Paspaley Pearl, Raja Ampat: Nature’s Richest Realm ex Darwin return

This expedition follows spice trade routes that shaped the modern world, north from Timor-Leste through the Banda Islands, to the 1,500 limestone islands of Raja Ampat. The geographic isolation that made these waters worth fighting over across three centuries has helped to preserve the marine environments that now support 550 coral species and 1,600 documented reef fish species, the most biodiverse underwater habitat on Earth. Thirty guests aboard Paspaley Pearl means access these waters require, time and movement shaped by conditions rather than a fixed schedule.

When the Portuguese established the first forts in the Spice Islands in 1512, nutmeg and mace commanded prices exceeding gold in European markets, enough to justify warships, mercenaries, and a century of brutal competition. The Dutch eventually monopolised the trade by force, but their grip came at a price: in the 1667 Treaty of Breda, they ceded a small Dutch settlement called New Amsterdam to the English in exchange for the Spice Island of Run. The English renamed that settlement New York.

Raja Ampat, at the heart of the Coral Triangle, owes its extraordinary biodiversity to the Indonesian Throughflow, nutrients driven through reef systems that support more coral species in a single dive site than exist across the entire Caribbean. Above the surface, limestone karst peaks rise sharply from flat calm water, their jungle-covered slopes concealing hidden lagoons and uninhabited beaches that reward exploration by Zodiac. Five full days allow exploration of iconic sites and discovery of new experiences both above and below the water.

Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure. Marking a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, she offers a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region.

Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. Having the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels, each expedition promises an authentic and enriching experience, inviting you to not just observe but to participate in the timeless rituals and customs that define the remarkable cultures of the destinations we visit.

PASPALEY PEARL is designed to feel like a home away from home. A classic yet contemporary environment that expresses timeless luxury while harnessing the history of PASPALEY and PONANT’s spirit of adventure.

Paspaley, Australia’s foremost producer of fine pearls and a renowned name in outstanding pearl jewellery, is proud to announce the launch of Pearl Expeditions – a new, distinctly Australian owned, immersive expedition cruise venture. This initiative marks a partnership between Paspaley and cruise industry leader Sarina Bratton, bringing together unparalleled expertise and a passion for exploration.

Select the Deck to view detail.

Paspaley Pearl - Ocean Deck

Paspaley Pearl - Horizon Deck

Paspaley Pearl - Sun Deck

Select the Cabin to view detail.

Pearl Suite

27m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Pearl Suite is sophisticated and meticulously crafted, complete with ample wardrobe space. It features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests have the option of one king-size bed or two twin beds. The suite boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For personalised comfort, there is individually-controlled air conditioning, along with international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Entertainment is provided through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although its connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.

Horizon Suite

20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin beds. Its most striking feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, offering a panoramic view. The suite includes a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. There’s individually-controlled air conditioning and international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps are provided. Entertainment needs are catered for with a flat-screen TV and an on-demand entertainment system. Guests also enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.

Ocean Stateroom

17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one queen-size bed or two twin beds. It boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer for added comfort. The stateroom also includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Guests can enjoy entertainment through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although its connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.

Ocean Twin Stateroom

16m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Twin Stateroom offers a blend of elegance and practical design, featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one double bed or two single beds. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For convenience and comfort, the stateroom includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment needs are met with a flat-screen TV paired with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests are provided with complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.

Double Bed Stateroom

14sqm / Single or Double Bed