Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Indonesia - Raja Ampat
100% customisable for you
Your Indonesian sailing adventure begins today with a 16-hour overnight flight to Jakarta. Head to the airport, breeze through check-in and settle into the lounge before boarding. Once in the air, it’s time to unwind, so read, sleep or simply daydream about turquoise waters and jungle islands. After a quick stopover, you’ll land the following day, ready to dive straight into Indonesia.
After an airport pick-up at Jakarta and assistance with formalities, you’ll hop on a connecting flight to Sorong, which takes around four hours. From here, transfer to the harbour and step aboard your phinisi, your floating home for the week. Spend the rest of the afternoon settling in and getting ready for the adventure to begin: island hopping, snorkelling, diving and encounters with Raja Ampat’s extraordinary landscapes and marine life. Keep your eyes peeled while out on the sun-soaked deck: you may even spot dolphins cruising alongside the boat.
Welcome to Raja Ampat, a thousand emerald islands scattered across crystal-clear seas. The first stop on your cruise is Piaynemo Island, where you’ll ease into things by snorkelling or taking on your first dive among vibrant coral reefs. Prefer to stay topside? There’s also kayaking, waterskiing or, of course, simply stretching out on deck with a coffee in hand.
Later, hop into a dinghy for a short sail to the bay and hike to the iconic Piaynemo viewpoint for a perfect view over a maze of limestone islands at sunset. Once you’ve snapped the perfect sunset shot, head back to the boat for a tasty dinner. Tonight, you sail onwards to Wayag.
Today, take a day trip to Wayag Island, known for its magnificent atolls and coral sand beaches. Don’t miss the breathtaking hike along the cliffside, which leads to the island's highest point – the walk is challenging, but the effort is rewarded with a breathtaking 360° view.
In the afternoon, explore the underwater world or relax on one of the white-sand beaches, taking an occasional dip in the crystal-clear waters. Come evening, gather around a campfire on the beach to enjoy a delicious Indonesian dinner under the stars.
Early sailing brings you to Kawe Island, where you’ll spend the day diving or snorkelling with manta rays. Watching these gentle giants glide past is a truly unforgettable experience.
Later, the boat will continue onto Waigeo Island and anchor in Aljui Bay. As night falls, those who fancy it can try night diving, an eerie and fascinating glimpse into a whole different underwater world.
This morning you’ll arrive at Wofoh Island, stopping first at a pearl farm to learn how these prized gems are cultivated. After lunch onboard, cruise quietly through the bay, keeping an eye out for tropical birds and lush coastal forests.
The afternoon is yours to spend snorkelling, swimming or paddleboarding along Wofoh’s spectacular coral wall. As evening approaches, enjoy a hearty barbecue on the beach before sailing overnight towards Pulau Pef.
Pulau Pef is all quiet coves and glassy lagoons, perfect for kayaking through mangroves and past ancient rock paintings in limestone cliffs. Underwater, coral gardens and caverns reveal healthy reefs and schools of colourful fish.
After lunch, head to Yang Efo to dive alongside turtles, rays and swirling snapper. This evening, sail gently onwards to Gam Island, eventually anchoring in Yenbesser.
Rise and shine: it’s an early start today as you embark on a sunrise hike into the forest in search of the rare Red Bird of Paradise. At dawn, the male birds perform an elaborate courtship dance, puffing up their feathers and forming heart shapes with their tails. Along the way, you’ll also be treated to scenic forest views and sightings of other local wildlife.
After witnessing this unusual spectacle, head to Meoscon for a well-deserved lunch before another afternoon spent snorkelling with manta rays. This evening, you’ll sail overnight to Birie Island, where your land-based stay begins.
The cruise may be over, but the adventure continues. This morning, arrive on Birie Island and settle into your home for the next three nights.
Spend your afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters, wandering sandy paths or simply slowing down after an epic week at sea. Dinner is fresh, local and best enjoyed barefoot on the sand for a true island experience.
The next few days are yours for the taking. Wake to the sound of gentle waves, snorkel straight from shore or head out diving to nearby reefs bursting with life. If you’ve had your fill of swimming, paddle through mangroves aboard a kayak, hike forest trails or visit neighbouring villages.
Keen to explore the island? Head inland to discover postcard-perfect waterfalls, or make for the lagoon to float among the sounds of local wildlife. Evenings bring glowing sunsets, simple dinners and long conversations under star-filled skies – the perfect way to end your Indonesian adventure.
It’s time to say goodbye to Birie Island and this far-flung corner of Indonesia. After a final swim or slow breakfast overlooking the water, you’ll be privately transferred back to Sorong Airport for your onward journey.
From here, begin the trip home, which will likely include two quick stops. Your flight back to the UK will take place overnight, arriving the following day.
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
