Idyllic Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay

Having made your way to Denpasar, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to ourgroup hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the welcome desk where you can collect your luggagecabin tags and speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute itemsfrom a local pharmacy or supermarket.The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.Accommodation: Bali Hotel (to be confirmed)

Denpasar is the capital city of Bali and serves as the island’s cultural and economic center. The city is known for its vibrant markets, traditional temples, and rich Balinese heritage. Visitors can explore local attractions, enjoy authentic cuisine, and experience traditional music and dance performances. Denpasar also provides easy access to Bali’s famous beaches and tourist destinations. With its blend of modern development and cultural traditions, Denpasar offers a unique and lively atmosphere for travelers.

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabinnumber. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. After breakfast at the hotel, weboard a morning charter flight to Sorong, where our vessel the Greg Mortimer awaits.Transfer to the port for embarkation. You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important briefingsbegin. Enjoy the thrill of departure as we 'throw the lines' and set sail for Cenderawasih Bay. Meet your ExpeditionTeam and crew at the Captain's Welcome Dinner.

The bustling port city of Sorong in West Papua is known as the gateway to the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat, the world's most biodiverse marine habitat, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 75 percent of the world's known coral species. In town, the Buddhist pagoda of Sapta Ratna stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats come in with their catch at the bustling Pasar Jembutan Puri fish market

Part of the secluded Su Islands, Amsterdam Island offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.Discover this little-known gem as we explore its pristine environment. Friendly locals will welcome us to the villagebeach, providing an authentic glimpse into island life. We'll learn about their customs, traditions, and the challengesand rewards of living in this remote paradise.

Cenderawasih Bay, or Bird of Paradise Bay, is a marine wonderland teeming with life. As Indonesia’s largest marinepark, Teluk Cenderawasih National Park safeguards over 14,500 square kilometres of pristine ocean, nurturing avibrant ecosystem that includes whale sharks, dugongs, dolphins, and a dazzling array of fish and coral species.Lying within Cenderawasih Bay, the Auri Islands are home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in Indonesia andan ideal place to start your water activities in West Papua. Enjoy some beachcombing, swimming, snorkelling anddiving in the clear, warm tropical waters. Enjoy Zodiac cruising to explore to the small waterfall and take a stroll atthe lagoon marshlands looking for resident wildlife at Maransabadi island.In the afternoon the ship repositions to Roon island. Dive and snorkel among the colourful shallow reefs inNumamuran Strait, where the jungle meets the reef, and where we search for branching corals, boulder coralcolonies, and cushion stars. Paddlers may glimpse dugongs—relatives of manatees that graze on seagrass. At thesouthern end of Roon Island, divers and snorkellers might see Hawksbill and green turtles, barracuda andsurgeonfish, and where a Japanese Zero fighter aircraft, a relic from World War II rests on a shallow coral slope.

Discover the magic of Cenderawasih Bay, a secluded paradise renowned for its extraordinary marine life. Here, youhave an unparalleled opportunity to swim alongside gentle giant whale sharks in their natural habitat. It's crucial toremember that whale sharks are protected species. Your expedition will adhere to strict guidelines to ensureminimal disturbance to these magnificent animals. By observing these guidelines and maintaining a respectfuldistance, you can contribute to their conservation while enjoying an unforgettable encounter. While sightings arenever guaranteed, the chance to encounter these majestic creatures in such pristine waters is truly unforgettable.The experience of sharing the ocean with such an extraordinary creature is a privilege that will stay with you longafter your journey ends.Beyond the ocean's depths, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of West Papuan culture with a visit to Kwatisorevillage. Our expert team will introduce you to the unique customs, traditions, and way of life of this fascinatingcommunity. You'll be captivated by their distinct dances, adornments, and music, a stark contrast to the familiarrhythms of Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands. Experience the thrill of a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter and adeep cultural immersion in this remote corner of Indonesia.

Pulau Num and Palau Swande are two pristine islands nestled within Cenderawasih Bay, offering unparalleledopportunities for water activities. Here, kayakers can paddle through serene lagoons surrounded by lush mangroveforests and divers can embark on an adventure to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. Encounter schools ofcolourful fish, graceful sea turtles, and even majestic manta rays. Discover the magic of the underwater world inPulau Num, home to a myriad of marine creatures including clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and the impressiveNapoleon wrasse. For a truly unforgettable experience, keep an eye out for sharks, as several species inhabit thewaters of Cenderawasih Bay. Palau Swande is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting a diverse range of avian species.Encounter the iconic birds-of-paradise with their elaborate plumage, vibrant eclectus parrots, elusive cuscus, and theimpressive cassowary.

A ship is said to be at sea when it is sailing on the ocean away from land. Life at sea can be exciting as sailors travel across vast waters. They may experience calm days, strong winds, and large waves. Ships at sea carry passengers and goods between countries. Being at sea requires skill, teamwork, and careful navigation.

The Raja Ampat Islands are a breathtaking archipelago located off the northwest tip of West Papua, Indonesia. Comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals, this region is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular marine environments on Ear. At the heart of Raja Ampat’s appeal is its extraordinary biodiversity. Situated within the Coral Triangle, it boasts the highest recorded marine diversity in the world, with vibrant coral reefs, thousands of fish species, manta rays, sea turtles, and reef sharks thriving in its crystal-clear waters. The landscape above water is equally dramatic, featuring towering limestone karst islands, hidden lagoons, dense jungles, and pristine white-sand beaches. Iconic viewpoints, such as those overlooking clusters of emerald islets rising from turquoise seas, create some of Southeast Asia’s most famous природal panoramas. The region includes major islands like Misool, Waigeo, Batanta, and Salawati, each offering unique ecosystems and experiences. Despite its global reputation among divers, Raja Ampat remains relatively remote and carefully protected, helping preserve its fragile ecosystems and traditional island communities.

During the early morning, we cruise back into Sorong. Farewell your Expedition Team upon disembarkation andtransfer to the airport for our charter flight back to Denpasar, Bali.Note: the arrival time in Bali is contingent on the approved allocated slot for our charter flight to and from Sorong,which we expect to receive in February 2025.

The bustling port city of Sorong in West Papua is known as the gateway to the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat, the world's most biodiverse marine habitat, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 75 percent of the world's known coral species. In town, the Buddhist pagoda of Sapta Ratna stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats come in with their catch at the bustling Pasar Jembutan Puri fish market