At a Glance
Set sail with a small group of intrepid explorers onboard Coral Geographer from Singapore to Darwin and uncover Indonesia’s island wonders.
Navigate through the Riau and Karimata Islands, once bustling maritime corridors that are now untouched paradises for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Explore the extinct volcanic beauty of Bawean Island, which is rich in cultural traditions and dotted with picturesque coastal villages. Venture to Tana Beru, where the art of crafting wooden Phinisi boats by ancient methods is still alive. Be mesmerized by the stunning burial chambers of Tana Toraja on a special overnight excursion and delve deeply into the unique customs of Sawu, remote islands safeguarding their ancient ways of life.
As you journey, indulge in beachside traditional performances, cultural spectacles, and the serenity ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All excursions with our Expedition Team
- Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
- Snorkelling & SCUBA equipment (SCUBA diving at an additional cost)
- Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
- All meals, chef-prepared on board
- Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
- Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
- 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
- All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, and charges imposed by governing authorities
- Tips and gratuities
- Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
- Expedition diary, along with a selection of photos and/or videos documenting the highlights of your voyage
- Post-cruise transfers (in Darwin)
- Coral Expeditions provides complimentary standard Wi-Fi for text-based communication, with premium high-speed packages available for purchase onboard. While our ships use advanced satellite and 4G technology, connectivity in remote areas may be unreliable, so we recommend downloading content before your voyage
Itinerary
Board Coral Geographer at 07:00am at The Singapore Harbour Front VIVO Passenger Terminal, and settle into your stateroom before departing at 8:00am as we sail south towards Nipah for our International Clearance into Indonesia. After clearance, Coral Geographer will spend the rest of the day at sea. Your onboard team will facilitate a range of engaging lectures and activities during the day. |
Our journey begins with a visit to the secluded Segun Island, one of Indonesia’s most remote and untouched islands. Here, you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and diving, while uncovering the island’s rich maritime history as a key stop along the ancient maritime Silk Road offering an unforgettable, exclusive experience that few have the privilege to enjoy. |
Herita Island, otherwise known as Pulau Herita is historically inhabited by Melayu groups and Bugis. This region is isolated to say the least. Today you’ll step into what seems like an untouched world, with small, sleepy villages surrounded by swaying palms. As you explore, immerse yourself in the islands fascinating history as a key stop along ancient trading routes between Sumatra and Borneo. |
As we steam from Herita Island to Bawean Island — an opportunity to ease into the rhythm of life onboard. Throughout the day, you will have the chance to attend engaging lectures from our expert guest speakers, participate in a range of onboard activities, or simply relax and unwind in one of our comfortable lounges. This is also a great time to get to know your fellow passengers over a coffee or at the bar. Whether you choose to be active or take it slow, these sea days are designed to enhance your experience and prepare you for the adventures ahead. |
This morning, we will anchor in Sangkapura Bay, Bawean Island, which is inhabited by the Baweanese. Measuring just 15km in diameter, a single narrow ring road can circumvent the extinct volcanic island of Bawean. Spend the day snorkelling, beach combing and swimming off the white sand beaches. Fun Fact: The 2018 Asia Games – Bawean deer mascot is endemic here. |
Today we spend a relaxing day traversing the Karimata Strait which connects the South China Sea and the Java Sea. |
Today we will anchor on the serene leeward side of Jailamu Island, where you’ll explore a lush coconut plantation and indulge in a variety of activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear waters. In the morning, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the village, where you’ll discover inspiring ocean sustainability initiatives, and in the afternoon, unwind with refreshing drinks and exquisite canapes on the beach at Jailamu Island. |
Traditionally, wooden Phinisi ships have been crafted by the Bugis boat-builders on the beach at Tana Beru since the 14th century. The ancient technique, which uses no nails, has been handed down through generations. Hear the seafaring tales of the boat builders and climb into a Phinisi ship to admire its size and the craftsmanship of the boat-builders. |
Today we will be travelling to Sulawesi via bus.* The 3-hour journey will lead us into the highlands of Sulawesi to the remarkable Tana Toraja, where you will witness stunning limestone mountains and the ancient culture and traditions of the Torajan people. Visit the Tongkonan houses at Marante, the stone graves with Tau-tau effigies at Londa, the hanging burial sites of Lemo, and the megalithic funeral site and burial grounds at Bori Parinding. See the Torajan market and explore Kete Kesu, a 400-year-old village high in the mountains. In Tana Toraja, you’ll spend the night at a local hotel, immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture. Some locations require walking 500–750 metres over uneven terrain. Enjoy a local buffet at the hotel and note that we rely on the local electricity supply overnight, offering an authentic experience of the area. *Please note the bus journey is not air conditioned. However, you will be travelling in the highlands where conditions are much cooler than at sea level. Bringing a small powered fan or hand held fan may make this journey more comfortable.
Today we wake up in Tana Toraja, where we continue exploring this region. As we make our way back to the ship, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Torajan people. |
The small island of Sagori measures just 1.5km long and around 90m wide and is home to the seafaring master’s the Bajau and Bugis people. Explore the marine diversity that surrounds the island ahead of learning more about the unique local way of life. The surrounding white sandy beaches make it appealing for beach walking, swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving. |
As we continue our journey from Pulau Sagori to Pulau Komodo —another opportunity to enjoy the relaxing pace of life onboard. Take advantage of a new series of fascinating lectures from our guest speakers, dive deeper into the unique destinations ahead, or perhaps engage in some onboard activities such as trivia, workshops, or fitness classes. Sea days like this provide the perfect balance of rest and enrichment, setting the tone for the exciting adventures still to come. |
Today, explore both Komodo and Padar. In the morning, we will visit Komodo Island for a National Park Walk to see the dragons, followed by relocating the ship to Padar during lunch. In the afternoon, we will hike to a scenic viewpoint, enjoy an Xplorer cruise, swim and snorkel. A sunset walk on Padar will cap the day, providing cooler temperatures and breathtaking afternoon views. |
Today, we will visit three ancient lakes of Kelimutu. These stunning lakes are known for their changing colours, which locals believe are influenced by ancestral souls. For those only visiting the first viewpoint, there is also the opportunity to enjoy the area’s diverse plant and bird life, including the endemic Bare-throated Whistler. The day will involve local bus transport, with some walking required. For those able, there will be a longer walk up to a high vantage point offering breathtaking views of the lakes. Moderate mobility is required during this part of the excursion. A local lunch will be provided, offering a taste of the regional cuisine as part of your day’s experience. |
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sawu, including traditional rituals, such as welcoming ceremonies featuring animist blessings and the draping of woven Sawu cloth. You will have the opportunity to explore Kampung Kujiratu, where you can witness the Ledo dance and learn about local customs and the Jingi Tiu belief system, including the significance of sacred megalithic stones used in rituals. |
Arrive at Tablolong Bay and enjoy the bright, harp-like sounds of the traditional Sasando instrument in a beachside performance. Later, there is an opportunity to swim or snorkel. |
Enjoy a peaceful day at sea as we make our way to Darwin. Participate in onboard activities, including workshops and lectures from our special guests and Expedition Team. |
Arrive and disembark at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf. Post cruise transfers to CBD hotels or the airport are included. If you’re not transferring directly to the airport why not spend the day enjoying the tropical city of Darwin with its landscaped waterfront and harbourside Wave Pool. |
Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for the available Cabins & Prices. Limited single cabins are available for solo travellers. Please contact us for more information.
More Info
The start point is Singapore
The finish point is Darwin, Australia
The Indonesian islands, including Segun Island, Karimata Islands, Bawean Island, and Komodo Island, share a tropical climate with warm temperatures averaging 26–30°C (79–86°F) year-round. The weather is marked by a dry season from April to October, offering sunny days and calm seas, and a wet season from November to March, characterized by heavier rains and occasional storms. Humidity levels remain high, but breezes near the coasts provide relief. These islands, with their diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes, are accessible throughout the year, though the dry season is ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
Your cruise price does not include:
- Pre-cruise transfers
- Pre and post cruise accommodation
- Travel Insurance
- SCUBA Diving (view Scuba diving rates)
- Entry visas & travel permits for the country you are travelling to/from
- Alcoholic drinks (including beer and wine) outside of lunch and dinner service
- Laundry service (available at a cost)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.