Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

Vessel: Katharina

Where: Sorong, Indonesia

Duration: 10 days / 9 nights

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Discover the jewels of Indonesia as traditional wooden boat Katharina sails to explore the islands of Raja Ampat.

Set the sails with Katharina and her crew as she explores the breath-taking Indonesian Marine Park of Raja Ampat from the city of Sorong.

Glide through fairy tale landscapes of limestone spires, mysterious caves, ancient rock paintings and endless secluded coves teaming with corals and colourful fish. Listen as the sulphur-crested cockatoo flies amongst luscious green landscapes and swim with the other-worldly, rare stingless jellyfish in a forest pool of evolution.

Raja Ampat National Park
Birds of Paradise
World famous Coral Reefs
Remote Villages
Guided Rainforest trekking
Private ensuite cabins
Package Travel Cover
Full Board

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Talk to the team

Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592

Tickets & booking

The voyage

A day to day guide

D A Y 1

A tour leader will meet you at the airport and take you on a boat to the Indonesian city of Sorong on the west coast of the island of West Papua. Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to set course for the southernmost islands of the Raja Ampat National Park. After an alfresco lunch, guests can enjoy the first swim and snorkel through the coral reef before we continue to our overnight anchorage. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails as the sun goes down and the crew continue cruising the boat through the night.

D A Y 2

Wake up on the east side of the Misool archipelago, a picturesque jungle-covered chain of islands. Limestone inlets with spectacular coral reefs offer some fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Spend the day exploring this archipelago, snorkelling, swimming and kayaking in crystal clear waters. Explore ashore with some island trekking or relax on board with a book before a quiet night under a starry sky.

D A Y 3

After an early breakfast, guests can start the day with a swim and snorkel through the fascinating dome-roofed sea cave with giant stalagmites and stalactites. Next, explore the mysterious stingless jellyfish lake, one of only 20 in the world where these incredible creatures live. Visit the eery skull cairns in sea-cave cemeteries and prehistoric cave paintings estimated to be between 3000 – 5000 years old, depicting various human figures, fish and flowers.

D A Y 4

Rise early to wander through the misty forest to try and spot the Lesser Birds of Paradise. A wild and unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to spot them dancing in the trees. Spend the afternoon with some underwater snorkelling exploration as we discover some of the best coral reefs in the world before watching the sunset on the horizon as the boat makes its way to Batanta Island.

D A Y 5

The island of Batanta offers a change of scenery and a chance to stretch our legs with an adventurous jungle trek teeming with native birds, butterflies and insects. Starting in a local village, our guides will lead the way through the forest, passing spectacular waterfalls that are perfect for a swim. Head back to the boat for a freshly cooked lunch, where a relaxed afternoon awaits. Make use of the paddle boards, explore the water and just relax on board; the choice is yours.

D A Y 6

Today sees a visit to a local pearl farm in a protected deep water cove where we can watch how this precious commodity is produced and harvested. Pearling is an important industry here and provides employment for many local people. Spend the afternoon snorkelling and kayaking amongst three small islands linked together by some pristine coral reefs, or you can simply choose to relax on the beach

D A Y 7

After breakfast on board, spend the morning exploring the limestone islands filled with coves and beautiful reefs. A short walk ashore sees a climb to a vantage point where there are stunning views out across the islands. Enjoy lunch underway as Katharina heads to a small island nestled between Gam and Mansuar, where the currents bring rich nutrients to the coral reefs. There are three famous jetties here offering magical underwater scenery. Schools of fish, shy black-tip reef sharks, elegant spade-fish and the magnificent giant clams.

D A Y 8

The centre of the Raja Ampat National Park stores many magical wonders. Start in the local village on the Mansuar island where sustainability is at the heart of life here. Education centres, solar powered street lights and sustainable fishing practices are bound by the community spirit here. The house reef offers abundant marine life where we may get lucky with a sighting of the infamous wobbegong shark.

Another underwater adventure awaits in the afternoon on the eastern point of Mansuar. Famous for its schools of fish, the hump-head wrasse and giant schools of Trevally swim together with the resident hawksbill turtle. Finish the day with a beach BBQ and fire under the stars with your fellow guests and crew!

D A Y 9

Before dawn, begin your trek into the rainforest in search of the Red Bird of Paradise – if we are lucky, we should be able to witness the incredible mating displays in the canopy of the rainforest – a true “David Attenborough moment”. Afterwards, walk through the colourful local village and meet the wonderful people who call this paradise home and learn how they live their daily lives. Back on the boat, snorkel the famous wall on the east of Gam island before Katharina sails overnight to an island nearby Sorong.

D A Y 1 0

We will wake up anchored in Sorong and have one last hearty breakfast on board the Katharina before venturing on our very last adventure in Doom Island with traditional transportation called Becak. Bid farewell to the ship and crew as you head ashore for your airport transfer for onward travel.

Please note that this is a guide as to what to expect from your sailing holiday in Indonesia. With the ever-changing wind and tides, flexibility is key. Our mission is to provide the best experience possible for our guests given the current conditions and when unexpected opportunities for adventure may present themselves along our cruise routes.

Sometimes, weather conditions, tides or other local factors dictate that we need to vary from the published route, and at times, there are special opportunities to explore and discover new locations, events and activities. These explorations will always be a definite enhancement to the published itinerary and will be undertaken after discussion and agreement among guests. Ultimately, the boat captains and your tour leader will make decisions to maximise trip safety and your overall enjoyment, so please come prepared to be flexible!

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

This voyage will likely be more than 12miles offshore.

Package Travel Regulations

This trip is covered by our Package Travel Regulations (PTR) Insurance. Please click here to view the Terms & Conditions.

Life on board

Our sailing holidays in Indonesia on board traditional Pinisi vessel Katharina are simple pleasures, tropical paradises, and unforgettable locations. Indulge in a world of adventure as you discover the natural beauty of the Indonesian archipelago from the water. Walk barefoot along sandy shores, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and wonder at the endemic wildlife species across the islands.

Have fun!

Katharina has ample on-board facilities and a professional crew to organise activities as guests unwind and relax in a tropical playground. Snorkelling, swimming, paddle-boarding, fishing or even kayaking are all included in the ticket price. (For those wanting a private charter in Indonesia, scuba diving can be arranged up to 2x a day for a maximum of eight divers per charter.)

Kick back and relax in the sun with a good book, either on the sun deck, in the cool of your air-conditioned cabin or on a sandy beach ashore. The crew can also help to arrange further activities (at an additional cost), from Indonesian cooking classes, and rock climbing to kite surfing and wakeboarding.

A typical day

Start your day with a buffet-style breakfast before setting off to explore another island and anchorage. If the wind permits, watch as the sails are set (or get involved if you’d like) and this graceful vessel glides through crystal clear waters. Depending on the wishes of the group, perhaps head ashore to explore an island or harbour village or arrange an excursion with the crew. Each voyage has a dedicated guest host who knows the area well and will be on hand to make local connections.

Enjoy lunch onboard or take a picnic, use the boat’s water activities, or relax on the sundeck with a book. The choice is truly yours. Evening meals are prepared on the boat, and nighttime beach bonfires, dancing, and local music are a great way to end the day!

Eat

The generous galley sits in the stern of the ship, where the dedicated on-board chef conjures up freshly prepared meals showcasing the very best of Indonesian cuisine and hospitality. Explore the colourful Indonesian markets in the local villages as the chef picks the freshest produce and local delicacies. The Indonesian Ocean is a vast resource for local fishing, too, so whether you are picking up the catch of the day from the local fishing boats or running your own line from the stern, fresh seafood is certainly top of the menu!

Sleeping and Relaxation

The top deck is a raised sun-lounging area sitting on the roof of the saloon and bar, giving guests secluded relaxation and stunning views. On the main deck, Katharina is rigged traditionally to make best use of the wind as the weather permits. A generous and comfortable saloon and bar sit to the stern of the boat while a large dining table sits under a canopy at the bows, perfect for alfresco dining under the stars.

Below decks, her interior refit has been to a high standard with spacious cabins and campion-ways. Hand-crafted beds using local timber and locally made soft furnishings give the boat an authentic Indonesian feel. There are six private ensuite cabins for guests in a combination of double beds, twin bunks and three berth cabins. Each cabin offers plenty of natural light with individually controlled air-conditioning, ample storage space, and plenty of electrical and USB outlets.

What's included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Full board including all meals, soft drinks, tea, coffee and snacks. (Starting and ending with lunch on the first and last days)
All Indonesian tour leaders
All park fees, cultural performances, local guides and off-boat activities.
Welcome drink and cold towel upon boarding and each time guests return from off-boat excursions.
Daily room cleaning
Two pieces of laundry each day
Towels and linens
Complimentary cotton backpack, luggage tag, fan and stainless steel water (which guests are encouraged to take home)
First aid kit containing all major medicines
Sunscreen lotion
Soaps, shampoo and conditioner
Beach BBQ
Free wine, beer and selected cocktails at the beach BBQ
Selected wines with a special farewell dinner
All port fee
Use of on-board TV and multimedia facilities
Library of books, kids games and TV documentaries
Use of all facilities on board, including snorkelling gear, paddle boards, kayaks, board games
Use of sleeping bags for sleeping on deck
All transfers to and fro the boats

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Domestic flights
Transit hotels
Alcoholic drinks outside of special dinners and beach BBQ
Crew and tour leader tips
Incidental expenses on land (souvenirs, private purchases etc)
Fuel Surcharge ($400 per person)

Kit list

Packing for your cruise is easy; you don’t have to glam up as everyone tends to dress casually, so choose clothes that are comfortable for walking/trekking and suitable for wearing on the boat. Please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack.

We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items. These are not mandatory, and those who have visited Southeast Asia before may have their own preferences.

CLOTHING

Cool cottons – t-shirts, shorts, sundresses
Lightweight waterproof jacket – despite cruising in the dry season, rain is always a possibility
Lightweight fleece – useful for pre-dawn treks, a cool wind on deck and for your flight
Clothes that cover you modestly (at least over the shoulders and past the knee) for visiting Muslim areas of the country
At least one smart/casual outfit for sunset cocktails and evening meals on the boat
Swimwear (at least 2); a rash vest or spring wetsuit will protect you from the sun, abrasions and stings
Sun shirts, beach covers ups/kaftans and sarongs that dry easily
Wide-brimmed sunhat or cap

FOOTWEAR

Waterproof sandals or reef shoes
Flip flops – easy to remove at the beach and light to carry
Comfortable trainers, trekking sandals, sturdy walking or hiking shoes

ACCESSORIES

Reef-safe SPF for skin and hair and an aloe-based, alcohol-free after-sun lotion
Sunglasses: strap advised for activities
Lightweight telescopic walking/hiking pole
Day backpack – essential on hikes to carry your own water, camera, binoculars and rain jacket
Waterproof wet/dry bag – for electronics and precious belongings
Moisturiser, leave-in conditioner in addition to your regular favourite toiletries
Headscarf/band and hair ties/grips – to keep hair out of your face whilst underway and to prevent stray hairs from finding their way into your mask whilst snorkelling/diving and water seeping in
Snorkelling equipment is provided, but if you are already a keen snorkeller, you may wish to take your own. If you’re new to snorkelling, you might want to consider purchasing a full-face snorkel mask as it’s easier for beginners
Photography/videography gear and/or binoculars – take plenty of memory cards as these cannot be purchased in remote locations
Seasickness tablets are provided onboard, but you may wish to pack your own preferred brand. If you are worried about possible seasickness, we advise you to start taking any medication 12 hours before departure. Ginger biscuits, tea and crystallised ginger, are also good stomach settlers that you may wish to pack
You’ll find reference books and paperback novels on board. However, books of your choice or an e-reader will come in handy for down hours
There is a sound system on board, but you can bring your own music as well if you wish/portable speaker/earphones so you can listen to your own music in a private corner of the boat
There is a comprehensive wilderness first aid kit on board but remember to bring any personal medications you may need

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Essential items should be packed in your carry-on luggage. Medications, corrective lenses, spare underwear, cameras and documents should not be checked in case your bag does not arrive with you. Never place valuables in checked luggage.

It is mandatory that all guests must have a comprehensive policy that covers medical with an emergency evacuation policy (Medivac), and proof of this must be shown.

We also strongly urge our guests to purchase a comprehensive insurance policy that covers trip cancellation and interruption insurance

As you are travelling to remote locations, you could be as long as 2 days away from a clinic (and it really only might be a clinic and not a hospital) and a day away from an airfield to be lifted
There is a defibrillator onboard, a large medical kit and all crew are first-aid trained
Please ensure that all necessary travel documents are valid, effective and in your possession. Passports are required for all participants and MUST be valid for at least SIX MONTHS after your date of return by Indonesian law
Most foreign nationals to Indonesia can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, but citizens of a small number of countries do not enjoy this privilege and have to apply for a visa in the country of origin or elsewhere outside of Indonesia prior to arrival

We recommend that all our passengers double-check on the requirements as they are in force at the time of their arrival. Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements

Travel planning

From: Sorong, West Papau

To: Sorong, West Papau

Travel Information – Indonesia

These destinations involve planning travel to far-flung destinations, and we are here to help.

When you enquire, we will send a detailed travel plan for this specific voyage. It is more straightforward than it looks! Your main flight will be to Jakarta or Bali, and we can put you in touch with a company that will book your internal/domestic flights, as these can be with small operators.

If it is easier to call, please check our office opening hours.

For flight and hotel arrangements you can also contact Jenny at The Flight Centre via this link, complete the form and she will contact you directly.

You will be picked up from the airport on the morning of embarkation from the local airport, or the hotel.

Getting There

Sorong, West Papua

Sorong is located in West Papua, a province in the Eastern part of Indonesia. It is the main town and port for boats and ferries visiting the Raja Ampat area, and it is a place to stop; there is not very much here to explore.

BY AIR

Fly to international airports in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Surabaya, or Bali (Denpasar), and connect by domestic flight to Sorong in West Papua.

Sorong Airport is also known as Domine Edward Osok Airport (SOQ). Airlines that fly to/from Sorong include Garuda Indonesia, Merpati, Sriwijaya Air, Lion Air, and Batavia Air. An international airline is Silk Air.

There are daily flights to Domine Eduard Osok Airport Sorong (SOQ) from Jakarta, Denpasar (Bali), Makassar, Ambon, and Manado with different airlines. If you are flying to Denpasar in Bali the flights are via Makassar, in South Sulawesi.

Jakarta and Makassar are the two places that fly directly to Sorong. There are daily flights to Sorong from Jakarta, just over four hours. Batik Air, Thai Lion Air, Lion Air, and Guarda Indonesia all fly directly from Jakarta to Sorong.

Travel by taxi to your hotel and from your hotel to the port. The taxi ride to Sorong Airport from the ferry harbour takes 10-20 minutes.

Boat info & deck plan

Katharina

Guest berths: 14 Rig: Gaff Ketch

From the Orangutans in Borneo to the dragons of Komodo to the whale sharks and coral reefs throughout the islands, sailing in Indonesia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From adventurous couples to family groups and even solo travellers, Katharina’s voyages are suitable for all ages and abilities.

Built in 1995 on the Indonesian portion of the island of Borneo, Katharina is a traditional pinisi boat originally intended for commercial freight service. Still, she caught the eye of her current owner with her elegant sailing lines and sleek hull.

They saw her transformation into a charter vessel as an exercise in preserving her Indonesian authenticity, and in 2014, they employed local craftsmen to complete a beautiful interior refit. Working alongside her sister ship Ombak Putih (larger but equally as beautiful!), they are both fine examples of some of the few original boats that still sail these waters.

Now led by Captain Ferdi, Katharina takes guests on skippered sailing holidays to explore the cultural heritage, natural wonders and wildlife of the Indonesian islands.

The top deck is a raised sun-lounging area sitting on the roof of the saloon and bar, giving guests secluded relaxation and stunning views. On the main deck, Katharina is rigged traditionally to make best use of the wind as the weather permits. A generous and comfortable saloon and bar sit to the stern of the boat, while a large dining table sits under a canopy at the bows, perfect for alfresco dining under the stars.

Below decks, her interior refit has been to a high standard, with spacious cabins and companionways. Hand-crafted beds using local timber and locally made soft furnishings give the boat an authentic Indonesian feel. There are six private ensuite cabins for guests in a combination of double beds, twin bunks and three-berth cabins.

Deck plan

More about Katharina

FAQs

Are all meals included?

Yes - all meals are included in the price (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, hot drinks). Meal times are casual and guests help themselves and sit with whomever they wish.

Can you cater for dietary needs?

Vegetarian, halal, kosher, children’s fare, low fat dishes, allergies, etc. However, we must be notified in advance of any special needs so we can make arrangements.

Are there any added extra's?

There is an honesty bar aboard for alcohol and guests can bring their own if wanted (or you can order in advance with the boat if there is anything in particular you want).

What are the sleeping arrangements?

(All cabins are ensuites) 2 x double cabins, 2 x triple cabins (one double bed & one upper single bunk), 2 x twin bunk cabins.

Is there a porthole in my cabin?

Yes.

How many toilet/showers does she have?

There are six ensuites with each cabin.

Are bedding and towels included?

All bedding and shower towels are included. Please bring your own swimming towels.

Is there a hairdryer on board?

No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

Will I be able to wash my clothes?

Yes, on average you can wash two pieces a day if/as required.

Is there air conditioning onboard?

Yes.

Do I need to tip the crew?

It is a time-honoured tradition on sailing vessels to tip the crew. This is, of course, if you have been satisfied with their services. On your final night, you will have the opportunity to discreetly add the tipping envelopes provided in your cruise bag to the collecting basket.

What language is spoken onboard?

English is the common deck language but there will be international guests and crew.

Is there WIFI?

No! It's time to disconnect from tech and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.

Can I charge my phone/Camera?

Yes - there are plenty of USB sockets available.

What is the currency on board?

IDR Indonesian Rupiah.

Are there life jackets provided?

Yes

How do I get on and off the boat?

Katharina is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up and over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

Are Waterproofs provided?

No - you shouldn't need them, but we do recommend a good quality rash vest for swimming and snorkelling.

Do I need sailing or snorkelling experience?

No, absolutely not! Just a love for adventure. The crew will access everyone's swimming and snorkelling capabilities on the first beach swim and can offer time to teach guests to snorkel if needed.

Does the boat have any water toys?

Yes, she has kayaks, SUP, snorkelling equipment, fishing gear and 2 tender boats.

Will I be sea sick?

Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure. Ginger tea and biscuits also help with sea sickness.

Is there an age limit?

Min age is three years.

Boat schedule

Sailing the Spice Trade Routes of Indonesia

6 Sep 2026

12 days Days

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Sailing Raja Ampat in the footsteps of Alfred Wallace

21 Sep 2026

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Guided Wildlife Watching & Whale Sharks in Indonesia

5 Oct 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

18 Oct 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

30 Oct 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

11 Nov 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

23 Nov 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

5 Dec 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

17 Dec 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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Sailing the Indonesian Jewel of Raja Ampat

29 Dec 2026

10 days Days

£6,640.00€8,300.00

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