Discover Our Expedition Cruises
From humble beginnings on the Great Barrier Reef over 40 years ago, we have taken our unique style of Australian expedition cruising to the far-flung lands of the Kimberley, Tasmania and the Small Islands of Japan and Papua New Guinea. Wherever we go, we have one purpose – taking small groups of like-minded explorers to the most remote parts of the world with expert guidance and warm Australian hospitality.
Onboard with Coral Expeditions
Watch our new 10-minute video, showcasing our three purpose-built ships. Take an inside look at the ship layouts, onboard experience, and our friendly crew. Discover more about Coral Expeditions and see what makes us stand out from the rest.
EXPEDITION: KIMBERLEY DOCUMENTARY
This short travel film follows the journey of our 10-night voyage along the remote Kimberley coastline.
Book Your Expedition Cruise Online
Explore our range of itineraries online. When you are ready, you can reserve your stateroom through our website with a 20% deposit payment.
Coral Expeditions on Social Media
At Coral Expeditions, we believe travel should be immersive, personal, and enriching.
Our small-ship voyages are designed to take you deeper—into remote landscapes, vibrant cultures, and extraordinary natural environments. Led by our expert team and guided by nature, every expedition offers a chance to learn, connect, and explore with purpose.
This is expedition cruising, shaped by over 40 years of experience on some of the world’s most remarkable coastlines.
#CoralExpeditions #ExpeditionCruising #ExploreWithPurpose #SmallShipCruise #AdventureTravel #AustralianCruise
Aug 20

Ready…set…explore…Indonesia 🇮🇩
Small ship, big adventures! Join the expedition with Coral Expeditions.
Island Expires & Ancient Mariners 🌊🏯
Aug 19

Explore the vastness of Indonesia.
Join us on a 14-night small-ship expedition through the lesser-travelled eastern islands of Indonesia, where remote communities, time-honoured traditions and dramatic natural landscapes await. Journey across the Banda Sea, visiting coastal villages and highland settlements to experience local culture up close. Discover traditional boatbuilding towns, hike to panoramic island viewpoints and explore colourful volcanic crater lakes. Along the way, spot rare wildlife including the iconic Komodo Dragon, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and witness daily life in regions few travellers reach. This voyage offers a rare opportunity to connect with the diverse cultures and environments that shape this extraordinary part of the world.
Discover the voyage here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/islands-indonesia/island-empires-ancient-mariners-makassar-darwin-14-nights/
(Please note this voyage was previously named "In the Wake of the Makassans")
Aug 19

A sweet moment shared in the Kimberley between mother and baby.
Showing off for our guests!😘
Aug 18

🚨4 All-New Expeditions 🌴
Step into worlds few travelers ever reach.
In 2026 and 2027, we’re offering rare access to remote, ship-only destinations — from the rugged beauty of our northern neighbors to the vibrant, seldom-visited communities of Papua New Guinea.
These are journeys deep into regions where roads don’t reach and traditions run deep — where warm welcomes from local communities offer a glimpse into ways of life rarely seen by outsiders.
Only a select few will get the chance to experience this. Once these voyages fill, they’re gone. Don’t miss your chance to be part of something truly rare.
Aug 14

Early mornings… a pro or con of expedition cruising?
💯 Absolutely a PRO.
When you`re expedition cruising, you’re not following a strict schedule. You’re following nature’s. And nature likes an early start. Waking up with the sun means front-row seats to some of the most breathtaking sunrises you’ll ever witness. Golden light spills over ancient sandstone escarpments, mist lifts from red rock gorges, and silence is broken only by birdsong.
It’s also prime time for wildlife. This is when animals are on the move. Wallabies navigate rocky ledges, brahminy kites ride the morning thermals, saltwater crocodiles bask along the riverbanks, and jabirus stalk the mudflats. The Kimberley is waking up, and you get to be part of it.
Early starts also mean more time ashore before the tides shift or the weather changes, giving you a better shot at those off-the-beaten-track landings. Whether it’s hiking to a hidden rock art site, cruising through mangrove-lined creeks, or watching Montgomery Reef rise with the tide, it all begins before most travellers have even had their first cup of coffee.
So yes, early mornings aren’t just part of the adventure.
They are the Kimberley.
Aug 13

Exciting sea day moments from August! 🐋
The Humpback Highway provides exceptional opportunities to witness humpbacks, dolphins, and even flying fish! If you’ve always wanted to explore northern Australian waters and see this stunning coastline up close, now is your perfect time to cruise with us.
From August to September, our cruises take you to some of Australia’s most remote and breathtaking regions — including the Abrolhos Islands, the wild escarpments of the Kimberley, and the culturally rich coasts of Cape York and Arnhem Land. Whether you`re snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, watching whales breach against dramatic backdrops, or stepping ashore to learn about ancient Indigenous cultures and maritime history, every day is filled with unforgettable experiences.
Traveling aboard Coral Expeditions means small-group exploration, expert-guided excursions, and exclusive access to places few ever get to see. Discover the raw beauty, wildlife, and stories of Australia’s north on a journey that’s as enriching as it is awe-inspiring.
Aug 12

On our Abrolhos Islands and Coral Coast cruise, guests aboard Coral Geographer had the rare opportunity to visit the Montebello Islands, a remote and historically significant destination that is largely inaccessible to the general public. On these small-ship cruises, travelers are taken to the very waters where the UK conducted its largest nuclear test in Australia, Mosaic G2, in 1956. While the islands have since recovered much of their natural beauty, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, traces of the site’s atomic past remain. Guides provide historical context during visits to Alpha and Trimouille Islands, where remnants of military infrastructure and test sites still exist. It`s a unique blend of history and nature, where guests can snorkel in pristine waters one moment, then walk among relics of the nuclear age the next — a sobering reminder of Cold War tensions played out in one of the world’s most remote locations.
Aug 12

Your next unforgettable moment awaits with the release of our limited New Zealand voyages, offering an expedition experience like no other.
With only two exclusive cruises available this season, now is the time to act. Journey along New Zealand’s spectacular southern coastlines, where over 7,000 kilometres of rugged beauty reveal towering peaks, ancient rainforests, and remote shores alive with fur seals and seabirds. Venture deep into the heart of Fiordland to explore the legendary Milford, Doubtful, and Dusky Sounds, then cruise from Bluff to Bluff and Bluff to Wellington aboard a purpose-built expedition ship designed for both adventure and comfort. Discover the cultural richness of Kaikoura and Dunedin, uncover Māori and early settler history in hidden corners of the South Island, and immerse yourself in guided hikes and Xplorer tender excursions each day. With fresh local cuisine and warm hospitality waiting onboard each evening, this is expedition cruising at its finest. Back by popular demand and filling quickly, these voyages are not to be missed. Secure your stateroom today and be part of something truly extraordinary.
Discover the voyages here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/new-zealand/
Aug 11

Have a travel itch that no ordinary destination can scratch? Dreaming of a place so remote, so untouched, that even Google Images can barely offer a glimpse? It’s time to look beyond the usual and set your sights on our Melanesian neighbouring islands. These are the kinds of places where the maps grow quiet and the world feels beautifully wild. Here, ancient traditions live on, the landscapes are raw and breathtaking, and every moment feels like a secret only a few have discovered. Explore vibrant blue economies and step into local life in a way that few travellers ever do. If your soul has been craving something real, something off the beaten path, this just might be your next great escape.
Itineraries coming soon...🌴👀
Aug 7

Guests exploring the breathtaking Kimberley coastline consistently rave about the comfort and capability of our Xplorer tender vessels. Specially designed for this rugged and remote region, the Xplorers allow effortless access to otherwise unreachable beaches and secluded inlets, thanks to their flat-bottomed hulls and front ramps for smooth walk-off disembarkation. With comfortable seating for up to 70 guests, open sides for panoramic views, and a shaded roof for protection from the Kimberley sun, these vessels provide a relaxed and immersive way to experience the dramatic landscape. Clear awnings shield against wind and spray, while the onboard sound system enhances each journey with expert interpretation of the region’s natural and cultural wonders. Guests particularly appreciate the seamless transfers to Zodiacs, the onboard toilet, and the sense of security offered by built-in safety features and reliable communication with the ship. Powered by high-speed, long-range engines, the Xplorers are as dependable as they are comfortable, making them a favorite part of the Kimberley expedition experience.
Aug 4

Guests aboard Coral Adventurer witnessed a powerful moment of nature at Montgomery Reef, Australia’s largest inshore reef system, which covers approximately 400 square kilometres and stretches over 80 kilometres along the Kimberley coast. Known for its extreme tidal shifts up to 10 metres - the reef dramatically transforms as water rushes away, revealing vast coral flats and creating strong currents. This tawny nurse shark had likely been swimming across the reef during high tide but became trapped as the water receded rapidly. Stranded and fully exposed, the sight offered a rare and striking reminder of the ocean’s power and the challenges marine life face in such a dynamic environment.
📸 Stan
#TheKimberley #AustraliasNorthWest #MontgomeryReef #CoralExpeditions #WesternAustralia
Jul 15

When the South Pacific looks this inviting, how can you resist diving in?
Picture yourself swimming in crystal-clear waters, discovering remote islands, and soaking up unforgettable sunsets.
In January 2026, three epic voyages will take you across the Pacific, each one filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments.
This summer, swap the Australian heat for something extraordinary. Adventure awaits.
See it for yourself: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea-micronesia-melanesia/
Jul 7

June in the Kimberley was impossibly beautiful.
Clear, crisp days stretched beneath endless blue skies, and the land felt alive with colour and movement. Wildlife sightings were at their peak, freshwater crocs drifted silently through still waterways, turtles crossed remote beaches, and rock wallabies darted across ochre cliffs.
The rivers were full, the waterfalls flowing, and the best of the Kimberley was on full display. From ancient gorges to glowing sunsets, every moment felt like it belonged in a dream.
Now, as the season deepens, we can’t wait to see the magic of July unfold.
#KimberleyMagic #VisitKimberley #ExploreWA #WesternAustralia #KimberleyWildlife #WildWA #OutbackWA #WAAdventures #DiscoverWA #WildernessWA #NatureWA #TravelWA #KimberleyCoast #WATourism #AustraliaOutback
Jul 3

Dreaming of an escape far from the norm? Imagine venturing to islands so remote they barely register on Google Earth, places you’ve likely never heard of, where the modern world feels a lifetime away.
Journey to Micronesia, where the largest island you’ll visit, Pohnpei, stretches 334.1 km² and offers a world of dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and the mysterious stone city of Nan Madol. Over 21 nights, this voyage carries you deep into the Pacific to communities where stone money is still valued, ancestral legends are passed down through song and story, and guests are welcomed with dances, leis, and genuine warmth. Explore Kosrae’s mangrove-lined coasts, dive into the haunting wrecks of Truk Lagoon, and snorkel the vibrant protected reefs of Ant Atoll. On islands like Ifalik and Lamotrek, rarely accessible to outsiders, experience traditional canoe sailing, handwoven crafts, and ceremonial customs that have remained unchanged for generations. Between these rare encounters, unwind on deck with expert-led lectures and fresh locally inspired cuisine. This isn’t just a tropical escape. It’s a journey into the heart of the Pacific’s living heritage.
Find your self a new adventure on our Islands and Atolls of Micronesia voyage here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea/through-the-islands-atolls-of-micronesia-rabaul-to-sorong-21-nights/
Jul 1

International Day of the Seafarer 🛳⚓️
Today we pay tribute to the incredible individuals who dedicate their lives to the sea.
At Coral Expeditions, our seafarers are the soul of our voyages. They bring knowledge, passion and care to every journey. They are the ones who guide us safely through remote waters, who share stories and insights with our guests, and who quietly take care of every detail behind the scenes.
Their commitment to the maritime industry and to our team is something we never take for granted. We are proud and grateful to have them as part of our Coral family.
To all the seafarers around the world and especially to those who sail with us, thank you. Your work is extraordinary and deeply valued.
#InternationalDayoftheSeafarer #CoralExpeditions #CoralCrew #MaritimeIndustry
Jun 25

Winter in the Kimberley is our kind of wonderland.
Trade cold mornings for sun-drenched days, red cliffs, and turquoise seas. It’s the perfect time to escape the chill and explore one of Australia’s most extraordinary regions.
Jump into one of our upcoming cruises before the season ends or start planning your winter escape for next year.
#KimberleyCruise #CoralExpeditions #SmallShipAdventure #ExploreAustralia #WinterEscape
Jun 25

Seasonal Visitors of the Kimberley Skies
Every year, the Kimberley becomes a crucial stopover for thousands of migrating birds. It is a crossroads between hemispheres and a sanctuary shaped by tides, monsoon rains and vast untouched landscapes.
As the seasons shift, birds arrive from as far away as Siberia, drawn to the rich feeding grounds of tidal mudflats, mangrove forests and freshwater wetlands. Here they rest, breed or fuel up for journeys that span continents.
Others call the Kimberley home year round, thriving in its remote gorges, floodplains and river systems. Together, these resident and visiting birds create a dynamic spectacle. It is a living rhythm of arrival and departure written across the sky.
To witness this great movement is to see a story of endurance, instinct and connection. It plays out quietly, above and around us.
Keep your eyes to the skies. You never know what rare traveller might pass by.
Can you name all of the birdlife pictured?
#KimberleyWildlife #BirdMigration #NatureInMotion #CoralExpeditions #TopEndTales #RemoteAustralia #BirdwatchingAustralia
Jun 18

Fancy a reef trip?
How about spending seven nights exploring some of the Great Barrier Reef’s most remarkable and hard-to-reach locations?
This isn’t your typical reef cruise. You’ll visit places that most travellers never get the chance to see. Think remote Osprey Reef with its dramatic drop-offs and thriving marine life, the quiet beauty of Sudbury Cay, and island stops like Lizard, Fitzroy, and Cooktown. These places are only accessible by sea and feel wonderfully secluded.
With the wet season now arriving later, November and December offer ideal conditions. The water is warm, the coral is vibrant, and the days stretch out slowly. It’s the perfect time to switch off, head off the beaten track, and experience the reef the way few ever do.
Jun 16

Need a sign to take another holiday?
There are only 16 departures remaining in our iconic Kimberley season before we set sail for an exciting international program.
In the next six months, we’ll be exploring extraordinary destinations including Cape York, the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, the South Pacific Islands, and even a full Circumnavigation of Australia.
Don’t forget to take advantage of your Xplorers Club member discount, along with Family & Friends benefits. These are adventures you won’t want to miss!
Chat with our onboard team or call our friendly reservations team to secure your stateroom and the adventure of a lifetime.
Jun 16

For many, a journey to the Kimberley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—remote, rugged, and unforgettable. Yet those who venture here often find it leaves a lasting imprint. There’s something about the land—the towering geology, the ancient stories etched into the landscape—that stirs a deep sense of wonder and a desire to return. It’s a place where escape truly ignites your adventurous spirit; it demands to be seen and experienced. To understand the Kimberley is to witness it through the rhythm of its changing seasons, each revealing something new. It’s the kind of place worth visiting not just once, but again and again.
Jun 12

Tasmania is a breath of fresh air – wild, raw, and impossibly beautiful. It’s where dolphins dance through crystal-clear waters and the ocean stretches endlessly, like you’ve reached the edge of the world. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to slow down, reconnect, and feel something real – this is it.
Whether you’re looking for a short escape or something longer @coralexpeditions has the perfect trip for you.
#DiscoverTasmania #Tasmania #SeeAustralia #ExploreTasmania #WildTasmania #TasmanianWilderness #TasmaniaNature #DolphinsOfTasmania #MarineMagic #OceanAdventure #EdgeOfTheWorld #NatureEscape #BucketListTrip #TravelAustralia #IncredibleAustralia
Jun 8

The meaning of life is to explore it.
To stand where red earth meets the turquoise sea. To sail where ancient stories echo through sandstone cliffs and time stands still.
In the Kimberley, you’re not just traveling—you’re surrendering. To raw beauty. To endless horizons. To moments that make you feel so small, yet so profoundly alive.
With Coral Expeditions, you don’t just see the ocean—you feel it. The pulse of the tides, the silence of remote bays, the power of a culture older than time.
This is more than freedom.
It’s escape.
It’s connection.
It’s peace.
Because sometimes, you have to leave the world behind to truly understand your place in it.
#ExploreMore #KimberleyCruise #CoralExpeditions #MeaningOfLife #OceanSoul
Jun 6

This time of year, the Kimberley reveals its best self.
The dry season settles over the land in June and July, bringing cloudless skies and golden light. Days are warm and inviting, nights are cool and still. It’s a time when the red cliffs glow at sunset and the air carries the promise of adventure.
Waterfalls—fed by the memory of the wet season—still cascade down ancient escarpments. King George and Mitchell Falls continue their journey, their power softened but not yet stilled. This is the moment when land and water exist in perfect harmony.
Wildlife stirs all around. Saltwater crocodiles bask in the sun, sea turtles glide beneath the surface, and birds fill the skies with colour and sound. The Kimberley is alive and at ease.
With the humidity gone and the mosquitoes with it, every hike, every excursion, every moment on deck feels more effortless. More yours.
And in this light, so clear and pure, the stories of the land are easier to see. Rock art sites—etched in ochre and shadow—speak of deep time and cultural memory, offering quiet awe to those who make the journey.
There’s no better time to sail this ancient coast.
#TheKimberley #ExploreTheKimberley #KimberleyAustralia #OutbackAustralia #SeeAustralia #WesternAustralia #AustraliaTravel #WildAustralia #WaterfallsOfInstagram #DrySeason #WinterInAustralia #ExpeditionCruise #ScenicFlight #HikingAdventures #IndigenousAustralia #RockArt #CulturalHeritage #NatureLovers #AustralianWildlife #OffTheBeatenPath
Jun 3

Our Fleet of Expedition Ships & Tenders
Our fleet of three expedition ships are Australian-flagged and crewed. With only 120 guests, there are no queues, long waits, or assigned meal slots. Instead, enjoy a relaxed, convivial atmosphere shared with like-minded explorers. The shallow draft and high manoeuvrability of our ships gets us closer to explore the sheltered bays, hidden inlets and fishing villages inaccessible to larger ships. All our ships feature our trademark Xplorer tenders, our open-sided safari boats that make excursions pleasant and safe.