Raja Ampat and Philippines Cruise: the Last Paradise on Earth

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.

With roughly 1,000 coral and over 1,200 reef fish species, the crystalline waters around jungle-woven Raja Ampat, Indonesia's easternmost islands, comprise the most biodiverse marine habitat unparalleled on the planet. Meaning 'four kings,' Raja Ampat refers to Waigeo, Salawati, Batanta and Misool, yet spreads across 1,000 atolls and islets. Originally joined to Australia, Raja Ampat is home to tree-dwelling marsupials and 500 bird species.

Pulau Misool, a remote island in Raja Ampat, showcases wild beauty with white-sand beaches and lush hills. A highlight is Yapap, a secluded lagoon surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Known for its glassy turquoise waters and white-sand seabed, it's ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and photography. Its serene atmosphere makes it a peaceful escape from more crowded spots.

One of Raja Ampat's most remote islands, Wayag offers spectacular limestone karst formations surrounded by sapphire sea. Steps lead up to the panoramic Wayag Viewpoint overlooking the bullet-shaped stacks erupting from the ocean. Wayag's unusual landscape exists both above and below the surface with deserted white-sand beaches and underwater gardens packed with soft corals, darting tropical fish and black-tipped reef sharks.

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.

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.

Remote Miangas, Indonesia's northernmost island, is known for its white sandy beaches and rich coral reefs, making fishing a way of life for locals. Its remote location keeps marine ecosystems largely untouched. Lush with coconut, nutmeg, and clove trees, the island blends wild and cultivated greenery. Home to over 700 people, Miangas offers a unique mix of Indonesian and Filipino culture and a glimpse into resilient island life.

Daku Island, just off Siargao’s General Luna in the Visayas, offers a peaceful, largely untouched escape. At low tide, a sandbar emerges, revealing a striking contrast of white sand and clear water. Home to a handful of families, the island features crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling and surfing. Beach huts and local eateries offer laid-back spots to unwind with fresh, island-style meals.

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.

The Camotes Sea’s tranquil archipelago includes three main islands - Pacijan, Poro and Ponson - and tiny Tulang islet. Pacijan and Poro are linked by a causeway, making key sites easily accessible. Highlights include Pacijan’s Lake Danao, the largest freshwater lake in the Visayas, as well as Timubo and Bukilat caves with crystal-clear pools. On Poro, Santiago Beach offers powdery white sand and calm, inviting waters.

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.

Boac, the historic gateway to Marinduque, charms with colonial-era houses, cobbled streets and the hilltop cathedral overlooking the coast. On the island’s eastern side, Santa Cruz pulses with tradition - lively markets, the melodic Tubong ritual, and the centuries-old church at its heart. Across the island, cacao farms and the age-old Lukad method of coconut oil extraction reflect Marinduque’s deep-rooted culture and island spirit.

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.

Itineraries are subject to change.