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Cruises

Explore Australia with Coral Expeditions

Guests experience unique destinations, diverse shore excursions and expert-led programs. Their shallow-draught ships can go where larger ships cannot. Every day typically has at least one stop for water or land-based activities. On each voyage they have a Trip Director or Expedition Leader, and on longer voyages, they have Guest Lecturers who are experts in the geology, history or flora and fauna of the region.

NEW RELEASE: Discover New Zealand in 2026

8 & 10 Nights | Departing Bluff

Discover the Remote South of New Zealand
Step aboard Coral Adventurer and uncover a side of New Zealand few ever see. These immersive voyages take you from Bluff to the far reaches of Fiordland and Stewart Island/Rakiura, where remote sounds echo with waterfalls and birdsong, and rare wildlife roams freely.

Witness native birds in lush podocarp forests on Ulva Island, sail into the majestic silence of Doubtful Sound, and kayak beneath the towering cliffs of Milford Sound. From quaint coastal villages to glacial-carved landscapes, each day offers new discoveries, capped off by local produce and fine wine back onboard your purpose-built expedition ship.

Book early to secure your stateroom.

 
Voyage Itineraries
New Zealand Sounds & Stewart Island
8 Nights | Bluff to Bluff
Departs 16 December 2026

Celebrate the Festive Season with Us – South Island & Fiordlands of New Zealand
10 Nights | Bluff to Wellington
Departs 24 December 2026


New 2026 & 2027 International Itineraries

We’re thrilled to unveil five extraordinary new itineraries exploring Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Melanesia.

Get closer to some of the world’s most culturally rich and geographically remote regions, our northern neighbours, where tribal traditions thrive and island coastlines remain largely untouched.

These voyages go far beyond the tourist trail, charting a course through vibrant markets and volcanic highlands. From the Sepik River to Sulawesi, each journey offers rare encounters few travellers will ever experience.

With over 12 years of exploration in these waters, Coral Expeditions has built deep relationships with local communities and gained unique insight into ancient customs. These handcrafted itineraries reflect that legacy, connecting you with the spirit, stories, and natural beauty of these extraordinary frontier lands.

 
Passage Through the Melanesian Arc
14 Nights | Port Moresby to Port Vila
Venture deep into Melanesia on a voyage linking Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Discover communities shaped by Austronesian and Papuan ancestry, where ancient ‘kastom’ traditions still guide daily life.

Snorkel vibrant coral lagoons
Help release turtle hatchlings at Arnarvon
Witness the dramatic Rom dance on volcanic Ambrym
Visit WWII wrecks & experience remote village welcomes

12 Nov 2026 | 19 Oct 2027
From $14,950 pp twin share

 
Papua New Guinea Discoverer
12 Nights | Madang to Cairns
A rare, one-time voyage through PNG’s remote southwest. Explore pristine reefs, jungle trails, and inspiring community projects while connecting deeply with our northern neighbours.

13 Oct 2026
From $13,800 pp twin share

 
Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea
12 Nights | Cairns to Rabaul
Sail PNG’s frontier, visiting the Sepik River, Tufi fjords, and Dei Dei Springs. Experience ancient cultures and remote island traditions on this in-depth exploration.

16 Oct 2026 | 22 Sep 2027
From $13,940 pp twin share

 
Beyond Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea
10 Nights | Rabaul to Port Moresby
With our small ship’s agility, explore deeper into the Solomon Sea’s remote corners. From Nissan Island to Kula Ring villages, uncover WWII history, coral reefs, and enduring traditions.

28 Oct 2026 | 2 Oct 2027
From $13,280 pp twin share

 
Island Empires & Ancient Mariners
14 Nights | Darwin to Makassar
Journey through the island cultures of East Nusa Tenggara and Sulawesi. Meet the Bugis and Bajau sea communities, witness the highland rituals of the Toraja people, and explore Indonesia’s most culturally layered regions.

Spot Komodo dragons in the wild
Meet Phinisi shipbuilders crafting hand-hewn vessels
Discover remote beaches, bustling markets & layered traditions

28 Nov 2026 | 12 Dec 2026
From $13,950 pp twin share


Explore the Untamed Shores of Western Australia

2026 & 2027 Expeditions

Washed by the mighty Indian Ocean, Western Australia’s coastline remains one of Australia’s great maritime journeys — long, remote, and shaped by tide, weather, and history. These are coastal outposts far beyond the main tourist routes, where access comes slowly and meaningfully by sea.

Wildlife defines this extraordinary coastline. Whales migrate along ancient corridors, sea lions rest on isolated islands, dolphins ride the bow wave, and turtle-filled waters teem with marine life. Onshore, living First Nations culture reveals itself through rock art, enduring songlines, and time spent learning from local communities deeply connected to sea and country.

Ochre cliffs, brilliant blue oceans, and white silica beaches frame landscapes both dramatic and serene, while nearby regions quietly produce world-class seafood, artisan produce, and celebrated Western Australian wines.

With more departures than ever before, Coral Expeditions invites travellers to explore with purpose aboard small expedition ships led by experienced local guides. These journeys prioritise access, context, and time — allowing Western Australia’s coast to be discovered without haste.

 
Journey Western Australia | 2026 & 2027
NEW Voyage – Coastal Adventures: Short Escapes
6 Nights | Fremantle & Albany departures

A flexible expedition designed for shorter escapes, combining coastal walks, swims, wildlife encounters and relaxed exploration along Western Australia’s southern shores.

Departures:
23 & 29 October 2026
24 & 30 October 2027

 
Whales & Trails of Western Australia
10 Nights | Departs Fremantle

Follow migrating humpback and southern right whales while exploring remote coastal trails, wildflower landscapes and stories of Noongar culture.

Departures:
13 October 2026
14 October 2027

 
Abrolhos & The Coral Coast
12 Nights | Broome & Fremantle departures

Snorkel Ningaloo Reef, encounter sea lions and seabirds, and uncover maritime exploration and Indigenous heritage across Western Australia’s spectacular Coral Coast.

Selected 2026 Departure Now From: $13,032pp
(March – November 2026 departures available)

 
Ningaloo & The Rowley Shoals
12 Nights | Broome Return

An expansive expedition combining remote reefs, historic islands and vibrant marine sanctuaries, including World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and lesser-visited shores.

Departures:
4 May & 6 June 2027

 
Why Explore Western Australia by Expedition Ship
Close wildlife encounters including whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins
Snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and marine sanctuaries
Insights into Indigenous culture and maritime history
Remote access only possible by small ship
Fresh local seafood and regional culinary experiences
Discover the wonders of Western Australia with Coral Expeditions.


Explore Australia and Indonesia with Coral Expeditions

Coral Expeditions continues to deliver unique small-ship journeys through some of the most remote and culturally rich regions of Australia and Southeast Asia. With a focus on immersive exploration, local connections and expedition-style cruising, each voyage offers an opportunity to experience extraordinary landscapes, wildlife and cultures in a deeper way.

Recent voyages have seen travellers exploring the fascinating islands of Indonesia, including Komodo, Sulawesi and Padar aboard Coral Geographer, with memorable wildlife encounters such as swimming alongside the giant whale sharks in the Spice Islands.

Closer to home, voyages aboard Coral Discoverer have been exploring Tasmania’s pristine coastal wilderness, where guests enjoy guided hikes, wildlife spotting and exceptional regional food and wine experiences.

 
Coral Adventurer Fleet Update
Following a grounding incident in Papua New Guinea earlier this year, Coral Adventurer arrived in Singapore on 1 March 2026 for scheduled hull repairs at the Seatrium shipyard.

The vessel is currently undergoing specialist repairs overseen by marine experts and certification authorities. Once completed, Coral Adventurer is expected to return to service with the Darwin to Broome Kimberley voyage departing 1 April 2026.

Updates will be provided should there be any changes to the schedule.

 
New Voyages Coming Soon
Interest continues to grow for Coral Expeditions’ newest journeys, including the recently launched Australia’s Saltwater Culture and Country expedition through the Torres Strait, Cape York and Arnhem Land.

These voyages offer a rare opportunity to explore remote regions while learning about the traditions, landscapes and communities that shape this unique part of Australia.

Looking ahead, a new South Australia expedition is scheduled to launch soon, with departures planned for February–March 2027.

 
Supporting Local Communities
Voyages through Cape York and Arnhem Land offer opportunities to visit Indigenous art centres where travellers can discover authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks and handmade crafts.

Purchases directly support local artists, art centres and communities, helping sustain cultural traditions and encourage meaningful cultural exchange.

Coral Expeditions partners with galleries that are signatories to the Indigenous Art Code, which promotes ethical trade, fair payment and protection of artists’ intellectual property.

 
About Coral Expeditions
Coral Expeditions operates small expedition ships designed for exploration in remote regions. With expert guides, immersive shore excursions and a strong focus on responsible travel, each voyage provides a deeper connection to the destinations visited.


Across Australia’s Great Southern Shores

Journey from Hobart to Fremantle along Australia’s vast southern coastline, where remote islands, rich maritime history and rugged природ landscapes define one of the country’s most extraordinary coastal expeditions.

Sailing expansive open ocean, this 18-night voyage reveals the diverse character of Australia’s wild southern shores. From Tasmania to Western Australia, each destination offers a deeper connection to place, culture and community.

 
The Journey
Departing Hobart, trace Tasmania’s northern coastline before crossing the storied waters of Bass Strait. In Burnie, connect with local producers through farm-to-table experiences and gain insight into regional dairy traditions.

At Budj Bim, join Gunditjmara guides for a powerful cultural experience. Set within a volcanic landscape, this UNESCO-listed site reveals one of the world’s oldest aquaculture systems, where Indigenous engineering has sustained eel farming for over 6,600 years.

Continue west to South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, exploring wildlife-rich environments from Kangaroo Island to Coffin Bay and Flinders Island. Along the way, meet local communities, from conservationists to fishing families, and experience their deep connection to land and sea.

Weather permitting, cruise past the dramatic Bunda Cliffs, the longest uninterrupted sea cliffs in the world, before arriving along Western Australia’s pristine coastline, including Lucky Bay, Albany and Augusta.

 
Voyage Details
Across the Great Australian Bight
18 Nights | Hobart to Fremantle
Aboard Coral Adventurer

Departure: 18 February 2027
From $13,330 per person, twin share

Xplorers Club and NRMA member savings and benefits apply

 
What Sets This Voyage Apart
Budj Bim Cultural Landscape
Connect with Gunditjmara guides and discover a 6,600-year-old aquaculture system. Sample native ingredients and hear stories passed down through generations.

Flinders Island Experience
Meet local pioneers, including multi-generational abalone farmers, and learn about conservation and rewilding efforts shaping the island’s future.

Western Coast Wonders
Snorkel at Woody Island, walk the white sands of Lucky Bay and explore historic Albany. Encounter unique wildlife, including the famous quokkas of Rottnest Island.

The Bunda Cliffs
Witness one of the world’s most dramatic coastlines, home to southern right whales and a significant population of Australian sea lions.

 
Start Planning
With limited departures and strong demand for expedition-style cruising in Australia, early booking is recommended to secure your place on this remarkable coastal journey.


The Kimberley Expedition Cruise

10 Nights | Darwin & Broome | Book by 31 May 2026

Discover one of the world’s last true wilderness regions on a 10-night Kimberley expedition. This is raw, remote Australia at its most powerful, where ancient landscapes, living culture and extraordinary wildlife come together in one seamless journey.

With expert Australian crew and small expedition ships designed for access, this is an immersive experience far beyond the reach of traditional travel.

 
Voyage Highlights
Duration: 10 nights
Route: Darwin ↔ Broome
Season: March – September 2026 & 2027

Offer:
Explorer Balcony Suites from $21,600 now from $17,280 per person
Save over $4,000 per person
Book by 31 May 2026

 
Why This Journey
Access remote regions larger ships cannot reach
Expert-led expedition with Australian crew
Small ship experience with fewer guests
Immersive Indigenous cultural experiences
Wildlife encounters shaped by season and tide
 
Defining Experiences
King George River
Journey beneath towering sandstone cliffs into one of the Kimberley’s most dramatic landscapes.

Ancient Rock Art
Encounter Gwion Gwion and Wandjina rock art, revealing stories that span thousands of years and remain culturally significant today.

Montgomery Reef
Witness the reef rise from the ocean as tides shift, creating cascading waterfalls unlike anywhere else in the world.

Prince Regent River & Lacepede Islands
Explore mangrove-lined waterways and remote islands rich in birdlife and marine ecosystems.

 
The Kimberley Experience
Australia’s Greatest Coastline
Over 13,000 kilometres of untouched coastline, shaped by powerful tides and dramatic escarpments.

Small Ship Access
Purpose-built expedition vessels navigate narrow river systems and remote inlets, with guided shore landings via tender.

Wildlife Encounters
Spot saltwater crocodiles, seabirds and, in season, migrating humpback whales.

Landscapes & Sunsets
Ochre cliffs, turquoise waters and expansive skies create unforgettable moments from sunrise to sunset.

Warm Australian Hospitality
Enjoy a relaxed onboard atmosphere, thoughtful cuisine and a highly personalised experience throughout your journey.

 
A Living Culture
This journey offers a deeper understanding of Country, where culture is not something of the past, but something living and evolving.

 
Start Planning
With limited departures and strong demand, early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates and suite categories.


Explore Australia's Culinary Coastlines

Delve into the unique tastes of Australia and explore pristine coastlines onboard our two new culinary-themed expeditions in South Australia and Tasmania. Experience the freshness of world-renowned produce straight from the source and discover the stories of charismatic local growers who dedicate their lives to producing these delicacies.

Along the way, our knowledgeable crew will provide expert guidance and genuine Australian hospitality. Share this adventure with like-minded explorers, all while gaining a deeper understanding of Australia's culinary heritage.

Tasmania Heritage and Harvest
8 Nights | Melbourne to Hobart

Join us on an unforgettable journey exploring the maritime and natural history of Tasmania's remote Bass Strait Islands and East Coast National Parks. Enjoy Tasmanian culinary highlights, meet local growers, hike the scenic Three Capes Trail, and explore historic Maria Island and Port Arthur. Savour the flavours of Tasmania with gourmet experiences, including seafood, fine wine, and craft spirits, as well as a signature dinner hosted by Matt Dunbabin at Bangor Wines. 

Experience a Signature Dinner Event hosted by Matt Dunbabin from Bangor Wines. Enjoy guided winery and vineyard tours, tantalising tastings, and a delectable three-course dinner.
Walk across the isthmus to the picturesque Wineglass Bay.
Learn about Maria Island’s history and spot wombats and wallabies on a walk to the Fossil Cliffs.
Admire the dramatic 300m tall coastal cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula.
Explore the grounds of Port Arthur with a knowledgeable guide, before heading to McHenry’s distillery for a gin, whisky or beer-tasting experience.

Bounty of the Southern Ocean
8 Nights | Adelaide to Melbourne

Join our inaugural culinary expedition celebrating the Southern Ocean's bountiful shores between Adelaide and Melbourne. Sample wild-harvested Abalone and local wines on Kangaroo Island. Indulge in the best lobster in Robe and explore this heritage port. Discover the world of fungi and taste artisanal produce directly from the Limestone Coast growers. Witness stunning seascapes as we sail past the 12 Apostles at sunset.
 

Signature Event – Enjoy a special ‘Tastes of the Southern Ocean’ dinner hosted by preeminent regional chef Jamie Carter.
Indulge in freshly caught Australian Lobster in the quaint fishing port of Robe and explore the old world charm of this historic town.
Savour artisanal produce paired with premium wines at a local vineyard in the Limestone Coast.
Discover indigenous hinterland bush food and hear how local families seek to educate on the viability of endemic species in food production.
Learn about the innovative cooperative approach to sustainable agribusiness on the Great Ocean Road.
Sail past the 12 Apostles at sunset and raise a glass to this iconic landscape whilst enjoying a rare perspective from the sea.


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