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Indonesia Cruises

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Luxury Cruises to Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands that cover nearly 750,000 square miles of land and sea, Indonesia is  one of the largest countries in the world. It’s also one of the most ancient and culturally rich places on earth, with a deep history of spice trading, European influence, and intertwining religious backgrounds.

On Indonesia cruises, you’ll uncover this country’s wild, elemental natural beauty, from volcanoes and jungles in Celukan Bawang to secluded surf spots in Lombok. Get your adrenaline going on a jet ski tour around the beaches of Benoa, or try fresh vegetable curries as you sip on cool coconut milk after a yoga class in Ubud. You’ll experience the best of Bali, Lombok, and their surrounding islands on a luxury cruise to Indonesia with Celebrity.

Indonesia Cruise Highlights

Blissful bali.

Cruises to Indonesia will bring you to the world-famous island of Bali, where a boho vibe, exciting cuisine, and unspoiled beaches await. Bask in the sun on the bright white sands of Gunung Payung Beach, or head to artsy Ubud for an afternoon of yoga or a traditional dance class to rejuvenate your spirits. Relax with a fresh acai bowl or tropical blended cocktail as you overlook the palm-fringed sands of Nusa Dua and soak in this magical island’s blissful energy before heading back to the ship.

Endless Natural Beauty

Indonesia is full of natural beauty, unique biospheres, and some of the most sought-after beaches on earth. On cruises to Indonesia you’ll have the opportunity to trek to volcanic crater lakes, ride scenic boats through mangroves, surf and snorkel at tucked away jungle beaches, and much more. From casual birdwatching to adrenaline-boosting ATV safari tours, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore the natural world on a cruise to Indonesia.

Cross-Cultural Experiences

Indonesia is a country of contrasts in every way, and one of the biggest highlights of visiting is experiencing an array of harmonious, intertwining local cultures. Each port has its own traditions when it comes to food, art, architecture, dialect, and religion. This diverse cultural blend allows you to immerse yourself in a world of temples, shrines, ancient healing practices, local art, and island cuisine. Discover new perspectives, make everlasting memories, and gain a fresh understanding of how harmonious and welcoming this diverse island culture can be.

Indonesia Cruise Ports

Celukan bawang.

Celukan Bawang lies on the northern coast of Bali, fringed by dense tropical jungles to the south and the beautiful Bali sea to the north. Here you’ll enjoy the quieter, less developed side of the island. Visit Segara Karang Rata, a coastal wildlife preserve that hugs the sea, or Lovina Beach, where you may spot dolphins. Journey out to a tropical plantation to try the famous Kopi Luwak, an unusual and prized coffee. Step into the Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Temple, Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery, and join a meditation class.

Lombok is the perfect compliment to Bali, just across a narrow strait but different in both culture and faith. While in Lombok, explore the village of Kuta, where you’ll find small restaurants with fantastic local seafood curries, an uncrowded beach, and nearby nature escapes that are easy to access by taxi or tuk-tuk. Thrill-seekers can trek on the slopes of the towering volcano, Mount Rinjani, or for a more relaxed experience, you could take a guided jeep tour around the blue-green caldera lake, Segara Anak.

The port of Benoa is the main southern gateway to Bali for cruise ships, and a short distance from the island’s principal city, Denpasar. Take a day trip to artsy Ubud for colorful café scenes, yoga, artisan gift shopping, and a deliciously healthy acai bowl to feed the soul. Enjoy thrilling water sports like kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing on Tanjung Benoa Beach. Visit the Pura Dalem Ning Lan Taman Beji temple site to reflect on the island’s intricate and harmonic blend of both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, where three majestic gates made of white-hued sandstone greet worshippers and visitors.

Indonesia Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to Indonesia cover a wide range of ports and countries in the region. They typically sail for about 11 to 15 nights, and include between three and eight days at sea, depending on your itinerary. Options include voyages between Bali and Singapore, or Sydney and Singapore, with some cruises overnighting in Benoa. Most set sail between October and March, at varying times throughout the week.

Itineraries

Why cruise to indonesia with celebrity cruises.

From idyllic tropical island retreats to palm-fringed white sand beaches, cruises to Indonesia offer a wonderful taste of some of the best that Asia has to offer. You’ll sail on the revolutionized Celebrity Millennium, the modern and stylish Celebrity Edge, or the elegant and exciting Celebrity Solstice.

Enjoy world-class dining with exclusive service offerings on each ship as you sail to Indonesia and throughout the region. Treat yourself to rejuvenating spa treatments, or spend sea days relaxing by the sparkling pool. Step out over the sea on the one-of-a-kind Magic Carpet, the world’s first cantilevered platform that floats over the ocean on Celebrity Edge. No matter which itinerary you choose, you’ll enjoy impeccable service, thrilling port destinations, and elegant accommodation with Celebrity.

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Indonesia Cruises

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Why Cruise Indonesia?

Regally draped across the Equator like an ermine mantle, Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, a majestic sprawl of some 17,500 paradisiacal islands home to all manner of endemic wildlife and natural wonders. Dramatic volcanic landscapes submerge into sapphire blue surf, crystalline seas home to graceful whale sharks and nomadic sea-gypsies, filled with vibrant coral reefs fostering marine habitats of untold biodiversity. This alluring archipelago, once the inspiration for Wallace’s theory of natural selection, is now a sublime playground for Indonesia cruise trips and increasingly popular private yacht charters .

Set sail on one of our luxury small ship cruises in Indonesia , from traditional Pinisi schooners to superior scuba diving liveaboards and even oceangoing super-yachts, and visit some of the planet’s most pristine, remote and beautiful areas. Visit breathtaking Bali and the pink sands of the Komodo National Park – the habitat of the legendary Komodo Dragon – or follow the historic trade winds en route to the famous Spice Islands . Discover the glittering jewels of the ‘ Coral Triangle ‘ – the islands of Wayag in Raja Ampat and resplendent birds-of-paradise of West Papua – or venture deep into the jungle-fringed rivers of Indonesian Borneo to glimpse orangutans in the wild aboard a traditional Kalimantan riverboat.

Our hand-picked portfolio of Indonesian boats has been carefully chosen to include remarkable expedition vessels operated by only the most trusted of partners, preeminent pioneers in the region who offer exceptional itineraries, unrivaled knowledge and utmost levels of service.

cruise indonesia islands

Oracle Yacht

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Alila Purnama

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Mutiara Laut

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Celestia Yacht

Aqua Blu at sunrise

Ombak Putih

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Ocean Pure 1

Aliikai with sails up at sunset

Indonesia Destinations

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Komodo National Park Cruises

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Raja Ampat & West Papua Cruises

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Spice Islands Cruises

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Bali Cruises

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Borneo Cruises

Indonesia experiences.

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Luxury Cruises

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Family Cruises

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Adventure Cruises

Private Yacht Charter Indonesia

Honeymoon Cruises

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Solo Cruises

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Diving Cruises

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Charter Cruises

Private charters.

For couples, families or groups seeking the ultimate exclusivity, an Indonesia yacht charter provides a private escape to explore paradise, with an entire crew to cater to your every need, and allows for activities to be more tailored to your desires.

Cruise Packages

Our custom Indonesia tours seamlessly combine expedition cruises with bespoke island tours featuring private expert-led excursions and curated accommodations. Browse our best-selling Indonesia vacations below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

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Indonesia Wildlife Holiday

21-day tour from $9,525 usd.

cruise indonesia islands

Bali & Komodo Island

14-day tour from $7,250 usd, travel guide.

Want to know more about small-ship cruising in Indonesia? Our destination specialists have compiled the definitive Indonesia travel guide to help you plan your cruise. Find out when and where to go, what to see and do, where to eat and sleep, and more below.

Aerial view of a deck over clear water

The 7 Best Things To Do In Indonesia

Rice terraces and a volcano in the background

Interesting Facts About Bali, Indonesia

Coral reef and islands shaping water into a heart

Coral Triangle

Total solar eclipse

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Man opening the nutmeg

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Komodo Dragon

Komodo Dragon Facts

Do i need a visa to travel to indonesia.

You do not need a visa to enter Indonesia if you plan to stay for less than 30 days. However, you do need a valid passport. You may also need to confirm ahead with your airline that you will be allowed to board without showing proof of a visa.

Do I Need To Get Any Vaccinations Or Malaria Tablets Ahead Of Travel?

Before traveling to Indonesia, you may wish to start taking malaria tablets. Depending on your plans and what part of the country you will be visiting, you may need to be vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, or yellow fever.

What Is One Thing I Shouldn’t Miss In Indonesia?

One of the most popular places in Indonesia is Bali. But there are dozens of other sites that you can’t miss! If you love animals, Komodo National Park is a must. Here, you can see the fascinating Komodo dragon in its natural habitat, found nowhere else in the world.

What Is The Local Cuisine Like?

Indonesia is a great place to try foods that you’re not likely to find in the West. Traditional Indonesian cuisine was heavily influenced by the ancient Spice Trade, a feature that has lasted to the modern day. Don’t miss trying tumpeng, the national dish featuring rice, vegetables, and meat.

Is Indonesia Safe?

Indonesia is one of the most popular tourism spots in Southeast Asia. The country is considered very safe. The exception are certain regions that have experienced recent civil unrest. However, most vacation spots are unlikely to be dangerous places to visit.

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Indonesia?

The best time of year to visit Indonesia is May, June, and September. These are the beginning and end of the dry season. You will experience beautiful, clear days while avoiding the crowds and high temperatures of the peak tourist season.

Is Indonesia A Good Family Destination?

Indonesia is a great destination for a family vacation. In addition to the many beaches, there are also countless historical and cultural sites worth visiting. Bali is a common tourist destination for families , but there are other suitable spots around the country, and many family-friendly cruises .

Is Indonesia A Good Honeymoon Destination?

Indonesia is a wonderful honeymoon destination for every kind of couple. Whether you prefer to relax on the beach, take a breathtaking cruise, or hit the trail and explore, there is something in Indonesia for everybody. One thing is certain: it will be an unforgettable trip.

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Indonesia Cruises & Tours

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  • Banda Neira – As part of the Banda Islands, this volcanic archipelago is teeming with wildlife just waiting to be explored.
  • Jayapura -  Take a step into simplicity in this largely isolated part of Indonesia, where many modern comforts are scarce, though the regional culture is rich.
  • Bali -  The departure point for several cruises, it is also home to the charming "Island of the Gods."
  • Bunaken Marine Park -  Snorkel & dive your way along these protected reefs that are home to hundreds of fish and beautiful soft corals.
  • Raja Ampat -  A veritable paradise for bird lovers and snorkelers, there are more than 1,200 species of fish, 75% of the known coral species in the world, and many endemic birds.
  • Asmat – See a native tribe & witness their way of life up close, as you hike and explore this tropical region by zodiac.

Highlights of Indonesia

Best time to visit indonesia, top things to do in bali, bali beaches, geography of indonesia, wildlife in indonesia, fun facts about indonesia.

  • Indonesia is an archipelago nation that claims over 17,500 islands.
  • A large part of the country is on the island of Borneo, which Indonesia shares with Brunei and Malaysia.
  • The world's most populous island is in Indonesia - Java has 130 million people, which is 60 percent of the country's population.
  • Indonesia uses the Rupiah currency.
  • The two main sports are soccer and, interestingly, badminton.
  • In the 19th century, it was also referred to as the Dutch East Indies, and the name Indonesia has both Latin and Greek roots.

Best Indonesia Small Ship Cruise Lines for 2024-2025

  • Ponant   promises you unforgettable moments aboard its sleek and intimately sized cruise yachts, all of which sail under the French flag. Discover the region's diverse scenery, ancient temples, cultural landmarks, lush plant life, idyllic beaches, and desert island on the  Paul Gauguin . 
  • Sea Trek Sailing Adventures   offers many of the creature comforts of the modern world, with its two wooden pinisi ships, Ombak Putih and Katharina , part of a beautiful, centuries-old maritime tradition of hand-crafted boat-building now classified as a UNESCO cultural heritage. Embark on a snorkeling   and sailing adventure in Indonesia .  See coral reefs, birdwatch, and search for rare birds and animals.
  • Aqua Expeditions   provide   specially-curated experiences and an engaging 1:1 guest to guide ratio. Its boutique expedition vessels offer personalized service, spacious private and entertaining spaces, and tailor-made excursions. Presenting a brand-new cruise experience in the pristine east Indonesian archipelago,  Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing the region’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands, and Raja Ampat.
  • Aurora Expeditions   is an Australian-based company   that   pioneered ship-based adventures 30 years ago with expedition cruises to Antarctica. On the 132-guest  Sylvia Earle  cruise Raja Ampat, the jewel of West Papua. This area of Indonesia is part of what is called The Coral Triangle. 
  • Coral Expeditions   has operated Australian flagged small-ship expedition cruises to remote locations in Australia and beyond for over 35 years. Voyage beyond the famous Komodo Dragons and volcanic Krakatoa and discover the Indonesian Island's remarkable cultural and natural heritage aboard the  Coral Adventurer .
  • Silversea Cruises   offers an all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruising across 900+ fascinating destinations. Silver Explorer takes you through the lesser-known parts of the southern hemisphere from Bali's shores  Silver Explorer  takes you through the lesser-known aspects of the southern hemisphere to exotically named places such as Komodo, Makassar, and Jayapura. 
  • Heritage Expeditions   have been   ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in expedition travel to the world's best-kept secrets. This expedition to Indonesia aboard Heritage Adventurer offers numerous opportunities to spot once-in-a-lifetime species and experience rare wildlife encounters on remote and unknown islands for botanists, birders, and nature lovers alike.  Heritage Adventurer  provides numerous opportunities to spot once-in-a-lifetime species and experience rare wildlife encounters on remote and unknown islands.

Indonesia Travel FAQs

Indonesia travel reviews & stories, traveling southeast asia, southeast asia is forever in my heart - bali - 2019/2020, top indonesia travel destinations.

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Indonesia offers something for every adventurer — and you’ll find countless ways to explore this exotic archipelago on an Asia cruise with Holland America Line. Get a glimpse of Komodo Island’s infamous dragons, then follow the scent of Surbaya’s flower market to Jayapura, capital of the Papua province. From Benoa, you can visit Bali’s ethereal Taman Ujung Water Palace, sacred temples such as the Pura Kehen complex and clifftop Uluwatu Temple, and famed monkey forest with its cheeky inhabitants.

A foggy morning in Denpasar, Bali.

Benoa (Denpasar), Bali, Indonesia

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Small Ship Cruises in Indonesia

Explore the Indonesian archipelago's tropical islands, with friendly locals and untouched by mass tourism.

Indonesian cruises will take visitors through one of the most beautiful yet comparatively unexplored countries in the world. Though Bali has a well-developed resort culture, the rest of the country is largely untouched by tourism and ripe for explorations and discovery. With over 13,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic country and best explored aboard a small boat cruise. A cruise of the Indonesian islands takes visitors from the beaches of Bali and Sasak villages of Lombok, to the dragons of Komodo and the stone spires of Raja Ampat, not to mention the volcano-studded Spice Islands and the remote isles of Southeast Sulawesi.

A luxury small ship cruise in Indonesia will take visitors to some of the archipelago’s best and most beautiful islands. Sailing through the Indonesian islands on a traditional Indonesian phinisi ship will give visitors the opportunity to indulge in some of the best snorkelling in the world, to explore remote islands and hike through jungles to spectacular waterfalls and a chance to interact with locals. Meanwhile, for the more adventurous traveller, thrill at the chance to explore sea-flooded caves and visit the islands Rinca, Komodo or Padar to encounter the famous Komodo dragons.

Bali is arguably Indonesia’s best known island and the starting point for many Indonesia cruises. Small boat cruises typically focus on the outlying, less-visited Nusa Penida islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida itself. Here, visitors find the Bali they dreamt of, studded with secluded beaches and karst caves. From the uninhabited island of Pulau Menjangan, visitors can snorkel with clownfish and angelfish.

Lombok is considered one of Indonesia’s best islands, given its gorgeous beaches, mighty waterfalls and the unique culture of the Sasak people. Visitors to Lombok will hike through the jungle to the spectacular Sindang Gila, a 40-foot tiered waterfall, before visiting the village of Senaru to delve into the Sasak people’s unique blend of ancient Animism and Islam. Much of Lombok’s beauty, however, is found off the main island and under the waters surrounding the nearby Gili Islands, including beautiful Gili Sulat, site of some of the best snorkelling in the region.

Komodo is famous for its Komodo dragons, but this driest of the Indonesian islands has so much more to offer than its monsters! Arid and hot, Komodo island and its sisters, Rinca and Padar, are rife with wildlife, from large mammals such as deer, buffalo and wild pigs, to sulfur-crested cockatoos, jungle chickens, and the white-breasted sea eagle, while sharks and sea turtles cruise undersea. But, let’s be honest, most visitors come for the Komodo dragons , the largest lizards in the world. Komodo National Park, which encompasses all three main islands, is home to over 3000 dragons, giving travellers plenty of opportunities to spot one of these near-mythical beasts—from a distance, of course . . .

Raja Ampat is a series of hundreds of islands, with most Indonesian sailing cruises visiting the islands of Misool, Batanata and Waigeo. Visitors will drift through the mushroom-shaped karst spires of Misool in search for cave paintings and undersea graveyards, hike through the mangrove forests of Batanata to splendid waterfalls, and visit traditional fishing villages on Waigeo. Meanwhile, animal lovers can scan the canopy for birds of paradise and snorkel the crystal waters in search of sharks, manta rays and seahorses.

The Spice Islands , also known as the Moluccas or Maluku Islands, played an important role in the spice trade. For over a thousand years, the islands have been the source of spices such as cloves and nutmeg, which were then valued nearly as highly as gold. Indonesian cruises to the islands include a deep dive into the history of the islands, the spice trade and the opportunity to visit the nutmeg plantations still in use today. In addition, the Moluccas feature spectacular palm-lined beaches and towering volcanoes, including the still active Gunung Api.

Southeast Sulawesi is especially untrammelled by tourists and Indonesian cruise itineraries including this region are often new, giving travellers an opportunity to feel like real explorers and pioneers. Sulawesi cruises travel across the Flores Sea, stopping along the way to explore the area’s many islands and atolls while watching for manta rays and whale sharks. In the area of Botubarani, visitors may get the chance to swim with these gentle giants. Village visits will allow visitors to engage with the locals and experience the unique cultures of this remote land.

Kalimantan , also known as Central Borneo, has been called Southeast Asia’s Amazon, due to its thick jungle, meandering rivers and varied wildlife. Among its many animal species, though, Kalimantan’s most famous resident is without question the orangutan. Certain Indonesia cruises will include an initial stop and river cruise through parts of Kalimantan, allowing visitors the opportunity to experience a true jungle adventure, complete with face-to-face encounters with the red-pelted orangutans.

Best time to cruise Indonesia

Indonesia is a large country, stretching across the equator from Southeast Asia into Oceania. Given this, it experiences a varied climate which will differ from region to region and even island to island. It is essential to plan ahead as the best time to visit Indonesia will depend on your chosen small boat cruise itinerary and the islands included.

October to April in Indonesia is the wet season in Bali and Lombok, with higher humidity and more frequent rains. This period, however, is the dry season in the Spice Islands and Papua.

May to September in Indonesia are the dry season throughout the islands, except in the Spice Islands and Papua, where it will be rainier and more humid.

Note that July and August are the peak season in Indonesia, with far more tourists and higher prices.

It should also be noted that June and July in the Indonesian region of Raja Ampat is unofficially considered windy season, when the waters may be choppier and small boat cruises slightly less comfortable.

How to get to Indonesia?

Flights to Indonesia will typically be to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, in Jakarta, on the island of Java, or to Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport. From either international airport, visitors can fly to their Indonesian cruise departure point. Note that direct flights to Indonesia are rare from Europe or North America. Many cruise departure points will require a connecting flight within Indonesia.

Where do Indonesia cruises depart from?

Indonesia luxury cruises typically depart from Sorong, on West Papua, from Ternate, in the Spice Islands, from Labuan Bajo, on Flores, from the island of Bali, or from Gorantolo, on North Sulawesi.

If your cruise departs from Bali , you will fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, and make your way to Sanur, a popular meeting point for Indonesia cruise operators on Bali. From Sanur, a shuttle will take you to Padang Bai (also called Padangbai and Padang Bay) or Amed, approximately two hours from Sanur. This is a common departure point for cruises that include the Lesser Sunda Islands, such as Bali and Lombok.

If your chosen cruise leaves from Labuan Bajo , on Flores, you will fly into Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, and fly to Flores, with a possible connecting flight in Makassar, on South Sulawesi. This is a common departure point for cruises of Komodo and the islands of Nusa Tenggara

If your cruise leaves from Sorong , on West Papua, you will fly to Jakarta or Bali and, from there, fly to Sorong, with a possible connecting flight in Makassar.

If your cruise leaves from Ternate , you will fly into Jakarta or Bali and, from there, fly to Ternate, with a possible connecting flight in Makassar. This is a common departure point for cruises of the Spice Islands.

If your cruise departs from Gorantolo , you will fly into Bali and, from there, fly to Gorantolo, with a connecting flight in Makassar. This departure point is for Sulawesi cruises only.

If your cruise includes Kalimantan , you will fly into Jakarta or Bali and, from there, fly to the town of Palangkaraya, on Kalimantan. After the Central Borneo portion of your trip, you will return to Jakarta or Bali to continue your small boat cruise.

Indonesia Cruise Tips

  • Indonesia cruises offer a variety of experiences and activities so plan ahead when deciding on an itinerary.
  • If your arrival includes a connecting flight within Indonesia (in Makassar, for example), it is recommended to arrive at least a day before your Indonesian cruise departure date.
  • Indonesia luxury cruises offer ample opportunities for snorkelling so you may wish to bring your own gear.
  • Much of Indonesia’s beauty is found underwater, so a waterproof camera is recommended.
  • Though each island and region has a dry and wet season, note that a tropical climate means it could rain at any time, so pack accordingly.
  • Sunscreen and plenty of water are a must when visiting Komodo’s arid interior.
  • Note that passports must be valid for six months to be allowed into the country.
  • If you are asked to fill out a disembarkation card, you will need to keep your half so as to hand it back upon leaving the country.
  • The 30-day visa is the most common and will likely accommodate any Indonesian cruise itinerary. Visas can be applied for in advance, which is recommended, or upon arrival. Visas on arrival cost $35 US dollars and the exact amount, in US currency, is required.

Please contact our reservations team to book your next small ship cruise to Indonesia.

Indonesia Reviews

  • 12 Verified Reviews
  • 9.6 Exceptional

A definite experience to be repeated and we would love to do the Raja Ampat and Papua cruise next

Cruising Indonesia in September on the Ombak Putih

  • 10.0 Exceptional

fabulous Island cruise

Cruising Indonesia in May on the Ombak Putih

The best trip I’ve ever booked!

Cruising Indonesia in March on the Bulan Purnama

  • 8.4 Very good
  • Alexander S

Will sign again and I’m hungry for more!

Cruising Indonesia in July on the Bulan Purnama

So far so good - but no diving on Katharina.

Cruising Indonesia in December on the Katharina

Just Snorkelling but excellent

Cruising Indonesia in December on the Bulan Purnama

Wonderful the area is beautiful and fulfils the dreams of sailing through the most picturesque tropical islands

Cruising Indonesia in December on the Ombak Putih

We only did snorkeling and not diving, but all the reefs worked well for us and had much to offer.

  • 8.0 Very good

We had a great time. The crew were fabulous and Liveaboard and the operator were both very responsive to our enquiries. On board alcoholic drinks were reasonably priced.

Cruising Indonesia in February on the Katharina

Only snorkeling. Love the warm waters and nice reefs

Cruising Indonesia in March on the Navila

  • 8.8 Fabulous

Snorkeling was the best I've experienced - saw turtles, manta ray, shark, so many fish, colorful coral.

Cruising Indonesia in June on the Navila

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Majik conducts elegant and convivial cruises around the Indonesian archipelago.

Majik is a 42m-long luxury yacht, handcrafted using age-old Phinisi boat-building techniques. This floating boutique hotel can welcome up to 8 adults and 2 children in 4 spacious and comfortable en suite cabins with excellent amenities, making her the perfect yacht for a group of friends or families who wish to sail in a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere.

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Our Bespoke Cruises

Explore some of the most enchanting destinations Indonesia has to offer. With cruises in Komodo, Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, the Forgotten Islands and the Ring of Fire, you’re spoiled for choice. Check out some of our carefully-crafted itineraries or reach out to our talented team so that we can design a bespoke cruise just for you.

  • Komodo National Park

Indonesia archipelago offers more than 17,000 islands to enjoy, each private cruises destination having its own specificities and seasonal patterns. Join our expert private cruises team, discover Indonesian culture and learn more about exotic fauna and flora.

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Activities onboard Majik

Majik is fully equipped for scuba diving so you can discover the rich biodiversity Indonesia has to offer. Whether you’re crazy for coral, mad for macro or simply after the big stuff – diving in this pristine part of the world is sure to leave a smile on your face.

Majik-Cruise-Activities-1_2

MORE ABOUT OUR ACTIVITIES

Elena and Marc have long been intrepid travellers who love nothing more than to hop in the water any chance they get. For this Italian and French couple, building and running a luxury diving liveaboard started off as a dream. In 2021, they left their life in a French ski resort behind to build a traditional Phinisi boat in Indonesia. Their dream – Majik – was brought to life and now they look forward to welcoming you aboard for exceptional and personalised cruises, during which you will discover the beauty of the Indonesian archipelago.

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Majik… Succumb to her spell​

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  • The Forgotten Islands
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Clear Waters in Bintan Island Indonesia

Cruise to Bintan Island, Indonesia

Bintan island shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in bintan island.

Bintan Island Indonesia Dock of Penyengat Island at Daytime

ROYAL ISLAND

Bintan Island Indonesia Dock of Penyengat Island at Daytime

Penyengat island was once the capital of the Riau rajahs. Visit the ruins of the sultan's palace, an interesting blend of Javanese and Dutch architecture with tombs, crypts and a restored fort. Don't miss the stunning yellow and green Masjid Raya Sultan Riau mosque with its many domes and minarets during your Indonesia cruise.

Bintan Island Indonesia Sun Ten Kong Temple Golden Statue

EXTRAORDINARY TREE TEMPLE

Bintan Island Indonesia Sun Ten Kong Temple Golden Statue

In Senggarang, you'll find the Buddhist Sun Te Kong Temple and the Banyan Tree Temple. Sun Te Kong is the oldest temple in Senggarang at around 300 years old. The Banyan Tree Temple dates back to the early 19th century. Today, it is covered in the roots of a giant banyan tree. The wealthy Chinese man who once lived here is said to be buried in the temple. In recent decades, devotees have started visiting to make offerings.

Bintan Island Indonesia Fishing Village at Sunset

A FISHING VILLAGE ON STILTS

Wander around the streets of Berakit, a village where the Orang Laut ("people of the sea") reside in stilt houses built over the water. Thirty kilometers south, in the Museum Bahari Bintan, you can learn more about the background and lifestyle of this nomadic ethnic group.

Bintan Island Indonesia Nasi Padang Kapau Local Cuisine

LOCAL CUISINE

Bintan offers plenty of fresh and affordable seafood dishes. The resorts mainly offer fine dining and buffet options. Try some of the excellent local food, such as nasi padang or sate ayam, from the restaurants or roadside food stalls. Wash down the delicious local cuisine with some fresh coconut water.

Bintan Island Indonesia Coconut Shell Vases Local Shopping

Look out for the local wooden handicrafts from the small shops in the towns. Cruise to Bintan Island and head to Pujasera Township for traditional Bintan souvenirs like coconut head cups, as well as popular local snacks like keropok (prawn crackers). There are also a few other large shopping centers in the southern part of the island.

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Indonesian Summer Special

Cruises to Bali and the Komodo Islands

Departing from bali and flores, our sensational 7-night komodo cruises offer in-depth exploration of the legendary komodo national park and moyo island of east indonesia..

cruise indonesia islands

With over 17,500 islands in the Indonesian archipelago, the country has no shortage of beaches . From the picture-perfect savannahs of Komodo to the breathtaking rice fields of Bali, there’s something new to discover on every shore aboard Aqua Blu’s cruises to Bali and the Komodo Islands.

Good things come in small packages and the little island of Bali is no different. The westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali is less than half the size of Hawaii but has won countless awards as a top-notch destination. With its pristine white beaches, technicolor sunsets, and numerous adventure activities, there is something for every kind of traveler. This region is best explored aboard the Aqua Blu, one of the best cruises Bali has seen.

On this itinerary, Aqua Blu sets off for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Komodo National Park, an incredible natural wonder spanning 669 square miles. It comprises three main islands — Komodo, Padar and Rinca — and 26 smaller islets best relished aboard. Several of these are inhabited by prehistoric creatures such as the native Komodo Dragon – the largest lizard species walking the Earth.

cruise indonesia islands

Its picturesque coastline and green-capped hills are so iconic, they’re even featured on Indonesia’s 50,000 Rupiah note. The island brings together a unique landscape of three crescent-shaped beaches with pink, black, and white sands. It’s a rare sight you can look forward to on our cruises to Bali and the Komodo Islands.

cruise indonesia islands

Rinca Island is home to the largest population of the famous Komodo dragons which are indigenous to this Indonesia archipelago. Rinca is also a wonderful spot to snorkel alongside tropical fish and rays. Discover Rinca Island on Aqua Blu, the most luxurious cruise ship Bali has to offer.

cruise indonesia islands

A quintessential part of Komodo cruises is to explore the volcanic hills and savannah of the region, surrounded by clear turquoise waters. Thousands of species of fish call Komodo’s bays home, and visitors can spend hours swimming with them while sailing with us.

cruise indonesia islands

Situated between Bali and Komodo National Park, Moyo Island is a Nature Reserve generally unknown to most tourists and is best explored aboard our cruises from Bali. Featuring nature and marine habitats virtually untouched by outside influences, explorers are presented with a large variety of flora and fauna including Mata Jitu, a magical, cascading waterfall.

Komodo Cruises: A Diver’s Paradise

Komodo National Park is located in the Coral Triangle between the major landmasses of Sumbawa to the west and Flores to the east. The flowing currents from the Indian Ocean and the Indonesia seas enriched with volcanic nutrients have created a super vibrant marine environment home to more than 1,000 species of marine life.

The sheer biodiversity of sea life and underwater environments make this region some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world. Divers and non-divers alike will be spoilt for choice with so many sensational reefs around.

It’s an unreal experience being up close and personal with incredible marine life such as manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks , as well as over 260 beautiful species of corals. Guests aboard Aqua Blu’s cruises to Bali and the Komodo Islands can look forward to this in their preferred method; whether it be instructor-led diving, snorkeling, or even on a kayak.

Sail off on our dream cruises to Bali on the exceptional Aqua Blu and enjoy the stunning scenery of the untouched Indonesian seas.

The voyage of a lifetime in East Indonesia

cruise indonesia islands

Bali Cruises: Soak in the Colorful Cultures of Indonesia

Home to 300 ethnic groups who speak over 700 languages among them, Indonesia is a melting pot of culture and tradition. Traveling across its islands is sure to be an eye-opening experience as visitors observe the different ways of life that have become common over time.

cruise indonesia islands

Those visiting the islands on cruises from Bali may be able to experience various Indonesian festivals depending on the time of year and islands visited. A notable one is the Nyepi Festival, or Day of Silence, celebrated in Bali.

The most important Hindu holiday in Bali, this festival marks the Balinese New Year. In essence, it’s a day of low activity and quiet for introspection, a stark contrast to the boisterous New Years celebrated by other cultures. The day of the festival itself may be quieter but on the days before and after, those visiting may have a chance to witness loud parades and other rituals that do not mandate silence.

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Discover Indonesia on Aqua Blu, the Most Luxurious Cruise Ship Bali has to Offer

cruise indonesia islands

The whale shark is the largest fish in the world, growing to the size of a city bus. Despite their intimidating size, whale sharks are actually non-predatory and rather gentle. Less than 10% of whale sharks born survive to adulthood, but those that do may live to 150 years old. Don’t miss the chance to swim with these sweet-natured giants on Aqua Blu’s cruises from Bali.

cruise indonesia islands

A mix of three vibrant colors, the early British visitors of Papua literally could not believe a bird so beautiful could exist. The aptly named bird, also called Cendrawasih, is a triple threat – on top of beauty, this species can also sing and dance. Unfortunately, a combination of poaching and deforestation has led to the species being endangered. Seize the opportunity to possibly spot them on Aqua Blu, the best cruise ship Bali has seen.

cruise indonesia islands

Indulge your inner child’s mythical fantasies by going out in search of the ancient Komodo Dragons. Native to the Komodo Islands, they are the world’s largest reptiles and will eat almost any prey unlucky enough to walk by. Witness these majestic creatures in their home territory as we take you on one of the most epic cruises Bali has ever seen.

Sail on a Thrilling Adventure with Us

As far as Bali cruises go, our superb Aqua Blu expeditions are unlike any other. Everyday is a new adventure, led by our team of expert naturalist guides, committed to showing you the region’s most incredible sights.   Seize the day and explore the sparkling waters of the Komodo Islands aboard our Bali cruises where every shore has something different for you to experience. One day you could be visiting fishing villages en route to a magnificent waterfall and the next, swimming with a gentle whale shark, and even kayaking in the middle of an extinct volcano!   With a maximum of 30 guests and an exclusive 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, you’ll be able to sit back and relish a highly personalized experience, curated to your desires.   You can have the adventure of a lifetime on Aqua Blu’s cruises from Bali while surrounded by luxury. The interiors of Aqua Blu’s cabins have been meticulously designed to exude elegance and class with the finest amenities, including a jacuzzi, a spa, and an entertainment room. To top it off, our world-renowned chef, Benjamin Cross, has curated the best of Indonesian cuisine for your dining pleasure.   Embark on a life-changing sail on our Bali cruises to explore the best of Indonesia on both land and sea.

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With more than 17,000 islands to explore, laying bare the longest stretch of coastline in the world, Indonesia is a world-class luxury-cruise paradise. Once a prominent spice trade hub, this island nation features boatloads of history to delve into through its various fishing towns and seaports, whether you are going the small-ship route, setting sail with one of the larger cruise lines or island-hopping around Indonesia itself on small tours within the region. Set sail for expeditions that involve whale sharks

and dazzling coral reefs, jungle serenity, hidden temples, scenic beaches and exotic animals, including Komodo Island’s famous monitor lizards, which can weigh up to 150 pounds. Indonesia luxury cruises dock in Belawan in Medan, North Sumatra; Tanjung Priok in Jakarta; Tanjung Perak in Surabaya, East Java; Makassar in South Sulawesi;

and Benoa in Bali. From Benoa, visitors can visit the art-filled, 13th-century Pura Kehen temple complex and the hilltop Uluwatu Temple to witness traditional dancing. Other top stops include the gardens and museum at Taman Ujung palace, and Nusa Dua Beach with its swath of five-star resorts at Bali’s southern tip. Over in the province of West Papua in the far east, on the island of New Guinea, ships dock at the city of Sorong, known as the gateway to the Raja Ampat Islands, a cluster of beautiful islands with amazing dive sites.

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If you’re considering bespoke private travel to Indonesia, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades travelling and experiencing the best luxury offerings first-hand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of Indonesia. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In Indonesia, our Private Travel Designers have the insider information that will elevate your luxury experience that much more. Resorts in Indonesia range from the rustic-chic retreats in far off islands with glorious views of the beach to luxurious villas right in the heart of the action. Our travel designers will map out an adventure that is bound to leave you wanting more. The time to start planning your next vacation is now. Our Private Travel Designers secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a luxury Private Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke luxury Indonesia vacation today.

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Indonesia’s Banda Islands Are Remote, Stunning, and Full of History

Formerly known as the Spice Islands, the Banda Islands in eastern Indonesia were once the center of the global spice trade.

Editor's Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

You probably haven't heard of them. You almost certainly wouldn't be able to find them on a map. But there's a case to be made that eastern Indonesia 's tiny Banda Islands—or the Spice Islands, as they were once known in the West—have done more to shape the last 500 years of human history than any other place on earth. I'll come right out and say it: the Banda Islands are the birthplace of modern capitalism. Whatever you think of the economic system that rules the world and likely your life, you may find it intriguing to learn that it could have originated about 600 miles north of Australia, on a cluster of palm-fringed volcanic formations smack in the middle of an azure sea—a place that could hardly feel more distant from our overcrowded, hyperconnected centers of commerce.

My trip to see them began, as all my trips do, in the throbbing heart of capitalism itself. In late 2019—mere months before the pandemic stopped the world—I flew from New York to Hong Kong , and from Hong Kong to Bali , and then from Bali to a town called Maumere, on the eastern Indonesian island of Flores. There I availed myself of one of the world's extravagant pleasures—a luxury cruise .

As I stepped onto the long-range explorer yacht with the other passengers, a handsome man in sunglasses, his silvery hair swept back, politely invited us to join him in taking off our shoes. From his faint accent it sounded like he might be from Italy. I later found out he had lived not only in Rome but also in Zurich, Bonn, Cyprus, Boston, London, Ecuador, Peru, Singapore, and possibly a few other places that I'm forgetting.

He introduced himself as Francesco Galli Zugaro, the adventurer-entrepreneur behind Aqua Expeditions , the cruise line that owns and operates the vessel. His company has been a leader when it comes to small-scale river cruises , with itineraries along the Mekong in Southeast Asia. His Aqua Nera was launched last year and sails the Peruvian Amazon . He said he would be accompanying us on the voyage with his wife, Birgit, the company's guest experiences director.

The debut of the boat, Aqua Blu, is Galli Zugaro's first foray into ocean cruising. It has made visiting this remote part of Asia possible without the challenges of organizing a private charter (though you can do that, too—the Aqua Blu can accommodate parties of up to 30 people, perfect for those who want privacy). Built as a survey vessel for the British Royal Navy, it has since been appointed with four teak decks, 15 plush carpeted suites, and a bar with an Italian parquet floor.

The adventure would span a 600-mile stretch of a nation composed of 17,508 islands—an itinerary possible only by cruise.

On the first evening of the voyage, in a salon decorated with mementos from the Galli Zugaros' travels in Southeast Asia and Oceania—a golden seated Buddha from Thailand, a feathered headdress from New Guinea—Galli Zugaro reminded us that this was the Aqua Blu 's inaugural cruise, as well as the first time any vessel of its kind would test its strength against the notoriously powerful currents of eastern Indonesia's wide-open waters. Most tourists who had previously sailed these seas had either chartered their own yachts or secured berths in a palari, the traditional wooden schooner . "You've obviously chosen this departure," Galli Zugaro said, "because the spirit of adventure lives within you."

The adventure would span a 600-mile stretch of a nation composed of 17,508 islands—an itinerary possible only by cruise. We'd begin by heading east along the remote Southeast Moluccas, sometimes called the Forgotten Islands. We would then cut across one of the world's deepest seas before turning north toward Raja Ampat, the heart of the Coral Triangle, where there are more marine species than anywhere else on earth.

Along the way, we would stop in the Banda Islands. From the 15th to mid-17th centuries, in the Age of Exploration, they were renowned among Europe's mariners as the source of nutmeg and mace, spices that commanded obscenely high prices, in part because they grew only here.

We would have it a little easier than the men who risked dysentery and starvation to load their ships with those delectable treasures centuries ago. In our bathrooms, the towels were anointed with a sweet and woody fragrance that Birgit and the ship's exacting decorator had spent a day concocting with a perfumer in Bali.

There would be no hardships in the dining room, either. The meals were served on custom-made plates adorned with paintings of Wallace's flying frogs, a creature named for Alfred Russel Wallace, the British naturalist who, independently of Darwin, conceived of the theory of evolution in eastern Indonesia's species-rich forests. The menu evoked the wide-ranging cuisines of the old spice route, which once stretched from the port cities of the Mediterranean to the rural islands we'd soon be exploring: Balinese-style suckling pig with a minty salad of sweet corn and palm hearts, succulent lamb shoulder with a vibrant tabbouleh, and translucent sashimi—an improvised addition, which appeared on our plates a few hours after fishermen pulled up alongside the yacht to offer their catch of tuna.

Most days, we would board the tenders in the morning and again in the afternoon to snorkel or dive around the nearby reefs. Floating face-down in the shallows, I could watch butterfly fish and parrotfish, fish named for angels and trumpets and clowns, flickering through the coppery cities of coral beneath my nose. Kicking out beyond the reef's sheer edge, I'd feel the churning of my thoughts subside as I gazed down into the vortex of blue, waiting for a big turtle or a school of barracuda to come gliding up from the depths.

Every two or three days, we'd deviate from this hypnotic routine to visit one of the villages along the route. One morning, we awoke to find ourselves anchored about a hundred yards off the shore of an island consisting of a pair of lush green peaks. From the taller peak rose a ribbon of smoke. We were looking at Mount Serua, one of the most active volcanoes in the region, on perhaps the most isolated of all the Forgotten Islands. According to Galli Zugaro, few if any other cruise vessels in eastern Indonesia would have spared the time to stop alongside it.

For the most part, the trip had been so smooth that I almost forgot I was on a boat, but I'd felt the rise and fall of the swells the night before. We'd been crossing the abyss of the Banda Sea—four miles at its deepest point. The 12-hour voyage was the longest crossing of the trip. Now the water was calm again, and a small skiff was puttering across the span of indigo between the island and our vessel. Two men and a boy pulled up to the stern, and some of the Indonesian crew members went down to ask if they would let us take a look at their village. After a brief exchange, a box was filled with goods from the Aqua Blu kitchen: instant ramen, several bags of sugar and coffee and rice, a loaf of bread, and a jar of jam.

Climbing out of the tenders onto the rocky beach, we were greeted by a lanky man in a Nike cap. "This is the chief of the village," said one of our scuba guides, Kaz Kazzuaeni, doing double duty as an interpreter. "He said it must be that God has guided us to come here." The man turned to face the slope of the volcano and moved his lips in silence for a minute or two—"a prayer to ancestors to get permission for visitors." Then he led us up a path through the vine-wrapped trees toward the village. According to Kazzuaeni, the man said we were the first passersby ever to come ashore.

The village of Waru is perched about 1,300 feet above the sea. Our host said the 60 families who live there grow nutmeg and cloves much as their grandparents did before them. Their ancestors had established the village more than two centuries ago. Before that, he said, they lived in caves. The houses are small, with rusty tin roofs, but the Christian church is an airy building of bone-white stucco with turquoise trim and a pale blue steeple. Inside, a white tin rooster sat atop the feathery branches of a Christmas tree. I wandered back outside into the glare of the sun and stood at the edge of a soaring overlook. The sparkling sea stretched to the horizon. Swifts turned and swooped in the air, and unseen birds filled the jungle behind me with their calls.

We sailed through the sun-dazzled channels of Raja Ampat, a jumble of jungle-clad limestone islands that had been sculpted into fantastical shapes by the tides.

This was one of a number of moments when Galli Zugaro delivered what he called "the wow factor." Another came a couple of days later, when we spotted a dolphin as we were taking the tenders out to a reef for a dive. Slowly we realized we were approaching not one or a few but hundreds of them, their shiny dark bodies cresting and dipping in perfectly synchronized rows of three and four. Soon they were flinging themselves into the air all around the boat, and then they were racing beneath us, shooting from the port side to the starboard just beneath the bow. Our driver cut the engine, and we slipped over the gunwales and into the water, but the dolphins weren't interested in sticking around to find out what we would do next. Listening under the surface of the water, I could hear them chattering and clicking as they sped out of sight.

In the days to come, we'd sail through the sun-dazzled channels of Raja Ampat, a jumble of jungle-clad limestone islands that had been sculpted into fantastical shapes by the tides. We'd see a sperm whale breaching just off the boat, and we'd swim in a salt lake teeming with a rare kind of jellyfish, their stingless bodies bouncing off our skin. But the climax of the journey came on the day we first caught sight of the Banda Islands, once among the most sought-after on the planet.

When Columbus set out from Spain in 1492, he was hoping to find not just the East Indies generally, but those nine specific specks of land. And Ferdinand Magellan reportedly had the same goal in mind in 1519, when he launched his ill-fated expedition to circumnavigate the globe (one out of the five ships made it, but not before Magellan was killed in the Philippines by warriors who refused to convert to Christianity).

For two centuries, the Netherlands, Portugal, and England fought over the islands, with the Dutch acquiring one of them from the English in exchange for a small backwater by the name of Manhattan. Now, as the yacht slipped into the harbor, I could make out the archways and terra-cotta roofs of Banda Neira, formerly the hub of the global trade in nutmeg.

Following a guide through the old colonial town, we passed a grand hotel that had fallen into disrepair, its custard-yellow paint cracking and peeling. Farther down the road, spiders the size of mice crouched on strands of cobweb suspended from the balconies, and a pair of 17th-century cannons lay neglected on the side of the street. It is the sort of town that visitors might idealize as "faded," though I doubt most people who live there think of it that way. The market was busy, with rows of gleaming skipjack and grouper and bins filled with pandan leaves and chiles. The homes had been painted in arresting shades of lime and lemon, indigo and salmon.

In the museum, while my fellow passengers were examining the coins and weaponry of the archipelago's colonizers, I noticed one of the cruise's snorkeling guides, an Indonesian from Sulawesi named Refli, studying a gruesome painting. It showed a band of Japanese mercenaries butchering dozens of native people while a Dutch commander looked on approvingly. "It's very sad," Refli said, "but good to know the history."

The story of the Banda Islands' colonization is about as dark as histories get. In 1621, a fleet of ships belonging to the Dutch East India Company arrived. Within two months, the islands were under Dutch control and as many as 14,000 of the 15,000 original inhabitants had been deported, enslaved, or killed. A statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen, the officer of the Dutch East India Company who presided over the slaughter, still stands in his birthplace of Hoorn in the Netherlands. But in the abandoned mansion he built in Banda Neira, the only remnant of his tenure is a suicide note scratched into a windowpane by the homesick Frenchman who cooked his meals. No other evidence of habitation remains. After the Indonesians won independence from the Dutch, in 1949, they threw every last stick of furniture away.

In an orchard on the outskirts of town, we finally laid our eyes on the literal seed of all the greed and terror of that era. At one of the islands' few surviving nutmeg plantations, we watched a guide use a special basket at the end of a long handle to pick a golden fruit. He sliced the flesh with the tip of his machete to reveal a shriveled brown nut wrapped in crimson threads of mace. Because of its ability to keep meat from going bad and its purported power to ward off the plague, the spice derived from that nut once fetched higher prices in Europe than gold.

The sparkling sea stretched to the horizon, and unseen birds filled the jungle behind me with their calls.

Once the Dutch East India Company took control of the Banda Islands and started importing nutmeg, the sudden infusion of all that profit into the cities of the West would change the course of history. As Charles Corn wrote in Scents of Eden: A Narrative of the Spice Trade, it "spawned a new age of revolutionary economics based on credit, the rise of a rudimentary banking system, and ultimately free enterprise." In other words, the blood-soaked soil of the Banda Islands, a place so little-known in the West today that some cartographers don't even bother to include it in their atlases, was where modern capitalism took root.

Around five o'clock that evening, as the heat began to loosen its grip, we climbed a candlelit staircase to the top of a massive pentagonal fortress built by the Dutch. The young Balinese men who had been serving our drinks on the cruise had set up a bar on the ramparts just for us. I ordered a gin and tonic, walked over to the crenellated parapet, and watched the gold-fringed clouds floating over the harbor.

About four hundred years ago, a succession of Dutchmen had presumably stood where I was standing, aiming their muskets through the notch where I was resting my cocktail. I had to figure I was there at least in part because of them. If they hadn't seized this land and shipped its bounty overseas, giving rise to a whole new economic system that would enrich the nations of the West, the currents of history might have never aligned to allow a lucky bunch of Europeans and Americans to tour this beautiful part of the world on a yacht. I finished my drink, had another, and then we all went back to the Aqua Blu to watch the sunset. The roof of clouds was stained purple and so was the sea, and far away, on the wide horizon, the sun glowed like the golden fruit that changed the world.

Sailing the Spice Islands

Aqua Expeditions offers 12-day sailings on the Aqua Blu between the Banda (Spice) Islands in March, October, and November. Exact routes vary, but the closest itinerary to the one taken by the author leaves in March, both this year and in 2022. For a totally personalized experience and itinerary, the Aqua Blu can be chartered independently to sail around the region. Itineraries from $12,800 per person, all-inclusive. Yacht charter from $290,000 for seven days, all-inclusive.

In Indonesia, Aqua Expeditions can arrange regional flights that will take you from Bali or Jakarta to Flores or Ambon, where you'll board the yacht. The company recently launched a partnership with Nihi Sumba , a resort known for its private-island vibe and world-class surfing. Included is a four-night charter (for up to 30 people) on the Aqua Blu, with stops for hiking, mountain biking, and diving, followed by three nights at Nihi Sumba. From $281,000, all-inclusive.

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2021 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline A Drop in the Ocean.

Small white expedition ship with teak decks & white tender vessel behind sits in calm blue sea by tiny white-sand island.

Raja Ampat & Spice Islands

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On this Indonesian trip to the center of the Coral Triangle experience a world seen by very few. This 19-day voyage aboard 120-guest Coral Geographer begins in Darwin, Australia, and spends time in the nature lover’s paradise of Raja Ampat, with additional time exploring the historic Spice Islands and culturally-rich West Papua; the itinerary also operates in reverse.

Raja Ampat harbors more than 75% of the world’s coral and fish species, offering a dynamically bright reef system for quite possibly the best snorkeling in the world, making it mandatory to get in the water or aboard the glass-bottom boat as many days as possible on this itinerary, to witness the natural wonders of the area. This itinerary includes snorkeling in turquoise water, hiking up to see breathtaking views of karst islands and searching for unique birds. SCUBA dive (additional cost) with highly qualified, experienced and popular dive instructors who provide an outstanding service to all guests. Dive instructors patiently guide those who have never dived before through a resort dive program and expertly guide certified open-water divers to quality dive sites. A comprehensive range of dive equipment, including wetsuits, is provided.

The Spice Islands also offer incredible snorkeling, but the highlight is certainly the islands’ unique history. With the entire world’s supply of nutmeg and mace between the 12th and 15th centuries, the Spice Islands have drawn explorers from all corners of the world, infusing this area with colonial sights and artifacts traded from faraway cultures. This itinerary offers a tour through a nutmeg plantation, a village tour highlighting remnants of Dutch colonization and experiences of local flair through traditional dances.

The last few days of this Coral Triangle cruise is spent searching for whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua, and exploring traditional villages to learn about the unique way of life and interesting customs of the local people.

This Indonesia cruise departs from Darwin, Australia, and finishes with an optional charter flight back to Darwin from Sorong, West Papua. This itinerary also operates in reverse, embarking in Sorong following an optional charter flight from Darwin. An alternative 17-day West Papua, Raja Ampat & Micronesia itinerary travels farther north to explore Micronesia, including Palau and Yap, before disembarking in Yap.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips .

Raja Ampat & Spice Islands Itinerary

The main 19-day Raja Ampat & Spice Islands cruise begins in Darwin, Australia, and sails northbound to end in Sorong, West Papua, Indonesia.

Route map of Spice Islands & Raja Ampat small ship cruise, operating between Darwin, Australia and Sorong, West Papua, Indonesia, with visits to Banda Neira, Spice Islands, Molana & Saparua Islands,Sawai Island, Misool, Kofiau Island, Wayag Island, Amsterdam Island, Num Island, Manokwari, Cenderawasih Bay & Kwatisore Village.

This morning at 6:30am board the ship at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf, where there is time to settle in before your 8:00am departure. Spend the afternoon becoming acquainted with all the facilities onboard while cruising northwards towards the Spice Islands.

As dusk falls, join your fellow travelers at the captain’s welcome this afternoon, while your expedition team shares the extraordinary things you will encounter on your voyage.

Coral Geographer

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Spend a relaxing day at sea as the ship crosses the Timor Sea towards Saumlaki. Join the expedition team in the Lounge for an insightful information session on Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands as well as safety procedures and protocols while visiting Indonesia. After dinner, a movie or documentary will be featured.

Throughout this expedition, the expedition team may make changes to the itinerary in order to maximize the experience. Visiting these remote communities is subject to approval of the local landowners. Below are the key destinations the ship aims to visit.

Yamdena Island

Sangliat Dol is a peaceful traditional village in the Tanimbar Islands of Maluku, the center of the ancient boat culture of Maluku. Here boats were built to symbolize the arrival from sea of the original inhabitants of Maluku. Sangliat Dol village is one of few villages where the giant stone boat, and the culture associated with it, remains intact today.

This afternoon after lunch on board, take a coach ride from the port of Saumlaki towards Sangliat Dol, passing verdant fields and plantations. Be greeted by village elders and taken into the heart of the village where the megalithic structure is located. Here the village structure still follows the organization of the original inhabitants. The village head is seen as the Captain or Master “steering” the direction of the village. Many other positions of the village basically translate as “helmsman,” “harpooner,” “bailer boy” and other boat-related titles.

Banda Neira, Spice Islands

The Banda archipelago was once the world’s only source of nutmeg and has attracted merchants for at least 2,000 years as highly sought-after goods such as cloves, textiles, batik and rice were moved through Banda. On the approach to Banda Neira, admire the photo-worthy spectacle of Moluccan paddlers propelling kora kora canoes. Snorkel and dive over the nearby lava flow reef system or explore ashore and enjoy local tea and snacks on the waterfront. Later, explore Fort Belgica, built in 1611. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of bubbles as the sun sets over the fort.

Hatta Island, Spice Islands

This morning, continue to explore Banda Neira on a guided tour, before visiting a local nutmeg plantation to gain a fascinating insight into the spice that started it all. Alternatively, snorkeling over the nearby lava flow system will reward with spectacular colorful coral and fish species. After lunch, cruise to nearby Hatta Island within the Banda Archipelago to enjoy exceptional snorkeling and diving just 16 feet from shore with turtles, dolphins and plenty of fish. Stroll through the village, and visit a pepper and nutmeg plantation.

Molana Island & Saparua Island, Spice Islands

Start today at uninhabited Molana Island. This historic island is home to unique vegetation and wildlife, including Pacific monitor lizards, Moluccan scrubfowl and coconut crabs. Here, possibly snorkel and dive over the beautiful corals surrounding the island. After a refreshing morning, be welcomed at nearby Saparua by singing school children. Experience a day of rewarding cultural connection meeting the local people and visiting the 17th century Fort Duurstede to witness a thrilling war dance.

Sawai Village, Seram Island, Spice Islands

Sawai Village on Seram Island is one of the oldest villages in the Maluku Islands. Simple homes built on stilts line the shore. Spend the day swimming in the crystal-clear waters. This is the final stop before journeying to Raja Ampat.

Misool Island, Raja Ampat

The first stop in Raja Ampat is at Misool. Raja Ampat’s name means Four Kings for the four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati and Misool, in an archipelago of over 1,500 islands known for spectacular turquoise lagoons and magnificent rock formations. Today, explore Balbulol Lagoon, peppered with conical-shaped islets that rise from the peaceful waters. Swim and kayak amongst the islands in this beautiful lagoon, before spending time at Yapap, considered one of the best natural pools in the world. At Yapap, the sea has such clarity that grains of sand and coral reefs on the seabed are visible from the surface. Later, visit heart-shaped Dafalen Love Lake; climb to the summit to view the lake from above, or enjoy swimming and diving in the lake’s pristine waters.

Kofiau Island, Raja Ampat

At Kofiau Island be welcomed by dancers on traditional boats who lead all ashore to Deer village to board longboats to Awat village and attend the traditional Sasi Opening Ceremony. Sasi is a traditional ceremony to preserve the ecosystem and is a very important way the local people protect their environment. After lunch, snorkel and swim, with the potential to go ashore to visit other villages.

Wayag Island, Raja Ampat

More Raja Ampat treasures await today while exploring the magnificent waterways and lagoons of Wayag Island by Xplorer tender vessel and Zodiac. Take in the otherworldly natural beauty of many karst islands topped with emerald foliage surrounded by sparkling blue sea and white-sand beaches. Enjoy time to swim in the clear water, kayak around the gumdrop islands and stroll the white-sand beaches. After lunch, an energetic hike up to famed Pindito Peak rewards with panoramic views over the island. Alternatively, continue swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or enjoying a glass-bottom boat tour.

Amsterdam Island

Today visit the little-known Amsterdam Island, part of the Su Islands (Mios Su) group, a cluster of small islands off the northern coast of Western New Guinea. Enjoy the opportunity to explore your very first West Papuan Village with local guides and a cultural welcome performance. There is also an opportunity to enjoy beachcombing and a swim.

Roon or Auri Island

Depending on the weather and conditions, today enjoy either Roon Island or Auri Island. Located in the Teluk Cenderawasih National Park, these islands are picturesque and remote. At Roon Island, have the chance to snorkel or dive on the wreck of a Japanese Zero fighter plane. The wreck has become a marine habitat for corals and many species of fish. At Auri Island, enjoy beach activities.

Cenderawasih Bay & Kwatisore

The biodiversity hotpot of Cenderawasih Marine Park attracts a significant population of whale sharks, the biggest fish in the sea. This is one of the few places where it’s possible to swim with this endangered species, as they are drawn to the fisherman’s bagans. If nature allows, snorkel beside the whale sharks. This is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Later, visit Kwatisore village to meet the local people and learn about West Papuan culture, music and lifestyle.

An expeditionary stop for your ship, Palau Num is an island of the Yapen Islands group, in northeastern Indonesia. Here, have more time to visit traditional fishing villages on stilts and explore the waterways and lagoons, with time to swim, snorkel and a dive.

Manokwari, the capital of West Papua, is located right on the bird’s head on the island of Papua, surrounded by lush rolling hills and nearby to the Arfak Mountains. There are over24 different tribal groups here, each with its own unique language and culture. Choose from three expeditions:

Those interested in birding and wildlife may choose to travel into the Arfak Mountains to the Pegunungan Arfak Nature Reserve, to explore misty tropical rainforests. Hope to see many endemic plants, animals and birds including cuscus possum, lesser birds of paradise, common paradise kingfisher, magnificent riflebird as well as king bird of paradise among the region’s 320 bird species.

Alternatively, choose to join a guided city tour of Manokwari and free time to explore this coastal town, the capital of the Indonesian provide of West Papua. Or visit Mansinam island–a religious island where guests can learn of the history and significance of the island and participate in snorkeling and diving WWII wrecks.

After an early morning arrival into Sorong at 6:00am, disembark around 7:30am. For those booked on the 12:00pm noon charter flight from Sorong to Darwin (additional cost), visit the township of Sorong before boarding your flight.

Accommodations as booked; all meals; house beer and wine during lunch and dinner service; 24-hour tea and coffee; captain’s welcome and farewell drinks; access to islands, marine and national parks; guided tours in tender vessels; services of expedition staff and lecturers including briefings and knowledge-sharing sessions; standard WiFi on board; port taxes and government charges imposed by government authorities; tips and gratuities; snorkeling and SCUBA equipment (diving at added cost).

Airfare; charter flights; transfers; hotels; entry visas or travel permits; optional scuba diving costs (contact AdventureSmith for pricing); insurance of any kind; items of a personal nature including but not limited to phone communications, WiFi upgrades and bar charges (outside of the included drinks package as highlighted), laundry charges and souvenir purchases.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. A date change may be made more than 90 days before departure, at an AUD500.00 per person fee. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure: Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit 89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost 59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions . Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main Raja Ampat & Spice Islands cruise begins in Darwin, Australia (DRW), and ends in Sorong, West Papua, Indonesia (SOQ), with an optional charter flight from Sorong to Darwin on the final day of the itinerary. Plan flights to arrive to Darwin before the 6:30am embarkation on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Sorong after a 7:30am disembarkation on the final day of the itinerary (charter flight available). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

Internal Flights

An optional, added-cost, post-cruise charter flight from Sorong to Darwin ($1,200 per person in 2025, subject to change) is available and must be pre-booked through your Adventure Specialist, who can provide additional details such as luggage weight limits.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, diving (added cost), snorkeling, village tours and visits to historical sights.

Room Configuration

Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Coral, Promenade and Explorer Deck categories. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Kids 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 11 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details.  Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote .

As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse Raja Ampat & Spice Islands Itinerary

The reverse 19-day Raja Ampat & Spice Islands cruise begins with an optional charter flight from Darwin, Australia, to Sorong, Indonesia, then sails southbound back to Darwin.

Take an optional charter flight from Darwin, Australia, to Sorong, Indonesia (additional cost), with check in at 6:00am for an 8:00am departure accompanied by the expedition team. On arrival in Sorong, have lunch at a local hotel before enjoying a local tour of Sorong prior to embarking the ship at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure.

As dusk falls, join your fellow travelers at the captain’s welcome, while your expedition team shares the extraordinary things you will encounter on your voyage.

A day on board to relax and enjoy reminiscing over the highlights of West Papua, Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands, as the ship sets sail for the return journey to Australia.

Today arrive into Darwin at Fort Hill Wharf at 7:00am, and upon clearing customs and immigration, disembark at 10:00am to begin travel home or onward to other adventures.

The reverse Raja Ampat & Spice Islands cruise begins in Sorong, West Papua, and ends in Darwin, Australia. For the optional charter flight from Darwin to Sorong on Day 1, plan flights to arrive to Darwin anytime prior to Day 1. Otherwise, plan flights to arrive to Sorong ahead of a 4:00pm embarkation on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Darwin anytime after 10:00am on the final day of the itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

An optional, added-cost, pre-cruise charter flight from Darwin to Sorong ($1,200 per person in 2025, subject to change) is available and must be pre-booked through your Adventure Specialist, who can provide additional details such as luggage weight limits.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, diving (added cost), snorkeling, village tours and visits to historical sights.

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

West Papua, Raja Ampat & Micronesia Itinerary

The alternative 17-day West Papua, Raja Ampat & Micronesia cruise operates northbound from Darwin to Yap, adding time to explore farther north, in Micronesia.

Route map of West Papua, Raja Ampat & Micronesia small ship expedition cruise from Darwin to Yap.

Board the ship at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 7:00am for a 9:00am departure. Settle into your cabin and relax as the ship sets sail across the Arafura Sea. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities on board and join your expedition team in the Bridge Deck lounge for an insightful introduction to your expedition voyage. This evening, join the captain’s welcome drinks and meet the crew and fellow guests as the sun sets.

lunch, dinner

This is an expedition itinerary covering remote regions. The captain and expedition team may make changes to the daily schedule when necessary to maximize guest experience. Below are the highlight destinations of the voyage. Below are the key destinations the ship aims to visit.

This voyage includes 3 full sea days and 5 half sea days. During this time, relax on deck and enjoy onboard presentations from guest lecturers, plus workshops and demonstrations.

Banda Neira

The Banda archipelago is the historic heart of the spice trade and was once the world’s only source of nutmeg until the mid-19th century as Portuguese, Dutch and English fought for control over the spice trade. While approaching and entering the Zonnegat channel, witness a thrilling spectacle as Moluccan rowers in traditional kora kora canoes greet the ship and escort her into the harbor. Go ashore to be welcomed by the nutmeg dance of the local school students, before touring the historic township. Spend time snorkeling and diving over the nearby lava flow reef system and trying local foods along on the waterfront. Explore Fort Belgica, built by the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1611. Join the locals for a traditional dance and music performance before enjoying a glass of champagne as the sun sets over the fort.

Kitikiti Waterfalls, Mommon Peninsula

Visit the mesmerizing Kitikiti Waterfall, which flows out of the lush jungle and falls directly into the ocean. Enjoy the chance to swim under this truly memorable waterfall, feeling the chilled fresh water meeting the warm ocean water and explore the surrounding crystal clear lagoons by snorkeling or kayaking. Delve deeper into this pristine landscape by Xplorer cruise in search of hidden lagoons or on a rainforest walk and spot exotic birds such as hornbills and birds of paradise along the way.

Misool, Raja Ampat

Arrive at Misool, one of the four largest islands of Raja Ampat. Visit Balbulol Lagoon, an almost landlocked inlet populated with conical-shaped islets undercut at sea level that rise from turquoise waters like Christmas Trees. There is time to swim and kayak amongst the islands in this beautiful lagoon, as well as to explore the island by Xplorer tender vessel and beachcombing. Embarking on a hike here will lead to a higher viewpoint to experience the amazing rock island formations. Also enjoy a Sasi Laut ceremony, a traditional custom of Raja Ampat communities to preserve the ecosystem and effectively protect marine species by limiting fishing during a designated period.

Wayag, Raja Ampat

More Raja Ampat treasures await today. Explore the scattered karst beehives of the Wayag Islands. This natural treasure is nature at its most vibrant both above and below the water, with emerald karst islands rising from the brilliant turquoise water. Explore the magnificent waterways and lagoons by Xplorer and Zodiac with time to swim in crystal clear waters and walk on white-sand beaches amongst the many islands. The coral reefs here provide exceptional diving and snorkeling, with many vibrant corals and tropical fish species to discover. After lunch, there is an opportunity for an energetic hike up to famed Pindito Peak, which rewards with panoramic views over the island and its spectacular lagoon.

Sorong, Raja Ampat

Sorong is the ship’s departure point from the Indonesia region. Lush mountains covered with forest surround the town and fishing a is major part of the local economy. Here, go ashore to visit the Sorong Nature Conservation Park to see the big old trees planted by the Dutch many years ago. Also be welcomed by the Moi Tribe, the owners of the land, who are culturally unique from other peoples in the surrounding regions. Enjoy demonstrations such as the making of the traditional Papuan handwork bag and a tour of a dragonfruit plantation. Later, enjoy a relaxing guided walk through the forest to look for birds.

Tobi (Helen Reef), Palau

Enjoy a true expedition stop at the small island of Tobi, home to around 30 people who live a traditional lifestyle. Meet the local people, who speak their own language of Tobian as well as some English; and enjoy snorkeling, swimming and beachcombing from the beach at Helen Reef. The island is known as a nesting site for lesser-crested terns and green sea turtles.

Sonsorol, Palau

Isolated Sonsorol Island is one of the 16 States of Palau and is home to a population of between 25 and 65 people who are culturally and linguistically related to the Yap and Caroline Islands. Learn about their subsistence lifestyle disconnected from the modern world while visiting the village, and dive and snorkel the fringing reef and coral gardens.

Koror, Palau

Koror is the main state of the Republic of Palau, as well as the main island. Koror City is home to about half of the country’s population. The land mass of Koror is not large, with hundreds of islands and islets of volcanic and limestone reef construction that present a stunning vista of craggy forested islands surrounded by emerald seas. Snorkeling and diving at Neco or Carp Island will reveal the underwater wonders to be discovered here. Later, go ashore in Koror, where there may be options to visit the Belau National Museum or Etpison Museum, which celebrates and educates about Palauan culture.

Koror is the main state of the Republic of Palau, as well as the main island. Koror City is home to about half of the country’s population. The land mass of Koror is not large, with hundreds of islands and islets of volcanic and limestone reef construction that present a stunning vista of craggy forested islands surrounded by emerald seas. Snorkelling and diving at Neco or Carp Island will reveal the underwater wonders to be discovered here. Later, go ashore in Koror, where there may be options to visit the Belau National Museum or Etpison Museum, which celebrates and educates about Palauan culture.

Yap, Micronesia

Learn about Micronesian Yap Island’s ancient monetary system of stone money, where limestone discs were quarried and carved into coins known as Rai, which can be as large as 13 feet or as small as 4 centimeters in diameter. There is an opportunity to visit the Yap Living History Museum to learn about Micronesian people and their time-honored customs and culture, as well as snorkel and dive the lagoon with its coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Ulithi, Micronesia

Snorkel and dive from some of Koror’s palm-fringed beaches on a truly deserted islet in a remote part of the world. Enjoy the tropical vista of white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs home to sea turtles, coconut crabs and sea birds. There is also an opportunity to visit the Ulithi Turtle Project and the vibrant community village.

Sorol Atoll, Micronesia

Sorol is a remote and rarely visited coral atoll, located 122 nautical miles south of Ulithi. Land on the largest of the three islands accompanied by a local ranger. Here, enjoy water activities and relaxing on an uninhabited atoll.

Disembark the ship at Tomil Harbor, Yap this morning at 8:00am. Bid farewell to new-found friends, the Master and crew. A charter flight from Yap to Cairns will be available (added cost).

All excursions and sightseeing with the expedition team; use of Xplorer tender vessel, Zodiacs and kayaks; use of snorkeling & Scuba equipment; daily lectures and briefings; all meals, chef-prepared on board; selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner; captain’s welcome and farewell events; 24-hour coffee and selection of teas; all entrance fees to national parks and ports; standard WiFi on board; tips and gratuities; snorkeling and SCUBA equipment (diving at added cost).

Airfare; transfers; hotels; entry visas or travel permits; insurance of any kind; items of a personal nature including but not limited to phone communications, WiFi upgrades and bar charges (outside of the included drinks package as highlighted), laundry charges and souvenir purchases; scuba diving (AUD80-110 per person, per dive in 2023, contact your Adventure Specialist for details).

The alternative West Papua, Raja Ampat & Micronesia cruise begins in Darwin, Australia (DRW), and ends in Yap, Micronesia (YAP). The cruise operator recommends arriving before embarkation day and planning flights to depart a day or more after disembarkation, in case of unplanned schedule changes. In general, plan flights to arrive to Darwin before the 7:00am embarkation on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Yap after disembarkation at 8:00am on the final day of the itinerary. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, snorkeling, cultural tours and visits to historical sights. Scuba diving is offered at an additional cost (see Exclusions).

Cruise Rates & Dates

Listed prices for this trip are based on foreign currency exchange rates and may vary. USD pricing will be calculated at the time of final payment based on the market conversion rate plus a 1% banking conversion fee of total invoiced amount. Please contact AdventureSmith for current pricing.

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

The 120-guest Coral Geographer Australian expedition ship offers six balcony suites, a showcase galley, a passenger elevator and advanced navigation and propulsion systems.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Cruising Indonesia: Top Islands To Add To Your Itinerary

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Indonesia is the perfect place for embarking on your next adventure. With more than 18,000 islands, it’s one of the largest archipelagos in the world; Java, Bali, Sumatra, and Lombok are among the most popular ones, to name a few.

A trip to Indonesia will take you on a journey through the Indian and Pacific Oceans, floating over the Equator and exploring remote locations.

While not all of the islands are inhabited, the majority of them are; around 6,000 islands have residents and indigenous people who still live the simple lifestyle.

If you’re cruising Indonesia and want to experience a portion of the “Eat, Pray, Love” novel, then these islands are a must-visit and should be added to your itinerary.

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8 Places In Indonesia To Add To Your Itinerary

An Indonesia cruise will take you to the island of Lombok, a thriving beach destination and the home to Kuta.

Surfers and adventure seekers opt for this destination due to the high number of surfing, snorkeling, and diving spots and the incredible 18th-century temples.

You will see the Taman Narmada, a Hindu temple that embodies the core of Hinduism, where travelers, residents, and even kings come to relax.

So, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of royalties and indigenous tribes while exploring the area.

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The island of Sumatra is near Malaysia, and it hosts Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, located on the base of a magma chamber that once was the source of a volcanic eruption.

It’s perfect for spending the weekend since you’ll be surrounded by lovely gardens and nice, cozy hotels, which create a relaxing atmosphere.

And, in case the calm life bores you, you can visit the vibrant city of Medan, one of the largest in Indonesia and the embodiment of culinary paradise.

Try out specialties like Rendang – spicy beef, Soto Medan – a sort of chicken soup, and Nasi Padang – steamed rice topped with veggies.

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The name of Flores island translates to “flowers” in Spanish and Portuguese, and it’s undeniably one of the most beautiful Indonesian islands with its scenic landscapes, stunning panoramic vistas, and pristine beaches.

The island is a common pick-up spot for tourists who want to visit the Komodo National Park and see the “hideous-looking creatures,” as Charles Darwin referred to them.

The Wakatobi islands, located in the Sulawesi Tenggara Province, are known for their diving activities.

As a matter of fact, these islands are non-official top locations for diving, where divers can combine diving trips along Palau Tomia and Palau Hoga and enjoy the coral reefs and sea life.

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Padar Island is one of the smallest in Indonesia, however, became famous due to its natural landmarks and breathtaking views. As a fun fact you can have in mind – the island is featured on the Rupiah cash note of 50,000.

The magnificent landscapes that give off the “Jurassic Park” vibe will get you speechless. Plus, the area is surrounded by 3 giant bays that host pink, white, and a black beach.

Each of the beaches is unique and special in itself, but you must visit all to witness that beauty.

The island Padar is located 30km from a small fishing town called Labuan Bajo, and it’s west of Flores Island.

You can also see the Komodo dragon on this island and explore the red, volcanic hills, stunning savannahs, and mesmerizing coral reefs.

It’s a pretty secluded island that challenges tourists to visit it. You can take a flight from Labuan Rojo from all of the bigger airports like Jakarta, Bali, or Lombok.

Then, booking a boat tour is the right choice since the trip from Labuan Harbor to the island is around 3 hours.

Whenever you visit Padar, make sure to hike to the famous viewpoint and enjoy the sunrise view!

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A stay in Bali will change your perspective of culture, history, adventure, and religion. It’s the perfect honeymoon destination, with dazzling beaches and tranquil crystal clear waters.

If you want to take a bath in the lagoon-like waters, prepare your swimsuit and take a big dive!

Each beach has its charm and characteristics in Bali, from the limestone cliffs to the white sands along the coastline. But Bali’s beauty goes deeper than its beautiful beaches and landscapes.

The island is the home of traditional customs that people still practice nowadays. For example, they participate in the kissing festival known as Omed-omedan.

Ubud, the capital of Bali, is home to many temples, shops for handicrafts, the Ubud Monkey Forest, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, etc.

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Java is one of the islands that got pretty popular in the last couple of years due to the lush jungles, metropolitan cities, tea plantations, ancient temples, hiking trails, and breathtaking volcanoes.

Simply said, Java is the economic and cultural heart of Indonesia.

The first thing most tourists notice about Java is the beautiful scenery. Mount Penanjakan and Mount Bromo are popular sunrise sites.

And if you climb the mountains, you can take a 2-hour hike through the turquoise-colored crater lake and see the blue-flamed phenomenon.

On top of that, Java is also known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among these sites, one of the must-see attractions is the Prambanan Temple, the most significant Hindu compound.

Many such one-of-a-kind temples in Java attract hordes of tourists due to the intricacy of their architectural solutions. So it can get quite crowded during the peak seasons.

To avoid these crowds, you should visit the temples in the early morning.

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Komodo Island

With its rugged volcanic landscapes, crystal clear waters, and ideal spots for diving, hiking, and snorkeling, Komodo Island ranks high on the bucket list of many tourists and visitors.

It’s the ultimate getaway to the unknown where you’ll be offered a set of activities and sightseeing opportunities to discover this beautiful island.

Komodo island is more than the Komodo dragon that lives on these lands. It’s an island that has been listed as one of the New Seven Wonders in Nature.

These creatures weigh 70 kilos and can grow up to 3 meters in length. They are menacing predators who want to rule their lands and wander freely on the islands of Flores, Rinca, and Gili Montag besides Komodo Island.

The island displays a wide range of rugged volcanic landscapes, raw nature, turquoise waters, and underwater activities.

One of those activities is diving with the rich marine life and enjoying the views of fascinating creatures underwater.

Komodo Island is part of the Coral Triangle, a biodiverse area between the Indian and Pacific Oceans which consists of 37% of reef fish and 76% of coral species.

Underwater enthusiasts can explore these areas and dive with turtles, reef sharks, and manatees.

And if you ever wanted to see a Komodo dragon live, this is your chance to book a cruise to Indonesia and explore this piece of wanderlust.

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Get Ready to Cruise Indonesia!

As we’ve learned so far, Indonesia is a fascinating country with millions of tourists each year.

So if you want to dive into the Indonesian culture, cuisine, and overall experience, it’s time to book your trip and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!

Satyne Julianna Doner is currently a sophomore studying business management in sunny Tampa, Florida. A born bibliophile, she spends most of her free time curled up in a fantasy book or writing her own. When she isn't studying, reading, or writing, she is an avid equestrian and staunch supporter of rehabilitating retired racehorses. She owns one horse, named Hurricane, who keeps her grounded in all her endeavors.

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Where To Cruise In Indonesia: Top 5 Islands To Visit In 2023

Indonesia is a pure paradise that has been drawing in tourists with its beaches, turquoise waters, and 17,000 islands for decades. This is a nation that stole my heart years ago, and one I’m constantly returning to. And one of the best ways to explore Indonesia is on a cruise!

Islands like Java , Bali , and Lombok are must-visit destinations, portraying the traditional Indonesian culture juxtaposed by trendy cafes and paradise island vibes.

But all travelers are looking for different things, and fortunately, Indonesia offers a variety of diverse experiences, including destinations like Sumatra and Raja Ampat that are much further off the beaten track.

In this short guide, we look at the best places in Indonesia to visit on a cruise.

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There’s plenty to see and visit in Indonesia, and if you plan to cruise here then it helps to know a little bit about the islands you might visit on your trip.

In this short guide, we’ll take you on an informative island-exploration journey where you can learn more about Indonesia and its islands and check our recommendations on which islands to visit.

Whether you’re looking to join a coastal cruise from Java to Lombok, or perhaps a more intimate liveaboard in the Raja Ampat archipelago – we have you covered.

cruise in indonesia lombok

Table of Contents

Where To Go On a Cruise in Indonesia

Here are our top recommendations for cruising in Indonesia:

How to Choose the Right Indonesian Island

There’s no wrong or right answer when choosing the right Indonesian island to visit; at the end of the day, it all boils down to your personal preferences.

Before going any further with the article, make sure to check the latest Indonesia cruises and book yours well in advance.

cruise in indonesia java

Java is the home island of more than 140 million people. Pretty impressive, huh?

It’s the most populated island in Indonesia and the 5th largest island in Southeast Asia. Java is a popular tourist destination due to its ancient tradition, culture, and history.

What’s a better place to experience Indonesian culture firsthand than on this marvelous, breathtaking island?

You will also find plenty of luxury resorts along the coastline, so if you’re up to a more luxurious type of vacation, make sure to book your stay in advance.

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Bali is on many travelers’ lists, and for a reason. You’ve probably seen thousands of pictures of Bali on Google, social media, travel magazines, etc.

This paradise-like island will be one of your favorite travel experiences if you visit it and learn more about Indonesian culture.

It’s the perfect island to explore the culture and learn more about the local community , customs, traditions, and lifestyle.

Make sure to spend a couple of days there and visit places like Canggu , Ubud , and Uluwatu .

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You could also take a trip to East Bali and visit the famous Pura Lempuyang Temple . Then, you can climb Mount Batur and enjoy the panoramic view from the top.

There will be plenty of shore excursions available for your trip to Bali, with the island offering a huge variety of tourism activities.

You could also extend your trip here and spend some time exploring the island yourself!

Where to Stay in Bali?

cruise in indonesia sumatra

Sumatra is next on the list because it fosters incredible natural beauty and a vast range of wildlife species.

If you want to reconnect with nature despite experiencing the cultural side of Indonesia, then Sumatra is the right choice .

The reserves and national parks will make you fall in love with sites like the Gunung Leuser National Park and Bukit Lawang ; a rare chance to meet plenty of Indonesian wild animals, including orangutans, rhinos, tigers, and Sumatran elephants.

cruise in indonesia sumatra

You should also take this chance to visit the gigantic crater of Lake Toba , an ancient volcanic lake in the heart of Sumatra.

Walking the jungle trekking footsteps will take you on an unforgettable journey of seeing the hugely impressive Lake Toba, hiking the steep slopes, and exploring the rainforest.

How To Visit Lake Toba

4. Raja Ampat

cruise in indonesia raja ampat

Raja Ampat is considered part of the Papua region of Indonesia and consists of four major and 600 minor islands. The major islands are Misoo, Waigeo, Salawati, and Bantana.

The main reason many tourists visit Raja Ampat is the local community, where they can learn more about the culture, customs, and traditions, and let’s not forget – the incredibly beautiful snorkeling and scuba diving spots.

If you want to experience the cultural part of Indonesia at its finest, you must try its cuisine. The cuisine is the best representation of a nation’s history and culture.

Raja Ampat is also one of the most popular areas for Indonesian cruises and scuba liveaboards.

Lombok is somewhat similar to Bali in terms of population and size. You can participate in many activities, like cooking, yoga classes, snorkeling, trekking, climbing, waterfall hiking and more.

With its crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and stunning views, Lombok is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. It is also home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful islands, such as Gili Trawangan , Gili Meno and Gili Air .

If you get the chance, make sure to visit Mount Rinjani’s volcano and at least one visit to a local village for the ultimate cultural experience.

An added bonus is that the locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, so you’re sure to get a warm welcome wherever you go!

cruise in indonesia

Why Cruise in Indonesia?

Indonesia is full of surprises and remote, little corners waiting for you to discover them.

But no matter how hard you try, you will never visit all 17,000 of Indonesia’s islands.

The good news though is that with a cruise in Indonesia, you can at least visit a few of them!

Even if you visit just two of the islands mentioned above, it’ll be more than enough to have an incredible time in Indonesia.

How Many Islands in Indonesia?

Yes, you can go on a cruise in Indonesia. There are a variety of cruise companies offering trips around the country that vary in length and destination. Popular destinations include Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.

The best liveaboards in Indonesia can be found in Raja Ampat, Komodo Islands, and Cenderawasih Bay in Sulawesi. Each destination offers its own unique experience, with a variety of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.

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Indonesia Phinisi Cruise Liveaboard Charter

Sail into serenity: indonesia phinisi cruises, where tradition meets tranquility.

Liveaboard on an extraordinary maritime journey with Indonesia Phinisi Cruises as we set sail to the awe-inspiring Komodo Islands, Raja Ampat Island, and Banda Island. Step aboard our authentic Indonesian Phinisi Liveaboard vessels, where the echoes of tradition harmonize with the tranquillity of these breath-taking destinations. Cruise through the Komodo Islands, where the legendary Komodo dragons roam freely, and the pristine waters reveal a kaleidoscope of marine life. Our cruises offer a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern comfort, ensuring your voyage is not only enriching but also serene.

Raja Ampat Island beckons with its untouched coral reefs and lush landscapes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world and explore the rich biodiversity that makes this region a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Our authentic Indonesian Phinisi Liveaboard vessels cruises provide a gateway to these natural wonders, where tradition unfolds against the backdrop of unrivalled tranquillity. Journey to Banda Island, a historical gem known for its spice trade legacy. Sail into the heart of history while surrounded by the serene beauty of this tropical haven. Our Phinisi Cruises promise an experience where tradition meets tranquility, creating memories as timeless as the islands themselves.

Indonesia Phinisi Cruises beckon you to a maritime expedition where every moment is a harmonious blend of tradition and tranquility. Whether marveling at the Komodo dragons, diving into the underwater wonders of Raja Ampat, or immersing yourself in the historical legacy of Banda Island, our authentic Indonesian Phinisi Liveaboard vessels cruises promise an unforgettable voyage that encapsulates the essence of Indonesia’s diverse and captivating islands.

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