Trip Notes - World Expeditions

west papua island
explorer
trip highligh­­­ts
Discover island hopping through stunning West Papuan islands
Stay aboard luxury adventure cruise ship, the True North
Diving, snorkeling and/or fishing in tropical waters
Enhance your local experience with the guest biologist
Spectacular scenery
Swim across the Equator
Onboard helicopter for optional scenice flights
Trip Duration11 days
GradeDiscovery and Cruising
ActivitiesCruising
Summary10 night onboard the ship
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our West Papua Island Explorer trip.
At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten
track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of
coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness
regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that
our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for
the enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
Trip Code: WPE
why travel with World Expeditions?
This cruising holiday is an ideal way to island hop through the West
Papuan islands. With our luxuriously appointed adventure cruise ship –
the True North ‑ we have the opportunity to explore the islands that feel
like they are a world away while indulging in equally stunning dining!
Most importantly, our adventures have always sought to safeguard the
ecosystems we explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in
the regions we experience. You will be accompanied by a crew whose
knowledge and passion will add a unique dimension to your trip.
west papua island
explorer
Sorong
West Papua
Ambon
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
Darwin
Australia
trip dates
2016
2017
11Oct - 21Oct
11Oct - 21Oct
important notes
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2016. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Darwin Ocean Class Cabin:$20995
All prices are per person
options & supplements
River Class:
$4000
Explorer Class:
$6700
Single travellers are required to pay a single
supplement when joining this adventure. The
cost of the single supplement is listed above.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
the trip
Your adventure begins in tropical Darwin where your attentive crew will escort you aboard
North Star’s chartered aircraft for a short flight to Ambon. You will explore the fabled islands
of Banda whilst having its natural history explained to you by our guest biologist. Then on to
the Fakfak Coast to see the incredible birdlife and sea life that these turquoise lagoons have
to offer. These crystal clear waters will entice you to submerge yourself in the aquarium like
surrounds. Experience “The Four Kings” ‑ a global epicentre of marine biodiversity where you
will want to maximise every possible minute in the water. This is an expedition with a focus
on diving, snorkelling, fishing, sightseeing and cruising. Your taste buds will be tantalised by
your two world class, on board chefs and the ship crew at your service to pamper you. This
is luxury adventure cruising at its best with endless breathtaking reefs covered in rainbows of
soft corals beckoning you to take the plunge.
at a glance
DAY 1TRANSFER FROM DARWIN BY CHARTER FLIGHT TO AMBON TO BOARD SHIP
DAY 2EXPLORE THE BANDA ISLANDS
DAY 3FAKFAK COAST AND SEBAKOR BAY
DAY 4THE FOUR KINGS - RAJA AMPAT, SE MISOOL MARINE PARK
DAY 5MISOOL ISLAND AND THE SACRED TOMOLOL CAVE SYSTEM
DAY 6GAM ISLAND JUNGLE TREK
DAY 7BEACH COMB PENEMU ISLAND
DAY 8CORAL GARDENS OF WOFOH ISLAND
DAYS 9-10CRUISE THE WAYAG ARCHIPELAGO
DAY 11TRANSFER TO SORONG AIRPORT AND CHARTER FLIGHT TO DARWIN, TRIP
CONCLUDES
additional deposits required
A deposit of 25% of the per person cabin cost is required to confirm your berth. This deposit
is non‑refundable and we recommend you take out travel insurance at the time of booking.
what’s included
10 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 dinners
sightseeing as listed in itinerary
daily activities in the tenders including swimming, fishing and hiking
port charges
specialist guide and naturalist onboard
internal charter flight
transport to and from cruise
group medical kit
use of snorkelling equipment during the trip
divers are provided with cylinders, weight belts and equipment
twin share accommodation based on Ocean Class cabin
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
west papua island explorer
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Transfer from Darwin by charter flight to Ambon to board ship
Your adventure begins amidst the tropical charm of Darwin. After collection from your hotel, our
attentive crew members will escort you onboard North Star’s chartered aircraft for the short flight
to Ambon – gateway to the world’s last frontier, West Papua! Ambon is also where we will welcome
you onboard the magnificent True North. Enjoy a welcome aboard cocktail as we cruise to the Banda
Islands and then watch the sun set in a different land before indulging in an equally stunning dining
experience!
meals: NIL
DAY 2Explore the Banda Islands
Today we explore the fabled Banda Islands. Steeped in history and the evolutionary birthplace of
nutmeg and mace, Banda is at the epicentre of Indonesia’s ‘Spice Islands’ and was a “Holy Grail’ for
European, Arab and Chinese spice traders up until the late 1800’s. So valuable in fact were these
islands that in 1667, Holland traded New Amsterdam (the quaint island now known as Manhattan)
to the British for tiny Run Island – an acquisition that completed their monopoly of Banda nutmeg!
Traditional war canoes will lead us into Banda Harbour before we join a guided tour of Banda Neira
Island featuring a nutmeg plantation and a fascinating historic museum. Back on-board our guest
biologist will introduce the area’s intriguing natural history before you head-off in the expedition
boats for a scenic cruise or perhaps this might be your very first opportunity to snorkel and dive on
a sunken lava flow. Then join guest and crew alike for sunset drinks in historic Fort Belgica which
overlooks Banda Harbour and the still active volcano Gunung Api.
meals: NIL
DAY 3Fakfak Coast and Sebakor Bay
It’s time to explore the intriguing Fakfak Coast. Start with a fishing trip to the Bomberai Peninsula
or indulge in a scenic cruise in the expedition boats through the hidden lagoons – with one eye in
the water and the other to the sky, lookout for hornbills and other Papuan birdlife. And don’t forget
your snorkel and your SCUBA tank – the area is also renowned for its aquarium like qualities.
Then refresh under the beautiful Mommon Waterfall – where chilling fresh water thunders down
lush jungle slopes into the warm waters of the sea. In the afternoon explore Sebakor Bay and its
spectacular system of water-filled caves. More snorkeling and diving is also possible but make sure
you’re back in time for the chef’s much-lauded wine and cheese appreciation.
meals: NIL
DAY 4The Four Kings - Raja Ampat, SE Misool Marine Park
Wake up and revel in the fact that you’re now in Raja Ampat – the “Four Kings” – a global epicentre
of marine biodiversity! You’ll want to maximize every possible minute in the water – snorkelling and
diving on these breathtaking reefs with their rainbows of soft corals and huge shoals of fish is a
testimony to the efforts of those who protect the SE Misool marine park. These dive and snorkelling
sites are some of the most iconic in all of Raja Ampat – marvel at the huge number of sea fans in
the Wayilbatan Channel, the massive schools of fish off “Nudi Rock” and the spectacular underwater
scenery including a photogenic swim-through at “Boo Windows”. In the afternoon we’ll have a
chance to visit the Misool Eco Resort before heading over to Kalig Beach for spectacular sunset
drinks!
meals: NIL
DAY 5Misool Island and the sacred Tomolol cave system
This morning we continue our adventures at Misool Island. The waters surrounding this island teem
with fish life, over-sized sea fans and, feature the underwater caverns of Farondi Island. Take a
scenic ride around the spectacular Balbulol island formations or enjoy a second dive at “No Contest”
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
west papua island explorer
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
fast facts
Countries Visited:
West Papua
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
Asia
*Ask our staff for more information.
(you’ll soon see why it’s so named!) Over lunch we’ll steam into one of the prettiest anchorages
in Raja Ampat – the Mesempta Karst Channels. But you’ll have to wait to really soak in the view
as we’re off for a unique snorkel/float through the sacred Tomolol cave system – a truly awesome
adventure. The Misool Island heli-flight is also not to be missed – you’ll be blown away by the
aerial beauty of this region. In the late afternoon join your favourite expedition boat for a ‘drinks and
nibbles’ cruise through the beautiful Karst Islands – don’t forget your cameras!!
meals: NIL
DAY 6Gam Island jungle Trek
It’s an early start today as the shore parties’ head into Gam Island and trek through the jungle to
see the magnificent red bird of paradise. Then it’s back to the ship for breakfast and a short cruise
to Cape Kri and its spectacular reef which holds the world record for fish species recorded during a
single dive (374 by renowned Australian ichthyologist Dr. Gerry Allen). More diving and snorkelling
in the stunning Dampier Strait is on the agenda after lunch or if you prefer, take a seat in the
expedition boats as we explore the blue water mangroves and enjoy some afternoon bird watching.
meals: NIL
DAY 7Beach comb Penemu Island
The helicopter is away early this morning revealing the spectacular Fam Group of Islands. The
expedition boats will offer scenic cruises around beautiful Penemu Island and the Yeben Islands
boast even more opportunity for beachcombing, snorkelling and diving. And after lunch it’s time for
a cruise highlight. Alfred Russel Wallace was a British naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist
and biologist. He is best known for independently conceiving the theory of evolution through natural
selection and he conducted extensive fieldwork on the Malay Archipelago. This afternoon you
will slip into the coastal channel that bears his name to discover one of the world’s most unique
snorkeling experiences. Surrounding currents converge in the Alfred Russel Wallace Channel to
create a ½ mile long ‘drift snorkel’. The current will guide you over stunning orange cup corals,
seahorses and clownfish – the vibrant water movement is one of the reasons why the area is so rich
in coral and fish life – and all the while you will be surrounded by dense jungle! At the end of the
channel the ship’s expedition boats will be waiting – but you may just want to do it all over again!
End the day with another thoroughly enjoyable True North “raft up” as the expedition boats cruise
through “Hidden Lagoon”.
meals: NIL
DAY 8Coral gardens of Wofoh Island
Wake to the stunning scenery of Wofoh Island – enjoy a breath-taking dive on the black coral forest,
snorkel over the lush coral gardens or simply laze on the gorgeous white sand beach (watch out
for falling coconuts!). Later in the morning we’ll cruise to the rocky islets of Bougainville Strait
and if we’re lucky we can take part in a manta ray convention! Plankton rich currents often attract
large numbers of manta rays to Eagle Rock – jump in and have a swim with these gentle giants of
the sea! This afternoon we visit the Australian-owned “Atlas South Sea Pearls” pearl farm at Aljui
Bay – a chance to learn about the intriguing art of pearl farming and an opportunity to purchase a
very authentic reminder of your time in this timeless land! And, we’ll send the fishing parties out in
search of the revered mangrove jack – a great fighter and one of the best tasting fish you can catch!
For the divers, tonight we’ll offer a night dive on the pearl farm jetty – chock-a-block with all manner
of bizarre and beautiful critters ranging from wobbegongs, cockatoo waspfish, hairy ghostpipefish
and even Raja Ampat’s endemic walking shark – not to be missed!!
meals: NIL
DAYS 9-10Cruise the Wayag Archipelago
More unique experiences are in store! You’ll hardly believe your eyes as you emerge from your cabin
and gaze upon the mind-blowing “karst beehive” islands of Raja Ampat’s “poster child” – the Wayag
Archipelago. Enjoy a snorkel on these gorgeous reefs before we take a cruise on the expedition
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
west papua island explorer
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent.
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and
may supersede any information in the
current brochure, including but not limited
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This
itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and
other circumstances beyond our control.
boats through the lagoon. A helicopter ride over the Wayags is the only way to truly take in the
spectacular scenery – you’ll fill your camera’s memory cards within minutes! In the afternoon we’ll
take a short steam to the Equator Islands for a unique opportunity to dive, snorkel or swim across
the equator! You’ll want to do it in style because King Neptune is watching – and he’ll be sure to
recount your glory (or lack thereof!) at tonight’s infamous Equator Party! After the festivities wake
and look forward to a second day in the Wayags! Another breathtaking day of snorkelling, diving,
helicoptering and sightseeing! Plus we’ve got a new activity in mind today as well – get ready for
our already-famous “Wayag Beach Party”. Select your place in the sun (or under a shady palm tree)
and let the crew entertain with a sumptuous beach picnic and all manner of aquatic toy! Bizarre
island formations, an azure sea and sparkling beaches fringed with palm trees in the foreground of
dense Papuan jungle – two days in the stunning Wayag’s is never enough!
meals: NIL
DAY 11Transfer to Sorong Airport and charter flight to Darwin, trip concludes
You’ll enjoy breakfast on-board before a private car transfer to Sorong Airport. From here your board
your chartered flight back to Darwin and the trip concludes.
meals: NIL
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
country information
The Island of New Guinea has an area of 420,540 km2. The region is administered as two
provinces: Papua and West Papua; the eastern half of New Guinea is the country of Papua
New Guinea. In 2003 the region was split into the provinces of Papua and West Papua.
West Papua (or Western New Guinea) was annexed by Indonesia from the Netherlands in
1969, which until then had been occupied by the Dutch. The population of New Guinea is
approximately 3.6 million and is made up of ethnic Papuans, Melanesians, and Austronesians.
The Island of New Guinea is mainly dense forest and the majority of the population live in or
near coastal areas. The official (and most commonly spoken language) is Indonesian, however
there is an estimated 200‑700 tribal languages. The predominant religion is Christianity (often
combined with traditional beliefs) followed by Islam and the main industries are: agriculture,
fishing, oil production and mining.
climate
The weather is tropical, meaning most areas are hot and humid with heavy seasonal
precipitation. The ‘Wet’ occurs during summer (December through March), with the
drier period during winter (June to September). It is a hot, humid climate and generally
temperatures in all months are above 18 degrees Celsius.
a typical day
Cruise a breathtakingly beautiful archipelago!
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian
diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please
ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to
your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen
adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or
alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with
special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a
peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
west papua island explorer
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the
possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies
and be capable of self‑administering these medications.
accommodation on the trip
Aboard the TRUE NORTH you can 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. Other details of this adventure cruise
ship:
Length: 50 metres /164 feet
Draught: 2.2 metres
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Motion Control: Computer controlled stabilizers
Cabin Features: En‑suite, in‑cabin entertainment and satellite telephone
Other cabin classes are available. Please speak to one of our reservations consultants about
cabin upgrade options
equipment required
A comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking.
non exclusive trips
Please note that this trip is not exclusive to World Expeditions clients and you will be joining a
group of up to 23 adventurers from around the world.
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included
Visa (if required)
Airfare to/from Darwin
Optional activities
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc
Meals and beverages not included in the itinerary
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Tips and gratuities
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 8/4/2015 6:30:23 PM
west papua island explorer
Island hop through stunning West Papuan islands on board the luxuriously appointed
adventure cruise ship the True North. Explore one of the world’s last frontiers!
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 9/14/2016 10:01:13 PM