Cruise
Marine biology and whale shark cruise: Indonesia and West Papua
Next trip 12 days from 30 October 2028
Booking information
October 2028 鈥� 12 days
Register your interest for 2028 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.
Journey through the spectacular islands and coastal wildernesses of Indonesia and West Papua aboard the traditional sailing ship Katharina, accompanied by marine biologist Dr Russell Arnott. Explore rich marine and terrestrial habitats by sail, tender and on foot, with opportunities to snorkel vibrant reefs and conditions permitting, swim with wild whale sharks in Triton Bay.
From early-morning treks into the forest in search of Red and Wilson’s birds of paradise to snorkelling among colourful coral reefs, this is an expedition that moves between land and sea. You’ll visit mangrove restoration projects and remote villages, explore the limestone karst landscapes of Raja Ampat, swim beneath jungle waterfalls and, conditions permitting, enter the water with wild whale sharks in Triton Bay.
You鈥檒l be accompanied by expert Dr Russell Arnott, whose marine biology insight will provide fascinating context throughout this expedition. Russell will lead onboard talks and informal sessions exploring West Papua鈥檚 extraordinary marine ecosystems. He鈥檒l also join all excursions, helping you look more closely at the reefs, wildlife and coastal environments you encounter along the way.
Russell’s talks will focus on:
Currents and Marine Biodiversity in Indonesian Seas
Indonesia sits where the Pacific and Indian Oceans meet, and the water that passes through these islands shapes the life around them. Linking currents, tides and upwelling to the pattern of species across the area, Russell explains why reefs in the Coral Triangle hold more species than reefs anywhere else on Earth.
Microscopic Marvels: Plankton and the Food Web of the Reef
Clear tropical water looks empty, yet coral reefs, manta rays and whale sharks all depend on plankton. Linking phytoplankton and zooplankton to the wider reef food web, Russell will explain how corals and the symbiotic algae inside them work together, and what we can infer from the colour of the ocean. Citizen science component: guests learn to read water colour with a Secchi disc and the Forel-Ule scale.
Big Mouths, Small Prey: Whale Sharks and Manta Rays
Whale sharks and manta rays are two of the largest fish in the ocean, and belong to a group that has existed for more than 400 million years. Russell brings us up to date with the latest research on these species and what we still don’t know about these ocean giants.
Voices of the Sea: Whales and Dolphins of the Indonesian Seas
An overview of the whale and dolphin species that inhabit these regions, full of awesome facts and stories as well as how to identify them at sea.
Reefs Under Pressure: Heat, Bleaching and Resilience
Climate change is causing corals live close to their upper temperature limit, while ocean acidification adds additional pressure. What happens inside a coral during bleaching? How do marine heatwaves occur? Why are some reefs more resilient than others? And what can we do about these problems?
This cruise is ideal for curious, active travellers with a passion for wildlife, nature and exploration. You should be comfortable with early starts, walking on uneven terrain and getting in and out of tenders and boats. With opportunities to snorkel, swim, kayak and explore on foot, the journey is best suited to those who want to experience West Papua actively rather than simply view it from the ship. No specialist scientific knowledge is required 鈥� just a keen interest in the natural world and a spirit of adventure.
In partnership with The Ultimate Travel Company.
Itinerary
This is an expedition in a remote and changeable environment, so the itinerary may need to adapt according to weather, tides, sea conditions and local circumstances. The captain and tour leader will make decisions with the safety and enjoyment of the group in mind, so please come prepared to be flexible.
Day 1: Fly from Jakarta to Sorong and meet fellow travellers
After your flight from Jakarta arrives in the West Papuan port town of Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the Swiss Belhotel in Sorong.
Here, you will have a welcome dinner and meet Dr Russell Arnott as well as your SeaTrek tour leaders. Throughout the cruise, they will all be giving talks covering Wallace鈥檚 work, early humans in Indonesia and the varied flora, fauna and marine life that you will encounter on your journey.
Days 2-3: Birds of paradise and Raja Ampat’s reefs
Start with an early-morning trek into the rainforest in search of two of Raja Ampat’s most remarkable birds: the Red Bird of Paradise and Wilson’s Bird of Paradise. Dawn is an important time for observing these species as males gather at display sites to perform elaborate courtship rituals.
Watch for the Red Bird of Paradise’s striking plumage and Wilson’s distinctive turquoise crown as males compete for the attention of females. Their displays are a fascinating example of sexual selection, in which elaborate physical traits and behaviours evolve because they increase reproductive success.
Later, head to smaller islands to snorkel above coral reefs, swim from secluded beaches or explore the coastline by kayak and paddleboard. Raja Ampat sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle, an area recognised for exceptionally high levels of marine biodiversity.
As daylight fades, explore the jungle-fringed coastline by tender. Look for birds and other wildlife before returning to the vessel for sunset. Keep watch for hornbills flying back to their forest roosts.
Days 4-5: Mangroves, villages and limestone karst
Explore the coastal ecosystems that connect Raja Ampat’s forests and coral reefs. Visit a community-led mangrove restoration project established to reduce coastal erosion and create nursery habitat for juvenile fish.
Mangroves are highly productive ecosystems. Their tangled root systems shelter young fish and other marine organisms, while their sediments can trap carbon and help protect coastlines from waves and storms. Get involved by planting mangrove seedlings and hear from the project’s founder about its work.
After snorkelling on a nearby reef, visit Marandanweser, where you can meet local residents and experience traditional music and dance.
Later, trek to a viewpoint overlooking Raja Ampat’s distinctive limestone karst. These forest-covered islands were shaped over geological timescales as limestone was uplifted and progressively eroded by water, creating the cliffs, caves, channels and lagoons that characterise the region.
Days 6-7: Remote islands and village life
Spend time exploring the remote Pisang Islands, with opportunities to snorkel, swim, kayak and paddleboard or simply relax on the beach.
The surrounding reefs support an intricate community of corals, fish and invertebrates. Coral reefs are built by tiny colonial animals called coral polyps, which form calcium carbonate skeletons that provide the three-dimensional structure on which thousands of other species depend.
On mainland Papua, visit a local village and meet residents whose lives are closely connected to the surrounding environment. Fishing and nutmeg cultivation are important sources of food and income, offering an insight into how communities have adapted to life in this tropical landscape.
Days 8-9: Dolphins and jungle waterfalls
Take to the water in search of dolphins, watching for pods travelling through the surrounding seas.
Visit a spectacular rainforest waterfall where a river plunges through dense jungle towards the sea. Take a refreshing swim in the freshwater pool and surrounding waters while enjoying the contrast between the terrestrial rainforest and marine environment.
Day 10: Triton Bay and ancient rock art
Continue south to Triton Bay, where towering limestone cliffs, forested islands and narrow channels create a dramatic coastal landscape. The area’s distinctive geology is the result of uplift and erosion acting on ancient limestone over millions of years.
Navigate the Namatote Passage and look towards the cliffs for ancient rock paintings. Their presence provides a glimpse into the long history of human interaction with this remote landscape.
Day 11: Triton Bay whale sharks and disembark in Kaimana
Triton Bay is also known for encounters with whale sharks, the world’s largest fish. These gentle filter feeders can gather around bagans 鈥� traditional fishing platforms where fishermen catch small baitfish. Head out by tender in the early morning to look for sharks and, if they are present and conditions allow, enter the water for a closer encounter.
Take a short forest walk to another spectacular waterfall, surrounded by dense rainforest. Cool off with a swim before returning to the vessel.
In the evening you will check into a hotel for a final night together.
Day 12: Depart to Jakarta
In the morning, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey back to Jakarta.
FAQs
Where does this cruise start and end?
The cruise starts in Sorong, West Papua (SOQ), the gateway to Raja Ampat, and ends in Kaimana, further south on the coast of West Papua. The team at our partner The Ultimate Travel Company can advise on flights and also arrange extra nights for you at either the start or end of the cruise.
What happens on a typical day on this cruise?
No two days are quite the same. Depending on the location and conditions, a typical day might begin with an early-morning wildlife walk or snorkelling excursion, followed by breakfast and time to explore by tender, kayak or on foot. There will be opportunities to swim and snorkel among coral reefs, look for wildlife, visit remote communities or explore rainforest and coastal landscapes. Back on board, you can relax, enjoy meals and join expert talks with Russell Arnott before heading out for another excursion later in the day. The schedule is flexible, allowing the crew to make the most of wildlife sightings, weather and local conditions.
How much opportunity will there be for snorkelling?
There will be regular opportunities to snorkel throughout the expedition, with the chance to spend time in the water exploring some of West Papua鈥檚 spectacular coral reefs. Depending on conditions and the itinerary, snorkelling may take place once or twice a day, with opportunities to encounter colourful reef fish, manta rays and, in Triton Bay, whale sharks.
Do I need previous snorkelling experience?
Snorkelling is a key part of the expedition, with regular opportunities to explore West Papua鈥檚 spectacular coral reefs and encounter its abundant marine life. However, no previous snorkelling experience is required. The crew will provide equipment and guidance, making it suitable for both first-time snorkellers and those with more experience. You should, however, be comfortable and confident in the water.
What marine life can I expect to see?
West Papua is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, and the waters around Raja Ampat and Triton Bay offer opportunities to encounter an extraordinary variety of life. While sightings are never guaranteed, you may see manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, colourful reef fish and vibrant corals, as well as an abundance of smaller reef species while snorkelling. In Triton Bay, there is also the possibility of swimming with wild whale sharks, one of the highlights of the expedition.
What will the weather be like in October in Indonesia and Papua?
October is typically hot, humid and tropical in West Papua, with daytime temperatures around 30掳C and warm, inviting sea temperatures. It is a transitional month, so you can expect a mix of sunshine, cloud and occasional heavy showers, with conditions varying across the islands. Sea conditions can also change quickly, so the expedition itinerary will remain flexible where necessary. For snorkelling and exploring the coastline, the warm water and generally improving conditions make October an exciting time to experience the region.
Is this cruise suitable for solo travellers?
All of our tours, cruises and expeditions are suitable for solo travellers. If you want your own cabin, you will need to pay a solo supplement. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you don鈥檛 have to pay the solo room supplement.
Booking information
Booking administration
This cruise is operated by our trusted partner The Ultimate Travel Company on behalf of New Scientist Discovery Tours. Their specialist team will be your main point of contact from booking until you return home, handling your reservation, payments, travel documents, pre-departure information and any questions about your tour or travel arrangements.
Meet the expert
Dr Russell Arnott – New Scientist guest expert
Russell holds a combined master’s degree in oceanography from the University of Southampton and a PhD in marine ecology from the University of Bath, where he studied phytoplankton dynamics. His research has taken him from the Southern Ocean with the British Antarctic Survey to the Gulf of Bothnia in northern Sweden.
Russell co-founded Incredible Oceans CIC, a marine education non-profit, and has appeared on TV, radio and science events around the world. He is an Associate Lecturer in Ocean Science at the University of Exeter and previously lectured on Marine and Natural History Photography at Falmouth University.
As a New Scientist marine expert, he has previously accompanied voyages to Svalbard in the high Arctic and whale-watching trips to the Azores. His ocean explainer videos on the New Scientist YouTube channel have been viewed over 6 million times collectively.
As a passionate swimmer and snorkeller, Russell takes full advantage of being based in Cornwall. As well as sea-swimming and snorkelling across the seasons, Russell holds AIDA 1* freediving certification and is a qualified Dive Leader with the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC). He has had the privilege of snorkelling with manta rays and surveying reefs in Hawaii, exploring the Scottish Hebrides for basking sharks, and has snorkelled on reefs from the Florida Keys to Sri Lanka.
Highlights
- 10 days aboard the beautiful sailing boat Katharina
- Snorkel biodiverse reefs with Dr Russell Arnott, exploring West Papua鈥檚 marine life
- Visit a mangrove project and learn about its role in coastal marine ecosystems
- Meet local communities and learn how fishing and nutmeg cultivation shape coastal life
- Swim, kayak, paddleboard and snorkel from remote white-sand beaches
- Search for Red and Wilson鈥檚 birds of paradise in Raja Ampat鈥檚 rainforest
- Look for dolphins while exploring West Papua鈥檚 reefs and coastal waters
- Explore secluded rainforest waterfalls where rivers meet the sea
- Search for whale sharks in Triton Bay
- See ancient rock art above the Namatote Passage鈥檚 limestone cliffs
- Navigate Triton Bay鈥檚 dramatic karst cliffs, forested islands and lagoons
What鈥檚 included
- 9 nights aboard the Katharina
- 1 night accommodation in Sorong
- 1 night accommdoation in Kaimana
- All meals, soft drinks, tea, coffee and snacks (vegetarian and special menus on request)
- Professional cruise directors, accompanying experts and local guides delivering evening talks, daytime guiding and all activities
- All excursions, park fees, cultural experiences and off-boat fees
- Internal flights from Jakarta to Sorong at the the start of the cruise and back to Jakarta at the end of the cruise
- Hotel accommodation for your first night in Sorong
- Snorkelling equipment
- Use of paddleboards and kayaks
- Cabin cleaning and two pieces of laundry every day
- Transfers between your international flight arrival and the boat
What鈥檚 not included
- Travel insurance
- International flights
- Single supplement
- The fine selection of wines, beer and spirits for sale onboard
- Visa/ETA (if applicable)
- Tips for the crew
Accomodation
Swiss-Belhotel, Sorong
A recently built four-star hotel just 10 minutes from the airport and in the heart of the city, this hotel has large comfortable bedrooms and an outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after your flight.
Katharina
Katharina, a compact traditional sailing vessel built in Kalimantan. With space for just 12 guests across six cabins, the boat offers a relaxed, intimate setting for exploring remote islands and coastlines. A 12-strong crew, led by Captain Jefri, looks after the group throughout the voyage, while the vessel鈥檚 smaller size makes it well suited to reaching quieter anchorages and getting closer to the surrounding marine environment.
Double Cabin
Perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking extra space, our double cabins offer a full double bed, generous under-bed storage, and a handy dresser to keep belongings organised. Each cabin comes with adjustable air-conditioning and a private ensuite complete with shower, toilet, sink, and complimentary amenities. All cabins have natural light through the deck hatches.
