Life's Different After Raja Ampat
The fabled islands of Raja Ampat – the “Four Kings” – are the beating heart of the Coral Triangle and a frontier of staggering beauty. From Misool’s kaleidoscopic reefs to Halmahera’s fiery volcanoes and Tomolol’s sacred caves, each day reveals new discovery both above and below the waterline – a vivid reminder that life is different after True North.
- South Halmahera segment provides high-contrast terrain: active volcanoes, black-sand coastlines, steep coral walls, and isolated villages—an uncommon combination in Indonesia.
- Raja Ampat core delivers its signature elements in sequence: Boo’s reef windows, Misool’s cathedral-light caverns, Tomolol’s karst tunnels, and Batanta’s waterfalls.
- The itinerary builds a clean narrative arc: volcanic origin → reef abundance → karst labyrinth → rainforest freshwater, creating a multi-biome expedition rather than a single-theme cruise.
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.
Your adventure begins with a private charter flight from Darwin to Sorong, gateway to the fabled Raja Ampat archipelago. After a seamless transfer to True North, enjoy a welcome cocktail as we set sail into waters alive with promise. Watch the sun dip beneath distant limestone peaks while our chefs prepare your first dinner onboard - a taste of what lies ahead.
Wake to the wild beauty of Kofiau. Divers and snorkellers will discover vibrant reefs where shoals of fish shimmer in dazzling formations. Keep watch for orcas - rare visitors whose sudden appearance never fails to leave lasting awe. Spend the day exploring coral gardens, calm lagoons, and unspoiled beaches before relaxing with sunset drinks on deck as the sky blazes crimson and gold.
Our first day in South Halmahera begins with Bacan Island, where volcanic peaks rise above turquoise waters. Dive or snorkel in the Patintie Strait, where coral walls descend into the deep and marine life thrives. Explore ashore to discover a volcanic landscape and meet local island communities before returning to True North for dinner beneath the stars.
Cruise toward the dramatic silhouette of Makian Island, home to an active volcano that defines the skyline. Beneath the surface, the reefs are no less alive - a canvas of corals, sponges, and swirling fish. Explore Pulau Goraici’s underwater slopes before enjoying an afternoon swim in the warm Halmahera Sea. Evenings are for stories, fine food, and the quiet hum of the tropics.
Today we approach Gunung Ibu, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. Watch smoke drift across the sky as we trace the island’s rugged coastline, fringed by forest and untouched beaches. The adventure boats take you close enough to feel the energy of the earth itself, a reminder of the elemental forces that shape this region. Later, enjoy an evening of calm - the perfect contrast to a day of fire and wonder.
The Latalata Islands mark the end of our South Halmahera journey. Visit remote villages where smiles are warm and life moves with the tides. Spend the afternoon fishing, snorkelling, or exploring quiet lagoons where time seems to stand still. As the sun sets, raise a glass to these untouched shores - places that remind us how simple and extraordinary life can be after True North.
Arrive at Pulau Boo, one of Raja Ampat’s most photographed islands. Swim through its natural “windows” — twin rock arches carved by the sea — and drift over coral gardens teeming with colour. Above water, limestone islets rise from turquoise lagoons, creating a landscape as surreal as it is beautiful. It’s a day for exploration, awe, and the quiet joy of being far from the ordinary.
Misool is the beating heart of Raja Ampat. Dive through underwater cathedrals where light filters through coral canopies, or snorkel among kaleidoscopic shallows that pulse with life. Adventure boats explore hidden bays and jungle-fringed inlets before a sunset beach gathering — one of those rare evenings when the world feels perfectly still.
At Tomolol, adventure takes a more mysterious turn. Join an exploration through vast karst caves where saltwater channels twist beneath limestone cliffs. Glide through tunnels where sunlight dances on ancient rock and the echoes of water whisper stories of time. Few places capture Raja Ampat’s spirit so completely — a fusion of land, sea, and silence.
Discover hidden waterfalls, where cool freshwater cascades into tropical pools. Birdwatchers may spot hornbills and cockatoos among the treetops, while divers and snorkellers explore the reefs below. Return to True North for your final evening aboard - a night of celebration, reflection, and gratitude.
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before a private transfer to Sorong Airport for your charter flight back to Darwin. As you leave the Four Kings behind, you carry more than photographs - you carry the feeling of discovery, connection, and the certainty that life is forever different after True North.
Itineraries are subject to change.
True North
| Built: | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Length | 50 metres |
The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world.
A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.
Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
