True North – The Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay

Your journey starts in Darwin, where you’ll board our private charter flight to Biak. Upon arrival, step aboard the luxurious True North, your home for this extraordinary adventure. As we set sail into the heart of the ‘Coral Triangle’ – earth’s most biodiverse marine region – raise a glass to the wonders that await in this underwater paradise.

Today, we explore Pulau Num and Pulau Swande. Spend the day snorkelling, diving, beachcombing and fishing in these pristine waters. Take an adventure boat through Pulau Num’s bays, observing local life in stilted huts over the water. Soak up the stunning tropical scenery at Pulau Swande and end the day with a leisurely stroll along a secluded beach, cocktail in hand, as you watch the sun set over this island paradise.

There are several places in the world where snorkellers can seek out a close encounter with the world’s biggest fish. However, nothing compares to meeting these creatures in Cenderawasih Bay. Anywhere else, encounters with whale sharks are fleeting, but in Cenderawasih Bay, these gentle giants linger close to the surface for extended periods, feeding off the local fisherman’s bycatch. Here, even novice snorkellers have the opportunity to swim alongside the world’s largest fish.

Explore the ‘Galapagos of the East’, a vast marine wonderland spanning over 15,000 square kilometres of world-renowned coral reefs. This biodiversity hotspot is home to more than 1,040 species, including vibrant butterfly fish, angelfish, parrotfish, and anemone fish. Spot hawksbill, green, Pacific ridley, and leatherback turtles, alongside dugongs, coconut crabs, dolphins, and various sharks. After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we’ll cruise to Pulau Nusarivani. Here, dive, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, or simply unwind on a secluded island beach.

Discover Roon Island, renowned for its diverse dive sites, pristine snorkelling reefs, welcoming locals, and breathtaking aerial vistas. Start your day exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Numamuran Strait, or dive at Roon’s southern tip where a submerged Zero Fighter rests among coral, surrounded by green turtles, barracuda, and surgeonfish. In the afternoon, trek to a cascading jungle waterfall, immersing yourself in lush tropical landscapes. As day turns to evening, we’ll cruise to the tranquil Teluk Yopingar Bay for our night’s anchorage.

Today begins at Aishandami Village with a Bird of Paradise walk. Immerse yourself in local culture, learning how each plant serves a specific purpose in traditional life. Witness a vibrant sing-sing, observe the ancient art of sago making, and browse handcrafted sarongs and billums. In the afternoon, experience the unique ‘Jungle to Ocean’ snorkel or dive at Tangjung Mannguarr, where lush rainforest meets vibrant coral reefs in a stunning display of biodiversity.

Explore the Auri Islands, boasting West Papua’s most pristine white-sand beaches and Cenderawasih Bay’s clearest waters. Dive or snorkel the dramatic walls of Tridacna Atoll and Wild Fish Reef. Discover a mysterious trio of sunken WWII American fighter jets in shallow waters. Then, as the day ends, enjoy sunset drinks on a secluded sand spit, watching the sky ignite over Cenderawasih Bay.

Time permitting, explore Biak’s World War II heritage with a visit to the War Museum and Japanese cave, offering poignant insights into the island’s history. Then, we’ll transfer you to Biak Airport for your chartered flight back to Darwin, concluding your unforgettable West Papuan adventure.