Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua - January 5 - 19, 2021
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Spice Islands, Raja Ampat
& West Papua
January 5 – 19, 2021
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Expedition O ver view
There are 17,000 islands in Indonesia, give or take. Some people estimate
that it would take a lifetime to visit each one. Well, best get started then,
and what better way than with a 15-day voyage to the crème de la crème—
the Bandas, Raja Ampat and the Vogelkop Peninsula region of West Papua,
three of Indonesia’s most intriguing destinations. From the comfort of the
agile, 120-guest Coral Adventurer, watch for dolphins, whales and seabirds,
or immerse yourself amidst schools of brightly-colored reef fish as you
snorkel among the world’s richest coral gardens. Visit 17th-century Dutch
© Giovanna Fasanelli
forts and nutmeg plantations in the Spice Islands; admire prehistoric cave
paintings and Red Birds of Paradise in Raja Ampat; swim over hulking
Photos: Swimming with Whale
Whale Sharks and sunken WWII fighter jets in West Papua’s fabled
Sharks, Colorful Reef
Cenderawasih Bay. Join Apex on this best-and-brightest journey among
Indonesia’s island jewels.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
© Chris McLennan
Itinerar y
Tuesday, January 5: Arrive Darwin, Australia
Arrive in Australia’s only tropical state capital, the gateway to the Top End, as it is
known, and take the afternoon at leisure to explore its waterfront and surprisingly
cosmopolitan center. Return to the hotel to meet your fellow travelers and
expedition team at a welcome dinner. Overnight at Hilton Darwin.
Wednesday, January 6: Darwin / Embark Coral Adventurer
After breakfast, enjoy a visit to George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, a
beautiful 100 acres showcasing tropical species including Aboriginal and Top End
native plants. Walk amongst monsoon vine forest, mangroves, bottle-shaped Boabs,
and a magnificent collection of native and exotic palms and cycads. Afterwards,
head to the harbor to embark Coral Adventurer, your home away from home for
the next 12 nights. Have lunch onboard, before setting off toward Indonesia. This
evening, enjoy welcome drinks with the captain before dinner.
Thursday, January 7: At Sea
As you cruise north today across the Arafura Sea, attend lectures on the flora,
fauna, culture, and history of the upcoming Spice Islands, Raja Ampat and West
Papua. Watch for frigatebirds, terns and boobies, as well as Spinner Dolphins, flying
fish, and perhaps even the pelagic sea snakes for which this region is famous.
Friday, January 8: Banda Neira
In the middle of the 16,000-foot-deep Banda Sea, over 100 miles from the nearest
major land mass, lie the Bandas, once the powerful center of the spice trade.
Coveted for their bountiful nutmeg and mace, the Dutch traded Manhattan for one
Photos: Raja Ampat, Darwin
of these remote islands. As you approach Banda Neira, watch the thin plume of Botanical Gardens, Spinner
smoke wafting from Gunung Api’s summit. See Banda’s famous Kora Kora canoes in Dolphins
action in the port. Disembark and wander the sleepy, flower-filled streets, still lined
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
with impressive remnants of colonial-era architecture. Explore Fort Belgica, built
in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company. The fort is well-preserved,
providing a fascinating insight into the Dutch colonies, and the centuries-long battle
with Britain for control of this spice-rich region. This evening, join the locals for a
traditional dance performance, before enjoying a glass of champagne as the sun
sets over the fort.
Saturday, January 9: Banda Neira & Hatta Island
This morning, you may choose to return to shore for a town tour of Banda Neira, or
snorkel over the nearby lava flow reef system. The Bandas are renowned for their
excellent visibility and spectacular coral coverage. Because of the depth of the
Banda Sea, they also boast robust populations of pelagic predators, notably
Dogtooth Tuna and mobula rays. The Bandas are also home to the largest known
Napoleon Wrasse population in Indonesia. After lunch, head for nearby Hatta Island.
Here, just fifteen feet off the main beach, a spectacular drop-off harbors a truly
staggering array of sea life. Large schools of fusiliers and Redtooth Triggerfish hang
above reefs teeming with butterflyfishes, damsels, and multihued wrasses. Those
© Giovanna Fasanelli
who prefer to stay on land may take a guided walk through the village and explore a
local nutmeg plantation.
Sunday, January 10: Molana & Saparua Islands
Arrive early in the Lease Islands, north of the Bandas. Explore uninhabited Molana,
actually a cluster of exposed coral reefs. Molana is home to a diverse beach scrub
flora, endemic Moluccan Scrubfowl, numerous Pacific Monitor Lizards, and
endangered Coconut Crabs. There are several ruins, dating from ancient times to
a World War II Dutch hospital. Here, at the heart of the Coral Triangle, marine
enthusiasts can be easily overwhelmed by the sheer diversity and abundance of
fishes and corals, including clouds of damsels, Sweetlips, triggerfish and parrotfish.
After lunch, head east to nearby Saparua, the most developed of the Lease Islands.
Learn of Saparua’s fascinating colonial history at Fort Duurstede, built by the Dutch
in 1691. In 1817, the fort was conquered by local leader Pattimura, who had all the
Dutch soldiers killed. Witness a performance of traditional war dances with shields
and swords.
Monday, January 11: Seram Island
Sawai is a hidden pearl of a village located on the central northern side of Seram
Island. Set against a backdrop of towering limestone cliffs and valleys of Manusela
National Park, with houses that extend out over the turquoise bay, Sawai is a good
starting point for exploration of Ora Beach and the national park. Foremost among
pastimes here is Seram’s magnificent birdwatching—it is home to 21 endemic bird
species, including the spectacular Moluccan, or Salmon-crested, Cockatoo and the
brilliant Purple-naped Lory. Later today, bid farewell to the Spice Islands and head
northeast to Raja Ampat.
Tuesday, January 12: Misool Island, Raja Ampat
© Chris McLennan
Raja Ampat means Four Kings in the Indonesian language, referring to the four main
islands of this extensive archipelago, and is perhaps best known as being the global
bull’s eye of marine diversity—it is quite possibly the richest coral reef ecosystem
on Earth. But terrestrial treasures also abound on one of its main islands, Misool.
Photos: Fort Belgica, Colorful
More than 1,000 prehistoric rock paintings have been discovered here. Walk
Coral, Saparua Performance,
through the cave systems with paintings depicting marine fauna and early man.
Rock Paintings
Then, visit Yapap, with its magnificent natural primordial pool, adorned with
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
impressive limestone karst formations that look more like chess pieces than rocks.
Take a dip in the perfectly heart shaped Dafalen lagoon, perched just over the
crystalline ocean, before returning to the ship for dinner.
Wednesday, January 13: Kofiau Island
At the western edge of Raja Ampat lies remote Kofiau, comprised primarily of raised
coral limestone hills covered in low, lush rainforest. As your Zodiacs near the village
of Kampung Deer, a “flatform boat” with local dancers performing will greet you.
Explore Kampung Deer, and, if you desire, hike to a nearby inland lake, watching
for Blyth’s Hornbills and Sulphur-crested Cockatoos overhead, or perhaps even
Kofiau Paradise Kingfisher and Kofiau Monarch, two birds entirely restricted to this
far-flung island. Visit the village of Kampung Awat, and enjoy a Sasi opening
ceremony and beach BBQ. Spend the afternoon snorkeling or birdwatching.
Thursday, January 14: Wayag Island
On the north end of Raja Ampat lies Wayag, an iconic maze of karst ‘gumdrop’
islands and white sand beaches. Explore these islands by Zodiac. Those keen on
a rigorous climb up Pindito Peak will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama
across Wayag’s coves and atolls. Alternatively, choose to relax with a swim, snorkel,
or kayak paddle.
Friday, January 15: At Sea
Relax today as the ship heads east to the Vogelkop, or Bird’s Head, Peninsula of
West Papua. Join the expedition team and guest lecturers for a presentation on
the iconic Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay. Reaching between 30 and 40 feet in
length, and weighing around 9 tons, Whale Sharks are the largest fish in the ocean.
In Kwatisore Bay, on Cenderwasih’s southern coastline, schools of Whale Sharks
are known to gather around the local fishermen’s ‘bagans,’ or fishing platforms.
The fishermen consider them a good omen, and keep them coming back with a
steady supply of baitfish. Nowhere else on Earth can you experience such a density
of Whale Sharks in such clear water.
Saturday, January 16: Auri Islands, Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua
Cenderawasih, or Bird of Paradise, Bay lies on the north-eastern side of West
© Giovanna Fasanelli
Papua. The marine life here has evolved in relative isolation due to ancient tectonic
upheavals and sea level idiosyncrasies. The result? Many endemics, and frequent
discovery of new species. Within the bay, Teluk Cenderawasih National Park covers
5,500 square miles of rich marine ecosystem, harboring Dugongs, dolphins, over
200 known species of fish and 150 species of coral. Spend the day in Auri’s
spectacular karst islands within the park, snorkeling among rainbow reefs. See a
magnificent array of fish, Green and Hawksbill Turtles, and a trio of American WWII
fighter jets sunk in the shallows. On the islands, you may hike to a waterfall and
enjoy some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Indonesia.
Sunday, January 17: Kwatisore Village, Cenderawasih Bay
This morning, head down to Kwatisore Village for the chance to swim with the
renowned Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay. Swimming in close proximity to
these gentle giants is an experience that will not soon be forgotten. In the
afternoon, go shore and enjoy dance and song performed by the children of
Photos: View from Pindito Peak,
Kwatisore Village. Learn about Papuan culture, participate in the dance, and enjoy
Kayaking, Reef Life, Kwatisore
a performance by the talented string band. Local handicrafts are available for
String Band
purchase at the village market.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Monday, January 18: Disembark Coral Adventurer / Biak / Darwin
This morning, bid farewell to Coral Adventurer as you disembark at Biak, one of
West Papua’s biggest islands. Here, the famous Binsari Caves stand as a sobering
reminder of the area’s role in World War II. Some 5,000 Japanese soldiers used
the massive natural caves as a hideout for much of the war, until the Allied forces
bombed them in 1944, killing more than 3,000 men. At noon, head to the airport for
a charter flight to Darwin. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and gather this evening at
the restaurant for a farewell dinner. Overnight at Hilton Darwin.
Tuesday, January 19: Depart Darwin
After breakfast, transfer to the Darwin airport for your international flights home.
If scuba diving is of interest, opportunities are available throughout the voyage at an
additional cost per dive. Some dives are available through local resorts, while others
are managed by the onboard team based on conditions on the day. Let us know if
you are interested in participating in scuba opportunities.
Photos: Binsari Caves,
Kora Kora Canoe
Note: This itinerary is an indication of the destinations and activities we intend to offer.
As with most expeditions, alterations may need to be made due to weather, sea
conditions, or any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Flexibility is
key to maximize the experience. Visits to Raja Ampat are subject to permissions to visit
protected marine parks. These approvals may alter over time. If access to some areas
is not possible, alternatives will be introduced to the itinerary.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Expedition Map – Spice Islands, Raja Ampat
& Wes t Papua
A – Dar win F – Kof iau Island
B – Banda Neira & Hat ta Island G – Wayag Island
C – Molana & Saparua Islands H – Auri Island
D – Seram Island I – Kwatisore V illage
E – Misool Island J – Biak
B y Ship B y A ir
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Your Expedition Leaders
Jonathan Rossouw
Jonathan is one of the world’s most experienced expedition leaders, having guided
wildlife trips in over 150 countries on all seven continents. He combines a legendary
energy and enthusiasm with a broad knowledge of all aspects of natural history, gained
from three decades spent in the pursuit of the world’s mammals, birds, reptiles and
coral reef fishes. Indeed, having seen over 1,000 species of mammals, 9,000 species of
birds and 2,000 coral reef fishes, he will likely experience more species of vertebrate
animals than anyone in history! A medical doctor by training, Jonathan was born and
raised on South Africa’s east coast. He started a birding travel company in South Africa
before joining Peter Harrison and Shirley Metz, to assist in expanding their global
portfolio of natural history destinations. An accomplished photographer, Jonathan’s
images have appeared in many books and magazines, and he has co-authored birding
site guides to Uganda, Southern Africa and Madagascar.
Kevin Clement
Not many people can say they live year-round inside Alaska’s Glacier Bay National
Park, but Kevin Clement is one. He also lived for many years in Denali National Park.
Nowadays, however, he spends most of his time guiding ecotourism and adventure
trips on all seven continents. Kevin has served as the Denali Foundation instructor
for natural history and as a boat operator in Glacier Bay’s wilderness waters. As a
Certification Instructor for the Wilderness Education Association he led month-
long outdoor leadership courses. He has guided groups in whitewater rafts, on
cross-country skis, by dog sled, and on foot, earning certifications in scuba diving,
swiftwater rescue, and wilderness medicine, as well as a Coast Guard Master’s
license. Most recently he’s been coordinating and leading sea kayaking excursions
in Antarctica and the Arctic. And as he always has, he still draws and paints. His first
career was as an illustrator, and his work has appeared in various juried art shows.
He never travels without his sketchbook. Or his sense of humor.
Gerald Broddelez
Gerald has been leading wildlife-focused expeditions to some of the planet’s
most rewarding destinations for over 30 years. As a veteran Expedition Leader
and lecturer on expedition ships, Gerald has travelled on all the world’s oceans,
spending most of his time in the high Arctic, Antarctic and Polynesia. His life-long
passion for nature and conservation has taken him to over 170 countries and every
continent, during which he has seen over 8,000 species of birds, over 1,000
mammals and most of Europe’s butterflies. Gerald also helped produce natural
history documentaries, both as a cameraman and a writer, for Belgian, British and
Azorean television networks. In recent years, Gerald has also been involved in field
training courses for nature guides in several European counties. Belgium is home
and in addition to speaking his first languages of French and Flemish, he is also
fluent in English, German, and Spanish.
John Buchanan
John was a professor of geology and the former director of the environmental
science program at Eastern Washington University. Retirement has allowed John
to follow his love for guiding expeditions where he can share his knowledge and
passion with like-minded explorers. John spent the past 34 years focusing his
academic endeavors on sedimentology, hydrogeology and geomorphology—with
a keen interest in all things geological. His proximity to the Pacific Rim and Hawaii
makes him an expert on seismology and volcanology related to the Ring of Fire.
Having worked on all seven continents, traveling nearly pole to pole, and points in
between, John is also an avid landscape and wildlife photographer, mountaineer,
private pilot and amateur astronomer.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua
onboard the Coral Adventurer
2021 Vessel Information
Designed and built to be the most modern tropical expedition ship afloat, the Coral Adventurer debuted in April 2019.
There is plenty of deck space for observing natural wonders and whenever possible the Captain will maneuver the ship
to make the most of wildlife sightings. The ship features an intimate guest experience and personalized service.
Cabin Categories Rates Per Person Vessel Specifications
Coral Deck Stateroom $10,095
Length........................................ 306 feet
Promenade Deck Stateroom $11,520
Width............................................ 56 feet
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom $13,410 Speed..................................... 13.8 knots
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom $14,355 Tonnage..........................................5,599
Guests................................................ 120
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite $18,135
Crew..................................................... 48
Solo – Coral Deck Stateroom $14,240 Built..................................................2019
Passenger Decks...................................4
Solo – Promenade Deck Stateroom $16,375
Registry...................................Australian
Solo – Explorer Deck Stateroom $19,210
Vessel Features:
Two trademark Xplorer tenders seat all guests for shore excursions; six Zodiacs for more intrepid exploration; lecture
lounge with multimedia for daily expedition briefings and presentations; shallow draft and advanced navigation and
propulsion systems; active stabilizers; over 10,000 square feet of open deck space; passenger elevator; gym; indoor and
outdoor bars; curated wine cellar featuring boutique wines and exceptional vintage Australian reds; and Wi-Fi available
in all guest areas.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272
Expedition Details
Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua
January 5 – 19, 2021
15 Days Trip Length
120 Guests Group Size onboard Coral Adventurer
Darwin / Darwin Start/End
Included
The Apex rate includes, as noted in the itinerary, two overnights in Darwin (January 5th and January 18th); a
welcome reception and dinner in Darwin with local beer and wine included; a farewell dinner in Darwin with
local beer and wine Included; charter flight from Biak to Darwin; all gratuities; and all transfers. In addition, the
voyage rate includes accommodations and meals onboard the Coral Adventurer; activities and excursions as described
in the itinerary; services of four Apex Expeditions leaders, as well as the full Coral Expeditions onboard lecture team
and expedition staff; house beer and wine during lunch and dinner service; 24-hour tea and barista-style coffee;
entrance fees; and taxes.
Not Included
Costs not included in the price of your Apex expedition include travel to and from the start and end point of trip;
bar charges (outside of the included drinks package described in the Included items); travel protection (Trip
Cancellation and Interruption, as well as Emergency Medical and Evacuation insurance, are highly recommended);
airport departure taxes; Scuba diving (available for additional charge); equipment rental; excess baggage fees;
passport and/or visa fees; items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, souvenirs, etc.); and independent travel
arrangements pre- or post-trip.
Payments & Terms
20% of the trip cost will confirm your place on the expedition. The final balance is due 150 days prior to departure.
All prices are quoted in U.S. dollars and must be paid in U.S. dollars. Per person pricing is based on double occupancy.
The solo rate is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations and is subject to availability.
If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same
gender. However, if a roommate is not available, the published solo rate will be charged. Upon confirming your
reservation you will be required to pay the published Solo Rate, if we are able to pair you with a roommate, the
applicable difference will be refunded at the time that the final trip payment is due for all participants. Please note that
solo accommodations are limited and cannot always be guaranteed throughout. For our full set of Terms & Conditions,
please visit our web site at www.apex-expeditions.com/about/terms-conditions/
One-of-a-kind adventures to the world’s
most fascinating places. Join us.
© Giovanna Fasanelli
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272Deck Plan – Coral Adventurer
Bridge
601
Deck Bar
603 Cairns Expedition
Lift Suite Room
W/Cs
The Bridge
Lounge Lobby
602 Observation
Captain’s Lounge
604 Darwin Cabin
Suite
BRIDGE DECK
527 523 519 515 Gym Lift 511 507 503
525 521 517 513 509 505 501
Lobby
526 522 518 514 510 506 502
528 524 520 516 512 508 504
EXPLORER DECK
Gift Shop Lift 415 411 407 403
413 409 405 401
Reception W/Cs
Dining
Room Lobby
Galley 414 410 406 402
416 412 408 404
PROMENADE DECK
311 307 303
Lift 309 305 301
Xplorer Lobby
Boarding
310 306 302
312 308 304
CORAL DECK
Bridge Deck Balcony Suites Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms Coral Deck Staterooms
Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms Promenade Deck Staterooms
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272Suite Details – Coral Adventurer
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite The two Cairns and Darwin suites are spacious and elegant retreats after a busy day
ashore. Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar and personal coffee machine.
They have special King-sized beds, which can be separated into two singles. An
86-square-foot private balcony has an outdoor daybed and lounge chair for two. A unique
outside-facing bathroom with picture windows, bath and separate shower complete the
suite experience. A complimentary minibar is replenished daily. Bridge Deck Balcony
Suites are 600 square feet.
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
The two Bridge Deck staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior King-sized bed,
which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included.
A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage. French windows opening to a
balcony with seating for two gives you a private perch to watch the panorama unfold
outside. These staterooms are located on the bridge deck with superb views and adjacent
to the Cairns and Darwin Suites. Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms are 230 square feet.
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
The Explorer Deck staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior King-sized bed,
which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included.
A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage. Your private balcony has
seating from which to view the passing coastal vistas. These staterooms are located on
the Explorer Deck. Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms are 230 square feet.
Promenade Deck Stateroom
Promenade Deck staterooms are located below the Explorer deck and furnished with a
junior King-sized bed, which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and
armchair are included. A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage. A large
picture window gives you wide views of the world outside. Promenade Deck Balcony
Staterooms are 183 square feet.
Coral Deck Stateroom
Coral Deck staterooms are located below the Promenade deck and are identically
furnished with a junior King-sized bed, which can be separated into two singles. A
wardrobe, desk and armchair are included. A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and
ample storage. A porthole window gives you views of the world outside. Coral Deck
Staterooms are 183 square feet.
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272Reser vation Form
Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua
Januar y 5 – 19, 2021
Person 1: (Primary Contact)
Passport Name:
Preferred Name:
Date of Birth:
Email Address:
Mailing Details:
Address:
City: State: ZIP Code: Country:
Home Phone: Mobile Phone:
Double Solo Cabin Category Preference
Person 2: (If applicable and at same address, otherwise please submit a second Reservation Form.)
Passport Name:
Preferred Name:
Date of Birth:
Email Address:
Deposit Information: 20% of total tour fare
My deposit check is enclosed My deposit check will be mailed separately
Charge my deposit to my: VISA MasterCard American Express
Card #: Expires: CCV Code:
Name on Card:
Signature:
Please return this completed form to Apex Expeditions.
E-mail: info@apex-expeditions.com or Mail: 4700 42nd Ave SW, Suite 570, Seattle, WA 98116
WWW.APEX-EXPEDITIONS.COM 800.861.6425 / 206.669.9272You can also read
