Bali to Palau: Exotic Indonesia

Arrive in Bali and take a scenic tour of the southern part of the island before embarking on the National Geographic Orion.

In the morning, arrive at the Indonesian island of Sumbawa and meet the friendly locals which call the island their home. Attend a cultural demonstration and witness a mock traditional wedding and buffalo race.

At the world renowned Komodo National Park, disembark the ship in search of the world’s largest living lizard: the Komodo dragon. These prehistoric creatures can grow up to ten feet long and weigh 300 lbs. Learn about the conservation of these giants from park rangers on a morning hike and spot the lizards in their natural habitat. Swimming, snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking or relaxing on the beach are all options in the afternoon.

Forming the boundary between the Savu and Banda Seas, the Lesser Sunda region offers ample opportunity for exploration. Meet the people of these arid islands, which are known for producing some of the finest ikat weaving in the world, then explore the reefs and waters which surround them by Zodiac and kayak. From the decks of the ship, search for the region's abundant dolphin and whale population.

Sail into the heart of the Moluccas and arrive at the Banda Islands. A kora kora, or traditional war canoe, escorts the zodiacs into Banda Neira, once the center of the Spice Island trade and a hub of the Dutch East India Company. Stroll past Dutch architecture and visit Fort Belgica, which was built to protect the spice trade. Nearby, view the near-perfect conical volcano of Gunung Api, and the clear waters which provide some great swimming and snorkeling.

Spend a day at sea with reefs and islands rich in birds and aquatic life. Join the ship's naturalists on deck with your binoculars and attend talks by the expedition team.

Snorkel and dive one of the richest marine regions in the world over several days at Raja Ampat. Above sea level, the experiences are just as amazing, with lush islands, towering limestone pinnacles, and hidden white-sand coves. Birders may join pre-dawn nature walks to try to catch a glimpse of the ethereal red bird-of-paradise.

Relax on the ship as it sails for Palau.

Arrive in the Republic of Palau in the morning and disembark the National Geographic Orion the morning. Transfer to the airport for your continued independent journeys.