West Papua, Raja Ampat and Micronesia Cruise

BANDA NEIRA
The Banda archipelago is the historic heart of the spice trade and was once the world's only source of nutmeg until the mid-19th century as Portuguese, Dutch, and English fought for control over the spice trade.As you approach and enter the Zonnegat channel, witness a thrilling spectacle as Moluccan rowers in traditional kora kora canoes greet the ship and escort you into the harbor. Go ashore to be welcomed by the nutmeg dance of the local school students, before touring the historic township. Spend time snorkeling and diving over the nearby lava flow reef system and trying local foods along on the waterfront. Explore Fort Belgica, built by the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1611. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of champagne as the sun sets over the fort.

KITIKITI WATERFALLS, MOMMON PENINSULA
This afternoon, visit the mesmerizing Kitikiti Waterfall, which flows out of the lush jungle and falls directly into the ocean. Enjoy the chance to swim under this truly memorable waterfall, feeling the chilled fresh water meeting the warm ocean water and explore the surrounding crystal clear lagoons by snorkeling or kayaking. Delve deeper into this pristine landscape by Xplorer cruise in search of hidden lagoons or on a rainforest walk and spot exotic birds such as hornbills and birds of paradise along the way.

MISOOL, RAJA AMPAT

Today, arrive at Misool, one of the four largest islands of RajaAmpat. Here you visit Balbulol Lagoon, an almost landlocked inletpopulated with conical-shaped islets undercut at sea level that risefrom turquoise waters like Christmas Trees. There is time to swimand kayak among the islands in this beautiful lagoon, as well asexplore the island by Xplorer and beachcombing. Embarking on ahike here will lead to a higher viewpoint to experience the amazingrock island formations.

WAYAG, RAJA AMPAT
More Raja Ampat treasures await today as you explore the scatteredkarst "beehives" of the Wayag Islands. This natural treasure is natureat its most vibrant both above and below the water, with emeraldkarst islands rising from the brilliant turquoise water. Explore themagnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer and Zodiac with
time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk on white-sand beachesamong the many islands. The coral reefs here provide exceptionaldiving and snorkeling, with many vibrant corals and tropical fishspecies to discover. After lunch, there is an opportunity for anenergetic hike up to famed Pindito Peak, where you'll be rewarded
with panoramic views over the island and its spectacular lagoon.

SORONG, RAJA AMPAT
Sorong is your departure point from the Indonesia region. Lushmountains covered with forest surround the town and fishing is amajor part of the local economy. Go ashore to visit theSorong Nature Conservation Park to see the big old trees plantedby the Dutch many years ago. You will also be welcomed by the MoiTribe, the owners of the land, who are culturally unique from otherpeoples in the surrounding regions. Enjoy demonstrations such as
the making of the traditional Papuan handwork bag and a tour of adragonfruit plantation. Later, enjoy a relaxing guided walk throughthe forest to look for birds.

HELEN REEF, PALAU
Enjoy a true expedition stop at the small island of Tobi, home toaround 30 people who live a traditional lifestyle. Meet the localpeople, who speak their own language of Tobian as well as someEnglish, and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and beachcombing fromthe beach at Helen Reef. The island is known as a nesting site forlesser-crested terns and green sea turtles.

SONSOROL, PALAU
Isolated Sonsorol Island is one of the 16 States of Palau and hometo a population of between 25 and 65 people who are culturally andlinguistically related to the Yap and Caroline Islands. Learn abouttheir subsistence lifestyle disconnected from the modern world as youvisit the village and dive and snorkel the fringing reef and coralgardens.

KOROR, PALAU
Enjoy a delightful Koror city tour by bus, exploring the vibrantlandmarks including museums and the reef center. Afterwards,guests can explore Koror at their own pace, taking advantage ofthe complimentary shuttle service to visit local markets. As the daydraws to a close, head to the beach for a local sunset reception.Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere with performancesby local dancers. The following day, certified divers can embark ona guided dive to explore the mesmerizing underwater world here.Others may choose to walk and swim at Jellyfish Lake where youcan swim alongside these fascinating creatures in their serenehabitat. Visit Rock Islands to participate in a guided snorkel tour atthe Milky Way, where you can float and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters. Or enjoy a relaxing coastal cruise, with opportunitiesfor a beach swim. There will also be a panoramic guided cruisethrough Nikko Bay, admiring picturesque scenery.

YAP ISLAND, FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA
Learn about Micronesian Yap Island's ancient monetary systemof stone money, where limestone discs were quarried and carvedinto "coins" known as Rai, which can be as large as 13 feet or as smallas 1.5" in diameter. There is an opportunity to visit the Yap LivingHistory Museum to learn about Micronesian people and their
time-honored customs and culture, as well as snorkel and dive thelagoon with its coral reefs and abundant marine life.

ULITHI ATOLL, FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA
Snorkel on coral reef gardens off a truly deserted islet in a remote part of the world. Enjoy the tropical vista of white-sand beaches,colorful coral reefs home to sea turtles, coconut crabs, and seabirds. There is also the opportunity to visit the Ulithi Turtle Project and the vibrant community village.Gather in front of the Men's Meeting house where the captain will meet with the High Chief to thank him and the village community for welcoming us on Mogmog Island. Adhering to all customary traditions, walk about the village to visit and photograph the
traditional buildings and sites. Local guides will give informative talks on the traditions, customs, and social structures of Mogmog Island. Stroll through the village market with demonstrations of traditional woven baskets and purses, as well handwoven lava-lava, loom weaving demonstrations, and other wooden handicrafts.