Sail from Bali to Madang, exploring Indonesia's remote islands. Discover unique wildlife such as birds of paradise, whale sharks, and Komodo dragons, and experience vibrant cultures and pristine, biodiverse landscapes.
Indonesia is one of the world's 17 mega-diverse countries, boasting 1,592 bird species, 515 mammal species, and more than 25,000 flowering plants. Whether you're a seasoned birder, marine enthusiast, or simply a lover of nature, this extraordinary expedition offers unparalleled opportunities to discover Indonesia’s hidden gems and witness some of the rarest species on Earth.
On land, marvel at the dazzling courtship displays of colourful birds of paradise and witness the raw power of the legendary Komodo dragon. Beneath the waves, enjoy Indonesia's warm waters, part of the Coral Triangle—the global epicentre for marine biodiversity.
Snorkel among Raja Ampat’s vibrant reefs, home to over 600 coral species, manta rays, reef sharks, and vivid schools of tropical fish. Another highlight is swimming alongside the world’s largest fish—the gentle whale shark.
Travelling by ship allows you access to remote islands and diverse landscapes that would otherwise be challenging to reach by land. As you travel aboard the Heritage Adventurer, a modern expedition vessel designed for comfort and discovery, you’ll enjoy daily excursions ashore for nature walks, guided hikes, and bird watching, or explore hidden coves by kayak or on a Zodiac cruise.
Typical Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Denpasar
Arrive in Denpasar, Bali. Meet your fellow travellers and enjoy dinner together.
-
Day 2:
Embarkation
After breakfast, you have some time to explore the cultural and historical delights of Bali’s capital. This afternoon, board your vessel and set sail on your adventure.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer, 16-nights
-
Day 3:
Sumbawa Island
Learn about the local culture and traditions of Sumbawa Island, including martial arts displays and ancient tribal rites.
-
Days 4-5
:
Komodo National Park
Over the next two days, you explore the natural habitat of the impressive Komodo dragon. Follow a forest trail to a dedicated viewing area, where you can observe these remarkable reptiles. The surrounding forest teems with wildlife, including Timor deer and yellow-crested cockatoos.
You also have opportunities for snorkelling, beachcombing, and bird watching.
-
Day 6:
Wakatobi National Park
Today's snorkelling adventures uncover an incredible array of marine life. Possible sightings include colourful frogfish, octopus, cockatoo wasp fish, countless crab species, and dazzling anemones.
-
Day 7:
Buru Island
Today, explore remote shores with your expert naturalists and guides, where you can search for wildlife. Among Buru’s treasures are ten endemic mammals and several near-endemic species, in addition to a variety of bird species, including four that are endemic.
-
Day 8:
Seram Island
Today, venture into the jungle to look for the endemic salmon-crested cockatoo—the largest of the white cockatoos. Other bird species you may encounter include thrush, oriole, honeyeater, and friarbird.
-
Days 9-11
:
Raja Ampat
Spend the next three days exploring the delights of Raja Ampat, including a visit to Misool Island and opportunities to witness the Wilson’s bird of paradise and red bird of paradise. With luck, you can observe their captivating mating displays around lekking trees.
Additional activities include guided forest walks and cultural visits to local villages.
-
Days 12-13
:
West Papua
Highlights here include opportunities to spot the western parotia, Vogelkop bowerbird, magnificent birds of paradise from dedicated viewing hides. You also visit Kwatisore Bay in Cenderawasih Marine Park, one of the best places in the world to snorkel with whale sharks.
-
Days 14-16
:
Papua
Your adventure continues in Papua, a hidden gem of exceptional biodiversity. Here, you may spot unique wildlife such as long-tailed honey-buzzard, red-capped flowerpecker, Biak black flycatcher, and the stunning Numfor paradise kingfisher.
Other activities include beach visits, snorkelling, guided forest walks, and exploration by traditional longboat.
-
Day 17:
Sepik River
Explore the Sepik River’s tributaries and channels by Zodiac and search for wildlife, all while soaking in your lush surroundings. At Kopar Village, enjoy a heartfelt welcome and witness their captivating dragon dance, a highlight of village life.
-
Day 18:
Disembark in Madang & fly to Cairns
Early this morning, you arrive in Madang. After a final breakfast, you disembark and fly to Cairns, where your voyage concludes.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
LUXURY VESSEL
