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Peregrine Travel Centre

Raja Ampat and Philippines Cruise: the Last Paradise on Earth

Raja Ampat and Philippines Cruise: the Last Paradise on Earth

From AUD $14,550

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Description

Embark on a rare and enriching small-ship expedition cruise with Swan Hellenic, sailing from the remote reef-fringed islands of Raja Ampat to the southern Philippines, ending in the vibrant capital of Manila. This unique journey uncovers the cultural and ecological treasures of Southeast Asia, offering a fresh outlook on one of the world’s most biodiverse and captivating regions.
Created for adventurous spirits and sea lovers, this voyage combines quiet luxury and exploration across a diverse tapestry of islands, reefs, and coastal villages. Sail through a stunning mosaic of tropical scenery — from the surreal limestone karsts of Misool to the pristine atolls of Ayu and the coral sanctuaries of the Philippine archipelago. Find secluded white-sand beaches perfect for snorkeling and swimming, explore warm waters where gentle whale sharks swim, and immerse yourself in lively island cultures shaped by centuries of seafaring tradition. Along the way, enjoy expert-led excursions that unveil the region’s hidden gems and connect you with its natural rhythm.
With May marking the end of the dry season, this is the perfect time to experience Southeast Asia’s vibrant beauty — lush, humid, and bursting with color and life. Whether you’re drawn by stunning scenery, rare marine encounters, or authentic cultural experiences, Swan Hellenic’s expedition from Raja Ampat to the Philippines offers a truly unforgettable cruise. Discover the wild spirit of the tropics with the comfort, elegance, and curiosity-driven approach that define every Swan Hellenic voyage.

Trip Name
Raja Ampat and Philippines Cruise: 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 and 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 2 - Day 2 Ayu Atoll, Raja Ampat, Papua
Pulau Ayu, the main island in the Ayu Atoll, is a remote jewel of Raja Ampat. Fringed by ivory beaches and lush rainforest, and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, it’s a sanctuary for nesting leatherback turtles. Beneath its clear waters, tropical marine life flourishes, while the villages of Ayu and Imbik Kuan welcome visitors with warm Papuan hospitality. Once a WWII outpost, its isolation made it a key strategic base for Japanese forces.
Day 3 - Day 3 Pulau Penemu, Raja Ampat
Pulau Penemu, or Piaynemo Island, is the main island of the Fam Islands archipelago. Famous for its panoramic viewpoint reached via 300 wooden steps, it offers views over karst islets at Hidden Bay and a star-shaped lagoon. The largely uninhabited island features diverse landscapes like rolling hills, limestone cliffs and karst formations like Pencil Rock. Vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life are perfect for snorkelling.
Day 4 - Day 3 Pulau Fam, Raja Ampat
Within the vast Raja Ampat Geopark, the Fam Islands comprise several small islets and four main islands, Fam, Penemu, Inus and Yar, in the Dampier Strait. The inhabited centrepiece is Pulau Pam (Fam Island), where three villages thrive alongside three hidden lakes, one known for its resident crocodiles. The local community proudly creates high-quality virgin coconut oil, contributing to their economy and preserving cultural heritage.
Day 5 - Day 4 Pulau Mansuar, Raja Ampat
Pulau Mansuar is a long, high ridge of limestone covered in jungle, fringed by rich coral reefs that connect it to nearby Kri Island. Three villages line its northern coast, while a fourth village sits midway along the southern shore. The island is home to just over 100 people living in traditional houses with leaf roofs.
Day 6 - Day 5-6 Day 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 7 - 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 8 - Day 8 Bohol Island, Loay
Having sailed across the Bohol Sea, you’ll arrive today at tiny Balicasag Island, which is located about six kilometres southwest of Panglao. Circled by a reef that has been declared a marine sanctuary, it’s one of the most popular diving spots in the Philippines. The sea here drops away to impressively deep submarine cliffs. Soft and hard corals can be found around the drop-offs, as well as sublime multicoloured shoals. Afterwards, head to the city of Tagbilaran, a gateway to Bohol’s jungly interior. Home of (arguably) the world’s cutest animal, tarsiers – nocturnal primates less than 16 centimetres high that have distinctive bulbous eyes – live in Bohol and can be seen at its conservation centre and sanctuary. Bohol is also famous for its Chocolate Hills, a quirk of geology that must be seen.
Day 9 - Day 9 Cuatro Islas
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 10 - Day 10 Romblon Island
Romblon Island is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for tranquillity. Bon Bon Beach exemplifies this with its beautiful sandbar and few visitors. Crystalline waters offer excellent snorkeling amid vibrant coral gardens teeming with angelfish, parrotfish and clownfish. Above Romblon town centre stands Fort San Andres, a centuries-old fortress from the Spanish colonial era, offering stunning ocean views.
Day 11 - Day 11 LayLay Port, Marinduque Island
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 12 - 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 facilities.
Day 13 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 
Day 14 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $14,550Oceanview D4
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $15,275Balcony D5
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $15,275Oceanview M4
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $18,200Balcony M5
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $25,475Suite
27-04-202609-05-2026AUD $29,100Premium Suite

Inclusions

    • Sail past Misool’s karsts, Ayu’s atolls, and Palawan’s white-sand beaches.
    • Encounter gentle whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay and connect with island communities rooted in centuries of seafaring tradition
    • Snorkel vibrant coral reefs and explore lively coastal villages on expert-led excursions

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