Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys

<p>In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.<p></p>This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.<p></p>On this 13-day voyage from Bali through the myriad islands of eastern Indonesia to the northern shores of Australia you will sail through the heart of the Coral Triangle, where beaches, mangroves, and rainforests host an amazing biodiversity, and where the surrounding seas comprise the richest coral reef system in the world. You will also encounter a rich human history as you discover the colonial legacy of European powers who fought one another for control of the trade in valuable spices, and as you visit with villagers whose way of life continues age-old traditions.<p></p>Leaving Bali, the aptly named “Island of Gods,” your next stop is Satonda Island, a secluded and enchanting destination known for its striking volcanic lake and pristine natural beauty. Formed by an ancient eruption and shaped by the sea, the island’s saltwater crater lake is both rare and serene, offering a peaceful setting to take in the dramatic surroundings. This tranquil interlude is followed by a day exploring the abundant wildlife of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the eponymous Komodo dragons—giant monitor lizards that can grow to more than ten feet long.<p></p>On the island of Flores, you will experience some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities of the voyage, along with the chance to immerse yourself in local customs and traditions. In the Barat Daya Islands, you will find more of the same, as well as remarkable birdlife, including 162 different species, several of which are endemic<p></p>A full day in Band Neira in the Maluku Islands (spice islands) introduces you to the history of these small volcanic outcroppings that were fought over by virtually every colonial power interested in the South Pacific and the trade in cloves, nutmeg, and mace. As you walk the streets of the town, you will discover an eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture—the remnants of a long and tumultuous history.<p></p>Kitikiti Waterfall and Triton Bay, both on the coast of West Papua, provide two days of unparalleled diving, snorkeling, swimming, and Zodiac cruising in the "epicenter of the Coral Triangle." And your last call, before a day at sea brings you to Darwin, Australia, and the end of the voyage, will be in the Kei Islands, located in the heart of the Malukus, home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.</p>