Your Captain and Expedition Team may change the daily schedule when necessary to maximize the guest experience. Below are the highlight destinations of your voyage.
Banda Neira
The Banda archipelago is the historic heart of the spice trade and was once the world's only source of nutmeg until the mid-19th century when Portuguese, Dutch, and English fought for control over the spice trade. The ten volcanic islands have attracted traders and merchants for at least 2,000 years, as highly sought-after goods such as cloves, textiles, batik, and rice were moved through Banda.
As you approach and enter the Zonnegat channel, witness a thrilling spectacle as Moluccan rowers in traditional kora kora canoes greet the ship and escort you into the harbor. Kora kora canoes are traditional war vessels with elaborately carved figureheads stretching up to 4 meters. Up to 20 rowers propel the canoes, which measure up to 20 meters long.
Go ashore to be welcomed by the nutmeg dance of the local school students before touring the historic township. Spend time snorkeling, diving over the nearby lava flow reef system, and trying local foods along the waterfront. Explore Fort Belgica, built by the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1611. The pentagonal-shaped fort is extremely well preserved and provides an interesting insight into Dutch colonization and the dramatic history of these islands. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance.
Kitikiti Waterfalls
Visit the mesmerizing Kitikiti Waterfall, which flows out of the lush jungle and falls directly into the ocean. Enjoy the chance to swim under this truly memorable waterfall, feel the chilled fresh water meeting the warm ocean water, and explore the surrounding crystal clear coves by snorkeling or kayaking. Delve deeper into this pristine landscape by Xplorer cruise or on a rainforest walk and spot exotic birds such as hornbills. If you are lucky, you may see the bird of paradise along the way.
Misool, Raja Ampat
Today, arrive at Misool, one of the four largest islands of Raja Ampat. Here, visit Balbulol Lagoon, an almost landlocked inlet populated with conical-shaped islets undercut at sea level that rises from turquoise waters like Christmas Trees. There is time to swim and kayak amongst the islands in this beautiful lagoon; explore the island by Xplorer and Beachcomb. Embarking on a hike here will lead to a higher viewpoint from which to experience the amazing rock island formations.
Wayag, Raja Ampat
More Raja Ampat treasures await today as you explore the scattered karst 'beehives' of the Wayag Islands. This natural treasure is nature at its most vibrant, both above and below the water, with emerald karst islands rising from the brilliant turquoise water. Explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer and Zodiac, taking time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk on white-sand beaches amongst the many islands. The coral reefs here provide exceptional diving and snorkeling, with many vibrant corals and tropical fish species to discover. After lunch, there is an opportunity for an energetic hike up to the famed Pindito Peak, where you can be rewarded with panoramic views over the island and its spectacular lagoon.
Sorong, Raja Ampat
Sorong is your departure point from the Indonesian region. Lush mountains covered with forest surround the town, and fishing is a significant part of the local economy. Here, go ashore to visit the Sorong Nature Conservation Park to see the big old trees planted by the Dutch many years ago. Be welcomed by the Moi Tribe, the owners of the land, who are culturally unique from other peoples in the surrounding regions. Enjoy demonstrations such as the making of the traditional Papuan handwork bag. Later, enjoy a relaxing guided walk through the forest to look for birds.
Tobi (Helen Reef)
Today, conditions permitting, enjoy a true expedition stop on the small island of Tobi. Snorkel over Helen Reef, swim from the beach, or beachcombing along the white sand. The island is known as a nesting site for lesser-crested terns and green sea turtles.
Sonsorol
Isolated Sonsorol Island is one of the 16 States of Palau. It is home to a population of between 25 and 65 people who are culturally and linguistically related to the Yap and Caroline Islands. Learn about their subsistence lifestyle, which is disconnected from the modern world, as you hope to visit the village and dive and snorkel the fringing reef and coral gardens.
Koror, Palau
Koror is the main state and the main island of the Republic of Palau. Koror City is home to about half of the country's population. The land mass of Koror is not large, with hundreds of islands and islets of volcanic and limestone reef construction that present a stunning vista of craggy forested islands surrounded by emerald seas.
Enjoy a delightful bus tour of Koror city, exploring the vibrant landmarks, including museums and the reef center. Afterward, you can explore Koror at your own pace as the day draws close and head to the beach for a local sunset. Dinner is provided on the ship, or you can enjoy dinner at the local resort.
The following day, certified divers can take a guided dive to explore the mesmerizing underwater world. Others may walk and swim at Jellyfish Lake, where you can swim alongside these fascinating creatures in their serene habitat. Visit Rock Islands to participate in a guided snorkel tour at the Milky Way, where you can float and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters. Or enjoy a relaxing coastal cruise with opportunities for a beach swim. There will also be a panoramic guided cruise through Nikko Bay, admiring picturesque scenery.
Yap Island
Visit a traditional family home in Danup, Kanifay, and learn about the different methods of building local houses and traditional attire. Witness coconut harvesting and enjoy the weaving prowess of the local folks.
Walk the Ga'ell traditional stone path to a Yapese stone money bank and an old stone platform where a traditional meeting house once stood. Learn more about Yapese stone money, where limestone discs were quarried and carved into 'coins' known as Rai, which can be as large as 4m or as small as 4cm in diameter. Guests who cannot walk will be driven.
Children will greet you at the great meeting house and stone money bank of Kaday Village and be welcomed by the village elders. Explore the traditional Man's house and the best-preserved traditional dock within the mangrove channels that lead out to sea.
Stop by Tomil village, be welcomed by the village community with flower lais and fresh-drink coconuts, and witness a traditional Yapese dance performance in front of Tomil's giant meeting house. There is also an opportunity to visit the Yap Living History Museum to learn about Micronesian people and their time-honored customs and culture, as well as snorkel and dive into the lagoon with its coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Ulithi
Snorkel in coral reef gardens off a truly deserted islet in a remote part of the world. Enjoy the tropical vista of white sand beaches and colorful coral reefs, home to sea turtles, coconut crabs, and birds. Visiting the Ulithi Turtle Project and the vibrant community village is also possible.
Gather in front of the Men's Meeting house, where the captain will meet with the High Chief to thank him and the village community for welcoming you to Mogmog Island. Adhering to all customary traditions, walk about the village to visit and photograph the traditional buildings and sites. Local guides will give informative talks on the Men's House and the Women's House and their traditional functions, the traditional Mogmog Turtle Platform, and the traditions, customs, and social structures of Mogmog Island. Stroll through the village market with demonstrations of traditional woven baskets and purses, handwoven lava-lava, loom-weaving demonstrations, and other wooden handicrafts.
Sorol Atoll
Sorol is a remote and rarely visited coral atoll located 122 nautical miles south of Ulithi, accompanied by a local ranger when you land on the largest of the three islands. Here, enjoy water activities and relax on an uninhabited atoll.
