From the 16th century, Makassan trepangers began to venture from their homeland in South Sulawesi. Travelling through the Flores and Savu seas, they arrived at the shores of the Kimberley and Arnhem Land. On their journeys, Makassans encountered the peoples of northern Australia and left an impact on the cultures that survive to this day.
We invite you to embark on your own journey through the straits of the East Indies to Makassar on this 14-night voyage aboard Coral Geographer. Explore lesser-visited islands home to traditional seafaring traditions and rich cultural practices including at Alor and Torajaland. At Tana Beru, witness ancient traditional Phinisi boat building and visit one of the last traditional subsistence whaling villages at Lamalera. From encountering Komodo Dragons on a walking tour with local rangers to exploring the colourful underwater realm of Takabonarate Marine Park, these voyages are a feast for the senses.
- Special Event: Meet the people of Torajaland, high up in the mountains of Sulawesi, and encounter their astonishing cultural traditions and funeral rituals
- Explore 17th century Fort Rotterdam in Makassar, which now houses museums and cultural wonders
- Walk in the tracks of the endangered Komodo Dragons and spot this iconic monitor lizard in the wild with local guides
- Meet the beachside boatbuilders of Tana Beru and admire the skillful construction of Phinisi ships
- Explore the turquoise waters and tiny islands of Takabonarate Marine Park
- Meet the Abui people of Alor Island and watch the Lego Lego dance in their traditional village
- On Padar Island, hike to the summit to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views
- Gaze out over the tri-coloured crater lakes of Kelimutu National Park
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Coral Geographer
| Built | 2020 |
|---|
As a sister ship to Coral Adventurer, the Coral Geographer will be another authentic expedition ship. Designed as a 'next generation expedition ship', she is small enough to go to untouched places, focusing on bringing small numbers of like-minded guests closer to nature and cultures with personal attention and professional service. Coral Geographer will have 6 bridge deck suites with horizon bathtubs amongst her 60 cabins.
The Coral Geographer features the trademark dual ‘Xplorer’ tenders cradled on a hydraulic platform slung off the back of the ship, enabling guests to go ashore in comfort and ease. The shallow draft of the ship enables us to go closer to shore than larger ships. Together with a renowned expedition team, this ship will offer the most advanced expedition capabilities of any small ship afloat.
Comfort
State of the art stabilisers will dampen any sea motion, mostly balcony cabins, and interiors designed with the colours and textures of tropical Queensland, the Coral Adventurer is a comfortable ship. She features promenade decks, generous communal areas, a passenger elevator, and an open kitchen where you can observe the chefs whip up small batch cuisine from locally sourced ingredients.
Expedition capabilities
> Two trademark Xplorer tenders seat all passengers and facilitate comfortable shore excursions
> Six zodiacs for more intrepid exploration
> Lecture lounge for daily expedition briefings and expert presentations
> Small onboard library featuring books on destinations and wildlife
> Shallow draft and advanced navigation and propulsion systems allowing access to locations closed to large cruise ships
Marine immersion
> Navigator lounge in the bridge
> Over 1000 square metres of open deck space including a wrap-around promenade deck with panoramic views
> Engine room tours and a high level of crew interaction with guests
Food and wine features
> Single seating dining with communal table serves buffet breakfast and lunch, and multi-course table d’hote dinners
> Showcase galley with viewing window creating fresh small-batch cuisine featuring Australian and local produce
> Multiple indoor and outdoor bars, including our Explorer bar on the sundeck for sunset drinks
> Curated wine cellar featuring boutique wines and exceptional vintage Australian reds
Guest comfort
> All outside-facing guest cabins with en-suite bathrooms; the majority have a private balcony
> Active stabilisers to dampen sea motion
> Well-equipped gym
> Passenger elevator
> Wi-Fi available in all guest areas
