INDONESIA
CROWN JEWELS OF THE CORAL TRIANGLE
NORTH SULAWESI & RAJA AMPAT
30 OCT - 15 NOV 2027 • 17 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
Journey into the heart of the Coral Triangle in luxury, from the vibrant reefs of North Sulawesi to the remote waters of Raja Ampat. Encounter extraordinary marine life, explore kaleidoscopic reefs and magical mangroves, and unwind in world-class accommodations on land and aboard a luxury liveaboard. This is the ultimate adventure for divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts seeking both immersion and comfort.
Your expedition begins at the new Coral Eye Resort on Bangka Island, a serene retreat surrounded by pristine waters and vibrant reefs. Bangka offers the best of both worlds - stunning reef dives and incredible macro life - making it ideal for both wide-angle reef exploration and close-up critter encounters. Dive and snorkel through thriving reefs filled with reef fish, invertebrates, and rare macro creatures, all while enjoying boutique accommodations and exquisite cuisine.
From North Sulawesi, fly to Sorong to board the Coralia , a luxury traditional Indonesian Phinisi, for a 9-night cruise through Central Raja Ampat and Misool in the south. Explore vibrant reefs, dramatic drop-offs, secluded islands, and incredible mangroves, where crystal-clear water and hidden coral gardens flourish just below the roots — a truly magical ecosystem. Encounter 1,568 species of reef fish (of which 27 arevendemic), 800 species of mollusks, five species of endangered sea turtles, 13 different marine mammals, and 75% of all known coral species. Drift along colorful reefs teeming with life, witness reef and pelagic manta rays together at cleaning stations, and explore Thomas’ favorite dive sites where the kaleidoscope of corals begins in less than a meter of water. Between dives, relax on sun decks, savor gourmet meals, and immerse yourself in one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the planet.
For those seeking extra adventure, we offer a pre-extension to Siladen & Lembeh, two of North Sulawesi’s most iconic marine destinations. Begin amid the dramatic coral walls and turtle-filled reefs of the Bunaken Marine Reserve, then continue to the Lembeh Strait, the world’s premier muck diving haven. Discover a mesmerizing contrast of ecosystems—from kaleidoscopic reefscapes to the rare and curious creatures of Lembeh, including mimic and blue-ringed octopuses, flamboyant cuttlefish, and the elusive hairy frogfish. Please note: while Lembeh’s diving is not ideally suited for snorkelers, alternative activities and guided excursions can be arranged for non-divers.
HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the most biodiverse reefs on Earth with more species of coral, reef fish & invertebrates than anywhere else on the planet.
Marvel at both reef and oceanic manta rays gliding gracefully at cleaning stations.
Drift over incredible hard coral gardens and the most colorful soft corals with massive gorgonian sea fans.
Dive in crystal-clear mangrove lagoons with coral flourishing beneath the roots.
Keep an eye out for an array of marine mammals including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, false killer whales, and even the elusive Omura’s whale.
Capture unforgettable moments in some of the most photogenic underwater landscapes in the world.
Relax in boutique resorts and luxurious liveaboard comfort, combining adventure with indulgence.
Share the days most unforgettable encounters with a cocktail in hand as you watch the sun dip below the ocean.
Experience intimate, small-group diving and snorkeling in some of the world’s most pristine and photogenic underwater landscapes.
Enjoy world-class hospitality and exquisite Indonesian-inspired cuisine.
Discover Lembeh, the muck diving capital of the world, for a chance to see rare mimic and blue ringed octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, the cryptic hairy frogfish, and a vibrant array of nudibranchs.
RESERVE MY SPACE & ENQUIRIES
You've got that "I don't want to miss out" feeling for a good reason. Our expeditions are life changers and we have a solid following of Wild Earth Explorers who love returning to adventure with us. Don't hesitate in reserving your space today.
PRE-EXTENSION - SILADEN & LEMBEH - Turtles, Walls & Magic Muck
23-30 OCT 2027 ● 08 DAYS ● 14 Guests
Begin your Indonesian adventure surrounded by the pristine beauty of Siladen Island, a tranquil sanctuary within the celebrated Bunaken Marine Reserve. Stay at the luxurious Siladen Resort & Spa, where elegant beachfront villas and warm island hospitality create the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Spend three unforgettable days diving and snorkeling Bunaken’s spectacular coral walls—alive with turtles, reef fish, swirling anthias, and brilliant hard and soft corals. Between dives, unwind with a massage at the spa, stroll along the white-sand beach, or watch the sun set over the volcanic silhouette of Manado Tua.
From Siladen, journey to the legendary Lembeh Strait, famed as the muck diving capital of the world. Here, at the award-winning Lembeh Resort, comfort meets discovery in a setting of natural beauty and exceptional service. Beneath the surface lies a magical realm of rare and charismatic creatures—hairy and giant frogfish, blue-ringed and mimic octopuses, flamboyant cuttlefish, wonderpuss, vibrant nudibranchs, and countless species of crabs and shrimps. For the curious, optional black-water dives reveal the Strait’s most secretive and ephemeral marine life.
With expert guides, small-group diving, and two distinctive yet complementary marine environments, this pre-extension offers an extraordinary immersion into North Sulawesi’s underwater wonders—from Bunaken’s turtle-filled walls to Lembeh’s enchanting microcosm of marine life.
“This was our first trip with Wild Earth Expeditions. It was incredible! Thomas curated a remarkable tour of Indonesia for us. He and Sabine were such enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides! Their passion for the sea and the delight they took in introducing us to an incredible variety of ocean critters made the trip truly memorable! Our families now share so many cherished memories of the last month! The slideshow that Sabine created is a wonderful memento of the trip. Huge thanks to Wild Earth Expeditions - we can’t wait to travel with you again! ”
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
PRE-EXTENSION - SILADEN & LEMBEH - Turtles, Walls & Magic Muck
23-30 OCT 2027 ● 08 DAYS ● 14 Guests
Day 01 | Oct 23 Depart Home / Arrive in Manado, Indonesia / Transfer to Siladen Resort
Day 02-04 | Oct 24-26 Three full days Diving & Snorkelling Bunaken Marine Reserve
Day 05 | Oct 27 Minahasa Highlands Cultural Tour / Transfer to Lembeh Island
Day 06-08 | Oct 28-30 Spend 3 full days diving the Lembeh Straight
Day 09 | Oct 31 Transfer to Bangka Island / Join Main Expedition
INDONESIA - CROWN JEWELS OF THE CORAL TRIANGLE
NORTH SULAWESI & RAJA AMPAT
30 OCT - 15 NOV 2027 • 17 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Oct 30 Depart Home / En Route to Manado, Indonesia
Day 02 | Oct 31 Arrive in Mandao / Transfer to Bangka Island / Welcome Dinner
Day 03-05 | Nov 01-03 Spend 3 full days exploring and diving Bangka Island
Day06 | Nov 04 Transfer to Manado / Overnight
Day 07 | Nov 05 Fly Manado - Sorong / Board the SY Coralia
Day 08-15 | Nov 06-13 Spend 8 full days exploring the dynamic reefs of Central and Southern Raja Ampat
Day 16 | Nov 14 Disembark in Sorong / Fly Home or Continue to Perth and Join our Christmans & Cocos Islands Expedition
Day 17 | Nov 15 Arrive Home
LEMBEH RESORT
Nestled in a private cove at the northeastern tip of Sulawesi, Lembeh Resort offers an intimate and award-winning retreat for discerning divers. Elegantly appointed rooms and suites provide comfort and privacy, while the world-class spa invites relaxation after a day of exploring the underwater wonders. Exceptional dining highlights local flavors and international cuisine, served with warmth and attention to detail.
Here in the world’s critter capital, divers can encounter hairy and giant frogfish, mimic and blue-ringed octopuses, wonderpuss, flamboyant cuttlefish, nudibranchs, crabs, shrimps, and much more, with opportunities for black-water diving to reveal the Strait’s most secretive species. Lembeh Resort combines luxury, conservation, and personalized service, creating the perfect base for an unforgettable immersion into one of the planet’s most extraordinary marine environments.
CORAL EYE RESORT
Perched on the pristine shores of Bangka Island, Coral Eye Resort offers an intimate and stylish retreat surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs. Originally founded as a marine research outpost, Coral Eye has been thoughtfully transformed into a unique eco-luxury resort where simplicity, relaxation, and comfort blend seamlessly. Its striking central structure—crafted by local artisans using traditional building techniques and natural island resources—merges harmoniously with the landscape, creating a space where social areas, workspaces, and private sanctuaries flow effortlessly together.
Guests enjoy modern comforts with minimal environmental impact, including a tranquil spa offering treatments inspired by the rhythms of the island, and a restaurant celebrated for its fusion of Indonesian and Italian cuisine, where the day’s fresh catch and local ingredients are elevated into exquisite dining experiences. Bangka offers the best of both worlds for divers: stunning reefs teeming with fish and some of Indonesia’s finest macro life, from pygmy seahorses to flamboyant cuttlefish. Between dives, relax on the white-sand beach, indulge in a massage, or simply soak in the sweeping views of the turquoise sea. Coral Eye is more than a resort—it is a harmonious meeting of nature, culture, and world-class hospitality, and the perfect launch point for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Coral Triangle.
S/Y CORALIA
Sailing aboard the 48-metre Phinisi Coralia is the ultimate blend of luxury, adventure, and Indonesian craftsmanship. Built by an expert team, this award-winning vessel combines timeless design with exceptional comfort and service. Featuring eight spacious ensuite cabins, Coralia offers an intimate and indulgent liveaboard experience. The four Master Cabins, each with a private balcony and outdoor lounge, provide sweeping ocean views, while the Double and Twin Cabins on the lower deck offer elegant simplicity with cozy beds, air-conditioning, and freshwater showers - a peaceful retreat after each day’s dives.
Life aboard Coralia flows effortlessly between relaxation and exploration. Guests can unwind on the sundeck, dine alfresco beneath the stars, or enjoy the air-conditioned lounge and indoor restaurant. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive, with an excellent guest-to-crew ratio ensuring every detail is cared for. Between dives, indulge in a treatment at the onboard spa or savour the chef’s exquisite Indonesian-inspired cuisine.
Designed for underwater enthusiasts, Coralia features a spacious dive deck and dedicated camera room. Over nine nights, we explore the vibrant reefs of Central and South Raja Ampat, home to dazzling biodiversity, manta encounters, and spectacular coral gardens. Sustainably operated and locally crewed, Coralia embodies the Wild Earth spirit - combining adventure, conservation, and refined comfort in one unforgettable voyage.
WILD EARTH LEADERS
Sabine Templeton
Expedition Leader, Trip Designer, Underwater Naturalist & Conservation Biologist
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas Baechtold, Sabine Templeton, Lembeh Resort, Coral Eye Resort, Coralia, Canva & Adobe Stock