Set sail on the ultimate expedition into the world's richest marine ecosystems - the legendary Coral Triangle and the remote islands of Papua and Raja Ampat. This is more than a cruise; it's a deep-dive into biodiversity and culture, journeying through pristine Indonesian and Papua New Guinean archipelagos accessible only by sea. Your voyage begins in the frontier ports of Wewak and Vanimo before entering Indonesia's vast Papua region, where nature guards stunning geographical wonders.


Navigate Cenderawasih Bay to explore hidden gems like Pulau Padaidori, Pulau Roon and the Auri Islands, with the unparalleled thrill of encountering whale sharks near Kwattisore. Continue to the Raja Ampat archipelago, the epicentre of marine life, exploring serene Kabui Bay, dive sites at Pulau Kri and Pulau Mansuar, and the dramatic karst islands and lagoons of Pulau Fam and Pulau Misool. The vibrant underwater world here is unmatched, and you'll be welcomed by island communities connected to the ocean's ancient rhythms.


Engage in onboard lectures on marine biodiversity and Papuan culture, refine your skills in photography workshops, and choose from exceptional shore excursions: snorkeling or diving Raja Ampat's pristine reefs, kayaking Misool's limestone lagoons, exploring local markets in Jayapura and Manokwari, and immersing yourself in Cenderawasih Bay's coastal village traditions. Every stop reveals new wonders in nature, heritage and human spirit: an unforgettable adventure in one of Earth's last true wildernesses.

Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk, Honiara, Jayapura and Sorong)
Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply)

Sorong, located in West Papua, serves as a key transportation and logistical hub in eastern Indonesia. Set along the coast and surrounded by tropical landscapes, the city reflects the dynamic character of this remote region, shaped by maritime activity and regional connections. As the final point of the voyage, Sorong provides a practical gateway for onward travel, marking the conclusion of the expedition and guests’ return journey home.

Pulau Manim is a peaceful retreat surrounded by coral islets and hidden lagoons. Deserted beaches and lush forests host tropical birds, while its vibrant waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Small local communities preserve age-old traditions, from artisanal fishing to stories rooted in the land.

Pulau Padaidori is one of a cluster of tiny, mostly uninhabited islands and atolls off the northern Papuan coast. This remote stop combines secluded Pacific Rim beaches with a rich, protected marine ecosystem in its calm sapphire waters, where schools of shimmering tropical fish weave amid colourful coral gardens. Mangrove forests shelter snakes and crabs in their twisted root systems and swaying coconut palms decorate white-sand beaches.

Nestled in the turquoise waters of Raja Ampat, Pulau Auri is a secluded island where nature reigns supreme. Pristine white beaches meet thriving coral reefs, while tropical forests shelter colorful birds and endemic species. Small local villages welcome visitors with Papuan hospitality, offering glimpses of traditional life through fishing and handcrafted arts. Beneath the clear waters, sea turtles and schools of tropical fish animate an untouched underwater world.

Pulau Mansinam is a small island of great historical and spiritual importance, where Christianity and modern education were first introduced to Papua in 1855. Today, the island combines the quiet rhythm of village life with meaningful cultural landmarks, including historic churches and monuments. Overlooking Manokwari Bay with views toward the Arfak Mountains, Mansinam also offers insight into the strong sense of community and living traditions that continue to shape local life.

Kabui Bay on Waigeo Island is the largest of the four in Raja Ampat, with verdant karst islets and rugged cliffs sheltering pristine beaches, hidden lagoons and tranquil shores with turquoise waters. Surreal stalactite caves and serene mangrove forests coexist in this island paradise. Sharks, rays and reef fish glide among clusters of coral rising from the waters, while the dense rainforest hides birds of paradise, cockatoos and maleos.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Raja Ampat, this small island packs a punch with crystal-clear waters teeming with some of the richest marine biodiversity on Earth. From colorful coral gardens to schools of exotic fish, every swim reveals a new wonder. Above water, the island’s lush greenery and serene beaches offer a perfect escape into nature’s untouched beauty.

Sorong, located in West Papua, serves as a key transportation and logistical hub in eastern Indonesia. Set along the coast and surrounded by tropical landscapes, the city reflects the dynamic character of this remote region, shaped by maritime activity and regional connections. As the final point of the voyage, Sorong provides a practical gateway for onward travel, marking the conclusion of the expedition and guests’ return journey home.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Oceanview D4

$13,425 AUD pp
Oceanview D4
19 m2 Sleeps 2 Oceanview cabins features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.

Oceanview M4

$14,100 AUD pp
Oceanview M4
19 m2 Sleeps 2 Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.

Balcony D5

$14,775 AUD pp
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2 Located at the forward and aft of the ship, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony

Balcony M5

$15,425 AUD pp
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2 Located at the centre of the ship, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony

Balcony D6

$16,100 AUD pp
Balcony D6
28 m2 Sleeps 2 Located on deck six, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony

Suite

$23,475 AUD pp
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2 Our Suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom and a 12 sq.m. private balcony.

Premium Suite

$26,850 AUD pp
Premium Suite
49 m2 Sleeps 2 Our grandest suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk in wardrobe and a 12 sq.m private balcony.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 115 meters

Passenger Capacity: 158

Built: 2020-2021

The SH Minerva is a boutique expedition ship purpose-built for exploring far-flung destinations and remote polar regions in comfort and style. Crafted at Finland’s esteemed Helsinki Shipyard, she features a Polar Class PC5 ice-strengthened hull and advanced stabilisers, ensuring smooth sailing even in challenging waters. With just 158 guests served by 122 crew across nine decks, the atmosphere on board is intimate and welcoming. Elegant Scandinavian-inspired interiors, panoramic observation spaces, and a range of facilities – from the stargazing deck and library to the spa, heated outdoor pool, and fine dining venues – make every moment at sea a pleasure.

Accommodation ranges from well-appointed oceanview staterooms to spacious premium suites, each offering thoughtful touches such as a flame-effect fireplace, Illy espresso machine, luxury toiletries, and complimentary binoculars for wildlife spotting. Many feature private balconies for uninterrupted views of the passing scenery. Attentive crew provide a warm, personalised service, ensuring that every guest feels at home while enjoying a journey that blends adventure with refined comfort. Whether navigating icy channels or gliding into sunlit harbours, the SH Minerva offers an unforgettable cruising experience.

Cabin layout for Minerva

Inclusions


• Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk)
• Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included - please enquire)
• One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (where included - please enquire)
• All meals onboard
• 24-hour room service
• Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages, available 24 hours per day
• Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
• Standard WiFi
• Onboard gratuities and port taxes
• One selected shore excursion/expedition activity per port of call (kayaking not included – however this can be pre-booked)
• In polar regions: Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka to take home and use of rubber boots for wet zodiac landings.

Exclusions


• Kayaking, private tours, special arrangements, and private Zodiac tours on request and based on availability.
• Additional shore excursions are also offered (excluding polar regions, where all excursions are Zodiac-based and included). At each destination/ port of call, one pre-selected shore excursion will be included free of charge. All other excursion offers will be available at additional cost.
• Premium wines and spirits from the bar menu
• Purchases from the ship’s boutique, laundry expenses, premium WiFi packages, and spa treatments
• Visas where required, travel insurance, flights, domestic transfers, and any hotel requirements pre- or post-cruise, unless otherwise stated within the itinerary description.
Indonesia Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
12 Days from
$1,119 AUD per day

Highlights

• Encounter whale sharks Experience the unparalleled thrill of a rare and gentle interaction with Whale Sharks near Kwattisore.

• Snorkel in the heart of the Coral Triangle among the world-renowned Raja Ampat archipelago, to explore pristine reefs.

• Kayak and cruise among the surreal landscape of limestone karst islands and secluded lagoons of Pulau Fam and Pulau Misool.

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

Get Our Latest Brochure

Featuring the latest small ship cruises to a number of destinations, our Small Ship Cruising brochure is carefully curated to include small ship cruises from expeditions to luxury cruises to the world's most fascinating destinations including Alaska, Croatia, the Galapagos and the Antarctic and Arctic.

Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage
Hutigruten
Lindblad
Pandaw
Ponant
Uncruise
Variety
Poseidon Expeditions
Havila
Royal Galapagos
Polar Quest
Oceanwide
Silverseas