruise include visiting the Whale Shark Capital of the World, swimming with the gentle giants, and discovering the "eighth wonder of the world" on Bohol Island. Visit Ticao Island, where the towering Catandayagan Falls tumble down sheer stone cliffs into the ocean in a dramatic display of unrestrained nature. Discover the fascinating history of the Spice Islands at Banda Neira and explore the iconic, five-sided Fort Belgica. Observe thousands of stingless jellyfish at Tojoman Lagoon and look for the critically endangered Crested Black Macaque, known for their distinctive pink rumps and jet-black mohawks, and the world's smallest primate, the saucer-eyed Tarsier, at Bitung.
Relax in the beautiful PhilippinesMonument in memory of Jose Rizal in Rizal park in Metro Manila, PhilippinesLoboc river in the rainforest Philippines, BoholThe unique landscape of the Chocolate HillsLook for Rufous Hornbill as we explore this pristine tropical island paradiseworld’s smallest primate the saucer-eyed Tarsier at Bitung
Highlights
  • Visit towering Catandayagan Falls in Ticao Island
  • Discover Whale Shark Capital of the World, Sibuyan Island
  • Marvel at Tojoman Lagoon and observe thousands of stingless jellyfish
  • Explore the iconic five-sided Fort Belgica
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Manila, Philippines

  • 1 Dinner
Arrive in the Philippines’ bustling capital Manila, a former port town now buzzing commercial hub, heritage center and culinary hot spot, and transfer to your hotel where the group spend the first night of the expedition. This evening meet your fellow voyagers and expedition guides over dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Manila | Legazpi | Embark

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before transferring to the Airport for the short flight to Legazpi City. Upon arrival, you can explore the Lagazpi region, renowned for the classically shaped volcanic cone of Mount Mayon which dominates the skyline. Mayon Volcano National Park provides you with an opportunity to discover the volcanic geology of the region. Later this afternoon board Heritage Adventurer this afternoon where The captain and expedition team is waiting to greet you on arrival and show you to your cabin. You can have time to settle in and familiarize yourself with the ship; you can also take the opportunity to introduce your expedition team and the cruise plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as you sail for Sibuyan Island.

Day 3: Donsol | Ticao Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Considered the ‘Whale Shark Capital of the World’, at the small fishing village of Donsol there are opportunity to enjoy the unforgettable experience of swimming and snorkeling with these gentle giants which are known to grow more than 12-metres in length. Joining local boats and guides you then venture into the bay where, during the months of November through June, large concentrations of plankton attract the world’s largest fish and, if you are lucky, Manta Rays may also be observed in the pellucid water. The afternoon is spent on the tropical paradise of Ticao Island where one of the Philippines best kept secrets, the towering Catandayagan Falls which tumble down sheer stone cliffs into the ocean in a dramatic display of unrestrained nature. There may also be the opportunity to visit a local village.

Day 4: Bohol Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
An early rise with cameras at the ready is recommended this morning as the sun rises over Bohol Island’s famed Chocolate Hills this morning. Often dubbed the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World,’ during the dry season the grass covering the more than 1,200 conical karst hills scattered across an area of 50 square kilometers turns a chocolatey brown creating this incredible phenomena best enjoyed from a viewing station some 200 steps up, but absolutely worth the effort. During your time here you may explore the lush countryside cruising the Loboc River by local boats sampling local delicacies and traditional music from local musicians. Other highlights include a visit to a Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s second smallest primate the tiny Philippine Tarsier, the threatened species are protected in the Philippines but their numbers are declining due to logging, mining and the illegal pet trade, the coral stone Baclayon Church and National Cultural Treasure, and sampling The Pastry Capital of Bohol’s world famous Broa or Lady Fingers. This afternoon unwind on the pristine white sand beaches of Balicasag Island. Ringed by a reef and marine sanctuary enjoy an incredible underwater experience snorkeling impressive coral garden and underwater cliffs teeming with colorful marine life including, if you are lucky, sea turtles.

Day 5: Bucas Grande Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Emerging from the shadow of its popular neighbor surfing hot spot Siargao Island, Bucas Grande Island combines stunning white sand beaches, with waterfalls, emerald green waters, mangroves, expansive limestone cave systems, iron wood forests, inland lakes, elaborate coral gardens, exotic wildlife and rightly famous 60-kilometer Sohoton Cove and National Park. Look for Rufous Hornbill as you explore this pristine tropical island paradise Zodiac cruising the coastline where quiet coves and beaches await discovery both above and below the water. Highlights here include Tojoman Lagoon/ Sohoton Jellyfish Sanctuary where thousands of stingless jellyfish thrive, the iconic Blue Lagoon with its labyrinthine waterways comprised of numerous limestone islets and incredible snorkeling, swimming and hiking opportunities. At nearby Cinnamon Island, named after its abundance of cinnamon trees, a cup of the local delicacy, cinnamon tea, has become the traditional welcome.

Day 6: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Relax on board after your recent adventures, join a lecture or the naturalists on deck, update your photos/journal or watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge.

Day 7: Bitung, Indonesia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Berthing at the bustling, cosmopolitan harbor of Bitung, Manado city, head for the nearby wildlife-filled jungles of Tangkoko Nature Reserve one of Indonesia’s oldest reserves. Spanning some 8,800 hectares from beaches to the peak of Tangkoko Mountain the reserve is a haven for endemic flora and fauna. Exploring the lowland tropical rainforest with local guides, you’ll be looking for the critically endangered Crested Black Macaque, known for their distinctive pink rumps and jet-black mohawks, symbol of Bitung and smallest primate in the world the saucer-eyed Tarsier and Sulawesi Bear Cuscus. For birders there’s the Knobbed Hornbills, Kingfishers, Sulawesi Myna, Lorikeets and Maleo birds, other flying highlights include the brightly-colored Forester Moth and the Draco Flying Lizard or Sulawesi Lined Gliding Lizard.

Day 8: Ternate

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This surprisingly busy island city and port, once a leading clove and nutmeg producer, sits perched alongside the dramatic cone of triple-peaked volcano Gamalama in the North Maluku Islands. Well off the tourist route and renowned for its incredible scenic beauty and fascinating history, today is a true expedition day with options including visiting the spice and cinnamon plantations, the palace of the Sultan of Ternate, numerous forts dating back to the colonial era, the stunning views over Ngade Lake and observing the bustling, anachronistic port in action.

Day 9: Bacan Island, Indonesia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today you explore the biologically rich and historically fascinating Bacan Island, part of the Maluku chain in eastern Indonesia. Combining beaches and forested mountains, Bacan is the easternmost location where primates naturally occur including the Crested Black Macaque, while its location to nearby Halmahera means its forests are home to numerous bird species. Home to one of the four historic sultanates in north Maluku, the Sultanate of Bacan played a key role in the spice trade, not so much for the spices themselves, but for Bacan’s strategic location and political control over the surrounding region. Renowned scientist naturalist and explorer Alfred Russell Wallace studied the island as a guest of the Sultan and it was here that he discovered Wallace’s Giant Bee, the world’s largest bee, as well as continued his research and thinking on evolution and species distribution. This afternoon you explore the region’s beaches and fascinating underwater worlds.

Day 10: Buru Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Fascinating and seldom visited, Buru Island is located at the boundary between the biogeographic zones of Australia and Asia. A high proportion of the species of birds and mammals here are found nowhere else with 10 endemic bird species and 4 endemic mammals as well as a number of near-endemic species. This morning you can explore these remote shores together with your expert naturalists and guides. Enjoy opportunities to explore the forests in search of wildlife and many of the endemic species including the Blue-fronted Lorikeet and experience the hospitality of local communities during village visits.

Day 11: Pulau Saparua | Pulau Molana

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The beautiful Lease Islands, which are largely undiscovered by modern travelers, sit to the east of Ambon Island, and are known for their fine white sand beaches, coral gardens teeming with colorful fish and fascinating history. In the morning you plan to visit Saparua with its many cultural sites and the 17th Century colonial Dutch Duurstede Fort built to defend the region in 1690 and stands proudly to this day. This afternoon you visit the uninhabited Molana Island, the site of a Dutch Hospital which was destroyed during WWII, however it is the beautiful white sands and rich marine life that surround the island which is the highlight of your visit as you enjoy the opportunity to swim or snorkel

Day 12: Banda Neira

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Under consideration as a World Heritage Site due to its fascinating history as the center of the Spice Islands trade and incredible biodiversity, Banda Neira is the main island in the archipelago of 10 tiny volcanic Banda Islands. Once the world’s sole source of nutmeg due to the islands’ native Myristica trees, the principal town of Banda Neira offers a glimpse into bygone days with its charming 17th century European relics including the five-sided Fort Belgica overlooking the harbor. Built in 1611 by the first Governor General of the Dutch East Indies and refurbished in the 90s it was designed to guard against sea threats and to protect the colonialists from any uprising locals. Across a narrow strait lies 640-metre cone of active volcano Gunung Banda Api which sits on its own island and is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species. Below the sparkling sapphire water the islands’ location near the center of the Coral Triangle is evident with sprawling coral fields where myriad fish species including Scorpion, Ghost Pipefish, Napoleon Wrasse, Mandarin Fish, Hammerhead Sharks and more can be observed. Village visits and cultural immersions round out your time here including observing Banda’s famous Kora Kora canoes in action.

Day 13: Tanimbar Islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Discover paradise on your last stop before you arrive in Darwin, enjoy another expedition day well off the typical tourist route exploring the powdery white sand shores and crystal-clear waters of the Tanimbar Archipelago. This group of about 65 islands separating the Banda and Arafura Seas, is fringed by unspoiled beaches and reefs home to abundant coral gardens and teeming with marine life, the islands are a snorkelers paradise, while birders can look out for the Tanimbar Starling, poorly known Moluccan or Lesser Masked Owl, Fawn-breasted thrush and Bluestreaked Lory. Also, plan to experience the unique culture and traditional crafts like Ikat cloth and carved wooden statues the islands are known for.
 

Day 14: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Take the time to relax and reflect on an amazing experience as you recap the highlights and enjoy a farewell dinner this evening.
 

Day 15: Darwin, Australia | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
This morning arrive in Darwin, Australia’s ‘northern gateway’ famous for its glittering harbor, World War II history and enviable tropical outdoor lifestyle. After breakfast, there is a complimentary coach to a central hotel or to Darwin International Airport or continue on an expedition cruise of Australia’s famous Kimberley Coast on Kimberley Explorer:

Expedition Cruising Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Coast. For those disembarking, to allow time for disembarkation procedures and travel from Darwin, it is not recommended booking flights departing before 1500 hours.

Note: During your voyage circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader is going to keep you fully informed. Please note: Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval. About the Discovery Fund, Each area you visit has rich cultural experiences and wild treasures to offer. As guests, you have made a point to source and support local projects in the areas through which you travel. A contribution from each passenger represents a portion of the money you donate to ensure the longevity and success of educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives in these regions.

Ship/Hotel

Heritage Adventurer

Dining area
Heritage Adventurer Restaurant

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

$1,500pp Flight Credit + Suite Upgrade
Book any of the Japan, Indonesia & Philippines, and Australia's iconic Kimberley coast aboard Heritage Adventurer on selected departure dates, and enjoy a $1,500 per person Flight Credit plus a Suite Upgrade when you book a Deck 5 Superior Stateroom or Worsley Suite. This offer is subject to availability for new bookings and cannot be combined with other discounts. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Jun 22, 2024 departure

Per person starting at
$9,995
Superior Triple
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Superior Triple
Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds, and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Main deck
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Main Deck Triple
Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 is a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds, and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Deck 4 Superior
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Deck 4 Superior
Superior Cabins on Deck 4 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Deck 5 Superior
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Deck 5 Superior
Superior Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Main deck
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Main Deck Single
Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 is a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Heritage Adventurer - Superior Single
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Superior Single
Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Worseley Suite
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Worsley Suite
Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaise-style lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage, and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Heritage Suite
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Heritage Suite
Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44m2 and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table, and chairs, and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub, and shower, large writing desk, floor to ceiling cabinetry for storage and a flat-screen entertainment system.

Notes

- Single clients are matched with a sharer of the same sex in a twin-share cabin. Payment of a single supplement guarantees a single cabin. The single supplement is 1.8 times the price of the voyage with the exception of the suites which are double the single rate.
-Emergency medical evacuation coverage for a minimum of US$100,000 per person required. Contact us for details on arranging travel insurance.

TECHNICAL SPECS
Year Built: 1991
Shipyard: Rauma, Finland
Classification: Lloyds 1AS, GL E4
Accommodation: 140 guests
Length: 124 metres
Beam: 18 metres
Draft: 4.97 metres
Gross Tonnage : 8,378gt
Engines: 3,940 horsepower (x2)
Maximum Speed: 15 knots
Cruising Speed: 12 knots
Range: 8,600 nautical miles
Zodiacs: 14
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 14 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Pre- & Post- Cruise Transfers
  • House beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • One night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast)
  • All expedition shore excursions
  • Programme of lectures by noted naturalists
  • Discovery Fund / Government Landing Fees 
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Required Visas if applicable
  • Laundry 
  • Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
  • Complimentary Parka - available only for the duration of the voyage.

Map

When to Go

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Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

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This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
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