Indonesia Expedition


from$ 22454 AUD



Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.

Ship
Minerva
City
Benoa to Darwin


Overview

Discover little-known sites and islands of Indonesia, one of the largest countries of the world, on our 11-night Indonesia Explorer cruise. With more than 17,000 islands, this southeast Asian nation is a beguiling mixture of rich natural heritage and cultural ways of life. Beginning on the quieter side of Bali, we track down tropical jungles and marine life, before exploring rugged volcanic landscapes harbouring centuries-old temples and coral reefs. Our journey then takes us to remote islands to encounter Komodo dragons in the monsoon forest, before visiting thatched-roof villages on more far-flung islands in the Indian Ocean. From beautiful beaches to traditional villages, join us on board our boutique expedition ship and visit one of the most diverse countries on earth.

Overview

  • EINSH
  • 12 Days
  • Minerva

Cruise Itinerary

  • Benoa (Indonesia)
  • Darwin (Australia)

Departures

Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.

Cruise Itinerary

Benoa lies on the southern end of Bali, an island packed with sporting fun and cultural attractions. Dive or sea walk to discover coral reefs brimming with multi-hued fish, or stay dry on a glass-bottomed boat. Adventure seekers can zip across turquoise waters on a jet ski then fly the skies above with a parasail. Centuries-old Buddhist and Hindu temples offer calm and contemplation, while nearby Denpasar is dotted with history and art museums.


Rolling mountains, wild tropical jungle and rugged volcanic landscapes – discover a tranquil side of Bali that’s rarely seen from this port city. Explore misty highlands and valleys carved with emerald green rice terraces, observe the rich marine life and tangled forests of West Bali National Park or take a dip in a bubbling hot springs pool. In Singaraja, once Bali’s bustling capital, centuries-old temples mingle with well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture.


This relaxed port city on East Java is the gateway to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, a vast, rugged landscape of mist-wreathed volcanoes, including two active peaks. Challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Mount Bromo, or discover dramatic crater lakes in the foothills of Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java. Take a refreshing dip in a plunging, multi-tiered waterfall, then gaze at a centuries-old stone temple adorned with religious carvings. A short boat ride from the mainland is the tiny fishing island of Gili Ketapang, popular for snorkelling.


With white sand and calm waters backed by a rugged volcanic landscape, Senggigi Beach contrasts sporting fun with languorous relaxation. Snorkel to spot colourful coral reefs in the shallows, or find secluded bays while kayaking along the craggy, jungle-clad coastline. Keep an eye out for Flores hawk-eagles and ospreys soaring overhead. Rainforest hiking trails lead to deserted waterfalls, and Mount Rinjani National Park, with an active volcano crowned by an otherworldly crater lake, is nearby.


Tropical rainforest dotted with plunging cascades dominate this remote, sparsely inhabited island in the Bali Sea. Hike through dense jungle to one of the island’s famed waterfalls, where you can clamber atop boulders before cooling off in a natural pool. Or trek with a local guide to spot wild boar and roaming deer, plus monitor lizards scurrying in the undergrowth. Offshore, migrating whale sharks dive in the deep while giant manta rays fly gracefully through the water. Tiny and peaceful, Satonda Island is anchored by a large saltwater lake of the same name believed to have formed in the crater of an ancient volcano. After swimming in Satonda Lake, stroll its forested banks to discover trees hung with stones, said to be a local tradition for making wishes. Or head to one of several long, white-sand beaches to spot coral and seagrass while snorkelling. Moyo Island, with its dramatic waterfalls and rainforest treks, is nearby.


Quiet and undeveloped, Slawi Bay’s main attraction is the opportunity to spot Komodo Island’s namesake carnivorous lizards in their natural habitat. Expert park rangers lead hikes into the craggy landscape and monsoon forest of Komodo National Park where Komodo dragons, the island’s apex predator, roam. You might also glimpse prey like wild boars and deer sheltering in the tangled undergrowth, while black-naped orioles, flowerpeckers and sunbirds flutter overhead. Named for its distinctive rosy hue, Pink Beach owes its unusual colour to red-shelled microscopic marine organisms that wash ashore and mix with the sand. Beneath the surface of the area’s crystalline blue waters, anemones, sea fans and staghorn coral pack marine gardens teeming with colourful tropical fish, popular for snorkelling and diving.


Traditional Sumbanese villages are the main attraction at this remote area on the western coast of Sumba Island. Discover towering uma kelada houses with distinctive straw roofs like mini obelisks punching the skyline, their height reflecting the owner’s standing within the community. Along the island’s windswept coastline are tranquil sandy beaches backed by jagged cliffs, and you can swim and snorkel in turquoise waters at ocean-fed Waikuri Lagoon, or spot colourful wooden fishing boats bobbing in the harbour.


On the island’s southern coast, Ende is a gateway to striking volcanic landscapes dotted with traditional villages. Head to Kelimutu National Park to see its famed trio of mineral-coloured crater lakes, passing rolling rice terraces and thatched-roofed huts along the way. Or discover vivid coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life on a diving or snorkelling trip. Former Indonesian president Sukarno was once exiled in Ende, and his old home is now a history museum.


Kalabahi is a vibrant harbour town in the remote Alor archipelago, offering an intoxicating mix of rugged volcanic landscapes, indigenous culture and rich marine ecosystems. Follow the coastline past sprawling rice fields to villages of thatched-roofed huts, where you might observe a tribal dance and glimpse traditional ways of life. Or dive the coral reefs and muck sites of the surrounding waters to glimpse massive pelagics like hammerheads, whales and sunfish gliding in the deep.


Sawu is the largest of a trio of far-flung islands dotting the Indian Ocean, known for its surfing beaches, natural landscapes and traditional Savunese villages. Explore Kampung Adat Namata village’s megalithic burial sites before browsing eye-catching handwoven ikat fabric at the local market, or hike inland to find limestone caves and freshwater springs hidden in the dense forest. If you fancy a more relaxed time, head to the eastern coastline for sandy beaches fringed by rustling palm trees.


You can spend your day at sea enjoying the many facilities available. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the jacuzzi whilst taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable on-board experts.


The coastal port and gateway to Australia's Northern Territory, Darwin is best known for its parks and gardens. Learn to identify regional flora, tropical plants and orchids at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Discover Aboriginal Art at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, or take a stroll through Old Darwin, past buildings that chart the city’s history from the days when Charles Darwin’s HMS Beagle first visited Darwin harbour in 1839.


Itineraries are subject to change.


Minerva

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 115 meters Passenger Capacity: 152 Built: 2020-2021 Arriving in November 2021, our 5 star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage. Introducing SH Minerva Our brand new ship has been designed to journey to off the beaten path destinations and remote polar regions in style and comfort. The ship incorporates a PC5 ice-strengthened hull combined with extra-large stabilisers to make your journey as smooth as possible. Sophisticated Elegance We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view. Your Wellbeing  The safety & happiness of our guests is paramount to our 120-strong crew on board as well as our passionate expedition team who'll be serving up thrilling shore excursions and lasting memories. Cabin Types Our 76 cabins including 6 suites have all the amenities you will need to feel comfortable including dressing gowns, hairdryers, personal safes and minibars. Our stylish cabins all have desks, a dressing area and comfy seating. En suite bathrooms all feature glass-enclosed rain showers.

Highlights

• Stroll the streets of Singaraja, once Bali’s bustling capital • Walk in the foothills of Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java • Encounter huge Komodo dragons, carnivorous lizards, in their natural habitat • Head to Kelimutu National Park to see its famed trio of mineral-coloured crater lakes • Visit the unusual uma kelada towering straw-roofed houses on Sumba Island

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