All-inclusive expedition

Raja Ampat & Spice Islands

18-Night Small-Ship Expedition Voyage from Darwin

This deal expires on 30th Nov 2024
  • 10 Feb ‘26
  • 18 nights
Price From $19,390*/pp

*Based on Oceanview Stateroom.

Upgrade to:
Balcony Stateroom an extra $10,530
Suite from an extra $20,230

What's Included

The rich history and diverse marine life of Raja Ampat and Spice Islands are brought to life on this 18-night voyage.

Aboard Coral Geographer retrace the ancient trade routes of spice merchants trading Chinese silks for cloves, Indian cotton for nutmeg and Arabian coffee for pepper. Explore some of the hundreds of rarely visited islands of Raja Ampat whose waters harbour over 75% of the world’s coral and fish species. At Cenderawasih Bay, swim with the gentle whale sharks – the largest living non-mammalian vertebrate – in what guests describe as a ‘once in a lifetime experience.’ Walk through vibrant village markets. Experience a traditional welcome at Banda Neira where our ship is serenaded by kora kora canoes. Enjoy the view over sunset drinks at 17th century Dutch Fort Belgica. Climb atop Mount Pindito to marvel at one of the world’s most photographed marine scenes: the jagged green limestone cliffs and crystal clear water of Wayag.

YOUR PACKAGE INLCUDES:

⚓ 18-Night small-ship expedition voyage on Coral Geographer, Darwin to Sorong
⚓ Hosted 2 hour and 30 minute charter flight from Sorong to Darwin
⚓ Indulge with three days in spectacular Raja Ampat, the famed ‘Four Kings’ archipelago
⚓ Swim in the turquoise waters of Yapap natural pool
⚓ Discover Wayag’s ‘gumdrop’ islands and be rewarded by the view from Pindito Peak
⚓ Swim with the gentle and majestic whale sharks at Cenderawasih Bay, the world’s largest fish
⚓ Be welcomed to Banda Neira by the exciting spectacle of the traditional Kora Kora canoes
⚓ Explore the ancient kingdoms fought over by English, Dutch, and Portuguese explorers
⚓ Learn the customs & cultures of West Papua and Indonesia, and experience local culture, including traditional dances, handicrafts and fresh local food
⚓ All excursions with the Expedition Team
⚓ Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
⚓ Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
⚓ All meals, chef-prepared on board
⚓ Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
⚓ Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
⚓ 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
⚓ All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities, Tips & Gratuities
⚓ Expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
⚓ Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging

Cruiseabout also offers this package on the below dates, pricing and availability will vary:

⚓ 11 February 2025, Sorong to Darwin – Balcony & Bridge Deck Staterooms only
⚓ 6 September 2025, Darwin to Sorong – Promenade Deck, Balcony & Bridge Deck Staterooms only
⚓ 28 February 2026, Sorong to Darwin
⚓ 7 March 2026, Sorong to Darwin on Coral Adventurer

YOUR ITINERARY

Date
Port
Info
Arrive
Depart
Day 1
10th Feb 2026
Darwin

Board at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 6:30am for 8:00a ...

Board at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 6:30am for 8:00am departure. Spend the afternoon becoming acquainted with all the facilities onboard as we cruise northwards towards the Spice Islands. As dusk falls, join your fellow travellers at the Captain’s Welcome this afternoon, while your Expedition Team shares the extraordinary things you will encounter on your voyage.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations visited and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition Coral Expeditions may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.

Arrive
Depart
Day 2
11th Feb 2026
Crossing the Timor Sea

Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross the Timor Sea towards ...

Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross the Timor Sea towards Saumlaki. Join our Expedition Team in the Lounge for an insightful information session on Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as well as safety procedures and protocols while visiting Indonesia. After dinner, a movie or documentary will be featured.

Arrive
Depart
Day 3
12th Feb 2026
Yamdena Island - Spice Islands, Indonesia

Sangliat Dol is a peaceful traditional village in the T ...

Sangliat Dol is a peaceful traditional village in the Tanimbar Islands of Maluku, the centre of the ancient “boat” culture of Maluku. Here boats were built to symbolize the arrival from sea of the original inhabitants of Maluku. Sangliat Dol village is one of few villages were the giant stone boat and the culture associated with it remains intact today.

This afternoon after lunch onboard we will take a coach ride from the port of Saumlaki towards Sangliat Dol, passing verdant fields and plantations. We will be greeted by Village Elders and be taken into the heart of the village where the megalithic structure is located. Here the village structure still follows the organization of the original inhabitants. The village head is seen as the Captain or Master “steering” the direction of the village. Many other positions of the village basically translate as “helmsman”, “harpooner”, “bailer boy” and other boat related titles.

Arrive
Depart
Day 4
13th Feb 2026
Banda Neira - Spice Islands, Indonesia

The Banda archipelago is the historic heart of the spice trade ...

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 as 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.

The Banda Islands are lushly vegetated with tropical flora including the Myristica Tree (nutmeg) while the Banda Sea’s underwater lava flow reefs are popular for scuba diving and snorkelling.

On our approach to Banda Neira, witness the outline of Gunung Api volcano with its thin plume of smoke often rising from the summit. Admire the photo-worthy spectacle of Moluccan paddlers propelling kora kora canoes with their elaborately carved figureheads.

Snorkel and dive over the nearby lava flow reef system or explore ashore and enjoy local tea and snacks on the waterfront.

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 pentagonal shaped fort is extremely well preserved and provides an interesting insight into Dutch colonisation. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of sparkling wine as the sun sets over the fort.

Arrive
Depart
Day 5
14th Feb 2026
Banda Neira - Spice Islands, Indonesia

This morning, choose to explore the streets of Banda Neira o ...

This morning, choose to explore the streets of Banda Neira on a guided tour, spotting colourful local houses and meeting friendly children before visiting a local nutmeg plantation to gain a fascinating insight into the spice that started it all. Alternatively, snorkelling over the nearby lava flow system will reward with spectacular colourful coral and fish species. You may spot Dogtooth tuna, mobula rays, or some of the largest population of Napoleon Wrasse in Indonesia. After lunch we farewell Banda Neira.

Arrive
Depart
Day 6
15th Feb 2026
Molana Island - Spice Islands, Indonesia

We start the day arriving early at Molana Island whose hi ...

We start the day arriving early at Molana Island whose history stretches back to the Portuguese colonial era. This uninhabited private island is home to 85 species of trees, Pacific Monitor Lizards (Varanus Indicus), Moluccan Scrubfowl (Megapodius Reinwardtii) and Coconut Crabs. The island still contains the ruins of a hospital built by the Dutch, whose construction was interrupted by the Japanese occupation in World War II. Snorkelers can take advantage of the shallow corals and clear water with easy viewing of unique corals and plentiful fishes. Experienced divers may see an underwater cave that is connected to a well in the centre of the island.

Arrive
Depart
Day 7
16th Feb 2026
Sapura Island - Spice Islands, Indonesia

We head East to nearby Saparua Island where we are ...

We head East to nearby Saparua Island where we are welcomed by singing school children. The area holds an important spot in history books which we learn at Fort Duurstede, a 17th- century Dutch fort with a complicated backstory that spans centuries. Here men and boys give us their war dance with shields, swords, and cultural adornment. This is a location of cultural immersion and learning.

Arrive
Depart
Day 8
17th Feb 2026
Sawai - Spice Islands, Indonesia

In the middle of the Banda Sea, Sawai village is on Seram I ...

In the middle of the Banda Sea, Sawai village is on Seram Island and is one of the oldest villages in the Maluku Islands. The village is in a beautiful setting with simple homes built on stilts over the ocean. We will spend the day immersed in the crystal-clear waters and snorkelling over reefs.

This is our final stop in the Spice Islands as we make our way to the natural playground of Raja Ampat.

Arrive
Depart
Day 9
18th Feb 2026
Misool - Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Our introduction to the beautiful natural playground o ...

Our introduction to the beautiful natural playground of Raja Ampat is at Misool, one of the four largest islands. Raja Ampat means the ‘Four Kings’ which refers to four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool, in an archipelago comprising over 1,500 smaller islands.

At Misool we visit Balbulol Lagoon, an almost landlocked inlet populated with conical-shaped islets undercut at sea level that rise from turquoise waters like Christmas Trees. There is time to swim and kayak amongst the islands in this beautiful lagoon.

We visit another similarly spectacular waterway at Yapap, considered one of the best natural pools in the world. This vast primordial pool is dotted with dramatic limestone formations which look more like chess pieces than rocks. The turquoise Yapap sea has such clarity that grains of sand and coral reefs on the seabed are visible from the surface. We also visit heart-shaped Dafalen Love Lake which can be viewed from up high with a climb to the summit of nearby cliffs. Swimming and diving in these pristine waters is an undisputed highlight of our Raja Ampat adventures.

Arrive
Depart
Day 10
19th Feb 2026
Kofiau Island - Raja Ampat, Indonesia

At Kofiau Island we are welcomed by village dancers from t ...

At Kofiau Island we are welcomed by village dancers from their traditional boats before leading us ashore at Deer Village (also known as Kampung Deer). Local guides show us through their village before we board a local longboat which takes us to another village, Kampung Awat. Here we enjoy a traditional Sasi Opening Ceremony and a barbeque on the beach. Sasi is a traditional ceremony to preserve the ecosystem and effectively limits the catch of particular marine species during a designated period. After lunch, we snorkel and swim in the ocean and pay visit to more vibrant villages.

Arrive
Depart
Day 11
20th Feb 2026
Wayag Island - Raja Ampat, Indonesia

More Raja Ampat treasures await today as we explore the ma ...

More Raja Ampat treasures await today as we explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer and Zodiac boats with time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk upon white-sand beaches amongst the many islands.

After lunch, there is an opportunity for an energetic hike up to famed Pindito Peak, with hikers rewarded by panoramic views over the island and its spectacular lagoon. Alternatively, you can choose to relax by swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or a guided glass bottom boat tour.

Arrive
Depart
Day 12
21st Feb 2026
Amsterdam Island, Indonesia

Part of the Su Islands (Mios Su) group, a cluster of smal ...

Part of the Su Islands (Mios Su) group, a cluster of small islands off the northern coast of Western New Guinea, today we visit the little-known Amsterdam Island. Enjoy the opportunity to explore your very first West Papuan Village with local guides and cultural welcome performance. There is also opportunity to enjoy beachcombing and swim.

Arrive
Depart
Day 13
22nd Feb 2026
Roon or Auri Island, Indonesia

Depending on the weather and conditions, today we will enjoy ...

Depending on the weather and conditions, today we will enjoy either Roon Island or Auri Island.

One of the highlights of Roon Island is the wreckage of a Japanese Zero fighter plane lying in shallow water and is visible to snorkellers when the weather co-operates. The wreck has become a marine habitat and sports large corals, gorgonian fans as well as large populations of lionfish, surgeonfish, and turtles amongst other marine life.

To reach Auri Island, we will navigate through picturesque island scenery before enjoying beach activities, swimming, and snorkelling in this striking location.

Arrive
Depart
Day 14
23rd Feb 2026
Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia

Cenderawasih Bay (translates to Bird of Paradise Bay), host ...

Cenderawasih Bay (translates to Bird of Paradise Bay), hosts an incredible array of marine biodiversity. The largest marine park in Indonesia, Teluk Cenderawasih National Park protects a rich marine ecosystem, and covers an area of more than 14,500 square kilometres and is home to whale sharks, dugongs, dolphins as well as over 200 known species of fish and 150 species of coral.

Cenderawasih Bay is one of the few places worldwide where it’s possible to swim with this endangered species. There is no guarantee that whale sharks will materialise on cue – if they do, we may have the chance to snorkel amongst them. Eyeballing these enormous fish, which are completely harmless and can grow to the length of a bus, is an experience you won’t forget!

Arrive
Depart
Day 15
24th Feb 2026
Kwatisore Village, Indonesia

Visit Kwatisore village with local guides and learn a ...

Visit Kwatisore village with local guides and learn about West Papuan customs, cultures and the traditional lifestyles of the people. You will notice the difference in dancing, adornment and musical instruments of the West Papuan people in comparison to customs and culture of earlier islands visited in Raja Ampat and Spice Islands.

Arrive
Depart
Day 16
25th Feb 2026
Swande Island, Indonesia

An expeditionary stop for Coral Expeditions, Swande is an ...

An expeditionary stop for Coral Expeditions, Swande is an island of the Yapen Islands group, in north-eastern Indonesia. Here we will have more time to visit traditional fishing villages on stilts and explore the waterways and lagoons, with time to swim, snorkel and a dive.

Arrive
Depart
Day 17
26th Feb 2026
Manokwari, Indonesia

Manokwari, the capital of West Papua, is located r ...

Manokwari, the capital of West Papua, is located right on the bird’s head on the island of Papua, surrounded by lush rolling hills and nearby to the Arfak Mountains. There are over twenty-four different tribal groups living in Manokwari, each with its own unique language and culture.

Today, guests can choose from three expeditions.

Those with a keen interest in birding and wildlife may choose to travel into the Arfak Mountains to the Pegunungan Arfak Nature Reserve and enjoy the rare opportunity of exploring the higher elevations and misty tropical rainforests. Here we hope to see many endemic plants, animals and birds including cuscus possum, lesser birds of paradise, common paradise kingfisher, magnificent riflebird as well as king bird of paradise among the region’s 320 bird species.

Alternatively, you can choose to join a guided city tour of Manokwari and free time to explore this coastal town, the capital of the Indonesian provide of West Papua. Or visit Mansinam island – a religious island where guests can learn of the history and significance of the island and participate in snorkelling and diving WWII wrecks.

Arrive
Depart
Day 18
27th Feb 2026
Manokwari, Indonesia

Spend the day exploring Manokwari

...

Spend the day exploring Manokwari

Arrive
Depart
Day 19
28th Feb 2026
Sorong

After an early morning arrival into Sorong at 6:00 ...

After an early morning arrival into Sorong at 6:00am, disembark to visit the township of Sorong before your 12:00 noon charter flight to Darwin.

Arrive
Depart

Important Notice

The following product terms and conditions apply in addition to our Booking Terms and Conditions (available on our website) and terms and conditions of the relevant travel service provider. Prices quoted are valid for sale until 30 November 2024 for travel during the period specified (if applicable) unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. All prices are per person, twin share (unless otherwise stated), subject to availability and may be withdrawn or varied without notice. Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated. Airfares require full payment in order to ticket. Air value (if applicable) will be added as a discount to the balance remaining on the package after airfares are booked and paid in full. Cruiseabout holiday credit (if applicable) may be used towards air, accommodation, touring or onboard experiences and will be applied as a discount to the holiday at time of final payment. Holiday credits may not be used towards any deposit amounts. Components of the total price including local payments, “resort fees”, “national park fees”, “trip kitties” and food funds (if applicable) may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel consultant prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted. Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated. Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at the time of publication. Additional supplier conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or by BPAY. Payments made in store by credit card will incur a surcharge (see Booking Terms and Conditions for further details). Prices quoted are accurate as of 30 October 2024 and may be higher depending on date of purchase and date of travel. Cruiseabout cannot guarantee that any particular product will still be available at the following prices, or for your exact dates of travel.  At the time of making your booking, prices may differ to the price displayed on the website.  Please contact your Cruiseabout Travel Advisor to obtain the latest up to date information regarding applicable prices, fees and charges, taxes, availability, blackout dates (such as school holidays), seasonal surcharges and other terms and conditions which may apply. View our full Terms and Conditions. 

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