Coral Expeditions is Australia’s pioneering expedition cruise operator, sailing for four decades. Our fleet of three specialised expedition ships and tenders take guests to some of the most beautiful, yet undiscovered islands and coastal regions of the world. Our travellers are attracted by our relaxed small ship atmosphere and itineraries that larger ships cannot replicate.
At a time when the cruise industry is moving to larger and less personal ships, we have limited the size of our ships to maximise the expedition experience. Our cuisine is prepared small batch on board using quality Australian produce and wine. We operate to high Australian standards of safety with Australian crew wherever we go. We were the first to offer interpretive programs reflective of the destinations we visit and to employ Expedition Leaders, Guest Lecturers, Marine Biologists, and SCUBA Instructors – a tradition that continues today.
Welcome to no queues, no waiting
At Coral Expeditions, we have built our reputation on offering a very different expedition cruise experience.
- We have no organised entertainment onboard – instead, we offer a daily program of lectures, themed documentaries and movies
- We do not have glitzy restaurants – but our chefs prepare fresh daily, high-quality cuisine using Australian and local ingredients
- We do not have ‘formal’ nights or assigned seating – you can dine with whom you please
- We have no room service menus – but our crew will be happy to serve you a meal in-room if you are under the weather or prefer to eat in
- We do not have minibars – our guests love to mingle over drinks on the sundeck or in one of our comfortable lounges
- We do not have a casino – but our captains welcome you to the bridge to observe operations and have a chat
- We do not have butlers and spas – but all staterooms are serviced daily and come with nightly turndown service
- We do not have a swimming pool – but there are many opportunities to swim off a beach or swimming hole
- We do not charge for shore excursions
- We do not require tips
- We welcome young and old
Just bring your passion to dream, explore and discover.
Unique Itineraries
Our guests cruise with us because of our unique destinations and curated shore excursions. Our shallow-draught ships can go where larger ships cannot. Every day typically has at least one stop for water or land-based activities. On each voyage we will have an Expedition team complimented by Guest Lecturers who are experts in the geology, history or flora and fauna of the region. Our Expedition Leaders come with marine or local expertise. Most of our shore excursions are included in the cruise price – only exceptional experiences operated by third parties such as scenic helicopter flights require payment on board and participation is completely optional.
Relaxed Environment
True to our Australian heritage, our ship environment is designed to be casual. There is no dress code or assigned seating at mealtimes. Our ship layout encourages mingling and convivial conversation with fellow passengers. Complimentary coffee and tea stations are open throughout the day in the lounge and dining areas. There are no in-room televisions or room service, but there are plenty of comfortable common spaces. We operate an open bridge policy and encourage guests to visit the bridge and observe ship operations. Our Captains enjoy the open interaction with our guests.
Curated Shore Excursions
With a strong focus on visiting places off the beaten track, our shore excursions are designed to promote local interaction and cultural exchange. One of the great benefits of travelling on a small ship is our ability to make impromptu stops when extraordinary opportunities present. Our small group size ensures that our shore excursions are comfortable and enjoyable, but also have minimal impact on the communities and environments we visit.
Most activities are suitable for all fitness levels. When a higher than normal level of fitness is required for a particular excursion, our Expedition Leader will advise accordingly. You can expect one or more on-shore, or in-sea, activities each day. All included in your cruise price.
High Levels Of Care
Reflecting the friendliness that Australians are renowned for, we offer high standards of comfort and care without formality or stuffiness. Our crew are trained to be attentive and are always open to a friendly chat. We maintain the highest standards of marine and passenger safety and adhere to Australian standards in our staffing and operations.
Ease Of Access
One of the distinctive features of Coral Expeditions’ vessels is their tender capability, known for facilitating ease of participating in shore excursions. Each ship carries a tender vessel which is hydraulically lowered and lifted, enabling guests to transfer for excursions right off the main deck. Coral Discoverer’s Xplorer tender vessel can carry all 72 guests at the same time while Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer carry all 120 guests in two Xplorer tender vessels. Additionally, Zodiac tenders enable more intrepid excursions by getting closer to attractions or when shore landing conditions may be challenging.
No Queues, no waiting
Our ships are small enough to allow us to board and disembark more rapidly than larger vessels. With our custom-designed, efficient boarding system, there is minimal waiting. Our fleet’s shallow draught, and Xplorer and Zodiac tenders allow us to take travellers to locations larger ships cannot.
Intimate & Comfortable
Our purpose-built Australian expedition ships are designed to showcase the places they visit. Each ship is comfortable, safe and manoeuvrable enabling you to get close to nature, culture and history. There is an abundance of open spaces on each ship with the addition of walk-around promenade decks on, Coral Adventurer, Coral Discoverer and Coral Geographer.