Island Treasures of Indonesia & East Timor

Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Darwin:

• cruise the Darwin Harbour
• explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
• visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
• visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

The Kei Islands are blessed with kilometres of stunning, yet almost entirely empty, white-sand beaches and a deeply hospitable population. Beneath the mostly Christian facade, Kei culture is fascinatingly distinctive.

Local history holds that ancestors of contemporary Kei islanders came from Bali, part of the expanding Hindu Majapahit kingdom from the western archipelago. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.

Triton Bay, located in West Papua, Indonesia, is a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity. The bay's crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving and snorkelling, offering vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and colourful fish.

The surrounding limestone cliffs and lush rainforests provide a dramatic backdrop for kayaking and exploring secluded beaches. Visit the ancient rock art sites, which offer a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Triton Bay’s pristine environment and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Kitikiti Waterfall, located in the remote village of Mommon in Papua New Guinea, is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The waterfall cascades majestically into a clear, emerald pool, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. The tranquil setting offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

A short hike through the dense jungle leads to the waterfall, where visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters or simply relaxing on the rocks. The area is also rich in birdlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Kitikiti Waterfall’s serene ambiance and stunning scenery provide an unforgettable experience for those visiting this remote part of Papua New Guinea.

Banda Neira is one of ten volcanic islands and the administrative centre of the Banda Archipelago. The Banda Islands, better known as the legendary 'Spice Islands' of the Ancient World, were the fabled prize of colonial powers for more than four centuries.

They are covered with towering, aromatic, tropical-evergreens and surrounded by a sparkling, sapphire sea. Its waters are brimming with exquisite corals and abundant ocean life, making the Banda Islands not only a historically significant destination, but also an internationally recognised diving spot.

If you are looking for exoticism and authenticity, then you will be captivated by the Barat Daya Islands, an Indonesian archipelago lying to the east of the Lesser Sunda Islands, bathed by the Banda Sea and surrounded by coral reefs.

With their fine sandy beaches, marine environments, preserved nature and paddy fields, these islands in the Maluku archipelago are a real concentration of the beauty South-East Asia has to offer. A lush environment in which fauna and flora flourish. Notably, there are almost 162 different bird species including four endemic ones and three endangered ones.

Located on the north coast of East Timor, not far from the Wetar Strait, the city of Baucau inspires wanderlust. The country’s second-largest city, where the vestiges of a Portuguese colonial past spanning nearly four centuries can still be found, is a small corner of paradise known among diving enthusiasts. And with good reason: this earthly paradise, nestling between lush green hills and long white-sand beaches lining a turquoise sea, is particularly renowned for its Coral Triangle. The latter is home to multiple protected marine species, some fifteen endemic corals, and 76% of the world’s coral reefs.

Dili, the vibrant capital of East Timor, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Framed by scenic beaches and a backdrop of lush mountains, this city is a gateway to East Timor's rich heritage and serene landscapes. Noteworthy is the iconic Cristo Rei of Dili statue, a monumental Christ figure that not only offers spiritual significance but also breathtaking views from its mountaintop perch.

For those interested in the local history and culture, the Resistance Museum provides insightful narratives of East Timor's struggle for independence. Dili's coastline, with its inviting beaches like Areia Branca, presents an ideal relaxation spot post-disembarkation, while its culinary scene offers tastes of Timorese flavors, blending Portuguese influences with local ingredients. Dili is a testament to resilience, offering a tranquil yet poignant experience for every traveller.

Alor, a remote island in Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands, is celebrated for its vibrant traditional culture and exceptional marine life. This lesser-known destination thrives on its intricate ikat weaving and ancient moko drum traditions, providing a deep cultural experience unlike any other.

The surrounding waters are a diver's paradise, known for their strong currents and teeming with a diverse array of marine species, including thresher sharks and manta rays. Ships visiting Alor typically anchor near Kalabahi, the island’s only town. From here, passengers can easily explore local villages, dive sites, and markets.

Kalabahi, the sole town on Alor in Indonesia, serves as the gateway to exploring the island's rich traditions and stunning natural landscapes. Known for its vibrant local culture, Kalabahi is surrounded by villages such as Takpala where traditional customs like ikat weaving and ceremonial dances are part of daily life. Kalabahi itself is bustling with markets that offer a variety of local crafts and fresh produce.

Floresians have an ancient culture stretching back millennia before the first arrival of Europeans in search of trade opportunities. Their history is shared through oral traditions and is recreated in song and dance. The mountainous terrain of Flores has preserved the diversity of cultures and Maumere serves as the capital of the Sikka district and main trading port.

Few tourists make it to Maumere with most stopping at Labuan Bajo and heading west to the islands of Komodo. Consequently, Maumere and has kept its charming atmosphere, an eclectic mix of a bustling trading town and a coastal paradise. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to the markets and tribal villages in the hinterland of Maumere.

Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild.

The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visitors must be escorted by a park ranger, independent exploration of the park is not permitted.

If you're leery of these reptiles, the ecologically diverse waters around the island provide superb diving and snorkelling and are home to graceful manta rays, dolphins and even seahorses.

The port of Badas is part of the greater township of Sumbawa Besar, on the island of Sumbawa. Like most of Sumbawa the people hold their culture strong as a major part of their identity. The island has a strong influence from the Makassarese of Sulawesi, who over the centuries have introduced a lot of their culture into Sumbawa. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by bus to Pamulung Village where you will be welcomed by the head of the village and have the opportunity to witness first-hand the local traditions of rice pounding, weaving and also witness a wedding procession. Your visit will conclude with an exciting Sumbawa buffalo race, an event that will be held in honour of our visit.

Bali is an island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. For nature enthusiasts, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud provide a picturesque backdrop perfect for a leisurely walk or a photo opportunity.

Don't miss the bustling markets of Ubud, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies. Bali is also home to world-class spa experiences, making it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring the art scene in Ubud or simply lounging on the beach, Bali offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Benoa is located on the southern tip of Bali and is the key gateway for travellers exploring this Indonesian island. The port is approximately 12 kms (7.5 miles) from the bustling city of Denpasar - a journey of around 30 minutes. You'll dock directly at the terminal, allowing easy access to transport options.