Expedition from Taipei to Darwin
From Taipei or Keelung (Taiwan) to Darwin (Australia)
19 days (18 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer
19 days (18 nights) intensive expedition on a small ship (max. 140 passengers) from Taipei or Keelung (Taiwan) to Darwin (Australia) through the remote island world of the Philippines and Indonesia
+++ Up to 20% early-bird discount on trips in 2027 for new bookings made by August 31, 2026 +++
This expedition takes you aboard the Heritage Adventurer, which sets sail with a maximum of 140 passengers, to tropical island paradises off the beaten tourist track. You can look forward to intensive island hopping from Taipei in Taiwan via the Philippines and Indonesia to Darwin in Australia.
On your journey, you will cross both the Tropic of Cancer and the equator. Your voyage of discovery begins in Taiwan's vibrant capital, Taipei, before your ship winds its way through remote and rarely visited island worlds. You will reach islands where turquoise waters gently lap against white sandy beaches and where brightly colored fish populate pristine coral gardens and steep walls. Where exotic birds and animals live in ancient jungles and cultures and traditions forgotten by the passage of time await you. These remote tropical outposts are not only among the most biodiverse regions on Earth, with many rare and endangered species, but also offer an incredible wealth of history and centuries-old cultural heritage. Difficult to reach, they are best explored as part of a ship expedition.
Whether in Sulawesi or the Moluccas – exciting discoveries every day
Even before your ship sets sail, you will experience the beauty of nature in a way you have never seen before at Yehliu Geopark in Taiwan with its extraordinary rock formations. Equally unique are the more than 1,000 cone-shaped Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island. Covered in lush greenery during the rainy season, they will probably already be showing their namesake brown tones when you visit. In Banda Neira, you will visit the heart of the famous Spice Islands. This day sums up the intense expeditionary character of your sea voyage through the islands of Indonesia and the Philippines: Fort Belgica is on the agenda for the day, and you will also get a close-up insight into the everyday life of the islanders and a view of the Gunung Banda Api volcano on the neighboring island.
Discover Indonesia's secret island paradise of Kei Kecil with its picture-perfect Ngurbloat Beach. Snorkel in pristine coral reefs, sample regional specialties, and enjoy inspiring cultural encounters in villages where traditional life still lives in harmony with nature. Swim alongside sea turtles and whale sharks, and marvel at thousands of magical stingless jellyfish in Tojoman Lagoon. Even more characterful animal encounters await you in the Tangkoko Nature Reserve, with its endangered black macaques with their distinctive mohawk hairstyles and pink rear ends, and the tarsier, the world's smallest primate with its saucer-sized eyes.
Optionally, you can take part in a guided sea kayaking excursion. This will take you to calm tropical waters, where you will not only experience spectacular nature, but where curious locals will often accompany you in their canoes and warmly invite you to their villages.
Natural scientists are on board throughout the entire ship expedition. This means that the trip is not limited to the overwhelming visual beauty of the tropical island paradises. You will also return with a wealth of knowledge about the culture, history, and fragile ecosystem of the remote island worlds of Southeast Asia. And you will appreciate the privilege of traveling there all the more.
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
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 Taiwan can be found here. For the Philippines, you can find the entry requirements here, and for Indonesia here. The current entry requirements for Australia are provided by the U.S. Department of State 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
- Up-close encounters with the gentle giants of the sea while swimming with whale sharks in the clear waters off Gorontalo (Sulawesi)
- Top snorkeling spot in Tojoman Lagoon (Philippines), where thousands of harmless jellyfish float in crystal clear water
- Possible sightings of rare primates such as the crested macaque or the tiny tarsier in the Tangkoko Nature Reserve
- Kei Kecil Island with its picture-perfect white beach far away from the usual routes
- The Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island ( Philippines) with their magnificent seasonal colors of green or brown
- Banda Neira, cradle of the historic spice trade, with Fort Belgica, built in 1611, as an impressive testament to colonial history
- The impressive dimensions of Taroko Gorge (Taiwan) with its marble walls reaching heights of up to 100 meters
- Authentic encounters with indigenous peoples, their traditions, and craftsmanship on Buru Island and the Taliabu Islands
- Kayak excursions in tranquil tropical bays and crystal-clear waters (optional, extra charge)
- Immersive lecture program by experts and renowned scientists on board
route
itinerary
Advance information
Your journey to Taipei in Taiwan and your return flight from Darwin in Australia are not included in your travel price.
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 Taipei 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 Taipei (Taiwan)
Today you will arrive in Taipei, Taiwan's capital city surrounded by mountains. It is dominated by the impressive Taipei 101: the 508-meter-high skyscraper, formerly known as the World Financial Center, resembles an oversized bamboo cane. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will spend the first night of your expedition.
In the evening, you will get to know your fellow travelers and the expedition team over dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Experience Taipei & Embarkation
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, set off to explore this fascinating city. Taipei is famous for its diverse street food culture. Be sure to sample the numerous xiaochi (small snacks) while discovering some of the city's most important sights. These include the Chinese-style Martyrs' Shrine, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall dedicated to the former president of Taiwan, and the famous National Palace Museum, which houses the world's largest collection of Chinese art.
Those who prefer to experience nature can visit Yehliu Geopark, which is known for its surreal rock formations in the shape of honeycombs and mushrooms. Gold Ecological Park invites visitors on a journey through time. The former mining complex from the Japanese colonial era provides a fascinating insight into early mining history. There, hiking trails lead across the slopes and connect original offices, workshops, and dormitories from the 1930s.
In the afternoon, you will board the Heritage Adventurer, which will be waiting for you in Keelung Harbor. After settling into your cabin and familiarizing yourself with the ship, you are welcome to join the expedition team on the bridge, in the observation lounge, or on the observation deck as your ship sets course for Hualien.
Day 3: Hualien
Hualien, Taiwan's second-largest city on the mountainous east coast, is the gateway to the world-famous Taroko National Park with its spectacular 19-kilometer-long marble gorge. The imposing marble walls here rise over 90 meters high and are surrounded by dense, green bamboo forests.
The national park covers approximately 91,800 hectares and extends across various altitudes – from sea level at the mouth of the Liwu River up to Mount Nanhu, which rises to over 3,700 meters. The dramatic landscape is home to an enormous variety of species: one-third of all vascular plants in Taiwan, half of the native mammal species, the rare Nanhu salamander, and over 140 bird species can be found here.
Day 4: Calayan Island, Philippines
Calayan Island, one of the most remote and hardest to reach islands in the Philippines, is an unspoiled paradise full of wild, untamed beauty. The island belongs to the Babuyan Island group and is located between the province of Batanes and the Philippine mainland of Luzon. A day full of discoveries on land, on and in the water awaits you.
Experience dreamlike white sandy beaches, spectacular viewpoints such as the Nagudungan and Bangaan hills, extensive coral gardens, impressive waterfalls, and rarely visited bays and caves.
On land, you can look out for the endemic Calayan rail, while at sea, with a little luck, you may encounter whales and dolphins.
Day 5: Divilacan Bay
Divilacan Bay, one of the most beautiful regions in the Philippines, is located in the province of Isabela, which was recently given the nickname "Queen of the North." The impressive bay with its heart-shaped Honeymoon Island is framed by lush rainforest and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. In addition, important conservation initiatives are working here to preserve the endemic Philippine crocodile, which is critically endangered.
There are many things to do in the area: explore the forests in search of wildlife, snorkel on the offshore reefs, or take a Zodiac ride through the mangroves, where you can see the work of the Mabuwaya Foundation up close and gain an interesting insight into active species conservation.
Day 6: Polillo Island
The Heritage Adventurer is the first expedition ship ever to visit this remote tropical outpost. Spend the day on Polillo Island snorkeling, touring waterfalls, and observing wildlife. Polillo Island is the largest island in the Polillo archipelago, which consists of a total of 24 islands and islets.
After intensive deforestation in the past, the lowland forests are currently experiencing an impressive comeback. The regional wildlife can now recover in two nature reserves. Among others, the rare Philippine cockatoo, the endemic Philippine deer, the warthog, and the large red-footed bat, a species of bat, live here.
The island is also home to the gray monitor lizard, a tree-dwelling relative of the Komodo dragon. Dugongs (sea cows) are also frequently sighted in the surrounding waters—further evidence of the ecological richness of this largely untouched island world.
Day 7: Caramoan Peninsula National Park
This coveted tropical dream destination, which gained some fame through the TV show Survivor, will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip.
Here you can expect jungle-covered steep limestone karst formations, white sandy beaches, and top snorkeling spots in crystal-clear turquoise blue water. Deep gorges, meandering rivers, mysterious jungle paths, an island lake, and an underground river open up a tropical landscape far away from civilization, full of contrasts.
Day 8: Samar Island
Hardly developed and rarely visited—for good reason, Samar Island Natural Park is considered the last great natural paradise in the Philippines.
This remote wilderness combines tropical discoveries ranging from impressive cave formations, powder-sugar beaches, and crystal-clear waters to the country's largest contiguous lowland rainforest area with its spectacular karst landscapes.
The park is home to an incredible variety of life: 38 mammal species, 215 bird species including the majestic Philippine eagle, 51 reptile species, and over 1,000 plant species, more than half of which are endemic.
Day 9: Bohol Island
Today, it's time to get up early and have your camera ready to experience the sunrise over the famous Chocolate Hills on the island of Bohol. Often referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world," the grass covering the more than 1,200 cone-shaped karst hills transforms into a chocolate brown color during the dry season. This fascinating natural phenomenon covers an area of around 50 square kilometers and is best admired from a viewing platform. There are about 200 steps to climb, but the effort is more than rewarded.
During your stay, you will have the opportunity to explore the lush surrounding countryside and the region's famous cocoa plantations. Other highlights include a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can encounter the tiny Philippine tarsiers, the second smallest primates in the world. Although this endangered species is protected, its population is steadily declining due to deforestation, mining, and illegal animal trade.
Another cultural highlight is Baclayon Church, built from coral stone and recognized as a national cultural heritage site. When it comes to cuisine, the famous "fingers" from the baking metropolis of Bohol are a must-try.
In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful white sandy beaches of Balicasag Island. The island is surrounded by a coral reef and a marine reserve. While snorkeling, you can expect to see impressive coral gardens and steep underwater cliffs teeming with colorful marine life. With a little luck, you may even swim alongside sea turtles.
Day 10: Bucas Grande Island
Bucas Grande Island, long overshadowed by neighboring surfing hotspot Siargao Island, is increasingly coming into its own—and with good reason: the island combines beautiful white sandy beaches, rushing waterfalls, emerald green water, extensive mangrove forests, extensive limestone cave systems, dense ironwood forests, inland lakes, colorful coral gardens, and extraordinary wildlife.
Sohoton Cove National Park is a special gem. As you cruise along the coast in a Zodiac, you will discover quiet bays and pristine beaches, and with a little luck, you may even catch a glimpse of the rare rufous hornbill.
Experience even more unforgettable moments in Tojoman Lagoon, also known as the Sohoton Jellyfish Sanctuary, where thousands of harmless jellyfish float in clear water, and in the iconic Blue Lagoon, a winding network of waterways and limestone islands— top spots for snorkeling and swimming.
On nearby Cinnamon Island, named after its numerous cinnamon trees, a cup of cinnamon tea awaits you. With this traditional gesture, the islanders welcome you warmly.
Day 11: A relaxing day at sea
Today you have a well-deserved break on board to relax and reflect on the experiences of the past few days. Take part in an interesting lecture, accompany the scientists on deck, update your photos or travel journal – or simply watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge.
Day 12: Bitung, Indonesia
After docking in the bustling cosmopolitan port of Bitung near the city of Manado, you will set off for the wildlife-rich jungles of the Tangkoko Nature Reserve – one of Indonesia's oldest protected areas.
The approximately 8,800-hectare area stretches from the coast to the summit of Mount Tangkoko and provides a protected habitat for a variety of endemic plant and animal species. With local guides, you can explore the tropical lowland rainforest in search of fascinating inhabitants such as the crested macaque. With its characteristic black mohawk and pink rear end, it is the heraldic animal of Bitung. Also native to the area are the tiny, big-eyed tarsier, considered the smallest primate in the world, and the rare Sulawesi bear cuscus.
For birdwatchers, the reserve offers special highlights such as the helmet hornbill, kingfishers, the Sulawesi myna, lorises, and the rare maleo birds.
Day 13: Gorontalo
Located on the equator, Gorontalo is considered the cultural capital of Sulawesi and is a true hidden paradise. The region, with its impressive mountain landscapes, is home to Portuguese forts that are over 500 years old. Surrounded by pristine white sandy beaches, Gorontalo is also an insider tip for divers.
The small coastal village of Botubarani is one of the best places in Indonesia to swim and snorkel with whale sharks. These gentle giants can reach lengths of over 12 meters. Accompanied by experienced guides, you will travel out into Gorontalo Bay in small boats, where the abundance of plankton and small fish regularly attracts the largest fish in the world.
The afternoon is free for you to explore the area on your own or simply relax.
Day 14: Seho & Taliabu Islands
This morning, explore pristine Seho Island —a remote, rarely visited island with beautiful sandy beaches, breathtaking coral reefs, and forested hills bordering dense jungle.
You can choose between jungle hikes in search of rare birds and wildlife, relaxing beach walks, or snorkeling amid a colorful carpet of soft corals.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to the small town of Bobong on the island of Taliabu. Here you will gain a firsthand insight into local everyday life: a visit to the market, walks through spice plantations, and authentic cultural encounters make this detour to this tropical outpost an intense experience.
Day 15: Buru Island
The rarely visited Buru Island lies at the intersection of the biogeographical zones of Asia and Australia. The island is therefore home to a remarkable variety of unique animal species, including 10 endemic bird species and 4 endemic mammals, as well as numerous near-endemic species.
This morning, you will explore the remote coastline of this extraordinary island together with your experts and nature guides. Look forward to hiking through pristine forests in search of rare animals and experience the warm hospitality of the locals during visits to traditional villages far off the beaten track.
Day 16: Banda Neira
Banda Neira is the main island of the Banda Archipelago, which consists of ten small volcanic islands, and is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status —and for good reason: the island was once the center of the global nutmeg trade and today captivates visitors with its impressive biodiversity.
Long the only source of nutmeg thanks to the native Myristica trees, Banda Neira offers a fascinating glimpse into times gone by. The charming town is still home to numerous relics from the 17th century, including the imposing pentagonal Fort Belgica, which towers over the harbor. Built in 1611 by the first governor-general of the Dutch East India Company and restored in the 1990s, it served both to protect against attacks from the sea and to control the local population.
Only a narrow strait separates the city from the 640-meter-high active volcano Gunung Banda Api on the neighboring island, which is also a refuge for numerous bird species and other wildlife.
Beneath the surface of the deep blue ocean, colorful coral fields spread out in the center of the Coral Triangle, teeming with a wealth of marine life: scorpionfish, ghost pipefish, Napoleon wrasse, mandarin fish, hammerhead sharks, and many more.
Your visit will be rounded off with insights into the everyday life of the islanders and the local culture, including a demonstration of Banda's famous Kora Kora canoes.
Day 17: Kei Kecil Island
Today, you will explore Kei Kecil Island, the tropical jewel of the Kei archipelago in the southeastern part of the Moluccas. Located on the edge of the Coral Triangle, Kei Kecil is famous for some of Indonesia's most beautiful beaches, where powder-white sand meets crystal-clear turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and palm-fringed tropical jungle landscapes.
Ngurbloat Beach, also known locally as "Pasir Panjang," is particularly well known. This photogenic, dream beach with its fine sand and thousands of coconut palms stretches for around 5 kilometers along the calm, mirror-smooth ocean.
Located in the middle of some of the most species-rich marine waters in the world, Kei Kecil offers excellent snorkeling opportunities on extensive fringing and barrier reefs. The colorful underwater world delights with countless reef and schooling fish, nudibranchs, cephalopods, dogtooth tuna, eagle rays, and even manta rays, making it a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
Day 18: Day at sea
Take some time today to relax and pause to reflect on this impressive journey. Together with your fellow travelers, look back on the most beautiful moments and enjoy a festive farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 19: Disembarkation in Darwin, Australia
This morning you will arrive in Darwin. Australia's "Gateway to the North" is known for its sparkling harbor, its importance during World War II, and its relaxed tropical outdoor lifestyle.
After breakfast, a complimentary bus transfer to a centrally located hotel or Darwin Airport is available.
Please note: To allow sufficient time for disembarkation and transfer to the airport, we recommend that you do not book flights departing before 1:00 p.m.
The daily programs described here are for your guidance. The itinerary may vary due to local weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and organizational requirements.Theexpedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
June 17, 2027 – July 5, 2027
From €15,725 €12,580 per person
19 days/18 nights
MS Heritage Adventurer (Maximum occupancy: 140)
Keel up Darwin
Up to 20% early-bird discount for new bookings made by August 31, 2026
Selected date
June 17, 2027 – July 5, 2027 (19 days/18 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer | Southeast Asia's hidden island gems
Main Deck Triple
Superior Triple Room
Deck 4 Superior
Deck 5 Superior
Main Deck Single
Superior Single Room
Worsley Suite
Heritage Suite
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Summary
activities
Information
Included services:
- One night's accommodation in Taipei on day 1, including dinner and breakfast
- 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 Darwin Airport
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
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The Heritage Adventurer at sea | © I. Wilson
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Tunnel of the Nine Turns in Taroko National Park | © F. Wardle
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Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island | © S. Bradley
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A baby crested macaque | © C. Finch
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Balicasag Island | © C. Finch
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Snorkeling off Balicasag Island | © C. Finch
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Excursion boats on the beach | © C. Finch
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Kayaking through Sohoton Cove National Park | © C. Finch
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A rare crested macaque in the Tangkoko Nature Reserve | © C. Finch
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Snorkeling with whale sharks in Gorontalo Bay | © C. Finch
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Fort Belgica in Banda Neira | © C. Finch
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Cultural performance in Banda Neira | © F. Wardle
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Landing on Kei Kecil Island © C. Finch
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White picture-perfect beach on Kei Kecil Island | © C. Finch
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Exotic flora and fauna | © M. Potter
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Gentle giants in Gorontalo Bay | © C. Finch
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