Life's Different After Fire & Dragons


Where fire meets water, adventure becomes transformation. This voyage through Indonesia’s ancient archipelagos invites you to witness raw, elemental beauty — from Komodo’s prehistoric giants to the restless volcanoes of the Banda Sea. It’s a journey through time and nature, where every sunrise reveals a new horizon, every island tells an untold story, and every day reminds you that life is different after True North.


Highlights


• Sequence builds from apex-predator encounters to high-intensity volcanic geology, giving the itinerary an uncommon dual focus: megafauna and active earth systems.

• Underwater density peaks across Komodo, Alor, and Wakatobi, delivering three distinct marine environments in one voyage — manta sites, critter-rich slopes, and world-class wall systems.

• Cultural depth is strongest in Flores and Alor, where weaving traditions and sea-based livelihoods anchor the human dimension of an otherwise elemental route.

Your adventure begins with a private charter flight from Darwin, the frontier capital of Australia’s north. After a short journey, you’ll arrive in Kupang — a former Portuguese and Dutch trading port on the island of Timor. The True North crew will guide you through customs and welcome you aboard. As we set sail for Komodo, enjoy sunset cocktails on deck and your first taste of what life is like when routine fades and the unknown takes hold.

Few experiences compare to standing face to face with the world’s largest lizard. On Komodo Island, walk alongside these ancient predators — a living reminder of Earth’s untamed beginnings.

Beyond the dragons lies another world entirely. Dive and snorkel the technicolour reefs of Komodo National Park, home to swarming fish, graceful mantas, and some of the richest marine life on the planet. Later, sip sunset drinks on a pink beach or explore “Torpedo Alley” after dark — a night dive alive with mystery and movement.

At Horseshoe Bay, photograph Komodo dragons against volcanic backdrops before diving Cannibal Rock — one of the region’s most spectacular underwater sites. Then journey to Rinca Island for another encounter with these extraordinary creatures. In the afternoon, tour a local pearl farm and witness the delicate craft of cultivating treasures from the sea. Return to True North for dinner beneath a sky full of stars as we cruise overnight toward Flores Island.

The island of Flores is as rich in culture as it is in beauty. Visit the town of Ende, where generations of artisans have perfected the art of weaving vivid, hand dyed fabrics. Each motif tells a story — of ancestry, ceremony, and belonging. Browse these stunning textiles, or simply watch as skilled hands bring tradition to life.

Rise early to the spectacle of sunrise over Lewelling Bay — a natural amphitheatre of volcanoes. Later, we anchor off Pulau Komba, where Batu Tara dominates the horizon. Watch as the volcano breathes smoke and light into the evening sky while you enjoy cocktails on deck. Our famous Volcano Party celebrates this primal landscape - a reminder that nature is both power and poetry.

The Alor Strait is a place where life slows, and the sea reveals its secrets. Snorkel and dive through vibrant coral gardens alive with unfamiliar species. Ashore, meet the island communities known for their warm welcomes and intricate weaving.

In Kalabahi Bay, visit a village whose people have long relied on the sea - learn how traditional fishing practices and modern conservation efforts now work hand in hand to protect these waters.

Today we enter the heart of the Coral Triangle — the world’s richest marine ecosystem. Explore Lintea Island, where every dive and snorkel reveals another world of coral walls, turtles, and tropical fish. These waters are alive with colour and movement, a vivid reflection of life beneath the surface.

The Penyu Islands mark your final full day aboard True North. Spend the day diving sheer coral walls, snorkelling turquoise lagoons, or trolling for mackerel and giant tuna. As the sun melts into the Banda Sea, raise a glass to new friends, shared stories, and the adventure that changed you.

After breakfast on board, you’ll disembark for your charter flight from Ambon to Darwin. The journey home is quiet - the kind of silence that follows something extraordinary. You leave with salt in your hair, stories in your heart, and the unshakable sense that life is different after True North.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Ocean Class - Twin

$32,995 AUD pp
Ocean Class - Twin
True North - Located on the lower deck, Ocean Class twins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres (129 square feet). Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone. True North II - Located on the lower deck, Ocean Class cabins feature bunk configured singles and en-suite or private bathroom. Cabin size is approximately 5.6 square metres (60 square feet). Other features include a large porthole.

Ocean/River Premium Cabin

$38,595 AUD pp
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
True North - Ocean Premium - Located on the lower deck, Ocean Premium doubles feature a king size bed (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 14 square metres (150 square feet). Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone. True North II - River Premium - Located on the main deck, River Premium staterooms feature a queen size bed and en-suite. Cabin size 7 square metres (75 square feet). Other features include large panoramic windows and in-cabin entertainment.

River Class - Double

$41,595 AUD pp
River Class - Double
True North - Located on the main deck, River Class staterooms feature a king size bed (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class. Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone. True North II - Located on the lower decks, River Class cabins feature a queen size bed and en-suite. Cabin size 7 square metres (75 square feet). Other features include large portholes and in-cabin entertainment. Option for pullman.

Explorer Class - Stateroom

$46,595 AUD pp
Explorer Class - Stateroom
True North - Located on the upper deck, Explorer Class staterooms feature a king size bed (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 18 square metres (193 square feet). Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone. True North II - Located on the main deck, Explorer Class staterooms feature a walk-around queen size bed and a twin basin ensuite. Cabin size is 12 square metres (129 square feet). Other features include large panoramic windows and desk space.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters

Passenger Capacity: 36/22

Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023

True North is built for access to remote environments, operating in shallow coastal waters and river systems where conventional expedition ships cannot enter. Daily operations revolve around direct engagement: multiple adventure boats, an onboard helicopter, and a strict avoidance of long sea days ensure that time is spent actively exploring rather than transiting. Interiors mirror high-end lodge standards with panoramic lounges, an alfresco bar, refined dining, and cabins equipped for comfort and immediacy to the landscape. Crew involvement is constant and hands-on, creating an experience defined by flexibility, varied activities and immersion in wilderness rather than passive sightseeing.

True North II delivers the same expedition model in a more intimate format, carrying just 22 guests and maintaining the purpose-built shallow navigation that allows direct access to rivers, coastlines and isolated anchorages. Its layout consolidates social spaces into a combined saloon and lounge, supported by a dining room designed for a refined, communal atmosphere. Cabins retain private facilities and in-house entertainment, while a full suite of adventure boats and regular helicopter operations mirror the capabilities of the larger vessel. The smaller scale enhances personal attention and reinforces the brand’s defining approach: constant activity, close crew interaction and immediate entry into remote environments.

Cabin layout for True North & True North II

Inclusions


• All adventure boat excursions & activities,
• Destination-inspired dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day,
• All fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips)
• Complimentary café style coffees and tea are available all day

Exclusions


• International and domestic flights
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel Insurance
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Visitors fee
• Transfers not listed in the itinerary
• Adventure wear and other purchases made on-board
• Alcoholic beverages (except as offered on special excursions)
Indonesia Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
11 Days from
$3,000 AUD per day

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0800 945 3327

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1800 107 715

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