Making the most of Biak Papua
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Also spelled Wiak Island, (Indonesian Pulau Biak), largest of the Schouten Islands, off the northern coast of West Papua (the Indonesian part of New Guinea) at the entrance to Cenderawasih (Geelvink) Bay.
For some years now, modern cruise and diving ships have been stopping at Biak opening up a vast undersea empire to those who wish to explore it.
Printable map to take along
Sightseeing
The island of Biak, at the very top of the Bird's Head Peninsula of West Papua, is the international entry point for visitors from the U.S. Although Biak is currently considered by most travelers as a stop-over on flights to Bali and Jakarta, there are plans to make this island and its offshore islets an international resort. The ground has been broken on Marauw Beach, on 325 hectares of land just 15 minutes from Frans Kaisepo International Airport, for an international class tourist resort. The plan includes six 4- and 5- start hotels, an 18-hole golf course, and counting and water skiing. There will be a marina, a seaside park, and a…
Food and shopping
A shopping center called Amenity Plaza will cater to a variety of needs, serving the local residents as well as tourists.
There is an open-air market that sells fruits and vegetables early in the morning, and there are shops selling souvenirs and jewelry crafted from 23-kt. gold, which is sold by weight, with very little added for workmanship.
Money
ATMs are common in any major;cities in Indonesia.