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Peregrine Travel Centre

Raja Ampat and Philippines: The Last Paradise on Earth

Raja Ampat and Philippines: The Last Paradise on Earth

From AUD $14,775

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Description

Embark on a rare expedition cruise with Swan Hellenic, sailing from the pristine, reef-fringed islands of Raja Ampat to the vibrant capital of Manila in the Philippines. This unique voyage reveals the cultural and ecological treasures of Southeast Asia, offering a fresh perspective on one of the world’s most biodiverse and captivating regions. Created for curious and adventurous travelers, the journey blends quiet luxury with meaningful exploration across a stunning mosaic of remote islands and reefs. You’ll discover the iconic karst landscapes in Kabui Bay and world-class marine life of Pulau Mansuar in Raja Ampat, before continuing through the central Philippines with stops at Casulian Island and Bohol. Sail through turquoise waters and lush tropical scenery, encountering exceptional biodiversity both above and below the surface.

Trip Name
Raja Ampat and Philippines: The Last Paradise on Earth
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 115 meters Passenger Capacity: 158 Built: 2020-2021 The SH Minerva is a boutique expedition ship purpose-built for exploring far-flung destinations and remote polar regions in comfort and style. Crafted at Finland’s esteemed Helsinki Shipyard, she features a Polar Class PC5 ice-strengthened hull and advanced stabilisers, ensuring smooth sailing even in challenging waters. With just 158 guests served by 122 crew across nine decks, the atmosphere on board is intimate and welcoming. Elegant Scandinavian-inspired interiors, panoramic observation spaces, and a range of facilities – from the stargazing deck and library to the spa, heated outdoor pool, and fine dining venues – make every moment at sea a pleasure. Accommodation ranges from well-appointed oceanview staterooms to spacious premium suites, each offering thoughtful touches such as a flame-effect fireplace, Illy espresso machine, luxury toiletries, and complimentary binoculars for wildlife spotting. Many feature private balconies for uninterrupted views of the passing scenery. Attentive crew provide a warm, personalised service, ensuring that every guest feels at home while enjoying a journey that blends adventure with refined comfort. Whether navigating icy channels or gliding into sunlit harbours, the SH Minerva offers an unforgettable cruising experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Days 0 - 1. Pre Cruise & Sorong, Papua
Charter flights to the port of embarkation/disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk, Honiara, Jayapura and Sorong)One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply)Arrive in Sorong in the early morning for disembarkation, with the reefs and islands of Raja Ampat still fresh in mind. Take a last look at the water and the jungle edged coastline as you step ashore, then continue onward with the sense of having reached one of the most biodiverse corners of the planet
Day 2 - Day 2 Kabui Bay, Waigeo Island, 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
Day 3 - Day 2. Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat
Pulau Mansuar is a long, narrow island crowned by a high limestone ridge and blanketed in dense tropical jungle. The surrounding reefs link Mansuar to neighboring Kri, and several small villages line the northern coast. In traditional palm-leaf-roof homes, just over a hundred residents live a measured, sea-and-forest rhythm of daily life. A walk across the island can take you to the salt lake Telaga Yenauiyau, a perfect place to enjoy a fresh coconut and listen to the jungle. Keep an eye out for the impressive coconut crab among the palms, and snorkelers will love the underwater world, where hundreds of colorful fish swirl above the corals. Those who wish can also go diving at Yenbuda Jetty
Day 4 - Day 3. Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat
Pulau Penemu is one of Raja Ampat’s most striking landscapes, with towering limestone pinnacles rising straight from the water. Piaynemo peak is the signature viewpoint here. A short hike takes you up to the top for wide views over lagoons and limestone islets. Just offshore, the Piaynemo Geosite is also one of the area’s best known snorkeling and diving zones, with dense coral diversity in the surrounding reefs and abundant fish life. Two dives are scheduled today, Melissa’s Garden, a coral rich plateau with three pinnacles and frequent macro life, and Batu Rufas, a drift along an island wall with swim throughs, fusilier schools, and regular turtle and shark sightings
Day 5 - Day 3. Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat
The Fam Islands form a small cluster of islets in the Raja Ampat Geopark, with Pulau Pam as the inhabited centre. Three villages sit near hidden lakes, one where crocodiles are known to live. The local community produces high quality virgin coconut oil, supporting both livelihoods and cultural traditions. Fascinating and seldom visited, this stop allows time to explore a cultural village, experience the warm hospitality of local communities, and see daily island life up close. Fam’s reefs are among the most pristine in the region, with rich coral gardens and marine life that can include reef sharks, ribbon eels, turtles, schooling fusiliers, and manta cleaning stations
Day 6 - Day 4. Pulau Kri, Raja Ampat
Later, you head to Pulau Kri, one of Raja Ampat’s most important hubs of marine biodiversity. At Cape Kri, known for exceptionally high fish diversity, you’ll snorkel with the guidance of the expedition team. In these waters, you may encounter manta rays, sea turtles, mollusks, reef fish, and brilliant corals in every direction
Day 7 - Day 4. Sorong, Papua
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
Day 8 - Days 7-8. Days at sea
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers
Day 9 - Day 7. Casulian Island
Casulian Island (or Corregidor Island) lies off Siargao's southern coast. Rolling palm-covered hills lead to a summit with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Pristine white-sand beaches and secluded turquoise coves ring the shoreline, while vibrant coral reefs thrive in the surrounding waters. Visitors flock here to hike the scenic hilltop trails and snorkel among the colourful marine life, making it one of Siargao's most sought-after destinations
Day 10 - Day 8. Pintuyan, Panaon Island & Day-Asan, Surigao
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Day 11 - Day 9. Bohol Island, Baclayon
After crossing the Bohol Sea, you arrive at tiny Balicasag Island, about six kilometres southwest of Panglao. The sea drops away into deep submarine cliffs. Soft and hard corals surround the reef, with multicoloured shoals moving through the water. Afterwards, head to Tagbilaran, a gateway to Bohol’s jungly interior. Tarsiers live here, nocturnal primates less than 16 cm tall with disproportionately large eyes. These adorable animals can be seen at the conservation centre and sanctuary. Bohol is also famous for the Chocolate Hills, a striking quirk of geology
Day 12 - Day 10. Cuatro Islas, Digyo Island
Tucked away in Western Leyte, the Cuatro Islas are a serene tropical escape, offering a distinct charm on each of the four islands. Apid, the most populated, offers a cultural touch with its fishing community and traditional mat weaving. Digyo is the smallest, known for its stunning sandbars and quiet beauty. Mahaba features a long beach, marine sanctuary, and sea turtles, while Himokilan enchants with a curving sandbar and a hidden tidal pool
Day 13 - Day 11. Marinduque Island, LayLay Port
Marinduque, a peaceful island in the heart of the Philippines, is known for rolling hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant traditions. Small fishing villages welcome visitors and preserve time-honored crafts and festivals, including the famous Moriones Festival. Surrounding waters host rich coral reefs and diverse marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Inland, verdant forests and hidden waterfalls offer quiet exploration, blending natural beauty and cultural heritage in a serene island escape.
Day 14 - Day 12. Manila
Arrive in Manila today. The capital of the Philippines is a teeming, sprawling metropolis. Its flaws are no match for its creative, exciting energy, which infused everything from its art to food. There’s so much to see and do here: the city’s museums, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church and the Chinese Cemetery are some of the highlights. Intramuros – the old Spanish walled town at the heart of the city – is unmissable. Explore if timings allow and be sure to sample some Filipino cuisine in all its bold sour, sweet and tangy glory. Alternatively, head straight to your home for the next several days. After a seamless check-in, settle into your cabin or stateroom and take time to explore your ship’s luxurious facilitiesGroup return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)
Day 15 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Oceanview D4
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Oceanview M4
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Balcony D5
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Balcony M5
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Balcony D6
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Suite
06-05-202718-05-2027AUD $0Premium Suite
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Balcony M5
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Balcony D6
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Suite
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Premium Suite
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Oceanview D4
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Oceanview M4
28-05-202709-06-2027AUD $0Balcony D5

Inclusions

    • Natural walk
    • Enjoy guided walks along island trails and coastal paths, with plenty of time to pause for scenic views, wildlife watching, and photography.
    • Expert-led Talks
    • Gain deeper insight into this remote Asian region through engaging talks from our onboard team of experts.
    • Meet the Tribes of the Pacific
    • Immerse yourself in fascinating indigenous performances, including traditional rituals and dances, visit tribal villages, and browse unique handicrafts.
    • Snorkeling & Diving
    • Discover crystal-clear, warm waters teeming with colorful coral gardens, attracting reef fish, rays, and occasionally reef sharks.

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