Raja Ampat Explorer North 2028 Cruise
This new North journey reaches further across Raja Ampat.
From Sorong, travel south to Misool’s reefs and limestone caves before turning towards Pisang, the Habera Islands and the lagoons of Fam. Then cross into the northern islands and continue to remote Ayu Atoll. The final days bring you back through the reefs of Kri, Wallace Passage and Waigeo’s rainforest. It is a journey shaped by distance and discovery, with something entirely different waiting around each turn.
Highlights
• Explore the extraordinary marine biodiversity of Raja Ampat, with opportunities to snorkel and dive among vibrant coral reefs, soft corals and abundant tropical fish.
• Discover Raja Ampat’s spectacular island landscapes, from Misool’s limestone formations and Tomolol Cave to the turquoise lagoons of the Fam Islands and remote Ayu Atoll.
• Venture into remote rainforests and waterways, with opportunities to spot birds of paradise on Waigeo, explore by adventure boat and cross the equator during this 11-day expedition.
Arrive in Sorong and join the True North crew on board. As we leave the harbour, settle into your cabin and meet the people you’ll share the journey with. The first evening is yours to enjoy on deck while we begin our passage into Raja Ampat.
Our first full day takes us to Misool, where limestone islands rise from turquoise water and reefs bring the seascape to life. Dive or snorkel among soft corals, sea fans and schooling fish, then explore the channels and sheltered lagoons by adventure boat. It is an immersive start to the journey, with the island scenery just as compelling above the water as it is below.
Explore Tomolol Cave by adventure boat, moving through its water-filled limestone chambers before returning to the open light of the karst channels. The day also takes in the karst islands, with opportunities to explore from the boats and spend more time in the water. After a day among caves and islands, return aboard for the journey north.
The Pisang Islands offer a different setting: small islands set apart in open water. Spend the day exploring their shores and surrounding reefs, with snorkelling, diving and adventure boat outings guided by the conditions we find. After the drama of Misool’s limestone landscape, the horizon feels wider here.
Today is devoted to the Habera Islands. Take an adventure boat to investigate the coast, slip into the water with the snorkelling or dive guides, or simply enjoy the view as we move between islands. It is the kind of day that rewards curiosity: choose an outing, follow the crew’s lead and see what this less familiar part of the route reveals.
In the Fam Islands, clear lagoons sit among steep green islets. Explore by adventure boat, snorkel the reefs or climb to a lookout for a view across the island group. From above, the channels and islands form a remarkable pattern; back at water level, there is always another beach, reef or passage to discover.
Continue north through Kawe and the Equator Islands. Spend the day moving between island scenery and underwater encounters, with opportunities to snorkel, dive or explore by adventure boat. Crossing the equator is a milestone worth celebrating aboard True North as we make our way towards the northern atolls.
Ayu takes us to one of the most remote parts of this journey. Inside the atoll, pale sand and sheltered water invite exploration; along its outer edge, the reef falls towards the open sea. Join the crew for a snorkel, dive or exploration with the ship’s naturalist.
Back in the Dampier Strait, Kri’s reefs offer another chance to dive or snorkel among Raja Ampat’s abundant marine life. Then board an adventure boat to explore Wallace Passage, where the forest meets a narrow, lively waterway. We’ll come together for a True North raft-up before continuing towards Waigeo.
Begin with a visit to Blue River, then head into Waigeo’s rainforest for the chance to see birds of paradise. It is a final day of contrasts: clear water, dense jungle and one last wildlife encounter before we return to Sorong. Enjoy your final evening aboard with the crew and fellow guests.
After breakfast, farewell the crew and disembark in Sorong. From Misool’s caves to the northern atolls, the journey has shown just how much changes across Raja Ampat, and how much there is to remember long after you leave.
This itinerary is provided as example only. Prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation.
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Ocean Class - Twin
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
River Class - Double
Explorer Class - Stateroom
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters
Passenger Capacity: 36/22
Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023
True North is built for access to remote environments, operating in shallow coastal waters and river systems where conventional expedition ships cannot enter. Daily operations revolve around direct engagement: multiple adventure boats, an onboard helicopter, and a strict avoidance of long sea days ensure that time is spent actively exploring rather than transiting. Interiors mirror high-end lodge standards with panoramic lounges, an alfresco bar, refined dining, and cabins equipped for comfort and immediacy to the landscape. Crew involvement is constant and hands-on, creating an experience defined by flexibility, varied activities and immersion in wilderness rather than passive sightseeing.
True North II delivers the same expedition model in a more intimate format, carrying just 22 guests and maintaining the purpose-built shallow navigation that allows direct access to rivers, coastlines and isolated anchorages. Its layout consolidates social spaces into a combined saloon and lounge, supported by a dining room designed for a refined, communal atmosphere. Cabins retain private facilities and in-house entertainment, while a full suite of adventure boats and regular helicopter operations mirror the capabilities of the larger vessel. The smaller scale enhances personal attention and reinforces the brand’s defining approach: constant activity, close crew interaction and immediate entry into remote environments.
Inclusions
• All adventure boat excursions & activities,
• Destination-inspired dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day,
• All fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips)
• Complimentary café style coffees and tea are available all day
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel Insurance
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Visitors fee
• Transfers not listed in the itinerary
• Adventure wear and other purchases made on-board
• Alcoholic beverages (except as offered on special excursions)
Luxury Expedition
Our Associates Include
