Final Week: End-of-Year Savings: 25% Off All 2023 Departures
Book August 14 - September 29, 2023. Save 25% on the cabin fare when booking any Category 1 cabin, including solo cabins, or Category SU on National Geographic Islander II, for departures in 2023 when you pay in full at time of booking. Valid for new bookings only, based on availability at time of booking, cannot be combined with other offers, and is not applicable on airfare or extensions. To qualify for the discount, non-refundable payment in full is due at the time of booking. Call for details.
A Region Lost to Time & Enveloped in Lore
Indonesia and Papua New Guinea are true paradises both on earth and below the surface of their pristine waters. Sail through channels dotted with small, uninhabited islands, and hop into Zodiacs or kayaks to have white-sand beaches to yourself. Dive or snorkel among vibrant marine life from Raja Ampat to Bunaken Marine Reserve, and spot Komodo dragons, orangutans, and red birds of paradise in their natural habitats.
Heartily welcomed by friendly villagers, discover life in rarely explored places full of ancient rituals and traditional art. Add in the cosmopolitan delights of Singapore and Bali and the pull of this far-flung, diverse region becomes impossible to ignore.
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(5) Indonesia & Papua New Guinea Itineraries
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NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged. More details.
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
Aug
Sep
From
$14,360
Prices are per person
Highlights
Indonesia & Papua New Guinea
Jewels of the Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali and Singapore
Duration
13 days
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
Aug
Sep
From
$14,360
Top Highlights
Experience the innovative melting pot that is Singapore–a spectacular blend of cultures, innovation, and beauty
Swim and snorkel the coral reefs off the pristine, uninhabited isles of the Natuna and Anambas archipelagos
Be awestruck at the grandeur and sheer size of Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site
Explore the jungles of West Bali Barat National Park and Menjangan Island–be on the lookout for the colorful Javan banded pitta, the Bali myna, and the native barking deer
New
Journey through Southeast Asia: Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia
Duration
11 days
Aug
From
$13,940
Top Highlights
Experience the innovative melting pot that is Singapore—a spectacular blend of cultures, innovation, and beauty
Explore Malaysia's fascinating and colorful UNESCO Historical Cities: Malacca and Penang’s Georgetown
Be on the lookout for the gentle giants of Sumatra—orangutans—as we traverse the lush rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park, part of the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Immerse yourself in the earthy aromas and fresh ingredients used in some of the best local food in Asia, and cast your own vote on who has the tastiest chicken rice in Penang
Snorkel, dive, and kayak along reefs teeming with brightly colored fish, reef sharks, and spectacular corals; explore pristine white sand beaches and mangroves—all found on the picturesque islands of the Andaman Sea
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
May
Jun
Jul
From
$16,577
Prices are per person
Highlights
Australia and New Zealand
Indonesia & Papua New Guinea
Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia & Indonesia
Duration
18 days
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
May
Jun
Jul
From
$16,577
Top Highlights
Zodiac up the King George River to explore it at water level and experience its towering red rock canyon walls.
Zodiacs land virtually anywhere and take you up close to the unique wildlife in this Region -- see crocodiles, migrating humpback whales, and endearing wallabies.
Visit the world-renowned Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to go in search of the legendary Komodo dragon.
Snorkel and dive remote reefs with galaxies of colorful fish in Indonesia and pristine Rowley Shoals in Australia.
New
Wonders of the Western Pacific: Orangutans, Sun Bears & the Coral Triangle
Duration
14 days
Oct
From
$11,168
Top Highlights
Spend time in the company of the reclusive sun bear—the smallest of the bear family—and the gentle giants of Borneo: orangutans.
Explore the winding streets of Saigon and its eclectic blend of modern skyscrapers, Buddhist temples and bustling markets
Attend onboard lectures where our staff share their knowledge of this fascinating and diverse region. They share stories of the diverse island cultures that thrive on many of the small islands and the lengths the countries have gone to protect the natural world
Hike to the center of Eil Malk Island in Palau where you’ll be rewarded with the beauty of Jellyfish Lake and a serene swim with hundreds of jellyfish who have lost their ability to sting
Take advantage of the National Geographic Resolution’s state-of-the-art amenities, from wellness programs and spa treatments to gourmet dining options and wine tastings
Discover fascinating island nations teeming with incredible wildlife and home to welcoming cultures—many that continue to live close to their ancestral traditions. Sail along the wild coasts learning about the European history of trading and how the wars of far-flung nations were fought over these islands. Spend time relaxing on pristine beaches, dive in and explore the vibrant undersea, and see some of the planet’s most unique bird species.
It is a privilege to visit the far-flung and pristine islands of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, a richly diverse and culturally fascinating geography. And to the privilege of cruising in this region, National Geographic Orion adds the luxury of comfort—a quality of shipboard life and a philosophy of wellness designed to relax and revitalize body, mind, and spirit.
An Impactful Return to the Asmat Region
It has been years since any ships have visited the remarkably remote Asmat villages of West Papua, Indonesia. Recently, National Geographic Orion returned to the region and our guests were welcomed with the most jubilant celebration.
Raja Ampat: The Epicenter of Coral Diversity
Learn more about what makes National Geographic Orion a unique home base for undersea exploration in Indonesia's most spectacular reef system.
A Return to Indonesia: Immersive Adventures, Remote Discoveries
Next year we’re returning to Indonesia, the world’s most expansive archipelago, with a compelling array of new offerings. See what awaits in this earthly paradise.
On Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, the Komodo dragon is king. These remarkable predators live up to their legend, eating any and all other animals (wild boar, deer, snakes, birds, goats, even smaller dragons!) that share their tropical domain.
Venturing to The Asmat of Papua New Guinea with the Consummate Guide
Explorer, anthropologist, filmmaker, author, and public speaker Dr. Lawrence Blair, known for the Emmy-winning BBC/PBS series Ring of Fire, will join guests on Lindblad's new expedition to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.
Photographers David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes have explored this marine paradise numerous times, and one thing they’ve learned is to always expect the unexpected.
Only in Indonesia & Papua New Guinea: 5 Unique Discoveries
The isolation of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea has allowed for the evolution of extraordinary avian and aquatic life, while at the same time preserving unique cultural monuments and indigenous arts. These compelling elements all come together to create a travel experience like nowhere else in the world.
The largest Buddhist monument in the world, Borobudur Temple rises towards the heavens from a Javanese hilltop. This complex feat of architecture is an absolute must-see for any traveler to Indonesia.
It’s great to just wander around the island villages where the people are so welcoming and friendly and take time to show us their way of life.
Terrence C
Adventure with seasoned expedition teams
Explore with top expedition teams
Expedition Leader
Veteran expedition leaders are the orchestrators of your experience. Many have advanced degrees and have conducted research or taught for years. They have achieved expedition leader status because they possess the skills, experience, and the depth of knowledge necessary to continually craft the best expedition possible for our guests.
Undersea specialists are your eyes on the world that lies beneath the waves. Using an array of tools including a high-definition camera, our Cousteau-like undersea specialist dives frequently during the voyage to show you strikingly clear images of the seldom-seen world beneath the ship.
Every expedition aboard a ship in our National Geographic-flagged fleet offers an exclusive service—a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor. This naturalist is specially trained to offer assistance with camera settings, the basics of composition, and to help you become a better, more confident photographer.
It is my fervent hope that I can convince you to one day come here, if you have not yet. There is so much beauty and wonder, both naturally and culturally.
This morning, National Geographic Orion sailed along the coast of Java to our afternoon destination. Wonderful presentations by Ron and Bergit provided education on the natural history of the Sunda Shelf and Buddhism. After lunch, we set out for the city of Cirebon. On an island of 140 million, Cirebon is a small city with only 330,000 inhabitants. The word "Cirebon" derives from the Javanese word caruban, meaning "mixed," a reference to the city's mix of Sundanese, Javanese, Chinese, and Arabic cultural elements. Above the city center and not far from sea level rose Mount Ciremai, which last erupted in 1951. In the spirit of expedition travel, our dry landing turned wet. A wonderful performance welcomed us to this community before we headed to the mayor’s residence. Taking open air buses, we had a police escort to the residence, and we were greeted by a gamelan ensemble. Two of our guests became the guests of honor and were gifted beautiful leis before being escorted to seats beside our hosts. An array of performances welcomed us before we sat down for traditional dances, such as the mask dance. After the performances, we headed for a little shop that sold the traditional batik cloth this city is known for.
The steaming fumaroles of Krakatoa Island are a dire warning of volcanic violence brewing just below the surface. The island was torn apart with cataclysmic force in 1883, leaving skeletal traces of a once grand landmass. Her last volcanic release in 2018 served as a reminder that Indonesia sits atop the ominous Indo-Pacific Ring of Fire. Despite her turbulent history, many of the islands of Krakatoa now boast stunning black sand beaches, lush vegetation, and gorgeous reefs. Much to the delight of local fishermen, predatory wahoo and giant trevally have returned to Krakatoa’s near shore waters to take advantage of the abundant feeding opportunities. It’s hard to imagine that an island with such a volatile history has now become an alluring playground for snorkelers, kayakers, birders, and beachcombers.
On a calm, tropical morning, National Geographic Orion anchored off the coast of Pulau Belitung, an island in the Java Sea off the east coast of Sumatra. By Zodiac, we landed at the beautiful beach of Tanjung Kelayang to a warm welcome with a dance performance by members of the local community. The beach is very photogenic with many colorful longboats anchored beside the white sand. Under cover and protected from the hot morning sun, we were entertained by the reenactment of a traditional Indonesian marriage ceremony, complete with the requisite gift giving and financial negotiations between the families before the union could be completed! Before heading back to the ship for lunch, guests enjoyed snorkeling around the spectacular granite boulders in the area, which is formally recognized as a UNESCO geopark.
Another day of adventure and discovery unfolded as we anchored at beautiful Mentebung in the Badas Islands. Our journey through this Indonesian paradise continues to delight us with each passing day. The morning commenced with our beloved stretch class, setting a perfect tone for the day's exploration. For some of us (including this author), it was more of a proximity stretch class as we couldn't resist passing by and soaking in the refreshing energy. Our morning was designated as an "expedition morning," offering various options to suit our preferences. Some ventured into the depths to explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling, while others donned their diving gear for deeper immersion. Mother Nature graced us with superb conditions – crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and a kaleidoscope of colorful marine life. The stories we collected during these adventures were filled with awe-inspiring encounters, from enchanting reef fish to the mesmerizing world of brightly-colored, burrowing clams. After a very fulfilling morning, the hospitality team, with their ever-smiling faces, treated us to a delectable lunch to recharge our energy for the day. In the afternoon, our thirst for knowledge was quenched by engaging presentations from our experts. Ricky Qi, our National Geographic expert, unveiled his fascinating work in a presentation entitled, "The Stories We Tell." His insights deepened our appreciation for the wonders of the region where he works. Later, undersea specialist Chris Cook enlightened us on "Coral Reef Ecology," providing a glimpse into the intricate ecosystems we are privileged to explore throughout our journey. As the day transitioned into evening, we gathered for a sumptuous dinner, a perfect conclusion to yet another extraordinary day of exploration, learning, and camaraderie. Mentebung had shared its treasures with us, and we eagerly await tomorrow’s adventures.
The first full day of our Indonesian voyage brought us to the exquisite Pulau Lintang, nestled within the breathtaking Anambas Island group. The sun smiled upon us with glorious weather, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure. As the golden rays kissed the shores of Pulau Lintang, our day began with a refreshing stretch class, and we embraced the tranquility of the island. Energized and eager, we gathered for a delightful breakfast that not only satisfied our appetites but also invigorated our spirits. The heart of our expedition lies in our exceptional expedition team, and today was no exception. We had the privilege of joining an iPhone photography workshop that was expertly hosted by the talented CPI Andrew Peacock. His insights and guidance sparked our creativity, ensuring we were well-prepared to capture the magic of our surroundings. After a fantastic lunch put on by the wonderful hospitality team, it was time to head off to our very own island, Pulau Lintang. With pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this untouched gem invited us to indulge in nature's wonders. Many of us embraced the opportunity to snorkel straight from the beach, immersing ourselves in a world teeming with marine life. Pulau Lintang, with its tranquility and unspoiled beauty, made for an ideal start to our voyage through Indonesia. We were not just travelers; today, we were able to really connect with our very own little slice of paradise. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered for the Captain's Cocktail Party, toasting to the day's adventures and the promise of incredible experiences on the horizon. Pulau Lintang had cast its spell upon us, and our hearts were brimming with anticipation for the treasures yet to be uncovered on this remarkable journey.
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