How Coral Expeditions can take guests to parts of Indonesia few go

There’s an Indonesia beyond Bali and its tourist hotspots – a remote island chain where jungle-cloaked isles, vibrant reefs and centuries-old traditions converge. Discover the immersive journey that will take you there.

Bali has long been one of the most popular destinations for Australian travellers, who are lured by its affordability, captivating Hindu culture, emerald rice terraces and buzzing beach clubs. But beyond this much-loved hotspot lies an extraordinary archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, each with its own landscapes, customs and adventures. Those who never venture further afield than Bali are missing out on some of Indonesia’s most enriching experiences.

Among these extraordinary destinations is East Nusa Tenggara, where ancient island kingdoms, living traditions and wild landscapes reveal a side of the archipelago few travellers experience. Here, Komodo dragons roam untamed islands, volcanic peaks rise dramatically from sapphire seas, and the unique cultures of neighbouring Sulawesi add depth to every encounter.

It’s a journey best explored with Coral Expeditions, Australia’s pioneering expedition cruise operator with more than 40 years of experience. Aboard purpose-built Australian-flagged and -crewed ships you’ll find expert guides and warm hospitality, with nimble tenders unlocking remote shores and authentic encounters with coastal communities and untouched landscapes.

The joys of small expedition cruising

coral expeditions ship in Lamalera indonesia — Coral Expeditions’ purpose-built ships are designed for exploring remote waters.

For travellers drawn to the world’s wilder edges, small expedition cruising offers an intimate and immersive way to explore. With fewer than 100 like-minded guests onboard, Coral Expeditions’ purpose-built ships are designed specifically for exploring remote waters, taking you closer to places larger vessels simply can’t reach.

These small, yacht-like ships have a relaxed Australian spirit; they’re informal, welcoming and built around a shared sense of adventure. Life onboard plays out across multi-tiered decks, lounges and an open bridge where guests can watch the captain and crew navigating.

Every stateroom has outward-facing views that invite natural light, while many also feature private balconies. Dining is thoughtfully curated, with single-seating meals celebrating fresh, locally inspired flavours, all served with a glimpse into the open galley where the craft behind each dish takes centre stage. House beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks are included during lunch and dinner, adding to the easy-going atmosphere.

But the real drawcard is the access. Specialised hydraulic Xplorer safari tenders, Zodiacs and kayaks allow guests to venture into shallow rivers, fringing reefs and rugged coastlines.

Unpack once and settle into a journey where every day brings a new shoreline, a new story and a front-row seat to one of the world’s most diverse landscapes.

Learn from onboard experts

two komodo dragons fighting on komodo island in indonesia during a coral expeditions cruise — Learn about the nature around you from onboard experts. (Credit: Getty Images/ USO)

Behind every Coral Expeditions journey is a crew dedicated to personalised care, genuine hospitality and sharing the wonder of the places they explore. More than a team that keeps the voyage running smoothly, they are passionate storytellers and experts who bring each destination to life. Marine biologists, master reef guides and cultural historians offer fascinating insights through onboard lectures, guided walks and water excursions. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world transform every encounter, helping guests discover Indonesia’s remote coastlines while giving a greater understanding of the wildlife and cultures that shape each destination.

Your itinerary overview

Coral Expeditions visits Tana Torajaland in indonesia — Enjoy a mix of nature and culture.

Set sail aboard the Coral Geographer on the 14-night Island Empires and Ancient Mariners journey, tracing a remarkable route between Darwin and Makassar through Indonesia’s remote island realms. This all-inclusive immersive voyage reveals the traditions, landscapes and seafaring heritage of the Banda Sea, from the vibrant Bugis and Bajau communities to the dramatic highlands of Sulawesi. Journey beyond the coastline into Toraja country, where ancient customs and striking mountain scenery offer a window into one of Indonesia’s most distinctive cultures.

Blending exploration, cultural encounters and small-ship discovery, this is a voyage through islands shaped by centuries of maritime history.

The highlights

See wildlife by land and sea

Pink Beach padar island indonesia — Unwind on the sands of Pink Beach. (Credit: Getty Images/ Visual Stories)

This expedition ventures into a realm of ancient islands, where remarkable wildlife encounters await both above and below the water. Spot Komodo dragons on Komodo Island before unwinding on the sands of Pink Beach. Discover rare marine life – including whale sharks – and explore diverse marine parks by snorkel, kayak or dive. Keep watch for birds of paradise as the journey moves through wild landscapes and crystal-clear waters, offering a rare glimpse into Indonesia’s astonishing biodiversity in expedition style.

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Explore with an island hike

Padar Island indonesia — Climb the dramatic peaks of Padar Island. (Credit: Getty Images/ Joakimbkk)

Trade the ship’s deck for the trail to discover Indonesia’s wild landscapes on foot. Climb the dramatic peaks of Padar Island for spectacular island panoramas, explore the shores and walking tracks of Jailamu Island and follow lookout trails around Ende on Flores Island to uncover volcanic crater lakes hidden among the highlands. Each hike reveals a different side of these remote islands, where ancient formations and sweeping views turn every step into an adventure.

Cultural connection

Coral Expeditions Banda Neira Fort Belgica cultural performance — Take in cultural performances throughout the itinerary.

From the cultural shores of Alor Island and the welcoming communities of Tablolong Bay to Lamalera Village, where historic whaling traditions endure, every stop on this expedition offers insight into the cultures that define these islands. Witness the powerful funeral rituals of Tana Toraja, share morning tea with the Sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis to discover their work supporting the local community, and meet the skilled Phinisi boatbuilders of Tana Beru and Sagori, where generations of maritime craftsmanship continue to shape these remarkable islands.

Start planning your Indonesian journey with coralexpeditions.com.

Wellbeing means different things to different travellers. Here’s how to pick a hotel that gets it right for you.

The best wellness holidays aren’t necessarily spent wrapped in a spa robe. Sometimes they’re found around a dinner table in Cambodia, on a hiking trail in New Zealand or after finally beating jet lag on the other side of the world. The hotel you choose is what makes them happen.

1. Easy access to good food

meals from Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 — Taste delicious meals at Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20.

One of the quickest ways to derail healthy habits on holiday is to spend half of it working out where to eat instead of digging into the culture around you. Thankfully, Novotel has done much of the hard work already, with chefs building menus that lean into the flavours, ingredients and traditions of each destination.

In Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Korkor soup – often dubbed ‘Cambodian ratatouille’ – sits alongside raw blue crab dressed with lime and chilli, best enjoyed with views across the Gulf of Thailand.

In the lovingly chaotic city of Bangkok, the presence of food cranks up the sociability. At Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, you can settle in with mango sticky rice and stranger-turned-friends beside the pool at Sky on 20 rooftop bar, or bring them along to tackle river prawns and stir-fried crab with holy basil at the buzzing Crab Paradise Dinner Buffet.

Then Novotel Dubai Al Barsha welcomes you with a laidback twist on the level of indulgence the Middle Eastern city is best known for up on Deck Se7en. Looking towards Burj Al Arab, the rooftop lounge has everything from Mediterranean-style dishes like seabass ceviche to Italian prosecco sundowners.

At the other end of the scale, in the hills that surround the Novotel Bali Ubud Resort, calm comes from nature. At Siralada restaurant, Balinese traditions shape the menu while thunder rumbles over the surrounding jungle – proving the setting is as nourishing as the food itself.

While at Novotel Nha Trang, chef Kieu Thi My Hanh and her team showcase Vietnam’s knack for balancing freshness, texture and fragrant herbs. Pho remains a favourite, while seafood salad with pomelo and mango brings those flavours together in one bright dish.

It’s all an approach backed by partnerships with expert food creators such as Alfie Steiner, whose plant-forward recipes prove healthy food should never taste plain.

2. Better sleep options

Novotel Bali Ubud Resort room — Sleep deeply with Novotel.

There are few travel experiences more disappointing than arriving in a new country, determined to seize the day, only to fall asleep fully clothed by 3pm.

For Australian travellers, jet lag is often an unavoidable part of the journey. That’s one reason Novotel runs sleep-focused initiatives that help guests adjust quickly without compromising on health. We’re talking partnerships with Sydney-based sleep specialist Olivia Arezzolo, known for her advice on everything from better sleep habits to beating jet lag, alongside features like pillow menus, in-room yoga content and tailored sleep guidance.

The sooner you’re operating on local time, the sooner you can get back to more pressing matters – like deciding which spa treatment to book.

3. More ways to move

woman hiking around queenstown new zealand — Stay at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside and explore local hiking trails. (Credit: GettyI mages/ naruedom)

Every place in the world has its own way of getting you moving: whether that’s hiking up ice-bitten mountains before a sauna or gentle stretching by the pool before a facial. From fitness centres to spas, Novotel recognises that wellbeing rarely looks the same.

At Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, activity is inescapable. Here, hiking trails, ski fields, bungee jumps, and white-water rafting have made the region famous. The hotel’s location on the shores of Lake Wakatipu means less time spent organising yourself and more time out there experiencing them. To top it all off, you can book a private hot tub for the evening before heading back into the wilderness tomorrow.

Bali, of course, takes a softer approach. At Novotel Bali Ubud Resort or Novotel Bali Nusa Dua, movement is less about conquering a mountain and more about a dance class between the tropical gardens and lagoon pools. Afterwards, the spa takes over, with traditional treatments like a Lulur body scrub: a combination of rice, turmeric, sandalwood, ginger and jasmine that’ll soothe muscles already relaxed by the Balinese heat.

4. Better connections

Kids will love a stay at Novotel Sharm El Sheikh.

One of the best things about travel is that it gives your family stories you’ll be telling for years. Novotel helps create them with activities that bring everyone together, whether that’s trying something new, learning a local skill, or simply spending more time together.

Go for a distinctly Thai twist at Novotel Phuket Vintage Park, where many of the family activities draw on local culture. Kids can try everything from beginner Thai boxing and language lessons to umbrella painting and – a pastime beloved by children the world over – pool foam parties. Everyone is welcome to join in, whether that’s getting splashed, covered in paint, or simply watching their children discover a new side of Thailand during the dedicated Family & Kids Day.

A different adventure awaits at Novotel Sharm El Sheikh. Kids could be perfectly content with discos, drawing classes and new holiday friends, but the Red Sea has other ideas. Sitting on the edge of Naama Bay, days here might involve snorkelling colourful reefs, taking a boat trip to Ras Mohammed National Park or heading into the desert by quad bike or camel for a Bedouin-style dinner beneath the stars.

5. Location is everything

Surin Beach, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket, Thaiföld — Explore Phuket’s gorgeous beaches. (Credit: Bence Biczo)

Everyone’s idea of wellness looks a little different. With more than 600 hotels across 65 countries, Novotel gives guests the freedom to choose the destination that suits them best. Whether that’s a beachside escape in Phuket, an alpine expedition in Queenstown or a city break in Bangkok, there’s a good chance a Novotel isn’t far away.

All that’s left? Choosing your version of wellbeing.

Discover stays to inspire your everyday at novotel.accor.com.

Few adventure to this part of Indonesia, but here’s why you should