

72-night Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Patagonia & Antarctica Cruise
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
$63,578
per person*
taxes & fees included
A remote marine paradise in West Papua.

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Overview
Cenderawasih Bay (Teluk Cenderawasih) is a vast and ecologically unique bay located in the province of West Papua, Indonesia, at the western end of New Guinea Island. Often dubbed "The Galapagos of Indonesia's Reefs," it is an exceptional marine protected area, boasting an extraordinary level of biodiversity, including numerous endemic species of fish and corals found nowhere else on Earth. The bay is most famously known for its year-round, reliable encounters with whale sharks, which congregate around local fishing platforms (bagans) for an almost guaranteed interaction.
Cenderawasih Bay is a specialized cruise destination, primarily visited by expedition and dive liveaboard cruises rather than large ocean liners. These smaller vessels offer unparalleled access to its remote dive sites and unique marine encounters. While there are a few smaller local ports like Manokwari, Nabire, and Biak that serve as embarkation/disembarkation points, the true experience of Cenderawasih Bay is found within its vast marine park, typically explored from the comfort of a liveaboard. A visit to Cenderawasih Bay offers cruise passengers an incredible opportunity for world-class diving and snorkeling with whale sharks, exploring pristine coral reefs, and discovering the untouched natural beauty of one of Indonesia's most remote and biodiverse regions.
Experience the highlight of Cenderawasih Bay: incredible, up-close encounters with whale sharks at Kwatisore Bay. These gentle giants gather around local fishing platforms (bagans) and are remarkably comfortable with human presence, offering unique opportunities for swimming and diving alongside them.
Tip: Follow your dive guide's instructions carefully to ensure a respectful and safe interaction for both you and the whale sharks. Be mindful of not touching them.
Dive or snorkel into history by exploring several World War II shipwrecks scattered throughout the bay, particularly near Manokwari and Biak Island. These wrecks, including cargo ships and downed aircraft, have transformed into vibrant artificial reefs, teeming with marine life.
Tip: Many of these wrecks are at recreational diving depths. Check with your liveaboard or tour operator for accessibility based on your diving certification level.
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary coral reefs of Cenderawasih Bay, which are among the most diverse and healthy in the world. Look for vibrant soft and hard corals, unique formations, and a multitude of fish species, including those endemic to the bay.
Tip: Pay close attention to the smaller details; Cenderawasih is known for its macro life and unique, localized fish species.
Enjoy shore excursions to the various uninhabited or sparsely populated islands within the bay, such as Roon Island or Biak Island. Relax on pristine white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore the lush island vegetation. Roon Island also has WWII remnants.
Tip: Some islands may offer short hikes to scenic viewpoints or opportunities for quiet relaxation away from the dive sites.
For bird enthusiasts, keep an eye out for the region's rich avifauna, including various species of birds-of-paradise in the surrounding rainforests, particularly on land excursions from some of the ports or larger islands.
Tip: This typically requires early morning land excursions. Consult with your cruise operator for specific opportunities and timing.
Depending on the itinerary, some liveaboards or small ship cruises may offer opportunities to visit remote local villages, such as Kwatisore, to gain insight into the traditional way of life and unique customs of the indigenous Papuan communities.
Tip: Be respectful of local traditions and customs. Your cruise staff will provide guidance on appropriate behavior and interactions.



Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Sep 12, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Sep 12, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Sep 2, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
2 Sailings
Sep 2, 2026 - Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
2 Sailings
Sep 2, 2026 - Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
2 Sailings
Sep 12, 2026 - Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
2 Sailings
Sep 12, 2026 - Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
2 Sailings
Sep 2, 2026 - Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included

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