Covering an area of over 2,300 kilometres and encompassing over 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest living structure. Home to an abundant and thriving array of marine and birdlife species, it holds pride of place as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage area.
Onboard these voyages, you will explore rainforest shores, uninhabited sand cays, remote islands and pristine reef systems. Along the way find freedom and sanctuary amidst this iconic seascape. Coral Expeditions purpose-designed small ships are built for expedition cruising, with refined steering capabilities, shallow draught and nimble Xplorer tenders. Onboard, enjoy fresh seasonal cuisine and boutique Australian wines and brews. With an intimate atmosphere and our renowned warm Australian hospitality, you will quickly feel at home.
Cruise Highlights:
Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef - 10 nights from AU$9,990pp, Brisbane to Cairns 19 March 2024 & 20 March 2025: Join Coral Expeditions as they undertake our 3rd unique citizen science themed expedition along the length of the Great Barrier Reef to learn about two iconic species – Turtles and Rays. With a maximum of 70 guests and leading research experts onboard, their small expedition ship Coral Discoverer will call on remote reefs, islands, and significant wildlife habitats in the Coral Sea marine zone.
Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef - 7 nights from AU$5,340pp, Cairns return. Departures - 11Nov24, 18Nov24, 13Nov25, 20Nov25, 27Nov25, 4Dec25, 11Dec25: Aboard their expedition vessel Coral Discoverer, join us as they embark on an immersive 7-night adventure to the remote and untouched Northern reefs. They explore the hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands and pristine reef systems. Along the way find freedom and solitude amidst this iconic seascape. Share the journey with soaring seabirds and swim, dive and snorkel at far-flung Osprey and Ribbon Reefs. Learn about ancient indigenous culture and Australian heritage at historic Cooktown. Stretch your legs with a hike to the summit of “Cooks Look”. Enjoy a sundowner with the sand beneath your toes and the setting sun at deserted Sudbury Cay. Onboard, you will be accompanied by expert guides including a Marine Biologist, and their purpose designed small ships are custom built for expedition cruising.
*Price and availability accurate at 24 January 2024.
Explore Australia’s Kimberley on an unforgettable small ship adventure with the experts. Learn from Coral Expedition's knowledgeable expedition team who share their passion for this land. Their ships and Xplorer tenders are built for the Kimberley region. For 30 years, we have been refining this classic Australian adventure.
The Kimberley Cruise, departs Darwin & Broome, 10 nights from AU$11,850 per person, multiple departures April 2024 to September 2025: You're invited to join Coral on their classic 10-night Kimberley expedition. Witness the power of nature at the magnificent King George River and its towering twin falls, explore ancient rock art with expert guides, and witness diverse marine life and cascading waters at Montgomery Reef. Later in the season, you may also see the majestic Humpback Whales on their migration north to breeding grounds. Every Kimberley voyage is different. Come and discover the Kimberley for yourself with the pioneers.
Best of the Kimberley and Tiwi Islands, departs Darwin & Broome, 10 nights from AU$10,820 per person, departures 26Aug24, 6Sep24, 28Jul25, 8Aug25: This 10-night journey will connect you with the vibrant modern culture of the Tiwi Islands and take in the vast Kimberley coast and its ancient rock art galleries dating back over 40,000 years. Visit a local co-operative gallery at Munupi Arts Centre where guests can purchase art at the source, participate in workshops and view cultural performances.
Kimberley Icons, Ashmore & The Rowley Shoals, departs Darwin & Broome, 12 nights from AU$10,340 per person, departures 10Sep24, 11Mar25, 24Mar25, 10Sep25, 22Sep25, 25Sep25: This itinerary combines our classic 10-day Kimberley itinerary with a visit to the spectacular Rowley Shoals Marine Park and Ashmore Reef. Witness magnificent coastal vistas created by towering rock ridges, silent secluded gorges, abundant wildlife, and massive tidal movements.
*Price and availability accurate at 24 January 2024
South Australia’s islands and gulf waters are some of the best-kept secrets of the Australian coastline. With 5000km of deserted shoreline and more than 300 islands, this region offers a diversity of natural wilderness including spectacular bays, remote islands and stunning sea-cliffs. Best of all, it remains wild and unspoilt. Experience a real sense of adventure and a vast array of wildlife – many of the islands are important sanctuaries for birds, kangaroos, wallabies, seals and sea lions. Along the way, indulge in the tastes of South Australia with fresh local seafood and wines complemented with our traditional warm Australian hospitality.
Cruise Highlights:
Wild Islands of South Australia - 10 nights Adelaide return from AU$6,710pp, departures 31Oct24, 10Nov24, 20Nov24: Explore South Australia’s islands and gulf waters, which are some of the best-kept secrets of the Australian coastline. With 5000km of deserted shoreline and more than 300 islands, this region offers a diversity of natural wilderness including spectacular bays, remote islands and stunning sea-cliffs. Best of all, it remains wild and unspoilt. Experience a real sense of adventure and a vast array of wildlife – many of the islands are important sanctuaries for birds, kangaroos, wallabies, seals and sea lions.
Australia's Great Southern Coastline - 14-15 nights Melbourne to Fremantle from AU$9,120pp, departures 13Feb24, 31Jan25: Set sail on an expedition along Southern Australia’s rugged coast and the wild nature, rich history and delicious produce of the region. Cast off from Melbourne to explore the unique natural beauty of Apollo Bay and the famed Twelve Apostles. Learn the history of Port Fairy with its Georgian style merchant homes and visit the character-filled township of Robe. Enjoy many opportunities to sample the freshest produce straight from the source with oysters at Coffin Bay and abalone at Flinders Island. As we round the southwest edge of Australia, enjoy time ashore with walks at Woody Island, a visit to extraordinary Jewel Cave, swimming with stingrays at Hamelin Bay and walk amongst the vines and enjoy a wine-tasting at the award-winning Leeuwin Estate in the Margaret River region.
Bounty of the Southern Ocean - 8 nights Adelaide to Melbourne from AU$7,300pp, departure 1Dec24: Enjoy a farm-to-plate adventure as we explore these bountiful shores. Discover the rich flavours of wild ocean farmed abalone on Kangaroo Island and freshly caught Australian lobster in the quaint fishing port of Robe. Learn about the myriad of culinary and medicinal uses of fungi and sample native indigenous bush ingredients in the wild. Meet passionate local producers, growers and distillers and share their handicrafts and stories.
*Price and availability accurate at 24 January 2024.
Trace history as you explore sites that lie in the wake of war, from Tinian and Torishima to Iwo Jima. Sail to the small islands of the Japanese Ryukyu, Ogasawara and Izu archipelagos, most of which remain untouched by Western travellers. Discover remote island life at traditional fishing villages and experience authentic encounters with local people, culture and nature.
Journey to Japan, From Yap to Tokyo, 14 nights from AU$12,590 per person, departure 6Sep24: Venture north through the Western Pacific from the rarely seen Federated States of Micronesia towards the unique islands of Tokyo Bay. Set sail from Yap and explore remote coral atolls and small villages of Ulithi, Sorol and Fais that will welcome expeditioners for the first time. Enjoy relaxing days at sea with our crew leading wellness activities along with Japanese whiskey and tea tastings and cooking presentations.
Through the Heart of Japan, From Tokyo to Fukuoka, 14 nights from AU$15,720 per person, departs 21Sep24: Experience the dynamic landscape of Japan, from the vibrant cities of the mainland to quiet coastal island villages. Departing Tokyo, begin your journey by experiencing traditional Japanese culture at the township of remote Shimizu, and visiting important Shinto shrines in Shingu. Continue to the ideal vantage point of Kobe port to explore the bustling streets of Osaka for an authentic food tour or spend time at Kyoto amongst the diverse cityscape of modern architecture and ancient temples. Discover the lush mountainous landscape of Iya Valley at remote Tokujima, learn about the traditional history of the soy sauce craft in Shodojima and explore the ancient castle at little-visited Karatsu. Visit Jeju Island in South Korea to view the extraordinary UNESCO listed Manjanggul lava tubes before discovering the little-known Goto Islands and concluding your journey in Fukuoka. Be immersed in the poignant histories and ancient traditions within these diverse landscapes on this authentic journey through the heart of Japan.
Through Japan's Ryukyu Islands, From Fukuoka to Keelung, 16 nights from AU$14,280 per person, departs 5Oct24: Set sail from Fukuoka and begin your journey in Nagasaki to learn of the region’s wartime history, study internationally influenced architecture and explore traditional shrines and temples. Venture deep into the remote Okinawan Islands to encounter lifestyles of those who make their living by the sea, including at the fishing village of the Suwanosejima. Learn of ancient mythical legends tied to Okinoerabujima and discover the pristine marine ecosystems of the Kerama Islands. Walk amongst towering cedars in the ancient woodland of Yakujima, kayak through the undeveloped forested scenery of Iriomote Island and look on in awe of the strombolian eruption of passing volcanic landscapes.
Island Trails of the Philippines, From Keelung to Manila, 16 nights from AU$14,690 per person, departure 22Oct24: Join us on a journey of discovery through the hard-to-reach island trails of the Philippines. Departing from Keelung in Taiwan, this will be a unique adventure unveiling the rich colonial heritage of the region shaped by Spanish explorers and the historical conflicts of World War II. Share in traditional ceremonies, learn ancient customs, and enjoy the pristine natural marine and terrestrial environs of these secluded shores. On Taiwan’s east coast, hike across elevated boardwalks and suspension bridges that wind into the towering marble valleys and thundering waterfalls of Taroko Gorge National Park. Visit the historic Cabo Engano lighthouse on Palaui Island. Beachcomb on the idyllic shores, and explore the aquatic paradise of Catanduanes and Cuatro Islas.
*Price and availability accurate at 24 January 2024
Price from
Per person
Dates
Depart:
1 April 2023
Return:
30 November 2024