Asia, Indonesia
Exploring Indonesia: Bali, Raja Ampat & Papua New Guinea
Set sail from Bali on an expedition to discover Indonesia’s rich tapestry of cultures and lush tropical islands. Experience the thrill of spotting rare Komodo dragons in the wild; snorkel and dive at pristine coral reefs of the Moluccas, Raja Ampat, and West Papua; take part in exuberant welcome ceremonies at the secluded villages we’ll explore along the way; and step back in time as we learn about some of the fiercest battles of the Pacific Theater during World War II. Explore the fascinating riverine world of the Asmat region, one of the least-explored places on Earth, as the National Geographic Orion makes her way to the Solomon Islands.
• Encounter Indonesia’s vibrant cultures during traditional welcome ceremonies and visits to remote island villages and markets
• Swim, snorkel, and dive at spectacular reefs, isolated atolls, and the ivory beaches of Kri Island and Misool in Raja Ampat and West Papua
• Search for Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park, prehistoric creatures that can reach 9 feet
• Discover the timeless traditions and exquisite art of the Asmat region while exploring its stilt villages by Zodiac
Highlights
• Encounter Indonesia’s vibrant cultures during traditional welcome ceremonies and visits to remote island villages and markets
• Swim, snorkel, and dive at spectacular reefs, isolated atolls, and the ivory beaches of Kri Island and Misool in Raja Ampat and West Papua
• Search for Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park, prehistoric creatures that can reach 9 feet
• Discover the timeless traditions and exquisite art of the Asmat region while exploring its stilt villages by Zodiac
Arrive in Bali. Check in to the Fairmont Hotel (or
similar). Meet your fellow travelers this evening at
our welcome reception. (D)
This morning we check out of the hotel and head
off into the countryside and the artist’s town of
Ubud—famous for silver working, wood carving,
and batik. As we wind our way up into the hills,
we’ll pass exquisite Hindu temples, lush forests,
small villages, and the terraced rice fields cut into
the cliffs. From water buffalo, to ducks, to harvest,
learn how all the pieces of rice production flow
together and nothing is wasted. Following lunch
and free time to wander through the galleries in
Ubud, we’ll head back to Benoa where we embark
the National Geographic Orion. (B,L,D)
Our first stop is the uninhabited Indonesian island
of Satonda – a small circular island that is an
ancient volcanic cone. Spend the morning
snorkeling or diving the vibrant reefs or hike inland
to the island’s sacred lake. This afternoon visit the
island of Sumbawa, where villagers welcome us
with a lively cultural display. Witness a traditional
wedding ceremony and a local boxing match.
(B,L,D)
Explore Komodo National Park, home to the
world’s largest living lizard—the Komodo dragon.
Learn about the conservation of these prehistoric
giants from park rangers, who will join us on a hike
to spot the lizards in their natural habitat. Then
enjoy an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, or
beachcombing at “Pink Beach,” named for the
coral fragments that lend their color to the sand.
(B,L,D)
Flores was once an important Portuguese trading
center for sandalwood. Known for producing some
of the finest ikat weaving in the world, we’ll meet
the people of this arid island when we travel inland
from Maumere to the weaving village of Watublapi.
Whereas many other local weaving communities
switched to industrially spun yarn and chemical
dyes for the sake of saving time and money, the
weavers of Watublapi still use the traditional,
handspun yarn made out of local cotton, as well as
local natural dyes. We’ll also see a cultural dance
presentation. (B,L,D)
Sail into the Molucca archipelago, also known as
Maluku or the Spice Islands. In the heart of the
Moluccas lay the Banda Islands, where a
kora kora, or traditional war canoe, escorts us to
the enchanted isle of Pulau Naira. Neighboring
Banda Neira was once the center of the Spice
Island trade and a hub of the Dutch East India
Company. Stroll past Dutch architecture and visit
Fort Belgica, built to protect the profitable spice
trade. Next to Bandanaira, the near perfect conical volcano of Banda Api will be visible, quietly
steaming away, and the crystal-clear waters
provide us with some great swimming and
snorkeling. (B,L,D)
Snorkel and dive one of the richest and most
intricate marine regions in the world. Explore the
steep coral walls and drop offs that are brimming
with amazing life – colorful corals, giant clams and
literally hundreds of different fish species. Above
sea level, the experiences are just as amazing,
with lush islands, towering limestone pinnacles
jutting out of the water, and hidden white-sand
coves to discover by Zodiac or kayak. On Gam
Island birders may join a pre-dawn nature walk to
try to catch a glimpse of the ethereal red bird-ofparadise. (B,L,D)
Soaring mountains, pristine rain forest, and
dozens of the most ancient, primal tribes on the
planet can be found on this amazing section of
Indonesia. Use Zodiacs to get up close to 20,000-
year-old rock art near the fishing village of Kokas.
Explore the fascinating skull caves and rock art of
the Macassan culture. See the remains of the
secret underground Japanese bunkers built here
during World War II. Witness the traditional
gabagaba, or stick dance, and learn about the
myriad cultures that have passed through this
region. (B,L,D)
Arrive in the enchanting Asmat region, which
spreads across mud flats and mangrove forests,
with raised wooden boardwalks linking one village
to the next. Elaborately painted “warriors” escort
us to one of the stilt villages on shore, where we’ll
attend a fascinating welcome ceremony. Our
subsequent exploration will be dictated by the
tides, as we venture to neighboring villages by
Zodiac and encounter the ancient culture of the
Asmat people, who are renowned for their
woodcarving. (B,L,D)
We leave the Asmat region and sail through the
Aru and Arafura Seas. During the last ice age,
when sea levels were over 100 meters lower than
they are today, this region was a land bridge
between Australia and New Guinea. We transit the
shallow, island-strewn Torres Strait, which
separates Australia from New Guinea, to enter the
Gulf of Papua. We’ll explore the coast and
scattered islands looking for that perfect place to
spend some time on a deserted beach or
snorkeling through a reef bursting with color and
life. (B,L,D)
It’s hard to imagine today that Samarai Island was
once a bustling trading port and the second largest
city in Papua New Guinea. The town was
evacuated at the onset of the Pacific War and
many of its buildings deliberately destroyed. When
the war ended, Samarai never regained its earlier
importance. Life is much slower paced nowadays,
and we’ll have a chance to meet and be greeted
by the town’s residents. As we depart, be sure to
be out on deck as the ship cruises through the
beautiful neighboring islands.
Our expedition concludes in Honiara, a former
U.S. supply depot and a strategic WWII
battleground. Tour around the outskirts of the city
to see sites well known from the Battle of
Guadalcanal in 1942-43. See the shores of Red
Beach and the vital airbase at Henderson Field.
Visit the hills above Honiara where some of the
fiercest battles took place. Then, transfer to the
airport for our flight to Brisbane, where we will
overnight at a local hotel. (B,L)
Depart this morning for your flight home. (B)
Itineraries are subject to change.
| 08 May, 2024 to 26 May, 2024 (reverse) | Book now |
Category 1
$29,100 AUD pp
These cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 2
$35,330 AUD pp
These roomy cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 3
$40,970 AUD pp
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419 These suites have a comfortable sofa in the sitting area with a large window and plenty of storage. They have a variety of bed configurations (call for details) plus a writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 1 Solo
$43,670 AUD pp
These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.
Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall
Category 4
$45,200 AUD pp
Cat 4 Deluxe suite with Window #511, 515 - These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a two-seater sofa that looks out a large rectangular window. Beds are configurable. You'll find storage, climate controls, reading lamps, a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 5
$54,490 AUD pp
Cat 5 Suite with Balcony #501, 503-506, 508 - These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors that open to a private French balcony. Beds are configurable, and you'll find sitting chairs or a couch, a writing desk, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
Category 3 Solo
$61,440 AUD pp
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512 - This solo suite features two beds and a large window, plus a bucket chair and small table, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
Category 6
$63,280 AUD pp
Cat 6 Owner’s suite with Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510 - These large, owner's suites feature a balcony (Cabin 509 does not have a balcony), a spacious bathroom with a large shower and separate soaking tub with a window, and a large separate living area with a couch and two bucket chairs, plus climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.
| 22 September, 2024 to 11 October, 2024 (reverse) | Book now |
Category 1
$29,100 AUD pp
These cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 2
$35,330 AUD pp
These roomy cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 3
$40,970 AUD pp
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419 These suites have a comfortable sofa in the sitting area with a large window and plenty of storage. They have a variety of bed configurations (call for details) plus a writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 1 Solo
$43,670 AUD pp
These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.
Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall
Category 4
$45,200 AUD pp
Cat 4 Deluxe suite with Window #511, 515 - These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a two-seater sofa that looks out a large rectangular window. Beds are configurable. You'll find storage, climate controls, reading lamps, a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
Category 5
$54,490 AUD pp
Cat 5 Suite with Balcony #501, 503-506, 508 - These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors that open to a private French balcony. Beds are configurable, and you'll find sitting chairs or a couch, a writing desk, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
Category 3 Solo
$61,440 AUD pp
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512 - This solo suite features two beds and a large window, plus a bucket chair and small table, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
Category 6
$63,280 AUD pp
Cat 6 Owner’s suite with Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510 - These large, owner's suites feature a balcony (Cabin 509 does not have a balcony), a spacious bathroom with a large shower and separate soaking tub with a window, and a large separate living area with a couch and two bucket chairs, plus climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.
National Geographic Orion
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 103 metres
Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)
Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration.
National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.
National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.
Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge, as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.
While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi.
Special Offers
• BACK-TO-BACK SAVINGS. Save 10% on any consecutive journeys taken on board one of our expedition ships. This savings is applicable on voyage fares only, and are not valid on extensions or airfare.
• BRINGING THE KIDS. We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So take $500 off for each child under the age of 18.
• TRAVELING AS A GROUP. Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more people. Take advantage of these great savings, while enjoying traveling with your friends and family. This savings is applicable to voyage fares only, and is not valid on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments, and cancellation policies for group travel vary from our regular policies.
• COMBINING OFFERS. Certain offers may be combinable, up to two savings opportunities, except where noted otherwise. For example, travel with a group of 8 or more on back-to-back expeditions, and take advantage of both savings.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• Non alcoholic beverages
• Experienced expedition team and leader
• All excursions
• Zodiac and kayak exploration
• Snorkeling, including wetsuits, masks, fins & snorkel where relevant
• Lectures and presentations on board
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Alcoholic beverages on board unless otherwise stated
• Gratuities unless otherwise stated
• Wifi on board
• Any items of a personal nature including laundry
Luxury Expedition
20 Days from
$29,100 AUD pp
Our Associates Include
