Embark on an expedition through the captivating landscapes of Ambon and Raja Ampat, where history, culture, and natural wonders converge to create an unforgettable journey. Here`s a preview of the exclusive highlights awaiting you. Each moment is a celebration of East Indonesia`s cultural heritage and natural marvels, promising an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Expedition Highlights:
– Visit the ANZAC war cemetery in Ambon.
– View the dramatic scenery surrounding the water village of Sawai.
– Hike in search of Birds of Paradise in Raja Ampat.
– Explore the dramatic Karst landscape of `the thousand temples` in Misool.
– Discover picture perfect postcard views throughout Raja Ampat.
– Swim and snorkel in the most biodiverse marine system on earth.
– Enjoy cultural interaction with the remote villages in Raja Ampat.
– Hike to spectacular view points in Raja Ampat.
– View the spectacular Kitikiti waterfall.
– Walk along streets that were once the most sought-after real estate on the globe.
– Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
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Raja Ampat & The Spice Islands cruise package includes:
– 12 night luxury expedition cruise aboard the boutique motor yacht Paspaley Pearl by Ponant from Dili return
– All meals – menus designed by the famed Serge Dansereau of Bathers Pavilion
– Open Bar including French champagne, wine, beer, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
– Complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi (connectivity dependent on navigation and latitude)
– Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides
– Entry fees to National and Marine Parks
– Non-motorised water sports (Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling)
Additional Expenses:
– Pre and/or Post voyage packages
– Additional shore excursions such as scenic Helicopter flights
– Premium wines
– Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory
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Solo Travellers – Secure free solo supplement when you book the Ocean Twin Stateroom (Stateroom 102), applicable on every voyage. For other Ocean Deck staterooms, a 30% supplement applies, while Horizon Deck suites come with a 50% supplement. Solo Supplement is subject to change, and may be increased at any time at the discretion of the company.
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Flexible Expedition Itinerary:
Experience the freedom of a flexible expedition itinerary, where the adventure unfolds in harmony with nature. These itineraries adapt to tides and other environmental factors, ensuring an authentic exploration. Embrace the cultures, history and biodiversity of the remote areas visited, guided by a team of expert guides who offer a dynamic and unforgettable journey tailored to the whims of the elements.
Special Conditions
Special Validity Dates
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Jan 2025 | Dili, East Timor |
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| 31 Jan 2025 | Ambon Island, Indonesia |
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| 01 Feb 2025 | Ambon Island, Indonesia |
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| 02 Feb 2025 | Seram Island, Indonesia |
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| 03 Feb 2025 | Raja Ampat |
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| 04 Feb 2025 | Raja Ampat |
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| 05 Feb 2025 | Raja Ampat |
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| 06 Feb 2025 | Raja Ampat |
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| 07 Feb 2025 | Raja Ampat |
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| 08 Feb 2025 | Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon, Indonesia |
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| 09 Feb 2025 | Banda Neira, Indonesia |
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| 10 Feb 2025 | Banda Neira, Indonesia |
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| 11 Feb 2025 | Dili, East Timor |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
12 Night Cruise sailing from Dili roundtrip aboard Paspaley Pearl.
Embark on an expedition through the captivating landscapes of Ambon and Raja Ampat, where history, culture, and natural wonders converge to create an unforgettable journey. Here’s a preview of the exclusive highlights awaiting you. Each moment is a celebration of East Indonesia’s cultural heritage and natural marvels, promising an experience that transcends the ordinary.
DAY 1 Embarkation | Dili. Timor Leste
Lying on the northern coast of the island of Timor, along the narrow plains between the central mountains and the Ombai Strait, the laidback seaside city of Dili was thrust into the role of a national capital when Timor Leste became an independent country in May 2002. The peaceful city has a small-town vibe with a distinct Portuguese flavour.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Dili.
DAYS 2-3 Ambon, Maluku Province, Indonesia
Ambon is an island steeped in history from the first European contact by the Portuguese in 1526 to its strategic role in WWII. Today, there still remains many historical and cultural sites among the remnants of forts built by the Dutch East Indies Company during the heyday of the spice trade. The ANZAC War Cemetery near Ambon commemorates the allied soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. All this aside, it is the friendliness of the Ambonese people that will leave the greatest impression.
DAY 4 Sawai, Seram. Maluku, Indonesia.
Located to the North of Ambon Island, Seram is the largest island in Maluku Province. For most central moluccans it is colloquially known as Nusa Ina or Mother Island, and is considered to be the original ancestral home of all the people of Central Maluku. Set at the foot of towering limestone cliffs on the North coast, the remote village of Sawai is one of the oldest villages in the Maluku region, said to have existed long before the arrival of the Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch to the archipelago. Located at the edge of the bay, the village is predominantly built on stilts atop the clear tropical waters of the Ceram Sea.
DAYS 5-9 Raja Ampat. West Papua, Indonesia.
Situated off the northwest tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsula on New Guinea Island, Raja Ampat, or the Four Kings, comprises over 1500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo.
According to Conservation International, the diversity of marine life is greater than any other area sampled in the Coral Triangle, making Raja Ampat quite possibly the richest coral reef ecosystem in the world. Whilst Raja Ampat has gained fame for its remarkable marine environment, it also boasts spectacular landscapes, diverse culture and unique wildlife encounters.
DAY 10 Kitikiti Waterfall. West Papua, Indonesia.
The remoteness and beauty of West Papua’s landscape is showcased at the remarkable Kitikiti falls. Whilst the falls are not very high, they are unique in that they fall directly into the ocean, surrounded by rainforest clad mountains, the falls are a photographer’s dream. The surprisingly cool waters are filtered by the limestone and volcanic terrain, creating a crystal clear cascade into the Ceram sea. Despite the influx of freshwater, colourful coral reefs are located nearby that provide good snorkelling opportunities.
DAYS 11-12 Banda Neira. Maluku, Indonesia.
Banda Neira was the global centre for nutmeg trade for more than four centuries. Join local guides and your expedition team for a guided walking tour and gain an insight to a time when every colonial power of significance was fighting for control of this small island that today has become almost forgotten. Explore the ruins of the Dutch and Portuguese forts, and see the home of Christopher Cole, the British captain who liberated the Bandanese from their oppressive Dutch dictators. It is without doubt the most historically significant and interesting of all the Spice Islands.
DAY 13 Disembarkation | Dili. Timor Leste
Lying on the northern coast of the island of Timor, along the narrow plains between the central mountains and the Ombai Strait, the laidback seaside city of Dili was thrust into the role of a national capital when Timor Leste became an independent country in May 2002. The peaceful city has a small-town vibe with a distinct Portuguese flavour.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Dili and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.
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.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 53.5 m
- Tonnage: 994
- Maiden Voyage: 2025
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 30
- Officer Nationality: Australian
- Ship Registration: Marshall Islands
Ship Amenities
- Hair Dryer
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- International 240V sockets
- USB charging points
- Flat-screen TV
- On-demand entertainment system
- Complimentary WIFI
Ship Facilities
- Sun Deck Lounge & Jacuzzi
- Outdoor Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Main Deck Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Forward Sunset Lounge
EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.
Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.
To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment – a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared – and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.
To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.
Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege…
Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.
In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.
Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax – we take care of everything…
Select the Deck to view detail.
Select the Cabin to view detail.
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.
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.
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.
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.
* Unless otherwise noted all pricing is on a per person twin share basis. All prices based on cash payment - credit card fees may apply. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Special conditions may apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Any pricing not in Australian Dollars will be converted on the day of payment into the relevant currency based on our daily rate of exchange. Please note that many of the prices shown on this website are not shown in real time. Whilst we endeavour to keep our pricing as up-to-date as possible, the advertised prices shown here may differ slightly from the live prices in our booking system. All pricing and offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. Please submit any data errors/omissions you may notice on this site.
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