Day 1: Benoa, Bali
Start your adventure on the enchanting island of Bali, located in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and an array of activities, Bali offers a slice of paradise. Explore the southern coast with its white sand beaches, charming fishing villages like Benoa, and terraced rice paddies inland. Often referred to as 'the Island of Gods' for its magnificent temples, Bali is a central hub of Indonesian Hinduism.
Day 2: At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea with a wealth of on-board activities and amenities. Indulge in a spa treatment or maintain your fitness routine at the gym. Depending on the weather, you might relax by the pool or sunbathe on deck. This day without a port of call also offers opportunities to attend conferences or shows, shop in the boutique, or engage with PONANT photographers. For ocean enthusiasts, the upper deck provides a chance to enjoy the sea view and possibly spot marine life. It's a perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and entertainment.
Day 3: Komodo National Park
Discover the wonders of Komodo National Park, situated between Sumbawa and Flores. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises the islands of Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, renowned for the giant Komodo dragons—massive lizards exceeding two meters in length. The park’s volcanic, rugged terrain showcases an array of colours, from the pristine white beaches to the deep blue coral waters and lush green savannahs.
Day 4: Badas, Sumbawa
Badas, a port in Sumbawa Besar, reveals the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Influenced by the Makassarese of Sulawesi, Sumbawa is vibrant with tradition. Join your expedition team and local guides for a bus tour to Pamulung Village, where you'll experience traditional practices like rice pounding and weaving, and witness a local wedding procession. The visit concludes with an exhilarating Sumbawa buffalo race held in honor of your arrival.
Day 5: Probolinggo, Java
Explore Mount Bromo, nestled within the vast Tengger caldera surrounded by a sea of sand. This ancient volcanic complex, dating back around 820,000 years, features five overlapping stratovolcanoes and has inspired countless legends. A bus tour will take you to this strikingly surreal site, where the Hindu Tengger people revere it as the place of a prince's sacrifice.
Day 6: At Sea
Take advantage of another day at sea to enjoy the ship’s amenities. Relax at the spa, stay active in the fitness center, or enjoy the pool and sun deck. Engage in on-board conferences, shows, and shopping, or meet the ship’s photographers. For those who love the ocean, visit the upper deck for spectacular sea views and the chance to see marine species, blending relaxation with entertainment.
Day 7: Semarang
Situated on Java's northern coast, Semarang is a vibrant port town influenced by Chinese, Indo-Arabic, and European cultures. Explore the old town with its colonial architecture and visit the Chinatown district. For a cultural immersion, venture inland to Yogyakarta and the Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world.
Day 8: At Sea
Enjoy another day at sea, taking full advantage of the ship's amenities and activities. Relax in the spa, keep fit in the gym, or enjoy the pool and sun deck. Attend on-board conferences, shows, or shop in the boutique. For those interested in the sea, the upper deck offers great views and the possibility to spot marine life, making for a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment.
Day 9: Ujung Kulon National Park, Java
Explore Ujung Kulon National Park at Java’s westernmost tip. This sanctuary is home to the last remaining Javan rhinoceroses and features stunning forests, rugged coastlines, and beautiful islands. The park’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife make it a highlight of the expedition.
Day 10: Sailing Along Krakatoa
Sail through the Sunda Strait, home to the infamous Krakatoa volcano. Known for its catastrophic eruption in 1883, Krakatoa remains a significant geological site. Since 1927, the active Anak Krakatau ("Child of Krakatoa") has formed, with ongoing eruptions alternating with quiet periods. Activities will depend on volcanic activity and may include ship-based viewing or a zodiac tour.
Day 11: Belitung Islands
Discover the Belitung Islands, located southeast of Sumatra. This lesser-known archipelago, reminiscent of the Seychelles, is recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark. With its pristine beaches, dense forests, and unique granite rock formations, Belitung offers a serene escape and an opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of Indonesia.
Day 12: At Sea
Another day at sea allows you to fully enjoy the ship’s facilities and services. Relax at the spa, stay active in the fitness center, or enjoy the pool and sun deck. Engage in on-board activities, shopping, or meet with photographers. The upper deck provides fantastic views and potential sightings of marine life, creating a perfect mix of relaxation and enjoyment.
Day 13: Singapore
Conclude your journey in Singapore, a city-state renowned for its vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Explore Marina Bay, the historic center with its blend of neoclassical and modern architecture, and the topiary-lined Orchard Road with its numerous shopping centers. Savour local cuisine in the bustling Chinatown and Little India markets. Visit Raffles Dock, where Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, is said to have arrived in 1819.
