Set sail from Bali on an expedition to discover Indonesia’s rich tapestry of cultures and lush tropical islands. Experience the thrill of spotting rare Komodo dragons in the wild; snorkel and dive at pristine coral reefs of the Moluccas, Raja Ampat and West Papua; take part in exuberant welcome ceremonies at the secluded villages we’ll explore along the way; and step back in time as we learn about some of the fiercest battles of the Pacific Theater during World War II. Explore the fascinating riverine world of the Asmat region, one of the least-explored places on earth as the National Geographic Orion makes her way to the Solomon Islands and Honiara.
Highlights
Relax on the stunning beaches of Raja Ampat and West Papua
Search for Komodo dragons in the wild at Komodo National Park
Discover the timeless traditions and exquisite art of the Asmat people
Learn about the ancient legends and modern history of the region
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
This morning we check out of the hotel and head off into the countryside and the artist’s town of Ubud – famous for silver working, wood carving, and batik. As we wind our way up into the hills, we’ll pass exquisite Hindu temples, lush forests, small villages, and the terraced rice fields cut into the cliffs. From water buffalo, to ducks, to harvest, learn how all the pieces of rice production flow together and nothing is wasted. Following lunch and free time to wander through the galleries in Ubud, we’ll head back to Benoa where we embark the National Geographic Orion.
Day 3: Satonda | Sumbawa, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia
Our first stop is the uninhabited Indonesian island of Satonda – a small circular island that is an ancient volcanic cone. Spend the morning snorkeling or diving the vibrant reefs or hike inland to the island’s sacred lake. This afternoon visit the island of Sumbawa, where villagers welcome us with a lively cultural display. Witness a traditional wedding ceremony and a local boxing match.
Explore Komodo National Park, home to the world’s largest living lizard—the Komodo dragon. Learn about the conservation of these prehistoric giants from park rangers, who will join us on a hike to spot the lizards in their natural habitat. Then enjoy an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, or beachcombing at “Pink Beach,” named for the coral fragments that lend their color to the sand.
Flores was once an important Portuguese trading center for sandalwood. Known for producing some of the finest ikat weaving in the world, we’ll meet the people of this arid island when we travel inland from Maumere to the weaving village of Watublapi. Whereas many other local weaving communities switched to industrially spun yarn and chemical dyes for the sake of saving time and money, the weavers of Watublapi still use the traditional, hand-spun yarn made out of local cotton, as well as local natural dyes. We’ll also see a cultural dance presentation.
Sail into the Molucca archipelago, also known as Maluku or the Spice Islands. In the heart of the Moluccas lay the Banda Islands, where a kora kora, or traditional war canoe, escorts us to the enchanted isle of Pulau Naira. Neighboring Banda Neira was once the center of the Spice Island trade and a hub of the Dutch East India Company. Stroll past Dutch architecture and visit Fort Belgica, built to protect the profitable spice trade. Next to Bandanaira, the near perfect conical volcano of Banda Api will be visible, quietly steaming away, and the crystal-clear waters provide us with some great swimming and snorkeling
Snorkel and dive one of the richest and most intricate marine regions in the world. Explore the steep coral walls and drop offs that are brimming with amazing life – colorful corals, giant clams and literally hundreds of different fish species. Above sea level, the experiences are just as amazing, with lush islands, towering limestone pinnacles jutting out of the water, and hidden white-sand coves to discover by Zodiac or kayak. On Gam Island birders may join a pre-dawn nature walk to try to catch a glimpse of the ethereal red bird-of-paradise.
Soaring mountains, pristine rain forest, and dozens of the most ancient, primal tribes on the planet can be found on this amazing section of Indonesia. Use Zodiacs to get up close to 20,000-year-old rock art near the fishing village of Kokas. Explore the fascinating skull caves and rock art of the Macassan culture. See the remains of the secret underground Japanese bunkers built here during World War II. Witness the traditional gabagaba, or stick dance, and learn about the myriad cultures that have passed through this region
Arrive in the enchanting Asmat region, which spreads across mud flats and mangrove forests, with raised wooden boardwalks linking one village to the next. Elaborately painted “warriors” escort us to one of the stilt villages on shore, where we’ll attend a fascinating welcome ceremony. Our subsequent exploration will be dictated by the tides, as we venture to neighboring villages by Zodiac and encounter the ancient culture of the Asmat people, who are renowned for their woodcarving.
We leave the Asmat region and sail through the Aru and Arafura Seas. During the last ice age, when sea levels were over 100 meters lower than they are today, this region was a land bridge between Australia and New Guinea. We transit the shallow, island-strewn Torres Strait, which separates Australia from New Guinea, to enter the Gulf of Papua. We’ll explore the coast and scattered islands looking for that perfect place to spend some time on a deserted beach or snorkeling through a reef bursting with color and life.
Day 17: Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
It’s hard to imagine today that Samarai Island was once a bustling trading port and the second largest city in Papua New Guinea. The town was evacuated at the onset of the Pacific War and many of its buildings deliberately destroyed. When the war ended, Samarai never regained its earlier importance. Life is much slower paced nowadays, and we’ll have a chance to meet and be greeted by the town’s residents. As we depart, be sure to be out on deck as the ship cruises through the beautiful neighboring islands.
Day 18: At Sea
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Day 19: Honiara | Disembark | Brisbane, Australia
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Our expedition concludes in Honiara, a former U.S. supply depot and a strategic WWII battleground. Tour around the outskirts of the city to see sites well known from the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942-43. See the shores of Red Beach and the vital airbase at Henderson Field. Visit the hills above Honiara where some of the fiercest battles took places. Then, transfer to the airport for our flight to Brisbane, where we will overnight at a local hotel.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$24,2432-3 travelers
Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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Category 1
Cat 1 #316, 318-321. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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Category 1 Single
Cat 1S #301, 322, 323. These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, except for #301 which has a double bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a roomy shower stall with a glass door.
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Category 2
Cat 2 #302-312, 314, 315, 317. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized, and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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Category 3
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419. These suites feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa–except slightly smaller #401 & #402–an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, flat screen TV, & climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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Category 3 Single
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512. This solo suite features two beds and two large windows, plus two armchairs and small table, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls. The marble bathroom is generously sized and includes a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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Category 4
Cat 4 Deluxe Suite with Window #511, 515. These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a chair and armchair and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Beds are configurable (call for details). Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities.
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Category 5
Cat 5 Suite with French Balcony #501, 503-506, 508. These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. Beds are configurable (call for details.) A sitting area with arm chairs and a sofa, a writing/laptop desk, well-placed reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the decor.
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Category 6
Cat 6 Owner’s Suite with French Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510. These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, with the exception of #509 which has double windows. Each provides a separate living area with a sofa and two arm chairs, except for #502, which uniquely offers a 'soaking tub with a view' in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity.
Notes
Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available but is subject to availability.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
17 Breakfasts, 16 Lunches, 16 Dinners
20 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship. We are also pleased to offer a selection of super premium wines and liquors that are available for purchase.
Crew gratuities
Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary
Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic where available
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees
Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
TrustScore 4.9 | 209 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 209 reviews on
7 hours ago
I have travelled with Adventure Life previously and certainly eager to do it again. Kassandra made excellent and honest suggestions while taking the time to understand what was important to us.
Susan
1 day ago
They answered every question and concern that I had and put me at ease. Very excited for this once in a life-time trip.
Customer Tim
2 days ago
I am a returning client to Adventure Life and am very pleased with their commitment to put together a great trip. Clara replied and clarified to any and all questions we had.
Claire Palmer
4 days ago
Jessica was very responsive to my questions and never balked when I asked her to go back and find more options. She really worked hard to find the right cruise for us.
Amy Siegel
4 days ago
Friendly, accommodating, knowledgeable, timely. They have made us feel very comfortable for our trip!
