True North, Raja Ampat Explorer ex Darwin Return

12 Night Cruise sailing from Ambon to Biak aboard True North.

Day One
Your adventure begins amidst the tropical charm of Darwin. After collection from your hotel, our attentive crew members will escort you onboard True North Adventure Cruises’ 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!

Day Two
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.

Day Three
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 snorkelling and diving is also possible but make sure you’re back in time for the chef’s much-lauded wine and cheese appreciation.

Day Four
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!

Day Five
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. Enjoy an opportunity to get your heart racing on a hike up to ‘Harfat Peak’, this recently constructed track consists of 290 steps which lead to heavenly panoramic views over the rugged Karst islands and its shallow turquoise lagoons.

Over lunch we will steam to one of the prettiest anchorages in Raja Ampat – the Mesempta Karst Channels. Then we’re off for a unique float through the sacred Tomolol cave system – a truly awesome adventure. In the late afternoon join your favourite adventure boat for a ‘TRUE NORTH Raft Up’, enjoy a cool beverage and delicious nibbles as we travel through the picturesque Karst Islands – don’t forget your camera!

Day Six
It’s an early start today as the shore parties head into Sawingkrai Village and trek through the jungle to see the magnificent red bird of paradise. Cape Kri is our mid-morning location – a long and narrow island that offers more of Raja Ampat’s best diving and snorkelling.

In fact, the abundant variety of fish seen at Cape Kri will likely astound! It was here that the TRUE NORTH’s specialist guide, ichthyologist Dr. Gerry Allen, smashed his record for the total number of fish species recorded on a single tank dive – 374 species!

Alfred Russel Wallace was a British natural scientist and geographer who voyaged extensively through Raja Ampat from 1854-1862. He is best known for independently conceiving the theory of evolution through natural selection and his paper on the subject was jointly published with some of Charles Darwin’s writings in 1858. This afternoon you will glide in the comfort of our adventure boats through the winding channel that bears his name. This narrow salt-waterway is flushed by strong currents, producing a vibrant habitat for marine life, while on either side of the channel, the equatorial jungle looms over the water, replete with birds and butterflies, tree ferns and orchids.

It is a tropical ecosystem at its most magnificent and it is easy to see how it may have helped to inspire the great scientist to perceive new insights into the evolution of life on Earth.

Day Seven
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 set off 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 will arrive at the Equator Islands for a unique opportunity to swim or snorkel across the equator! Our nearby anchorage will provide us with an afternoon of fishing, snorkelling and diving or take a sightseeing expedition to view spectacular rock formations, caves and blowholes.

Day Eight
This morning TRUE NORTH will be anchored at the spectacular Fam Group of Islands. We will visit the charming village of ‘Fam’ where we will be welcomed by the local school children. Perhaps you may like to purchase some locally sourced coconut oil!

The adventure boats will offer scenic tours around beautiful Penemu Island which boasts even more opportunity for beachcombing, snorkelling and diving. Moray eels, sea snakes and nudibranchs have all been spotted in this area! For those feeling energetic, takeon the 300 uphill steps at Pianemo Island. Once at the top, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Karst Islands from the highest peak on the island!

Day Nine
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 breathtaking reef before we wander through the maze of lagoons in the adventure boats.
In the afternoon we visit the Wayag Research Station where you will have the opportunity to swim with some black tip reef sharks, or view from the jetty if you prefer! Tonight, let your hair down at the TRUE NORTH Equator Party!

Day Ten
After the previous night’s festivities wake and look forward to a second day in the Wayags! Another breathtaking day of snorkelling, diving and sightseeing! Plus we’ve got a new activity in mind today – get ready for our “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, sparkling beaches fringed with palm trees and in the background, dense Papuan jungle – two days in the stunning Wayag’s is never enough!

Day Eleven
Mapia Atoll is a remote and exquisite coral atoll seldom visited by tourists. Located north of the equator and lying basically in the middle of nowhere, the atoll presents classic opportunity to indulge in tropical ocean splendour.

Vertical walls rise several thousand feet from the ocean floor and come alive with brilliant soft corals, gorgonians, sponges, myriads of tropical fish and prolific green and hawksbill turtles. Recently our guests spotted 21 turtles during a 45 minute dive!

The area also has an enviable reputation for light game fishing. Snorkel, dive and fish to your hearts content!

Day Twelve
Next we visit Ayau – one of the largest atolls in eastern Indonesia.

This remote and very beautiful atoll was colonized by Papuan fishermen from Biak Island (to the east) over 100 years ago. The Ayau people are skilled at all means of hunting and gathering – from collecting edible worms from powdery-white sand beaches to spearfishing amidst the coral splendour. The atoll is surrounded by crystal clear water that is frequented by large pods of dolphins.

The outer reef drops sharply to over 1000m and clouds of beautiful fish carpet the reef walls. The adventure boats will be busy as we snorkel and dive at several sites around the atoll or you can head off to the big-blue (outside the Ayau Marine Park) to try your luck at some deep-water trolling for wahoo, sailfish and tuna! We’ll also enjoy a visit to the quaint village of Reni.

Day Thirteen
Enjoy breakfast on-board before a private car transfer to Biak Airport and your chartered flight back to Darwin.

The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels! Guests are able to 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.

A popular venue on any True North cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.

Multiple adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.

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WHY YOU SHOULD CRUISE WITH TRUE NORTH ADVENTURE CRUISES

True North Adventure Cruises is the winner of numerous awards for excellence.

True North Adventure Cruises is an undisputed market leader and offers activity based itineraries especially designed for the most discerning adventurer.

True North Adventure Cruises consistently operates with impeccable customer satisfaction rates.

True North Adventure Cruises pioneered luxury adventure-cruising along the Kimberley coast 30 years previous. Others cannot equal our experience and knowledge!

Explore the magnificent Kimberley coast on either a 7 night, 10 night or 13 night voyage of discovery.

The TRUE NORTH is an Australian registered ship and is not required to exit territorial waters during Australian voyages – every day on-board the TRUE NORTH is an activity day!

The TRUE NORTH is the ONLY adventure-cruise ship in the southern hemisphere that travels with an on-board helicopter – an air conditioned Eurocopter.

The TRUE NORTH features enhanced levels of comfort throughout – allowing guests opportunity to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels.

The TRUE NORTH features several lavish vantage points including a sundeck, an observation lounge, a ship’s lounge, an alfresco bar and a sports deck.

All cabins feature en-suites, in-cabin entertainment and private satellite telephones.

An internet café enables guests to maintain contact with the corporate world.

The TRUE NORTH is purpose built for accessing shallow coastal environs and river systems – bigger ships cannot go where we go!

The TRUE NORTH features computer controlled motion stabilizers.

The TRUE NORTH is fully licensed for fishing activities.

The TRUE NORTH is revered for its on-board dining.

Legendary and authentic service – the TRUE NORTH welcomes just 36 guests and, an AUSTRALIAN crew uniquely chaperones your every experience ensuring our renowned reputation for attention to detail.

Avoid the crowds – we carry 6 dedicated adventure boats (not rubber boats) that provide guests with opportunity to experience wilderness in comfort and, in small groups. We can also make greater provision for guests to do ‘what they want, when they want’!

Experience the destination – our cruises are activity-based and extended periods at sea are specifically avoided. Daily activities include scenic walks, helicopter flights, culture, fishing, snorkelling, picnics, diving, exploring, nature and much, much more! A ship’s naturalist presents entertaining interpretative sessions.

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Select the Deck to view detail.

True North - All Decks

Select the Cabin to view detail.

Explorer Class Staterooms

Features:
~Approximate dimensions 3m X 4m (Ensuite 2m X 1.75m)
~King size bed (can be split into singles if requested)
~2 large viewing windows in the main cabin area
~Private spacious ensuite featuring double basin and windows
~Original Windram artwork in the cabin
~Plenty of drawer and closest space to store clothing and other personal items
~Mini Fridge
~Writing desk and chair
~In house entertainment featuring a large plasma TV & DVD player
~Personal air conditioning unit
~Satellite phone

River Class Double Cabins

Features:
~Approximate dimensions 3.5m x 3.5m (Ensuite 2m x 1.75m)
~King size bed (can be split into singles if requested)
~Private spacious ensuite featuring windows
~2 Large viewing windows in the main cabin area
~Plenty of drawer and closet space to store clothing and other personal items
~In house entertainment featuring a plasma TV & DVD player
~Personal air conditioning unit
~Satellite phone

Ocean Class Twin Cabins

Features:
~Approximate dimensions 2.5m to 3m x 3m (Ensuite 1.5m x 1.75m)
~Twin single beds
~Private Ensuite with spacious shower
~2 oval port holes allowing plenty of natural light into the cabin
~Drawers and closet space to store clothing and other personal items
~In house entertainment featuring a plasma TV & DVD player
~Personal air conditioning unit
~Satellite phone