Explore the Depths: Swan Hellenic Launches Exclusive SCUBA Diving Programs on Raja Ampat Cruises

Swan Hellenic has recently enhanced its expedition offerings by launching dedicated SCUBA diving programs for four East Asia voyages at Raja Ampat. These exclusive experiences will be available on the expedition ship SH Minerva, starting with two sailings in 2026 and two more in 2027.

The diving programs are open to guests with PADI Advanced Open Water certification and involve multiple dives from private dive boats, led by professional dive masters. Participants will receive standard diving equipment, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and more, but must provide their own dive computers and secure their individual travel, medical, and dive insurance.

Each voyage lasts between 10 to 11 nights and features 5 to 6 dives, alongside cultural exploration opportunities for non-divers. All guests will have access to snorkelling activities and visits to notable areas, including Cenderawasih Bay National Park, famous for whale shark sightings.

Diving operations are planned at established sites such as Pulau Kri, Pulau Fam, Pulau Mansuar, and Ayu Atoll, with transfers conducted directly from the ship. Single-dive packages start at US$250, with options for half-day and full-day experiences available.

The inaugural voyage for 2026, "Secrets of the Coral Triangle: West Papua and Raja Ampat," departs from Sorong on April 18, returning on April 28, and is priced from US$7,925. This itinerary includes diving, shore landings at Cenderawasih Bay, Misool, and Kabui Bay, as well as visits to WWII historical sites and local communities. Following that, the "Heart of the Pacific Isles" voyage sets sail on April 28, arriving in Manila on May 9, with starting fares of US$8,720. This journey will link Raja Ampat with seldom-visited southern Philippines areas, featuring dives at locations like Melissa’s Garden and Manta Ridge.

Similar itineraries are also scheduled for 2027. The "Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay: Indonesia’s Coral Triangle" cruise departs on April 16, with fares starting from US$8,110. The "Raja Ampat and Philippines: The Last Paradise on Earth" voyage will follow on April 26, with fares beginning at US$8,920.

All four sailings are part of Swan Hellenic’s Elevated Expeditions promotion, which offers fare reductions, free Wi-Fi upgrades, and onboard credit for bookings made by February 28, 2026.

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