Jewels of Raja Ampat aboard Katharina

You will be greeted by your tour leader at Sorong airport (or hotel) in the morning and taken to the boat. After settling into life on board, we set sail towards the southern reaches of Raja Ampat National Park. Following lunch on deck, there will be an opportunity for a first swim and snorkel among the region’s vibrant coral reefs before we continue cruising south through the archipelago. As the sun sets over the islands, enjoy evening drinks on deck while the vessel cruises overnight towards the next stage of the journey. NB* Due to the unpredictability of flight schedules it is essential to arrive in Sorong the day before departure. Ask us about pre-tour accommodation options.

Meals:  L,D

This morning we arrive in the eastern reaches of the Misool Archipelago, a striking landscape of limestone islands draped in dense rainforest and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Throughout the day, explore secluded bays, hidden inlets and white-sand beaches with opportunities for snorkelling, swimming and short island walks. Kayaks and paddle boards are also available for those wanting to experience the coastline from the water. After a day of exploration, we spend the evening anchored in a quiet bay beneath the stars.

Meals:  B,L,D

Wake to sunrise over the eastern islands of the Misool Archipelago before setting out by tender to explore this remote and richly scenic region. Today’s discoveries include a visit to one of Raja Ampat’s remarkable jellyfish lakes, where thousands of harmless jellyfish drift beneath the surface in a truly unique natural environment. Later, explore hidden sea caves and ancient cultural sites featuring prehistoric rock art believed to date back several thousand years, with depictions of handprints, human figures and marine life offering a glimpse into the region’s early history.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we rise early for a forest walk in search of the Lesser Birds of Paradise, renowned for their elaborate displays performed high in the rainforest canopy. Later, we return to the water to snorkel along vibrant coral reefs where schools of fish gather in the deeper channels and colourful sea fans extend from the reef walls. In the late afternoon, we continue sailing towards Batanta Island, enjoying sunset views across the islands as we cruise through Raja Ampat.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we explore Batanta Island, where dense rainforest and freshwater streams provide a different perspective on Raja Ampat’s landscapes. Accompanied by local guides, we walk from a village through the forest to a series of waterfalls, with opportunities to swim beneath the cascades and continue further upriver for those seeking a more active trek. Returning to the vessel for lunch, we spend the afternoon snorkelling or exploring the coastline by kayak and paddle board before cruising north overnight towards the next island group.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we explore a cluster of small islands fringed by pristine coral reefs, with opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking or simply relaxing on the beach.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we explore a small cluster of limestone islands scattered with hidden coves and vibrant coral reefs. After breakfast, we go ashore for a short walk to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding archipelago before returning to the water for snorkelling among the reefs below. During lunch, we sail towards a small island between Gam and Mansuar, where nutrient-rich currents attract abundant marine life. The area’s renowned jetties offer exceptional snorkelling, with schools of fish, blacktip reef sharks, spadefish and giant clams commonly seen beneath the surface.

Meals:  B,L,D

Central Raja Ampat is home to some of the region’s most remarkable underwater environments, and today we explore several of its standout reef systems. We begin with snorkelling at Yenuba, including the celebrated “Fishbowl” reef and jetty, where dense marine life and an impressive diversity of coral species thrive in the clear waters. In the afternoon, we visit a local village on Mansuar Island, where the community supports sustainability initiatives through education programs, solar-powered lighting and responsible fishing practices. Later, we continue to Yenbesir village to see a replica of Alfred Russel Wallace’s jungle hut, constructed by local villagers using traditional materials. Reached via a narrow mangrove channel, the surrounding area also offers opportunities to spot hornbills, cockatoos and other birdlife.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we set out before dawn for a guided walk into the rainforest in search of the remarkable Red Bird of Paradise. Arriving at the viewing site at first light offers the best chance to witness the birds’ elaborate courtship displays high in the canopy, a true David Attenborough moment in one of the world’s great wilderness regions. Later, we return to the water for snorkelling along the renowned reef wall off eastern Gam Island before cruising overnight towards the islands near Sorong.

Meals:  B,L,D

We will wake up anchored in Sorong and have one last hearty breakfast on board then bid farewell to the ship and her crew. Our tenders will take you ashore for your transfer to the airport for your onward travel.

Meals:  B