Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay

Overview

The ocean feels different after venturing deep into the heart of this spectacular West Papua wilderness to meet the Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay. See the biggest fish in the world interacting with local fishermen and then snorkel with these gentle creatures for hours, enjoying countless breath-taking encounters.

Your adventure begins in Darwin where you will be escorted aboard a chartered aircraft for your short flight to Biak, where you will be welcomed aboard the magnificent True North. Enjoy a welcome cocktail as you set sail on a journey through the very heart of the ‘Coral Triangle’ – the world’s most bio-diverse marine region.

Today, visit Pulau Num and Pulau Swande where you’ll spend the day snorkeling, diving, beach-combing and fishing. Take an adventure boat ride through the bays of Pulau Num where locals live in huts stilted over the water and soak-up the stunning tropical scenery at Palau Swande. Then, end the day strolling along your very own beach, watching the sunset in paradise with a cocktail in hand.

There are several places in the world where snorkelers can seek out a close encounter with the world’s biggest fish the Whale Sharks, however nothing compares to meeting these creatures in Cenderawasih Bay. Anywhere else, encounters with Whale Sharks are fleeting, but here in Cenderawasih Bay these gentle giants linger close to the surface for extended periods because they feed off the local fisherman’s bi-catch. Because of this, even the most inexperienced snorkeler has a unique opportunity to truly play with these mammoth fish.

Today, you’ll be able to explore what’s been named “Galapagos of the East”, over 15,000 square kilometres of spectacular world renowned coral reefs. Home to over 1040 species including colourful butterfly fish, angelfish, damselfish, parrotfish, rabbitfish, anemone fish, hawksbill turtles, green turtles, Pacific ridley turtles, leatherback turtles, Dugongs, coconut crabs, dolphins and various sharks, this experience will truly be once in a lifetime. Then you’ll cruise to Pulau Nusarivani to enjoy an afternoon dive, snorkel, kayak, stand up paddle board or relax on your own private island.

Roon Island is known for its many interesting dive sites, beautiful shallow snorkeling reefs, friendly villagers and stunning aerial scenery. Begin the day with either a snorkel on the lovely reefs of the Numamuran Strait or a dive at the southern end of Roon. Here you’ll find a Zero Fighter in the coral reef, along with green turtles, barracuda and surgeonfish. Then in the afternoon join a walk to a cascading jungle waterfall before you cruise to Teluk Yopingar Bay for an evening anchorage.

After a morning Bird of Paradise walk, here at the beautiful Aishandami Village you’ll meet the locals who have a deep connection to the land, where each plant has a specific use for them. You’ll also enjoy a sing sing, sago making ceremony and the opportunity to purchase some local hand-made sarongs and billums. Then in the afternoon, visit Tangjung Mannguarr for an incredible ‘Jungle to Ocean’ snorkel or dive.

Not only do the Auri Islands have the most beautiful uninhabited white sand beaches in West Papua, but they’re also surrounded by the most crystal clear-water in Cenderawasih Bay. Here you’ll enjoy breathtaking snorkeling and diving on the sheer walls of Tridacna Atoll and then at Wild Fish Reef. Later in the day, snorkel over a trio of American WWII fighter jets that have mysteriously sunk in formation in only a few metres of water. Then, end the day with beach drinks on your very own pristine sand spit as the setting sun turns the Cenderawasih sky to fire.

Depending on time frame, today you may have the opportunity to visit the Biak War Museum and Japanese cave, before your transfer back to Biak Airport and chartered flight to Darwin.