Heart of the
Pacific Isles

The bustling port city of Sorong in West Papua is known as the gateway to the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat, the world's most biodiverse marine habitat, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 75 percent of the world's known coral species. In town, the Buddhist pagoda of Sapta Ratna stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats come in with their catch at the bustling Pasar Jembutan Puri fish market.

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship's observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert's view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

Casulian Island, also known as Corregidor Island, lies off Siargao’s southern coast. Rolling palm covered hills lead to a summit with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Pristine white sand beaches and secluded turquoise coves ring the shoreline. Vibrant coral reefs thrive in the surrounding waters. Visitors come to hike scenic hilltop trails and snorkel among colourful marine life, making it one of Siargao’s most sought after destinations.

After crossing the Bohol Sea, you arrive at tiny Balicasag Island, about six kilometres southwest of Panglao. A marine sanctuary reef circles the island, and it is one of the Philippines’ most popular diving spots. The sea drops away into deep submarine cliffs. Soft and hard corals surround the reef, with multicoloured shoals moving through the water. Afterwards, head to Tagbilaran, a gateway to Bohol’s jungly interior. Tarsiers live here, nocturnal primates less than 16 cm tall with disproportionately large eyes. These adorable animals can be seen at the conservation centre and sanctuary. Bohol is also famous for the Chocolate Hills, a striking quirk of geology.

Tucked away in Western Leyte, the Cuatro Islas are a serene tropical escape, offering a distinct charm on each of the four islands. Apid, the most populated, offers a cultural touch with its fishing community and traditional mat weaving. Digyo is the smallest, known for its stunning sandbars and quiet beauty. Mahaba features a long beach, marine sanctuary, and sea turtles, while Himokilan enchants with a curving sandbar and a hidden tidal pool.

Romblon is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for tranquillity. Bon Bon Beach is a standout, with a beautiful sandbar and few visitors. Crystalline waters offer excellent snorkeling amid vibrant coral gardens, home to angelfish, parrotfish, and clownfish. Above Romblon town centre stands Fort San Andres, a centuries old fortress from the Spanish colonial era with sweeping ocean views.

Boac is the historic gateway to Marinduque, with colonial era houses, cobbled streets, and a hilltop cathedral overlooking the coast. On the island’s eastern side, Santa Cruz pulses with tradition through lively markets, the melodic Tubong ritual, and a centuries-old church at its heart. Across the island, cacao farms and the age-old Lukad method of coconut oil extraction reflect deep-rooted culture and island spirit.

Disembark in Manila. The capital of the Philippines is a teeming, sprawling metropolis. Its flaws are no match for its creative energy, seen across art and food. Highlights include museums, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and the Chinese Cemetery. Intramuros, the old Spanish walled town at the heart of the city, is unmissable. Explore if timings allow and sample Filipino cuisine in its bold sour, sweet, and tangy range.