Behind the scenes of Australia’s advanced tropical expedition fleet
At the heart of the Coral Expeditions experience is our purpose-built small ships designed for adventure cruising in tropical waters. Drawing on the collective experience of our valued past passenger community, Engineers, Masters and the expertise of our Norwegian shipbuilders, we designed two new world-class vessels to take you to some of the most beautiful and remote regions of Australia, the Asia Pacific, South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
Small and Nimble
Every day on the seas is different and no two voyages are ever the same. Our purpose-built small expedition ships are perfect for adapting to change, accessing remote areas and making landings that are impossible for large ships to perform.
Those who share our adventurous spirit will enjoy the flexibility of our itineraries to navigate weather and sea conditions, creating new discoveries or a deeper exploration of a unique destination. With a maximum capacity of 120 guests, our small expedition ships create an intimate atmosphere and expedition experience.
One of the unique features of our ships are their tenders. Our trademark Xplorer tenders are located at the back of the ship and are easily lifted in and out of the water with no need for ramps or stairs – making embarkation and disembarkation a breeze. Our Xplorers bridge the gap from ship to shore and bring guests even closer to hidden treasures along the coastline in the comfort of a sturdy and spacious tender. Together with zodiac tenders, which are heavy duty inflatable motorized boats, we navigate shallow bays, remote beaches and far-flung villages seamlessly.
Expansive Deck Spaces
Though small, our ships don’t compromise of spacious areas to enjoy watching the rolling waves or gaze at the panoramic horizon views as you make your way to the next adventure. With over 1000 square meters of open deck space and a promenade deck with wrap-around views, our guests are free to mingle outdoors whether it be a refreshing drink on the sundeck or reclining on lounges on the aft deck. The Sun Deck on yacht-like Coral Discoverer and the Vista Deck aboard sister ships Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer create vibrant social spaces with fresh ocean breeze and feature the circular Explorer Bar.
Comfortable Indoor Spaces
The interior aboard our vessels achieves an authentic Australian casual elegance. Indoor spaces include the airy dining room, lounge, indoor bar and sixty spacious suites and staterooms complimented by an elevator and step out balconies. Onboard you can open up a book in the library, gaze at the collection of incredible Indigenous artwork hung on the walls and relax in comfort reflecting on the day’s adventures in anticipation of the journey ahead.
Australian Flag & Crew
Proudly of the only Australian-flagged expedition fleet in operation today, our crew are passionate about all aspects of the onboard journey. Well versed in everything from geology to marine biology, anthropology to ecology and photography to maritime history, the Expedition team is always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals and historic figures from the destinations visited. A 10:1 passenger-to-guide ratio means more on-hand experts, deeper access and greater understanding throughout the voyage.
Relaxed Atmosphere
We are known for cultivating a classically Australian laid-back atmosphere with like-minded explorers met with crew delivering a personal and professional style experience.
With a showcase galley and viewing window, guests can watch our talented chefs preparing fresh, small-batch cuisine that showcases local produce. Dinnertime is a convivial gathering each night to connect with new friends and talk of the day’s discoveries.
Open Bridge and Engine Room Tours
A much-loved feature of the Coral Expeditions experience is the open bridge policy, allowing guests to engage in a friendly chat with the captain and crew and observe them going about their daily ship operations.
Some of the innovative technologies to be found onboard sisterships Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer include two Rolls Royce Azipull thrusters, state of the art reverse osmosis water generators and a modern heat recovery system that generates all the hot water onboard the vessel.
Lecturers and Guides
Our expeditions are known for their enriching educational opportunities. On voyage, you may find yourself taking an excursion beside or sharing a dinner table with a marine biologist, historian, ornithologist and many more of the experts onboard.
On selected departures, these experts will deliver lectures and guide shoreside adventures in exchange for the opportunity to travel to remote locations to perform their research or fieldwork.
Additionally, the onboard library and a lecture lounge are used for tour briefings and media presentations led by our guest experts. Coral Adventurer has a dedicated scientific research facility and equipment space in the Barralong Room, allowing for deeper marine immersion.