Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross the Timor Sea towards Yamdena Island. Join our Expedition Team in the Bridge Deck for an insightful information session on Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as well as safety procedures and protocols while visiting Indonesia.  

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, Moluccan scrubfowl 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.

Snorkellers can take advantage of the shallow corals and clear water with easy viewing of unique corals and plentiful fishes.

We head East to nearby Saparua Island where we are welcomed by village locals. 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.

En route to Sawai Village on Seram Island, stop at Besar Island to snorkel and dive in coral reef-bound lagoons.

One of the oldest villages in the Maluku Islands, Sawai is set in the middle of the Banda Sea, with simple stilt homes over the ocean.

Stroll along the banks of Asinahu Lake, where brilliant blue ceramic tiles lead to a viewpoint overlooking Sawai Bay.

Our introduction to the beautiful natural playground of Raja Ampat is at Misool, one of the four largest islands.

Raja Ampat means ‘Four Kings’ which refers to four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool, in an archipelago comprising over 1,500 smaller islands.

There is time to swim and kayak (weather permitting) amongst the conical islands of Misool. We visit the iconic waterways of Bulbulol featuring Christmas Rocks. This vast primordial pool is dotted with dramatic limestone formations which look more like chess pieces than rocks.

Swimming and diving in these pristine waters is an undisputed highlight of your Raja Ampat adventures.

At Kofiau Island we are welcomed by village dancers from their traditional pontoon boats before leading us ashore at Deer Village (also known as Kampung Deer) where local villagers escort us through the home.

Birders have the opportunity to take a jungle walk to spot the endemic Kofiau Paradise Kingfisher before rejoining the village walk.

After lunch, you dive, snorkel and swim in the uniquely featured Boo Kecil – if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see Mantas!

Waisal, Waigeo & Piaynemo

Early morning birders will disembark the ship to spot either the Wilsons bird-of-paradise or the red bird-of-paradise; amongst other local species in a moderate 30-40 min jungle walk. Bring your headtorches as it will be dark when you disembark the Xplorer.

In the afternoon you visit the spectacular Piaynemo. Climb the 300 stairs for incredible views across turquoise waters and limestone karst formations.

More Raja Ampat treasures await today as we explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer 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 or kayaking.

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.

Connect with local villagers and take the time to learn more about their daily lives

This is dynamic day as our locations is subject to prevailing weather and tides.

Irrespective, you’ll have the opportunity to beachcombe, swim and snorkel in nearby reefs from the Xplorer or Dive the clear, calm waters and add to your lengthy list of species sighted during your voyage.