Welcome to your Raja Ampat expedition—where pristine limestone islands harbour 75% of all known coral species, and every day reveals marine biodiversity unmatched anywhere on our planet.
Over the next 13 days, you’ll snorkel above coral gardens protecting 1,800 reef fish species while exploring over 1,500 islands rising dramatically from crystal-blue waters. This isn’t marine observation—you’ll swim beneath freshwater waterfalls cascading directly into the sea, walk through living museums of spice trade history where nutmeg was once more valuable than gold, and search for remarkable birds of paradise in pristine rainforests crowning limestone karst formations.
Each morning brings new discoveries across four million hectares encompassing the heart of the Coral Triangle—Earth’s most biodiverse marine region. You’ll navigate inside spectacular volcanic calderas, explore colonial forts where global powers once fought for spice trade control, and snorkel pristine reefs where the Indonesian Throughflow creates the strongest ocean currents on Earth, nourishing spectacular marine life through constant circulation of eggs and larvae.
From swimming among coral species representing three-quarters of Earth’s known varieties to connecting with communities maintaining traditional lifestyles across the remotest frontiers, every encounter reveals why Raja Ampat represents our planet’s ultimate marine sanctuary. Our small expedition community of just 30 guests ensures intimate access to environments where larger vessels cannot venture, whether you’re exploring hidden lagoons or learning traditional fishing techniques from local communities.
This is expedition travel to Earth’s final marine frontier: pristine, educational, and utterly extraordinary. Your Raja Ampat adventure begins and ends in Timor-Leste.
- Snorkelling Raja Ampat’s Coral Gardens: Dive into the heart of the Coral Triangle, snorkelling vibrant reefs hosting 75% of the world’s coral species and 1,800 reef fish, nourished by the powerful Indonesian Throughflow currents.
- Kei Islands’ Pristine Beaches and Culture: Explore the remote Kei Islands, with pristine white sand beaches and traditional welcome performances, connecting with communities whose oral histories trace back to the Majapahit empire.
- Spice Trade History and Volcanic Calderas: Navigate spectacular volcanic calderas and visit colonial forts in the Maluku Islands, uncovering the spice trade’s storied past where nutmeg once rivalled gold in value.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Paspaley Pearl
| Length | 53 m |
|---|---|
| Max passengers | 30 |
| Built/refurbished: | 2021/2024 |
PASPALEY PEARL marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, offering a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region. As a modern boutique expedition vessel in the Kimberley featuring private balconies, we have the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels. You’re invited to ignite your sense of discovery, all whilst travelling in comfort and safety that has been designed to create the smallest possible footprint, with a philosophy of empowering local people and creating ambassadors for the destinations visited.
Designed to feel like your home away from home
Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure.
Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies.
The perfect place to relax while exploring
Main Dining, Lounge and Bar
Nestled on the Ocean Deck is our main dining area, lounge, and bar. As our skilled chefs craft your locally-inspired dinner, take a moment for a pre-dinner drink before being spoiled with the finest produce Australia has to offer. If you’re interested in exploring some of PASPALEY’s exquisite offerings, you’ll be delighted by their showcase of the world’s most beautiful pearls, available for purchase as a cherished memento of your time on board.
Outdoor Dining, Lounge and Bar
When journeying through the tropics, immersing yourself in the outdoors becomes essential. Indulge in breakfast and lunch daily within a relaxed yet refined setting. With two expansive dining tables and abundant lounges, relish the idea of dining amidst the natural surroundings you explore. Craving a refreshing drink after a day of exploration? Our friendly staff at the Outdoor Bar have you covered. The Outdoor Lounge doubles as the perfect space for afternoon briefings with your expedition team, ensuring you receive all the information needed for the following day’s adventure.
Sun Deck Lounge and Jacuzzi
Bask in the sunshine on the Sun Deck, furnished with sun beds, lounges, and an 8-person jacuzzi. Whether you prefer reading a book under the shelter of the protective shade cloth or engaging in conversations with newfound friends, the Sun Deck promises a haven of pure relaxation.
Sunset Lounge
Located ahead of the bridge, you can savour panoramic views rivaling those of the captain at the Sunset Lounge. Order a drink from one of the bars downstairs and relax as you witness some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen.
