Circumnavigation of Sumatra

Board Coral Geographer at 4:00pm at the VIVO Singapore Cruise Terminal and settle into your stateroom before our departure at 5:00pm as we sail south towards Belitung on our clockwise circumnavigation of Sumatra. 

This itinerary includes a total of two days at sea to reach these destinations. During sea days, relax or join our Expedition Team for a fascinating program of interactive workshops and informative presentations. Join the Captain for welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow travelers as the sun sets.

We arrive at Belitung Island off the east coast of Sumatra. Board the Xplorer for a short trip over to Tinggi Beach, known for serene and picturesque white sand, turquoise waters, and granite rock formations. Swim, beachcomb, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll to the headland along the shoreline.

Explore the history of HMAS Perth, sunk by the Imperial Japanese Navy in the Battle of Sunda Strait. Pay homage with a remembrance ceremony at its resting place.

Explore Ujung Kulon National Park, home to vast lowland rainforests and the endangered Javan rhinoceros. The park’s marine habitats, from rocky shores to coral reefs, offer underwater wonders. Join small groups led by Park Rangers on a 1.2km rainforest trail, learning about geology, biodiversity, conservation, and challenges faced. Discover mangrove ecology and visit the Ciduan grazing ground to spot rhino footprints.

We venture into the surrounding jungle to spend a day exploring this nature conservation area. Learn about the sub species of Sumatran tiger, not found anywhere else in the world as we visit their enclosure and hear about the plight of rehabilitated and remaining tigers. Also, visit a nearby village and meet researchers involved in anti-poaching jungle patrols.

Enjoy the pristine waters and white sand beaches as we snorkel and swim from the beach at Dua Island. We will also enjoy a swim at the unique freshwater spring Bak Blau, which translates in English to ‘a blue eye’. We may also explore a nearby village before enjoying sunset views on this remote island.

Bengkulu holds a diverse history shaped by the Srivijaya empire, Portuguese and Dutch colonisation, and British presence. The province is home to various ethnic groups including the Rejang and Javanese. Explore Bengkulu’s early history, from Kampung China to British rule, with local guides highlighting architectural landmarks. Visit local markets and explore the Besurek Batik village’s unique fusion of Arabic calligraphy and Rafflesia flower motifs, a symbol of Bengkulu Province.

Padang is a historic trading hub renowned for pepper and gold commerce in pre-colonial times. The Minangkabau people, known for matrilineal heritage and 16th-century Islamic conversion, have left a cultural imprint. On a walking tour, admire Dutch, English, Chinese, and Minangkabau architecture along the old port, surrounded by breathtaking ocean views and jungle-clad volcanoes. Explore bustling morning markets and visit Masjid Raya Sumatera Barat, an architecturally unique mosque. In the afternoon, visit Sikuai Island, known for tropical forests, white-sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs. Explore trails or ascend to the highest point for a sunset vista.

Coastal areas, mangroves, Barringtonia forests, and rolling landscapes make up Siberut Island’s unique ecosystem. In the morning, enjoy snorkelling and swimming at the island’s vibrant coral reefs. After lunch, an Xplorer cruise takes you to Katurei Bay, where you’ll engage with local villagers and learn about their fishing and jungle foraging.

Board the Xplorers for a cruise through a section of the Tanah Bala Channel, separating Tanah Balah Island from Tanah Masa Island. See coastal villages, rock and reef formations as well as birdlife only accessible by small sailing or local boats. This evening as the sun sets, enjoy beach drinks on Marit Island at zero degrees latitude.

Nias Island’s rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistory, is often considered one of the last megalithic cultures. Nias boasts diverse festivals, notably Stone Jumping, and hauntingly beautiful music, predominantly performed by women, another distinctive feature. Explore Bawomataluo Village, a UNESCO-recognised site, showcasing megalithic monuments, traditional houses and rituals. Tonight, revel in a cultural festivity on South Nias Island, featuring traditional dance, music, and local cuisine.

Experience a traditional welcome from the Sisarahili Teluk Siabang community, savour local sweets, and meet our local interpreter. Explore the mangrove forest, discovering new community initiatives in this remote fishing village. Later, visit Sena Island for beachcombing, swimming, snorkelling, and exploring its two lakes.

Aceh, the only province with extensive autonomy in Indonesia, applies Sharia law to its Muslim residents. Visitors’ respectful and conservative attire is appreciated. Simeulue locals are known for vibrant dance performances with live percussion. We’ll visit Aluan, an organic coconut oil producer, and explore sustainable supply chains. At Sinabang Arts and Cultural Centre, experience Nandong, a cherished oral tradition. After lunch, we’ll move to Simuat Island, featuring cliffs and coral beaches, offering a leisurely afternoon of snorkelling and swimming.

Visit the remarkable museum and memorial park for a moving symbolic reminder of the devastation affected on the local people by the Boxing Day Tsunami of 2004. Following this there will be time to explore the city and purchase souvenirs.

Take a guided tour of this capital city that exemplifies the multicultural fabric of Sumatra. Try exotic durian fruit, see the splendour of the Sultan of Delhi’s Palace, photograph Dutch and English Art Deco buildings still standing today and learn more about the history and culture of the Batak Karo people. Get a taste of local life with a becak tour of the old town.

The Strait of Malacca is a narrow stretch of water 800km long between the Malay Peninsula to the northeast and Sumatra to the southwest, connecting the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. One of the busiest and most important trade and strategic routes in the world. Spend the day relaxing before we complete our circumnavigation and arrive to Singapore the next morning.

This morning we arrive in Singapore at 7:00am. Farewell your Master, crew, and fellow guests before disembarking at 8:00am.