Hidden Paradise of Indonesia

Welcome to Port Moresby, where you’ll be transferred to a hotel for your overnight stay. Set along the shores of the Coral Sea, this fascinating city offers a unique blend of traditional cultures, colonial history and modern development.

Your luxury yacht cruise adventure begins with a transfer to the airport for your included flight from Port Moresby to Lae. Upon arrival in Lae, you’ll board your Emerald luxury yacht. Set along the Huon Gulf, Lae is a key economic hub connecting the country’s coastal regions with the inland highlands. After embarkation, set sail into the remote northern waters of Papua New Guinea, where few vessels travel.

A full day at sea invites you to settle into the rhythm of relaxed luxury. As the coastline recedes, enjoy uninterrupted ocean views, on board relaxation, and the sense of isolation that defines this remote corner of the world.

The Sepik River is one of the great river systems of the world, stretching deep into Papua New Guinea’s rainforest interior. Life here is shaped by the river itself – villages are built along its banks, and traditions remain closely tied to water, land and ancestral culture. Explore a landscape of carved storyboards, stilted homes and dense jungle where ancient customs continue to thrive.

Wewak is a relaxed coastal town in northern PNG framed by palm-lined beaches and green hills overlooking the Bismarck Sea. It is known for its blend of local markets, wartime history and everyday coastal life. This is a place to experience Papua New Guinea at a human scale – unhurried, welcoming, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

Jayapura is the capital of Indonesia’s Papua Province, set around a sheltered harbour and framed by lush, hilly terrain. The city offers a fascinating blend of indigenous Papuan culture and modern Indonesian life, with traditional villages, vibrant markets, and striking handicrafts such as bark cloth and intricate wood carvings. You can explore Lake Sentani, enjoy panoramic views of the bay, and experience the warm hospitality of local communities.

Spend the day at sea as your cruise transitions fully into Indonesian waters. This is a chance to unwind, enjoy the ship’s amenities, and take in the vast, open seascapes of the Coral Triangle. 

Cenderawasih Bay is one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary marine environments and a designated national park of global importance. Its calm, protected waters are home to thriving coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. With favourable conditions, guests may witness seasonal whale shark encounters – an unforgettable highlight of the region. Note that sightings are not guaranteed as they occur naturally in the wild.

Enjoy a second day discovering Cenderawasih Bay.

Manokwari sits between forested mountains and a quiet coastline on the edge of West Papua. As a regional capital, it offers a glimpse into daily life in Indonesia’s far east, where administrative centres meet lush natural surroundings. The area is also a gateway to nearby forests and coastal landscapes rich in biodiversity. 

Amsterdam Island lies in one of Indonesia’s most remote eastern regions and is characterised by untouched tropical scenery, quiet beaches, and surrounding coral ecosystems. With minimal development and limited visitation, it offers a rare sense of discovery and isolation in the heart of the Coral Triangle. 

Ayu Atoll is a secluded coral atoll in northern Raja Ampat, where white sand beaches meet crystal-clear lagoons and thriving reefs. With very few inhabitants, it remains one of the most untouched marine environments in Indonesia, offering exceptional snorkelling and a profound sense of natural tranquillity. 

Welcome to the bustling West Papua port town and gateway to Raja Ampat, Sorong, which marks the conclusion of your journey through one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your included flight from Sorong to Bali, then transferred to a hotel for your overnight stay.

Immerse yourself in the island’s enchanting blend of ancient traditions and vibrant culture, from its lush rice terraces and sacred temples to its world-renowned spas and gourmet dining scenes. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home or onward travels, taking with you cherished memories of your extraordinary journey. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.