This is the ultimate expedition voyage – 19 leisurely days starting in vibrant Singapore and ending in Darwin, gateway to northern Australia. In between, you can sample the diversity of the Indonesian archipelago with excursions to Ujung Kulon National Park, the historic caldera of Anak Krakatua, and mountainous inland Lake Kastoba. Experience historic Indonesian towns and disembark on many very different islands. Enjoy some of Indonesia’s best snorkeling and diving at Satonda, Malona Island, and Taka Bonerate. Home will never be the same again!
Highlights
Walk through Pulau Penuba a display of traditional Gendang dancing
Hike with the local rangers to the summit of the caldera of Anak Krakatau
Discover Lake Kastoba, an inland wonder set in the heart of Bawean Island
Wander the beautiful water gardens, and see the ‘Fountain of Youth’ in Sumenep
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Embark Coral Adventurer in the afternoon at the Singapore Cruise Centre Harbour Front for an early evening departure. Enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Drinks while you meet the crew and fellow guests with a spectacular view of the sun setting over the Singapore skyline.
Today, be welcomed at Pulau Penuba with a Pencak Silat martial arts display. Meet the local people to learn about their way of life and culture on a guided walk through the village. A display of traditional Gendang drumming and dancing.
This morning cruise up the Musi River to Pelambang, the capital city of South Sumatra. This cosmopolitan port city is one of the oldest in the Malay archipelago and Southeast Asia, dating back to the 7th century. A melting pot of cultures including Malay, Javanese, Indian, Chinese and Arab, this fascinating port was visited by Tasman in April 1642, so that he could meet and trade with the Sultan. See the Ampera Bridge and the Great Mosque on a town tour.
Relax on board as you cruise back up river and south to your next destination. Attend informative presentations offered by your expedition team and guest lecturers, and enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities of the Coral Adventurer.
Situated in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra sits Anak Krakatua ‘Child of Krakatoa’. In the afternoon, steam past main Krakatau where the 1883 eruption killed over 36,000 people and has been recorded as the loudest sound in modern history. Anchor at Chilli Beach for water activities including snorkeling and kayaking.
Today choose to stretch your legs on a guided hike with the local rangers to the summit of the caldera of Anak Krakatau for a magnificent photo opportunity or take a leisurely cruise on Xplorer around the island. This afternoon visit Ujong Kulon National Park, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, and deemed as the last refuge for the remaining few of the rarely seen Javanese Rhinoceros.
Tasman recorded passing Prince Island (now Panaitan Island – just off Ujung Kulon) as he passed through Sunda Strait 16th & 17th Aug 1642.
This morning explore Ujong Kulon, home to over 35 species of mammals including Gibbons, Macaque, Deer and Javan Pigs as well as 240 species of birdlife including the Great Hornbill. Split into small groups to be guided by Park Rangers on an easy trail through towering, pristine rainforest to Karang Copong and the Cidaon grazing grounds. This afternoon experience a remembrance ceremony at sea, as you cross the location of the Battle of the Java Sea where HMAS Perth and USS Houston were scuttled by Japanese forces.
Pass Jakarta – previously Batavia, from where Tasman commenced his voyages, both 1642 and 1644.
As you cruise the Sunda Straits, enjoy leisurely on‑board activities and let your Captain take you back in time, as you follow Tasman’s epic 1642 and 1644 voyages through the Malay archipelago, Spice Islands and beyond.
Discover the mountainous inland Lake Kastoba, an idyllic retreat set in the heart of Bawean Island, where you can swim and view the magnificent rainforest-clad slopes. Visit the highly threatened Bawean Deer Sanctuary then cruise to isolated Gili Noko for a relaxing afternoon enjoying the water activities on offer.
Explore Sumenep with her colorful colonial past, visit the Kraton palace to see royal artifacts and furniture from a bygone era. Wander the beautiful water gardens, see the ‘Fountain of Youth’ and explore the museum to learn about the imperial history dating back to the Hindu kingdoms which flourished in Java more than five hundred years ago. A visit to the Great Mosque and the Tombs of the Kings complete your visit to Madura, prior to an afternoon of snorkeling and swimming.
Satonda Island was formed by a volcanic eruption and thrust up millions of years ago, creating a magnificent inland lake. A short walk takes you to the clear waters for a therapeutic swim and for those who wish, a walk to capture the superb views. This charming island situated in the Flores Sea offers fabulous snorkeling and diving on the surrounding coral reefs, with warm and welcoming locals.
This afternoon arrive at Taka Bonerate National Marine Park. This group of atoll islands consists of separate table reefs and lagoons, offering a myriad of snorkeling opportunities – the national park is considered to contain some of the world’s highest marine biodiversity.
Tasman passed through the Selayar strait in June 1643.
Today visit Pulau Buton – the kingdom of Buton existed from the 14th to 16th century and was important trade link with Ternate. Visit the city of Bau-Bau and learn about local history, take in a panorama of the surrounding islands from Buton Fortress.
Tasman passed Buton, including time at anchor 1st to 5th June 1643
Today learn more about Abel Tasman’s life and the various ships he commanded. Pass Buru, Ceram, and Ambon, all important islands in the Dutch East India company trade route.
Visit the historic town of Saparua where the locals are waiting to greet you – be led into Duurstedt Fort where you await a war party dance. The local museum is a must for the history buffs, enjoy a walk with one of the many friendly locals. After lunch enjoy snorkeling, diving and glass bottom boat tours at Molana Island’s pristine reef environment.
Go ashore at tiny Pulau Hatta, where there is time to snorkel or dive of the beach on fantastic reef wall or walk through the island village, seeing the locals prepare the harvested nutmeg. This afternoon explore the center of the spice trade, Banda Island. Coral Adventurer is escorted into port by spectacular Kora Kora canoes before guests embark on a town tour and learn about Banda’s pivotal role in the spice trade. Explore Fort Belgica, built by the first Governor General of the Dutch East Indies in 1611. Be entertained by locals performing traditional dances, and enjoy a glass of champagne whilst watching the sunset from the fort.
Tasman visited Banda on his 1644 voyage, and possibly on earlier voyages as well.
This morning snorkel or dive on the nearby lava flow system, or go ashore and enjoy morning tea with the locals on the waterfront. Immerse yourself in the colors and aromas of the Spice Islands in this vibrant town.
Relax as you cruise the Arafura sea back to Australia. Learn about the navigation techniques of 17th century mariners, and enjoy a recap of the last 17 days following in the wake of Tasman.
Day 19: Darwin, Australia | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Wish farewell to your fellow passengers and the crew before a complimentary transfer to your city hotel or the airport.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,120
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Coral Deck Stateroom
Identical to the Promenade Deck Staterooms except for their location one deck below. These staterooms have twin portholes rather than picture windows.
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Promenade Deck Stateroom
Located below the Explorer deck and furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
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Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar, and personal coffee machine. They have special King sized beds which can be separated into two singles.
Notes
Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.7 | 111 reviews
TrustScore 4.7 of 5
Based on 111 reviews on
7 hours ago
Kassandra rocks! She had our trip planned and helped us arrange our air travel within the day we contacted her. She has helped us with our trips to Chile Argentina and Costa Rica, and she always finds us wonderful activities and accommodations. We’re looking forward to seeing what she’s planning for us this time when we go to Easter island
Janet
1 day ago
Nice thank you
Leo Lommen
1 day ago
quick to respond
thorough
Lisa Gallagher
3 days ago
Personal knowledge of the trip I was considering. Patience with our figuring out which dates we could travel.
Brian
4 days ago
Clara and Rhenee were gracious and available. Phone contact is so important to answer questions and discuss all aspects of trip. If not immediately available they scheduled a time to speak.
They were knowledgeable, honest, realistic and very friendly. They are both very professional and take their role seriously.