Dive into Adventure: Swan Hellenic Launches Dedicated SCUBA Diving Programs on Raja Ampat Cruises

Swan Hellenic has launched dedicated SCUBA diving programs on upcoming voyages to Raja Ampat. These exclusive programs are available on four selected East Asia cruises aboard the expedition vessel SH Minerva, with two sailings in 2026 and an additional two in 2027.

Participants in the diving program must hold a PADI Advanced Open Water certification. The excursions will involve multiple dives supervised by professional dive masters and will operate from private dive boats. While standard diving equipment is provided, participants will need to bring their own dive computers and organize their own travel, medical, and dive insurance.

Each cruise spans 10 or 11 nights and includes 5 to 6 dives. Guests not engaging in diving can still partake in the ship’s cultural and natural exploration schedule, which comprises snorkeling activities accessible to all passengers. Highlighted stops include Cenderawasih Bay National Park, a renowned site for whale shark sightings.

Dive sites such as Pulau Kri, Pulau Fam, Pulau Mansuar, and Ayu Atoll will be featured, with direct transfers provided from the ship. Dive packages start at US$250 for single dives, with options for half-day and full-day excursions.

The first sailing in 2026 is designated Secrets of the Coral Triangle: West Papua and Raja Ampat, departing from Sorong on April 18 and returning on April 28, with fares starting at US$7,925. This itinerary combines diving with landings in Cenderawasih Bay, Misool, and Kabui Bay, including visits to World War II sites and local communities. Following this, the 11-night Heart of the Pacific Isles voyage will leave Sorong on April 28 and arrive in Manila on May 9, with prices from US$8,720. This voyage links Raja Ampat with less-explored areas of the southern Philippines.

In 2027, similar itineraries are planned. The Raja Ampat & Cenderawasih Bay cruise will sail from Sorong on April 16, returning on April 26, with fares from US$8,110. Another cruise, Raja Ampat and Philippines: The Last Paradise on Earth, will depart on April 26, arriving in Manila on May 7, with prices starting at US$8,920.

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

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