Raja Ampat: Between Reef & Rainforest

DAY 1 – Welcome to Raja Ampat

Your journey begins in Sorong, gateway to the islands of Raja Ampat.

After meeting your guides and fellow travellers, we board our traditional Indonesian sailing vessel and settle into life at sea. As we sail south through scattered islands and turquoise waters, the pace of daily life begins to soften almost immediately.

In the afternoon, we enjoy our very first snorkel above vibrant coral reefs, a first glimpse into the extraordinary underwater world Raja Ampat is famous for.

Overnight: On board traditional sailing vessel

Day 2 – Misool Archipelago

Today we explore the breathtaking Misool region, where jungle-covered limestone islands rise dramatically from impossibly blue waters.

We spend the day moving slowly between hidden lagoons, quiet beaches and coral reefs teeming with life. There is time for snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the silence and beauty of this remote landscape.

Above the surface, sea eagles circle overhead. Beneath the water, countless species of coral and reef fish create one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems on Earth.

Overnight: On board

Day 3 – The Hidden Jellyfish Lake

This morning we visit one of Raja Ampat’s most unusual natural wonders: a hidden saltwater lake filled with thousands of rare stingless jellyfish.

Floating quietly among these delicate creatures feels almost otherworldly, a reminder of how isolated evolution has shaped life across these islands.

Later, we travel by tender boat to remote prehistoric rock art sites, where ancient handprints, fish and symbolic figures painted onto limestone cliffs tell stories dating back thousands of years.

Overnight: On board

Day 4 – Birds of Paradise
Before sunrise, we head into the rainforest in search of one of Indonesia’s most iconic species: the Lesser Bird of Paradise.

The walk itself is part of the experience: cool morning air, dense jungle sounds and the anticipation of witnessing one of nature’s most extraordinary displays. If we are lucky, we may see males performing their intricate courtship dances high in the forest canopy.

The rest of the day is spent exploring reefs, islands and hidden coves by boat.

Overnight: On board

Day 5 – Coral Triangle

Over the coming days, exploration takes centre stage.

Central Raja Ampat is home to some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet, and we spend our time discovering spectacular reefs, drift snorkels and underwater walls covered in soft corals and giant sea fans.

Large schools of fish move through the currents, turtles glide past reef edges, and every snorkel reveals new colours and species.

There is also plenty of time for paddleboarding, kayaking or simply relaxing on deck while sailing through the islands.

Overnight: On board

Day 6 – Hidden Lagoons

Today we continue our slow journey through Raja Ampat’s maze of islands and waterways.

We visit remote reefs known for their exceptional coral health and biodiversity, while also taking time to appreciate the landscapes above the waterline: dramatic karst formations, hidden beaches and rainforest-covered cliffs rising directly from the sea.

Every day here feels slightly different, shaped by tides, wildlife sightings and the rhythm of life at sea.

Overnight: On board

Day 7 – Raja Ampat’s Iconic Landscapes

This morning we climb to one of Raja Ampat’s most famous viewpoints: Piaynemo.

From above, hundreds of limestone islets scatter across turquoise lagoons in every direction: one of Indonesia’s most iconic landscapes.

Later, we explore nearby reefs by snorkel and tender boat, discovering hidden coral gardens and shallow lagoons filled with marine life.

Overnight: On board

Day 8 – Reef Life in the Coral Triangle
Today is dedicated to what Raja Ampat does best: world-class marine exploration.

We snorkel over thriving reef systems alive with fish, corals, reef sharks, rays and countless invertebrates, gaining a deeper appreciation for why this region is considered the epicentre of marine biodiversity.

Our guides share insights into coral ecology, reef threats and the importance of protecting these fragile underwater ecosystems.

Overnight: On board

Day 9 – Wilson’s Red Birds of Paradise
Before dawn, we head once more into the rainforest, this time in search of two of the region’s rarest and most spectacular birds: the Red Bird of Paradise and Wilson’s Bird of Paradise.

Watching these extraordinary birds perform their courtship displays in the early morning forest is a true once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.

Back at sea, we enjoy one final afternoon of snorkelling and sailing through the islands.

Overnight: On board

Day 10 — Return to Sorong & Farewell to Raja Ampat

We wake anchored near Sorong for one final breakfast aboard the vessel before saying goodbye to the crew, guides and fellow travellers.

You leave Raja Ampat with salt in your hair, unforgettable wildlife encounters and a deeper understanding of one of the planet’s most precious marine ecosystems