Mysterious Papua New Guinea is, in the truest sense, one of the last great wilderness areas on Earth and there is simply no better way to experience these magical and rarely-visited lands than aboard the state-of-the-art small ship Coral Adventurer. Discover the unique regions of the Spice Islands and Raja Ampat is an expedition like no other. Swim, snorkel and dive through crystal-clear waters, exploring colorful coral gardens and encountering a vast array of marine wildlife. We spend five days exploring the marine haven of Raja Ampat, sailing through a maze of limestone karst islands and showcasing the beautiful landscapes of this region.
Highlights
Visit Lake Sentani, home to villagers famed for their distinctive art
Spend five days exploring the nature lover’s paradise that is Raja Ampat
Paddle a kayak through the stunning surround of the Mesemta Channel
Take in the breathtaking views of the Wayag lagoon from Mount Pindito
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Board Coral Adventurer in Wewak in the afternoon. You will be welcomed aboard by the crew and relax onboard as you get to know your fellow passengers. Admire the magnificent coastline as you enjoy sunset drinks before your first of many delicious dinners
During the night, cross into West Papua waters ahead of your arrival in Jayapura. Formerly known as ‘Hollandia’ during World War II, it is now a melting pot of sights and smells. You will visit Lake Sentani, home to villagers famed for their distinctive art. Cruise on a longboat to see the stilt towns built over the tranquil lake. Locals will welcome you to Asei Village with their traditional dancer and instruments.
Awake this morning to the peaceful Island of Miosuwundi, meet the local families in their traditional village to learn about their remote lifestyle. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the tropical waters.
Spend a day at sea enjoying Coral Adventurer’s onboard facilities, join the Expedition Team in the Lounge for an informative introduction to Raja Ampat. Learn about the many wonderful experiences you can partake in over the coming days while exploring the archipelago of the ‘Four Kings’.
Cross the equator today into the northern hemisphere as you make your way towards stunning Wayag. Experience the breathtaking views as you enter Wayag lagoon and explore the magical maze of limestone karst ‘gumdrop’ islands on the Xplorer and zodiacs. After lunch, enjoy water activities on the nearby beach or for the very fit climb to the top of Mt Pindito for the panoramic view
Enjoy an early morning visit the monument to the equator at Kawe Island, if tides allow step ashore, and make your way into beautiful Aljui Bay on Waigeo Island for a morning of snorkeling or diving on one of the finest reef sites in the archipelago. Enjoy a cruise in this spectacular channel in the Zodiacs. Late in the afternoon visit Penemu in the Fam Island group, climb the lagoon lookout 320 steps for great views, afterward snorkel in the lagoon area.
Awake in remote Hidden Bay, cruise through the scenic Wallace passage aboard Xplorer and zodiacs, after lunch there is ample time to kayak, enjoy a glass bottom boat tour, snorkel, and SCUBA dive.
Board Xplorer and cruise into the village of Yensawai on the Island of Batanta. The locals will greet you and guide you through their village. Visit the primary school to see the children in full song before visiting the local market on the waterfront. Board zodiacs for a cruise through the mangroves then enjoy a short walk to the waterfall, Coral Adventurer visits Gam Island and the fun village of Yenwapnour. Enjoy cultural entertainment, sample food cooked traditionally in the underground oven and take part in a guided walk through the village.
For the fit and able there is an early morning start on a steep hike in search of the elusive Red Bird of Paradise hidden in the trees. Enter through the stunning channel leading to the late afternoon anchorage and finish the day with a delicious BBQ on the sundeck overlooking beautiful Mesemta.
Awaken at Mesemta to enjoy a visually spectacular cruise on Xplorer. Snorkel and take a glass bottom boat tour in the sheltered lagoon. Enter the Misool archipelago to visit Wagmab, dive the magnificent coral gardens and steep walls, join the naturalist on board the glass bottom boat.
Today explore the center of the Spice Islands, where the world’s supply of nutmeg and mace has been traded for over 2000 years. View Gunung Api volcano’s thin plume of smoke drifting from the summit. You will see Banda’s famous Kora Kora canoes in action before departing for Banda town where your guides introduce you to the sights and smells of the historic area. Wander past the remnants of mansions constructed during Dutch colonialism on a town tour, see the museum, the old church and enjoy the opportunity to experience the markets. Refresh onboard before joining the locals for a traditional dance and music performance while enjoying a glass of champagne on top of Fort Belgica overlooking the town and harbor.
An early morning option to snorkel or dive over the unique submerged lava flow. For those wishing a leisurely morning, return to Banda. Enjoy the traditions of a bygone era with cinnamon tea and local delicacies at the waterfront hotel before we farewell the Spice Islands and set sail towards Darwin.
Spend the day at leisure enjoying the onboard facilities as you cross the Timor Sea. Join your Expedition Team in the ship’s lounge for a recap of the expedition, reminisce with your new found friends at the Captain’s Farewell Drinks before the last of many remarkable dinners.
Day 14: Darwin, Australia | Disembark
1 Breakfast
This morning arrive at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf, marking the end of your great adventure discovering the New Guinea Circle.
This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Papua New Guinea Cruises.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
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Coral Deck Stateroom
Identical to the Promenade Deck Staterooms except for their location one deck below. These staterooms have twin portholes rather than picture windows.
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Promenade Deck Stateroom
Located below the Explorer deck and furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar, and personal coffee machine. They have special King sized beds which can be separated into two singles.
Notes
Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
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