Ship expedition from Bali to Papua New Guinea
from Denpasar / to Madang (Papua New Guinea) or Cairns (Australia)
18 days (17 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer
18-day (17-night) intensive expedition cruise on a small ship (max. 140 passengers) from Bali to Madang (Papua New Guinea), including the Raja Ampat Archipelago | Includes connecting flight to Cairns (Australia)
+++ Up to 10% off for new bookings made by January 8, 2027 +++
Discover truly paradisiacal places on this authentic expedition through Indonesia's remote and little-known tropical islands. Swim with whale sharks in Kwatisore Bay, visit Komodo National Park —home to the legendary Komodo dragon—and discover Jacques Cousteau's "underwater nirvana" in Wakatobi National Park. With its turquoise waters and rainbow-colored corals, the Raja Ampat Archipelago is undoubtedly one of the best diving areas in the world. On your way from Bali to Madang (including connecting flight to Cairns), you will observe birds of paradise and many other endemic species. You can also expect to find interesting traces of World War II and inspiring visits to remote tribes and villages.
Continue reading
The Southeast Asian archipelago consists of around 18,000 islands and looks back on an eventful past. The first Europeans arrived in the 16th century. Attracted by the scent of nutmeg and cloves, Portuguese spice traders were the first to arrive, followed by Dutch colonial rule and Japanese occupation during World War II. Indonesia finally regained its independence in 1949.
Encounters with tropical wildlife on land and in water
Today, Indonesia is no longer known "only" for its spices, but is considered one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. As one of only 17 "megadiverse" countries, it is home to two of the 25 global biodiversity hotspots, 18 WWF Global 200 ecoregions, and 24 endemic bird areas recognized by BirdLife International. The forests, jungles, oceans, and waterways you will explore on this trip are home to over 25,000 species of flowering plants (40% of which are endemic), 1,592 bird species (430 endemic, 114 critically endangered), 1,051 reptile and amphibian species, 515 mammal species, and half of all fish species worldwide.
For botanists, ornithologists, and nature lovers, this expedition offers unique opportunities to discover exotic animal species and encounter rare wildlife on remote islands. A special highlight is the opportunity to take part in guided sea kayaking tours. In a kayak, you become part of the tranquil tropical scenery and often encounter curious locals who warmly invite you into their villages.
The unique nature of this expedition-style cruise is highlighted by your accommodations aboard the MS Heritage Adventurer, a comfortable expedition ship with a maximum capacity of 140 passengers. To help you appreciate your discoveries in the unexplored archipelago of Indonesia even more, natural scientists will be on board throughout the entire voyage. They will invite you to highly informative lectures and presentations and, of course, will be happy to answer any personal questions you may have.
Stephanie Gräf
Owner & Founder
Since 2002, I have been personally advising clients on unique expeditions and private trips, small-ship cruises, and journeys to remote regions of the world.
We'd be happy to discuss your trip with you in person.
Why not contact me right now at Phone: +49 201 85890960 or email welcome@inventia.de.
Or schedule a free, no-obligation one-on-one phone call (also via WhatsApp or Wi-Fi), a Teams or Zoom meeting here—even in the evenings or on weekends:
Good to know
Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of customized travel packages including flights, hotels, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs to extend your trip.
A heart for solo travelers: If you do not wish to have a single cabin, accommodation on board is possible in shared cabins. In this case, you will be accommodated with other travelers of the same gender.
Entry requirements: The current entry requirements for Indonesia can be found here. The current entry requirements for Papua New Guinea are available from the State Department here.
Insurance: Taking out international health insurance policy with medical repatriation must be provided.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Raja Ampat, home to over 550 species of coral
- Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park
- Red Birds of Paradise and Wilson's Birds of Paradise
- Raja Ampat Archipelago with the highest marine biodiversity on Earth → Top snorkeling spot with over 550 coral species and more than 1,500 fish species
- Komodo National Park with the prehistoric "Komodo dragons," the largest living lizard species on earth
- Diving in Wakatobi National Park—Jacques Cousteau’s “Underwater Nirvana,” where you might spot colorful anglerfish, octopuses, marbled snake eels, cockatoo batfish, flying gurnards, and countless species of crabs
- Observation of rare red birds of paradise and Wilson's birds of paradise in dense rainforests
- Authentic encounters with indigenous peoples and their traditions
- Immersive lecture program by experts and renowned scientists on board
route
itinerary
Preliminary Information
Your trip to Denpasar, Bali, is not included in your tour price; however, the connecting flight from Madang to Cairns is included.
Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Denpasar to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.
Day 1: Start of the trip in Denpasar, Bali
For centuries, Bali has captured the imagination of artists, writers, and travelers with its emerald green terraced rice fields set against the backdrop of the sacred Mount Agung volcano.
You will spend the first night of the expedition at your group hotel in Denpasar. In the evening, you will get to know your fellow travelers and the expedition team over dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Experience Denpasar & Embarkation
After a relaxed breakfast, you will have time to explore the cultural and historical treasures of the Balinese capital.
In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the Heritage Adventurer, where you will be warmly welcomed on board by your captain and the expedition team before setting course for the island of Sumbawa.
Day 3: Sumbawa Island
Located east of its more famous sister island, Lombok, the mountainous island of Sumbawa combines a laid-back island lifestyle with spectacular volcanic ridges, terraced rice fields, enchanted jungles, and powder-sugar-white sandy beaches featuring impressive coral reefs and secluded coves just waiting to be discovered. Historically divided into an eastern (Bimanese-speaking) and a western (Sumbawanese-speaking) part, this almost forgotten island presents a fascinating contrast of luxurious villas and old wooden huts set against a backdrop of impressivewilderness.
This day also gives you a very authentic insight into the cultural heritage of Sumbawa: you will meet the skilled craftswomen who create the famous, artistically woven ikat fabrics, watch traditional martial arts demonstrations, and take part in ancient tribal rituals.
Day 4: Komodo National Park
A protected area for the giant monitor lizard – the Komodo dragon: a wooded path leads to a viewpoint from which you can observe these prehistoric reptiles up close. The animals can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 135 kilograms. The surrounding forests are also home to Timor deer, the dragons' favorite prey, and elegant yellow-crested cockatoos.
Afterwards, a first snorkeling trip is planned at the beautiful Pink Beach – a truly exclusive diving experience that is often described as "swimming in an aquarium. "
Day 5: Kodia Island
In the morning, you’ll be welcomed by the residents of Kodia Island. The island is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. While snorkeling, you’ll explore the underwater world; on land, you’ll have time to explore the beach and look for native bird species.
During a visit with the village community, you'll learn about the traditional art of ikat weaving and discover more about a community-led project to protect and restore the mangrove forests.
Day 6: Wakatobi National Park
Today, an unforgettable snorkeling adventure awaits you in Wakatobi, a region whose underwater world Jacques Cousteau is said to have described as “underwater nirvana.”
Along the colorful coral walls, you'll discover a diverse underwater world. The macro world also offers plenty of subjects for underwater photographers: small, often well-camouflaged sea creatures hide among the corals.
If you look closely, you can spot , for example , anglerfish, octopuses, marbled snake eels, cockatoo waspfish, fly gurnards, and various species of crabs. Glowing anemones are also part of this fascinating underwater world.
Day 7: Buru Island
Rarely visited, the island of Buru lies on the biogeographic boundary between Australia and Asia. An impressively high number of the bird and mammal species living here are found exclusively on Buru and the neighboring islands—including ten endemic bird species, four endemic mammal species, and numerous near-endemic species.
In the morning, you’ll explore the island’s coastal region and forests together with your experts and nature guides. Along the way, you’ll keep an eye out for native birds and other wildlife. During visits to traditional villages, you’ll also get to know the local people and their daily lives.
Day 8: Seram Island
Seram Island is one of Indonesia’s lesser-known natural treasures. Here, tropical island landscapes meet the extraordinary biodiversity of the Wallacea region, which lies at the crossroads between Asia and Australia. The island is home to Indonesia’s deepest cave, the Hatu Saka Cave, and the world’s longest underground river, the Sapalewa River. Of Seram’s 28 mammal species, six are endemic or near-endemic. The same is true for 33 of the more than 213 bird species found here.
Possible excursions include a trip to the tropical forests, where you can join your nature guides in looking for the endemic Moluccan cockatoo (Salmon-crested Cockatoo). Thrushes, orioles, sunbirds, and honeyeaters are also among the bird species found on the island.
Another possible excursion takes you to a village with traditional stilt houses. There, you’ll gain insight into the daily lives of the local people and traditional hunting methods, which include the use of bows and arrows, among other things.
Day 9: Misool Island
Misool is one of the four main islands of the Raja Ampat Archipelago, whose name means “Four Kings” in Indonesian. Historically, the island had close ties to the Sultanate of Tidore before the region came under Dutch colonial rule. To this day, regional traditions and cultural influences shape the lives of the island’s communities.
Hidden in the island’s interior are karst landscapes and caves featuring prehistoric rock paintings. There’s also plenty to discover underwater: coral gardens and underwater caves provide a habitat for numerous marine creatures. With a little luck, while snorkeling or diving, you might encounter dugongs, buffalohead parrotfish, clownfish, manta rays, ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, and pygmy seahorses.
Throughout the day, we plan to explore the intricate system of caves and tunnels and take a hike to scenic overlooks. From there, you’ll enjoy views of the striking karst islands and lagoons that define the landscape of Raja Ampat.
Days 10–11: Raja Ampat, a Tropical Island Paradise
Raja Ampat comprises about 1,500 small islands, forested karst formations, and shallow reefs in the heart of the Coral Triangle. These two days give you plenty of time to explore the diverse island world at your own pace.
The waters around Raja Ampat are among the most biodiverse marine regions on Earth. More than 500 species of stony coral and over 1,200 species of reef fish have been recorded here. On snorkeling excursions and Zodiac tours, you’ll discover the coral reefs, watch schools of fish, and explore the diverse coastal landscapes.
On land, the focus is on observing two species of birds of paradise: the Wilson’s bird of paradise and the red bird of paradise. An early-morning excursion is designed to increase your chances of spotting them. With a little luck, you may also be able to observe the males’ courtship behavior.
Other possible activities include walks on the beach, visits to villages, interactions with the local people, and guided hikes through the woods.
Day 12: Manokwari and the Arfak Mountains
Manokwari is located at the tip of the Vogelkopf Peninsula, surrounded by forested hills and the Arfak Mountains. As the capital of West Papua Province, the city serves as a starting point for exploring the region’s nature and culture.
If you set out early, you can drive to the Arfak Mountains and explore the Arfak Nature Reserve with its tropical mountain rainforests. The varying elevations provide habitat for numerous bird species, including several endemic species. With a little luck, you may spot the Western Parotia Bird of Paradise or the Bird’s-head Bowerbird during guided tours. You can also try to spot the magnificent bird-of-paradise in its natural habitat from specially equipped observation huts. Approximately 320 bird species have been documented in the Arfak Mountains.
Alternatively, you can start the morning at a leisurely pace and then explore Manokwari. The city is shaped by diverse cultural traditions and offers insights into the lives of West Papua’s various communities.
Day 13: Cenderawasih Marine National Park
Look forward to a snorkeling trip to see the whale sharks in Kwatisore Bay in the Cenderawasih Marine National Park. These waters are known for the regular presence of whale sharks —a special opportunity to encounter these gentle giants in the water.
We plan to visit the so-called "bagans" used by local fishermen. These floating platforms are used for fishing. Whale sharks are drawn to them because they find small fish there to eat—fish that have escaped the fishermen’s nets. If conditions are right, you can observe the animals while snorkeling.
The marine national park, which covers approximately 15,000 square kilometers, includes numerous islands and coral reefs. The waters are home to over 200 species of fish and four species of sea turtles.
In addition, a visit is planned to a village whose daily life is shaped by a unique blend of traditional, Dutch, and modern influences.
Day 14: Biak and the Rusbasbedas Islands
The island of Biak in the Schouten Archipelago of Cenderawasih Bay is known for its diverse birdlife. Several species are found exclusively on Biak or on Biak and neighboring islands. Among the birds that can be spotted with a little luck are the long-tailed honey buzzard, the red-capped flowerpecker, the yellow-bellied fruit dove, the Geelvink imperial pigeon, the Biak black-billed flycatcher, the Numfor paradise flycatcher, and various leaf warblers.
In the afternoon, we plan to continue on to the remote island of Rusbasbedas. White sandy beaches, steep cliffs, and large coral formations characterize the landscape. While snorkeling, you can look for colorful fish among the corals or explore the coastline on a walk along the beach.
Day 15: Liki Island
On Liki Island, one of the Koemamba Islands off the northern coast of New Guinea, you’ll be welcomed by the locals. They’ll give you a glimpse into their customs and traditions and offer you the chance to sample some of the island’s culinary specialties.
On a walk through the forest, you can keep an eye out for native wildlife. Alternatively, you can explore the underwater world around the island by snorkeling along the coral reef.
Day 16: Jayapura
The tranquil Lake Sentani, a sparkling freshwater lake in which the steep, lushly forested peaks of the Cyclops Mountains are reflected, is the destination after arriving early in the morning in Jayapura, the capital of the Indonesian province of Papua.
The area is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, wood carving, and bark painting. At the lake, you’ll get to know the local culture. Traditional dances and artisans who create bark paintings and so-called “bride price” items offer insights into regional customs and forms of expression.
You'll return to the ship for lunch. Afterward, the ship will set course for Vanimo in Papua New Guinea. There, you'll complete the entry formalities for your next destination.
Day 17: Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
We have set aside ample time to explore the Sepik—one of Papua New Guinea’s longest rivers—and to discover its natural environment, birdlife, wildlife, and the people who live along its banks. From its headwaters to the Bismarck Sea, the river has shaped the lives of the local communities for generations. Significant traditions of sculpture and woodcarving have developed along its banks.
On a Zodiac boat, you’ll explore tributaries and narrow waterways while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. In the village of Kopar, you’ll be welcomed by the local community and gain insights into daily life there. A traditional dragon dance is part of the visit.
Artists from the region also visit the ship to showcase their work. This gives you the opportunity to purchase carvings and other handcrafted items directly from the artists.
Day 18: Madang, Papua New Guinea – Cairns, Australia
Madang calls itselfthe “most beautiful city in the South Pacific”—and the surrounding area offers stunning natural scenery: from lush rainforest and deep-blue waters dotted with volcanic islands to coral reefs and the Tupira surf spot. The region’s turbulent history also shapes the town.
For guests whose trip ends here, the journey continues by plane to Cairns, where the expedition concludes.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
October 7, 2027 – October 24, 2027
Starting at €13,899 ; €12,509 per person
18 days/17 nights
MS Heritage Adventurer (Maximum occupancy: 140)
Denpasar (Bali) Madang or Cairns (Australia)
Up to 10% early-bird discount for new bookings made by January 8, 2027
Selected date
October 7, 2027 – October 24, 2027 (18 days/17 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer | Jungle & Sea – Indonesia's Unknown Tropical Islands
Main Deck Triple
Superior Triple Room
Deck 4 Superior
Deck 5 Superior
Main Deck Single
Superior Single Room
Worsley Suite
Heritage Suite
cabin
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
activities
Information
Included services:
- One night's accommodation in a twin room in Denpasar on day 1, including dinner and breakfast
- Transfer to the ship
- Accommodation on board during the sea voyage, including full board
- House beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages with lunch and dinner
- All shore excursions and activities
- Lecture program with renowned scientists
- Transfer to the airport and flight from Madang to Cairns
- Discovery Fund
Not included in the price:
- International or domestic flights and transfers – unless specified in the itinerary
- Costs for passport, visas, etc.
- travel insurance
- All personal expenses, including alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of meals), gratuities, laundry service, personal clothing, medical expenses, or telephone charges
- Kayaking (optional)
Important:
- Language spoken on board: English
- Expedition leaders and lecturers are English-speaking
- Currency on board: US dollar
- A doctor is on board
Your ship during the voyage
Your ship: The MS Heritage Adventurer
Click here for deck plans, cabin categories, facts & figures
> View here
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Rusbasbedas Zodiac_I Wilson Heritage Expeditions
The Heritage Adventurer | © I. Wilson
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_whale-shark-snorkeling_f-wardle_heritage-expeditions
Snorkeling with whale sharks in Cenderawasih Marine Park | © F. Wardle
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Pink Beach_S. Bradley_Heritage Expeditions
Pink Beach | © S. Bradley
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_komodo-dragon_s-bradley_heritage-expeditions
Encounter with a Komodo dragon | © S. Bradley
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Misool_A Russ Heritage Expeditions
Bay off the island of Misool | © A. Russ
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Misool Zodiac_S. Bradley Heritage Expeditions
Zodiac trip to Misool Island | © S. Bradley
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_biak-cave_s-bradley_heritage-expeditions
Cave tour on Biak Island | © S. Bradley
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_whale shark_F. Wardle_Heritage Expeditions
A whale shark right next to the fishing platform | © F. Wardle
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_everyday-life-in-the-south-pacific_c-finch_heritage-expeditions
Everyday life in the South Pacific | © C. Finch
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Rusbasbadas Island_F. Wardle_Heritage Expeditions
Beach trip on Rusbasbedas Island | © F. Wardle
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Sepik_S. Bradley_Heritage Expeditions
Traditional performance in Papua New Guinea | © S. Bradley
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_biak-face-painting_f-wardle_heritage-expeditions
Inspiring encounters | © F. Wardle
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_wilson's-bird-of-paradise_p-plott_heritage-expeditions
A Wilson's bird of paradise | © P. Plott
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_snorkeling-jellyfish_s-bradley_heritage-expeditions.jpg.png
A fascinating sea creature | © S. Bradley
Indonesia's unknown tropical islands_Lake Senati boat trip_I Wilson Heritage Expeditions
Boat trip on Lake Sentani | © I. Wilson
indonesia's-unknown-tropical-islands_komodo-dragon_f-wardle_heritage-expeditions
Plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography | © F. Wardle
Sounds interesting?
You can book your trip here
Do you have any questions?
just call
Further trips to Indonesia
20.766 €
Mysterious spice islands & the Asmat tribe
43.125 €
Raja Ampat & Forgotten Islands of West Papua
13.558 €
Southeast Asia's hidden island gems
Odyssey between Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands
15.952 €
Super yacht expedition between the Spice Islands and Flores
Yacht expedition to the Spice Islands and the southern Raja Ampat archipelago
9.278 €
Northern Raja Ampat Archipelago
10.153 €
To the Komodo dragons in the eastern Indonesian archipelago
