Jewels of the Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali and Singapore

Depart on your overnight flight to Singapore. Check in to the Fullerton Hotel. Meet your fellow travelers this evening at a welcome reception. (Day 2: D)

This morning we check out of our hotel and set off to explore this landmark city-state. Cosmopolitan Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world’s leading and most innovative commercial centers. As we tour the old sections of the city, we’ll see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. We’ll also see the ultra-modern along the skyline of high rises and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine. This afternoon we will embark the National Geographic Orion. (B,L,D)

Our first stop is the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we’ll snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or choose to explore by glass-bottom Zodiac. (B,L,D)

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Watch clownfish darting between anemones and if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete! Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing. (B,L,D)

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. Ashore have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of the Sumatran, Malay, Bugis cultures—Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; Sumatran coffee houses, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung—the mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remain. (B,L,D)

One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa or Krakatau, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera – Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatau” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe, Big Krakatau, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island. The following day spend time on deck with our team of naturalists, listen to compelling presentations in the lounge, or enjoy one of the many onboard amenities as we travel down the coast of Java.

Today we dock on the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland, at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We’ll spend the full day exploring this spectacular site. (B,L,D)

A breathtaking chain of coral fringed islands, Kerimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a Natural Reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of sea grass, and extensive coral reefs, home to over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red breasted parakeets. Kayak along the sea grass in water so clear you can see the fish and coral below. A true island paradise. (B,L,D)

Pulau Bawean is a small jewel in the Java sea. Travel past the beautifully terraced rice paddies as we head to the center of the island and Lake Kastoba. According to ancient lore, a swim in these pristine waters will keep you forever young. Curious monkeys and a variety of birds make their home in the surrounding jungle. Local villagers eagerly share their traditional music and dance. (B,L,D)

Javanese for “deer,” Menjangan Island is named after the rare rusa deer who swim to the island during the spring. This secluded paradise is part of the West Bali Barat National Park, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple - Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel amongst the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddle board. (B,L,D)

This morning we arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Following disembarkation get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. Following lunch transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B,L)

Depart on your overnight flight to Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Check in to your hotel and relax before the welcome reception. Following checkout get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. Following lunch transfer to the National Geographic Orion for embarkation. (L,D)

Javanese for “deer,” Menjangan Island is named after the rare rusa deer who swim to the island during the spring. This secluded paradise is part of the West Bali Barat National Park, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple, Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel amongst the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddleboard. (B,L,D)

Pulau Bawean is a small jewel in the Java sea. Travel past the beautifully terraced rice paddies as we head to the center of the island and Lake Kastoba. According to ancient lore, a swim in these pristine waters will keep you forever young. Curious monkeys and a variety of birds make their home in the surrounding jungle. Local villagers eagerly share their traditional music and dance. (B,D,L)

A breathtaking chain of coral fringed islands, Kerimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a Natural Reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of sea grass, and extensive coral reefs, home to over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red breasted parakeets. Kayak along the sea grass in water so clear you can see the fish and coral below. A true island paradise. (B,L,D)

Today we dock on the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland, at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We’ll spend the full day exploring this spectacular site. (B,L,D)

One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa or Krakatau, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera—Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatau” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe, Big Krakatau, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island. The following day spend time on deck with our team of naturalists, listen to compelling presentations in the lounge, or enjoy one of the many onboard amenities as we travel down the coast of Java. (B,L,D)

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. Ashore have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of the Sumatran, Malay, Bugis cultures—Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; Sumatran coffee houses, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung—the mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remain. (B,L,D)

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Watch clownfish darting between anemones and if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete! Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing. (B,L,D)

We spend our final day in the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we’ll snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or choose to explore by glass-bottom Zodiac. (B,L,D)

This morning we arrive in the landmark city-state of Singapore. Following disembarkation you'll have the opportunity to explore this amazing melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine before departing on homeward flights. (B,L)

Arrive in Singapore and transfer to the Fullerton Hotel or similar. Meet your fellow travelers this evening at a welcome reception. (D)

This morning we check out of our hotel and set off to explore this landmark city-state. Cosmopolitan Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world’s leading and most innovative commercial centers. As we tour the old sections of the city, we’ll see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. We’ll also see the ultra-modern along the skyline of high rises and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine. This afternoon we will embark the National Geographic Orion. (B,L,D)

Our first stop is the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we’ll snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or choose to explore by glass-bottom Zodiac. (B,L,D)

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Watch clownfish darting between anemones and if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete! Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing. (B,L,D)

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. Ashore have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of the Sumatran, Malay, Bugis cultures—Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; Sumatran coffee houses, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung—the mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remain. (B,L,D)

One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa or Krakatau, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera – Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatau” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe, Big Krakatau, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island. The following day spend time on deck with our team of naturalists, listen to compelling presentations in the lounge, or enjoy one of the many onboard amenities as we travel down the coast of Java.

Today we dock on the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland, at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We’ll spend the full day exploring this spectacular site. (B,L,D)

A breathtaking chain of coral fringed islands, Kerimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a Natural Reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of sea grass, and extensive coral reefs, home to over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red breasted parakeets. Kayak along the sea grass in water so clear you can see the fish and coral below. A true island paradise. (B,L,D)

Pulau Bawean is a small jewel in the Java sea. Travel past the beautifully terraced rice paddies as we head to the center of the island and Lake Kastoba. According to ancient lore, a swim in these pristine waters will keep you forever young. Curious monkeys and a variety of birds make their home in the surrounding jungle. Local villagers eagerly share their traditional music and dance. (B,L,D)

Javanese for “deer,” Menjangan Island is named after the rare rusa deer who swim to the island during the spring. This secluded paradise is part of the West Bali Barat National Park, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple - Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel amongst the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddle board. (B,L,D)

This morning we arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Following disembarkation get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B,L)

Arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Transfer to our hotel and relax before the welcome reception. On Day 2, following checkout, get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. After lunch, transfer to the National Geographic Orion for embarkation. (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L,D)

Javanese for “deer,” Menjangan Island is named after the rare rusa deer who swim to the island during the spring. This secluded paradise is part of the West Bali Barat National Park, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple, Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel amongst the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddleboard. (B,L,D)

Pulau Bawean is a small jewel in the Java sea. Travel past the beautifully terraced rice paddies as we head to the center of the island and Lake Kastoba. According to ancient lore, a swim in these pristine waters will keep you forever young. Curious monkeys and a variety of birds make their home in the surrounding jungle. Local villagers eagerly share their traditional music and dance. (B,D,L)

A breathtaking chain of coral fringed islands, Kerimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a Natural Reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of sea grass, and extensive coral reefs, home to over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red breasted parakeets. Kayak along the sea grass in water so clear you can see the fish and coral below. A true island paradise. (B,L,D)

Today we dock on the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland, at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We’ll spend the full day exploring this spectacular site. (B,L,D)

One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa or Krakatau, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera—Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatau” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe, Big Krakatau, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island. The following day spend time on deck with our team of naturalists, listen to compelling presentations in the lounge, or enjoy one of the many onboard amenities as we travel down the coast of Java. (B,L,D)

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. Ashore have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of the Sumatran, Malay, Bugis cultures—Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; Sumatran coffee houses, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung—the mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remain. (B,L,D)

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Watch clownfish darting between anemones and if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete! Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing. (B,L,D)

We spend our final day in the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we’ll snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or choose to explore by glass-bottom Zodiac. (B,L,D)

This morning we arrive in the landmark city-state of Singapore. Following disembarkation, you'll have the opportunity to explore this amazing melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine before transfers to the airport for flights home. (B,L)