Expedition Cruising Komodo, Sulawesi, Borneo & Beyond
Embark on an unforgettable expedition series through island trails of the ancient East Indies to discover the rich history, fascinating cultures, and exotic wildlife of these remote realms. Explore the hidden treasures such as Alor in Lesser Sunda, witness the multicoloured Kelimutu crater lakes, or conquer the stunning vista from the summit of Padar Island. Enjoy unique encounters with endemic wildlife including the legendary Komodo dragons, endangered orangutans, and the experience of swimming amongst harmless golden jellyfish. Immerse yourself in the pristine marine environs of the Coral Triangle, renowned for the most vibrant dive and snorkel opportunities in the world. With 40+ years of experience in expedition cruising we provide you with expert guidance that allows you to truly connect with these destinations.
Travel directly with Coral Expeditions’ hosted charter flights to and from Australia (included in the fare price).
The rich history and diverse marine life of Raja Ampat and Spice Islands are brought to life as Coral Geographer retraces the ancient routes of spice merchants trading Chinese silks for cloves, Indian cotton for nutmeg and Arabian coffee for pepper. Explore some of the hundreds of rarely visited islands of Raja Ampat whose waters harbour over 75% of the world’s coral and fish species.
Departs 6 Sep 2025 | 10 Feb, 28 Feb, 7 Mar 2026
Sail from Singapore to Darwin aboard Coral Geographer, exploring Indonesia’s hidden gems. Discover pristine islands, cultural treasures like Tana Toraja and Tana Beru, and time-honored traditions of the Sawu Islands. With vibrant performances and serene landscapes, this journey blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Departs 23 January 2026
Island of Indonesia Voyage Logs
Our Ships Exploring The East Indies
Coral Geographer and Coral Adventurer are designed for tropical expeditions, featuring wraparound decks, private balconies, and outdoor dining to enjoy the balmy air and glorious sunsets. Open-sided Xplorer tender boats allow you to get up close and retrace the steps of the ancient seafarers.
Our Articles On Indonesia
In the Makassans with Liz Ginis – Australian Geographic
Discovering the Makassan Legacy: A Journey Through Time
NOMADasaurus Take the Islands of Indonesia
Posts from our voyages exploring Islands of Indonesia
Sailing through Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands with Coral Expeditions is like stepping into a living geological gallery—where ancient limestone karsts rise from turquoise waters, sculpted by time, tides, and tropical rain.
In Raja Ampat, these dramatic limestone formations are some of the oldest exposed rock in Indonesia, believed to date back over 400 million years. Towering cliffs and hidden lagoons are fringed by lush jungle, with sea caves and narrow channels inviting quiet Zodiac explorations. The erosion of these soft, porous rocks over millennia has created a wonderland of islands, islets, and intricate reefs—making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
As we continue into the Spice Islands, the limestone gives way to a different kind of drama—steep volcanic peaks and fertile soils, but still peppered with smaller limestone formations that have shaped sheltered anchorages and coral-rich bays. These islands once sat at the centre of the global spice trade and are now a quieter treasure, where natural beauty and history coexist.
Every Zodiac cruise and shore landing in this region reveals a new face of the landscape—from towering cliffs and cathedral-like overhangs to small rocky outcrops that host vibrant coral gardens just beneath the surface.
Apr 24
Banda Neira is one of the most captivating destinations on a Coral Expeditions’ Spice Islands & Raja Ampat itinerary—a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Once the epicentre of the global nutmeg trade, this small island in Indonesia’s Banda Sea played a key role in shaping the course of world history. In the 17th century, nutmeg was a highly sought-after commodity, and Banda Neira became the focus of intense European interest, particularly from the Dutch East India Company, who built imposing forts like Belgica and Nassau to control the spice trade.
Today, Coral Expeditions guests have the opportunity to step ashore and explore this remarkable legacy firsthand. Guided walks through the island’s historic town reveal colonial architecture, centuries-old nutmeg plantations, and stories of trade, power, and cultural exchange. Visits to Fort Belgica and local museums provide fascinating insights into the island’s past, while warm welcomes from the local community, including traditional kora kora canoe ceremonies, create moments of genuine connection.
In addition to its historical significance, Banda Neira offers outstanding natural beauty. The surrounding reefs are home to some of the region’s best snorkelling, with vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life just beneath the surface. For those joining Coral Expeditions through this region, Banda Neira is more than just a stop—it’s a journey into the heart of Indonesia’s spice history, delivered with the insight and care that define the Coral Expeditions experience.
Apr 23
On our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage, a visit to Cenderawasih Bay in West Papua offers one of the most memorable wildlife encounters in the world — the chance to swim alongside whale sharks in their natural habitat. These gentle giants gather beneath traditional fishing platforms known as bagans, where they linger for a free meal of baitfish. The calm, warm waters of the bay create ideal conditions for snorkelling, allowing guests to float eye-to-eye with the world’s largest fish. It’s a rare and humbling experience that captures the magic of Indonesia’s remote waters and the unique connection between people and marine life.
Apr 22
Sail the Series! 🛳️🇯🇵🇵🇭🇮🇩
Looking for an extraordinary adventure? Extend your journey and explore more destinations with series sailings. Combine voyages, enjoy Xplorer Club Member benefits, and receive a 10% discount on adjoining trips. Availability is open across Explorer and Promenade Decks—don’t miss out!
Voyage Combinations:
❤️ 30 Nights – Through the Heart of Japan + Through Japan’s Ryukyu Islands
🎌 32 Nights – Through Japan’s Ryukyu Islands + Island Trails of the Philippines
🐠 32 Nights – Island Trails of the Philippines + An Equatorial Adventure Across North Borneo
🏝️ 35 Nights – Island Trails & Traditions of Indonesia + Raja Ampat & Spice Islands
Contact our reservations team for a quote and learn more about combining voyages.
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/japan/
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/islands-indonesia/
Apr 2
Banda Neira, the heart of Indonesia’s historic Banda Islands, is a hidden gem where rich cultural heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty. Once the world’s only source of nutmeg and mace, the island blends colonial charm with warm hospitality. The Banda people, known for their kindness and deep connection to the land and sea, carry on traditions passed through generations, from intricate spice farming to vibrant storytelling and music. Coral Expeditions guests can explore nutmeg plantations, stroll past Dutch-era architecture, and experience the lively local markets. The island’s waters offer world-class diving and snorkeling, making Banda Neira a highlight of our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage.
You too can experience this slice of paradise with our remaining 2025 September departure or plan your visit for 2026 with a variety of dates: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/spice-islands-west-papua/raja-ampat-and-spice-islands/#fares-availability
Mar 17
✋🏻 Stop what you are doing!
Raja Ampat & The Spice Islands are calling ☎️
With 2025 or 2026 sailing dates you will want to add this cruise to your bucket list.
Discover the remote islands of Indonesia destination that almost doesn’t seem real. ☁️🐠🌴🌀🏝️
#RajaAmpat #CoralExpeditions #ExploreRajaAmpat #RajaAmpatCruise #SmallShipExpedition #PristineParadise #CoralTriangle #SnorkelRajaAmpat #DiveRajaAmpat #ExpeditionCruising #BucketListTravel #AdventureAwaits
Feb 24
The Tambling Wildlife Nature Conservation (TWNC), located on the southern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia, is a vital sanctuary dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation and ecosystem restoration. Spanning 45,000 hectares within the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, TWNC focuses on combating poaching and protecting endangered species, including elephants and primates. During our visit, we were wowed by the sight of Sumatran siamang gibbons, the largest gibbon species, as they effortlessly swung between tree branches, their expressions reminding us of their close relation to humans. Through anti-poaching patrols, community engagement, and educational ecotourism, TWNC fosters sustainable conservation while promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Dec 17
Bawomataluo Village, located on the Nias Islands off Sumatra, Indonesia, is a cultural and historical treasure known for its traditional Omo Hada houses, megalithic relics, and rich heritage. Perched on a hill, the village showcases earthquake-resistant wooden architecture, including the King’s House, the largest in the village, said to have been built in the 18th century and still occupied by descendants of the original family. After climbing 80 stone steps— we were warmly welcomed with a war dance performed by elder gentlemen, later joined by women who invited us to share in the merriment. One brave young warrior demonstrated his courage with the traditional fahombo (stone-jumping) ritual, persevering through an apparent ankle injury to clear the top stone on his third leap with a triumphant smile.
Dec 15
Our visit to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre was a truly unforgettable highlight of our journey. Arriving early, we eagerly awaited the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
The first to appear was an impressive adult male, followed by the dominant alpha male, who claimed his place at the feeding platform. Not long after, an adult female and her playful infant delighted us as the young one swung effortlessly on a rope high above our heads. The experience became even more special when a 53-year-old female, one of the sanctuary’s most revered residents, made a graceful appearance to close out the morning.
Semenggoh Wildlife Centre plays a vital role in protecting and rehabilitating orangutans, ensuring these endangered “gardeners of the forest” can continue their essential work of sustaining the ecosystem. Their remarkable intelligence and gentle nature left a lasting impression, reminding us of the importance of preserving these incredible animals and their habitats.
This was an extraordinary experience, offering a profound connection to the natural world and a cherished memory of our time in Borneo.
Dec 10
Our visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village in Borneo was a captivating journey into the heart of the island’s indigenous heritage. Tucked away in the lush jungle, the village offered us a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut tribes.
From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed with a traditional ceremony, complete with lively music, dance, and colorful costumes that set the tone for the experience. As we moved through the village, we explored traditional tribal homes and marveled at the ingenuity and artistry that went into daily life. Hands-on demonstrations brought the past to life as we tried our hand at bamboo cooking, fire-starting, and other traditional crafts.
The highlight of our visit was the evening cultural performance, where the vibrant dances and songs celebrated the spirit of the people. Sharing a delicious dinner of local delicacies under the jungle canopy, surrounded by the sounds of nature, added a magical touch to the experience.
This visit was not only educational but also deeply enriching, leaving us with a newfound appreciation for Borneo’s rich cultural tapestry. It was a memorable chapter in our journey, bringing us closer to the heart of this incredible region.
Dec 9
Guests on Coral Adventurer were captivated as Guest Lecturer Goyma and Expedition Team Member Luke brought aboriginal stories to life through four mesmerizing dances at beach drinks:
Mokuy - Spiritual dancing through the bush
The Crocodile Dance - From Goyma`s father`s clan group, the Gumatj
A dance about the Makassans - Celebrating the early visitors from Indonesia to Australia before European exploration
The octopus dance - Honoring Goyma`s grandmother`s totem
These performances offered a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
📸 Captured by Expedition Team member Sara
Aug 14
Explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons of Raja Ampat with time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk upon white-sand beaches amongst the many islands.
View The Itinerary: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/islands-indonesia/
#RajaAmpat #expeditioncruise #discoverindonesia
Feb 27
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