Where Reefs
Breathe Life
Sail through the heart of the Coral Triangle — the world’s most biodiverse marine region. From Cenderawasih Bay to Raja Ampat, explore reef rich shallows, calm lagoons, and limestone cathedrals sculpted by wind and water.
Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay
Swim alongside gentle whale sharks in the calm, plankton-rich waters near Kwatisore — one of the few places on Earth where encounters are almost guaranteed.
Kabui Bay Zodiac Cruise
Glide through Kabui Bay’s jungle lined waterways and the narrow Passage between Gam and Waigeo, with limestone cliffs and mushroom shaped islets rising straight from the water.
Misool Lagoons & Caves
Explore Balbulal and Yapap — a maze of limestone caverns, crystal lagoons, and coral channels bathed in shifting tropical light.
Ayu Atoll Paradise
An untouched ring of white sands and coral reefs — perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and quiet immersion in nature's calm.
Cultural Papua
Meet remote island communities whose ancient traditions and daily rhythms remain deeply tied to the sea.
Cape Kri Reef Dive
Dive or snorkel Raja Ampat’s most famous sites, where currents bring dense fish life over bright hard and soft corals.
Pulau Mansinam Dance Traditions
Experience Papuan performances on Mansinam, including the Tumbur Tanah dance from Arfak Mountain communities.
Sorong → Sorong
From
Dates
April 18 — 28, 2026
Duration
10 nights
Ship
SH Minerva
Journey to the heart of marine life, the Coral Triangle, where West Papua and Raja Ampat hold the world’s richest underwater biodiversity. This remote Indonesian archipelago is best reached by sea, with quiet lagoons, coral atolls, and jungle fringed shores. Explore the vibrant waters of Cenderawasih Bay, swim with gentle whale sharks near Kwatisore, and take in the limestone wonders of Wayag and Misool. Along the way, you will encounter missionary history, World War II remnants and be welcomed by island communities whose traditions are closely tied to the ocean and the natural world.
Sorong, Papua
Begin your journey at the gateway to the Coral Triangle, the world’s most biodiverse marine region. Visit the hilltop Sapta Ratna Pagoda and the Jembatan Puri fish market before setting sail toward the islands.
Sorong, Papua
Begin your journey at the gateway to the Coral Triangle, the world’s most biodiverse marine region. Visit the hilltop Sapta Ratna Pagoda and the Jembatan Puri fish market before setting sail toward the islands.
Expedition Highlights
An ocean expedition through Indonesia's most biodiverse waters — from Jayapura to Sorong aboard our boutique expedition ship, SH Vega.
Misool Lagoons & Caves
Explore the dreamlike lagoons and coral caverns of Misool — a hidden world of color, light, and tranquility.
Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay
Swim alongside gentle whale sharks in the calm turquoise waters of Papua's most biodiverse bay.
Kabui Bay Zodiac Cruise
Glide through Kabui Bay’s jungle lined waterways and the narrow Passage between Gam and Waigeo, with limestone cliffs and mushroom shaped islets rising straight from the water.
Expedition Highlights
An ocean expedition through Indonesia's most biodiverse waters — from Jayapura to Sorong aboard our boutique expedition ship, SH Vega.
Misool Lagoons & Caves
Explore the dreamlike lagoons and coral caverns of Misool — a hidden world of color, light, and tranquility.
Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay
Swim alongside gentle whale sharks in the calm turquoise waters of Papua's most biodiverse bay.
Kabui Bay Zodiac Cruise
Glide through Kabui Bay’s jungle lined waterways and the narrow Passage between Gam and Waigeo, with limestone cliffs and mushroom shaped islets rising straight from the water.
Expedition Itinerary
10 nights exploring Papua and Raja Ampat — from the whale-shark haven of Cenderawasih Bay to the limestone wonders of Wayag and Misool.
Day 1
Sorong, Papua
Arrive in Sorong, the gateway to the clear waters of Raja Ampat, a part of the world’s most biodiverse marine region. In town, the Sapta Ratna Pagoda stands on a hill overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats bring in their catch at the Jembatan Puri fish market.
Use the day for embarkation and final preparations, with time to get a first feel for Papua’s lively port city before heading out toward the islands.
Day 2
Pulau Numfoor
Pause at Pulau Numfoor, an oval, coral rimmed island on the northern side of Cenderawasih Bay. The interior is built from limestone and coral terraces topped by tropical forest, with coastal villages around the shore. Numfoor was a major Pacific War air base and the site of a 1944 campaign, a layer of history that still sits beneath the island’s quiet surface.
Day 3
Pulau Padaidori
A tiny uninhabited island in the Padaidori chain, with a rich, protected marine ecosystem in its calm sapphire waters. Spend the day snorkeling with schools of shimmering tropical fish, who weave among the colourful coral gardens, and enjoying time ashore.
Day 4
Pulau Roon & Auri Islands, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua
A full day split between two sides of Cenderawasih Bay, known for its rich biodiversity. In the morning, Pulau Roon brings forested hills, mangroves, and snorkeling, with a shallow wreck site where a wartime Japanese Zero aircraft lies in easy depths.
In the afternoon, the Auri islets suit quiet beach time, short walks, and birdlife, with more protected reef snorkeling. It hosts diverse fish species — butterfly fish, damselfish and clownfish — and resident whale sharks. Named after birds of paradise, Cenderawasih is a haven for these brightly plumed birds, alongside cassowaries, hornbills and endemic pigeons.
Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
includedDay 5
Kwatisore, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua
A signature day in Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia’s largest marine national park. Kwatisore is the bay's most renowned spot for close whale shark encounters. Here, the gentle giants gather beneath local fishing platforms (bagans), drawn by the catch. This unique interaction site offers rare, up-close experiences with resident whale sharks in calm, clear waters, making it a world-class destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts.
Snorkeling with Whale Shark
includedDay 6
Pulau Mansinam, Papua
Mansinam sits in Doreh Bay near West Papua's coastal capital Manokwari and is tied to the history of Christianity in Papua, linked to the arrival of German missionaries in 1855. Expect impressive local cultural presentations from ritual traditions to dances, including the most interesting Tumbur Tanah Dance from Arfak Mountain tribes.
Meet the locals at Mansinam Island
included- •Embark on a cultural journey to Mansinam Island, where traditional stilted homes and vibrant local life await.
- •Explore the history of German missionaries, whose arrival on Mansinam island in 1855 marked the beginning of Papuan civilization’s transition to the modern world.
- •Experience captivating indigenous performances, such as ritual traditions and tribal dances.
Day 7
Ayu Atoll, Raja Ampat, Papua
Once a WWII outpost, its isolation made it a key strategic base for Japanese forces. Fringed by ivory beaches and lush rainforest, and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, Ayu Atoll is a sanctuary for nesting leatherback turtles. Snorkel along the barrier fringing and ring reefs with plenty of healthy coral and reefs fish.
Snorkelling With the Expedition team
includedDay 8
Kabui Bay & Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat
Start with Zodiac cruising through Kabui Bay’s limestone waterways and the narrow channel between Gam and Waigeo, often called “the Passage”. Follow in the footsteps of naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, who travelled this route in 1860 and wrote about its scenery, which still feels like a river run through karst cliffs and mushroom shaped islands. Dive at world-class sites such as Mioskon, Blue Magic, Mayhem and the Passage.
In the afternoon, continue to Pulau Kri for snorkeling and a dive at Cape Kri. Look for manta rays, turtles, nudibranchs and vibrant corals.
Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
included
Zodiac Cruising with the Expedition Team
includedDay 9
Pulau Fam & Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat
Fam is a quieter corner of Raja Ampat, with time ashore and warm village welcomes, then back to the water for reef snorkeling. Dive on Galaxy Reef, where schooling barracuda gather over hard and soft corals, and Melissa’s Garden, a shallow coral plateau with pinnacles and a lot of small life.
In the afternoon at Mansuar, dives will focus on the reefs and jetties. Yenbuba Jetty is a clear water slope that suits easy snorkeling and underwater photos, with chances of turtles, reef sharks, and dense coral close to the jetty.
Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
includedDay 10
Pulau Misool, Balbulal Lagoon & Yapap, Raja Ampat
Misool is known for steep limestone outcrops, caves, mangroves, and bright reef shallows. Expect Zodiac cruising through karst channels, with time for snorkeling in sheltered water. Yapap and Balbulol Lagoon bring calm, glassy lagoons that are well suited to short kayak paddles between the islets, plus swimming and photography in clear turquoise shallows.
Snorkeling with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
included
Zodiac Cruise with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
included
Kayak with the Expedition Team
optionalDay 11
Sorong, Papua
Disembark in Sorong.
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition life as we take you to the furthest more remote regions of the world. The day by day plan and experiences are given as a guide with the actual itinerary depending on weather, sea conditions and guidance of the captain and expedition leader.
What's included
Transport & Accommodation
- Charter flights to the port of embarkation and disembarkation
- Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel
- One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
What's included
Transport & Accommodation
- Charter flights to the port of embarkation and disembarkation
- Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel
- One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
What our guests say
What our guests say
SH Minerva
SH Minerva
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Minerva features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Minerva has you covered.
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Minerva features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Minerva has you covered.
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
Launched in 2021
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
Launched in 2021
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Staterooms
Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.
Oceanview
20 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Balcony
25 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5 m² private balcony
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Junior Suite
32-36 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 6 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room area
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5-10 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Premium Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 8-12 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
- Walk-in wardrobe
Expedition Team
Nicki De Souza
Expedition leader
Nicki brings more than 25 years of experience in expedition cruising, along with a passion for nature, exciting new destinations, people and their cultures. Born in Bavaria, she has travelled around the globe and to all seven continents, exploring everything from the Arctic to Antarctica to the tropics and remote gems in between. Nicki is a skilled leader with a passion for nature and a gift for sharing and revealing the world's many wonders.
Conrad Weston
Plants and Ornithologist
With over 30 years of experience, he brings tropical ecology to life through his deep knowledge of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and plants. He has led birding and natural history tours across the Tropical Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia, the Indian Ocean, and beyond— offering rich insight into the ecosystems we explore.
Jacqueline Windh
Historian
Jacqueline is passionate about the early mariners who explored and settled the Pacific. A captivating speaker, she shares her knowledge of geology, anthropology, and traditional navigation both in lectures and informally—whether on a hike, over dinner, or during a zodiac cruise.
Brent Alloway
Geologist
Brent Alloway is a former professor of Quaternary earth science and volcanology at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. He is a very experienced earth scientist and he is particularly interested in landscape histories, volcanism, paleoenvironmental change and human origins. Brent worked several years as an exploration & project geologist in SE Ecuador. Though recently retired from academic teaching and responsibilities - Brent is still very much actively involved in earth science research in southern Chile and Argentina, New Zealand, western Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and United States.
Nicki De Souza
Expedition leader
Nicki brings more than 25 years of experience in expedition cruising, along with a passion for nature, exciting new destinations, people and their cultures. Born in Bavaria, she has travelled around the globe and to all seven continents, exploring everything from the Arctic to Antarctica to the tropics and remote gems in between. Nicki is a skilled leader with a passion for nature and a gift for sharing and revealing the world's many wonders.
Conrad Weston
Plants and Ornithologist
With over 30 years of experience, he brings tropical ecology to life through his deep knowledge of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and plants. He has led birding and natural history tours across the Tropical Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia, the Indian Ocean, and beyond— offering rich insight into the ecosystems we explore.
Jacqueline Windh
Historian
Jacqueline is passionate about the early mariners who explored and settled the Pacific. A captivating speaker, she shares her knowledge of geology, anthropology, and traditional navigation both in lectures and informally—whether on a hike, over dinner, or during a zodiac cruise.
Brent Alloway
Geologist
Brent Alloway is a former professor of Quaternary earth science and volcanology at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. He is a very experienced earth scientist and he is particularly interested in landscape histories, volcanism, paleoenvironmental change and human origins. Brent worked several years as an exploration & project geologist in SE Ecuador. Though recently retired from academic teaching and responsibilities - Brent is still very much actively involved in earth science research in southern Chile and Argentina, New Zealand, western Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and United States.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.