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.
Our classic 10-night voyage explores this rugged land carved by the powerful forces of nature. Thrilling rides through Horizontal Falls, showers under King Cascade, ancient rock art, crocodiles basking on rock ledges – this is a truly Australian adventure.
Departs April to September 2025 & 2026
The rich history and diverse marine life of Raja Ampat and Spice Islands are brought to life as Coral Geographer retraces the ancient routes of spice merchants trading Chinese silks for cloves, Indian cotton for nutmeg and Arabian coffee for pepper. Explore some of the hundreds of rarely visited islands of Raja Ampat whose waters harbour over 75% of the world’s coral and fish species.
Charter flight to/from Sorong is included.
Departs Sep 2025,
Feb & Mar 2026
Discover Japan’s rich culture, from the bustling energy of Tokyo to the serene charm of coastal island villages. This journey takes you deep into the heart of Japan’s vibrant traditions and timeless landscapes.
Departs 4 & 18 October,
2 November 2025
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
Onboard Coral Adventurer, guests set out early for Montgomery Reef, arriving at the peak of the low tide. The reef stood fully exposed at three meters in height, revealing coral formations and cascading waterfalls rarely seen. The winds had eased as we entered the sheltered waters, and the sun broke through, creating perfect conditions. We spotted reef egrets, terns, and turtles before witnessing a rare moment—a crocodile with a green turtle in its jaws. After a tense 30-minute struggle, the turtle managed to escape, an unforgettable sight. With no other vessels around, we had the reef to ourselves—a perfect way to begin our Kimberley season.
📸Captured by Expedition Team members Luke, Lachlan, and Ester.
#CoralExpeditions #MontyReef #KimberleyCruising #WildlifeEncounter #ExpeditionCruise #RemoteAustralia #ReefExploration #NatureUnscripted #TidalWonders #ExploreTheKimberley #BucketListAdventure #CrocodileVsTurtle #UntouchedBeauty #SmallShipCruising #AdventureAwaits
Apr 1
Where Will Your Curiosity Take You in 2025?
Set out on a journey through the Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea. Departing from Cairns or Madang, this expedition takes you deep into landscapes rarely seen—volcanic peaks, vast rainforests, and mighty rivers that shape remote villages and rich traditions.
Sail past the Kadovar Islands, venture up the Sepik River to discover riverside life unchanged for centuries, and browse intricate masks and carvings at village markets. Snorkel or dive the vibrant Fly Islands reefs, and witness the surreal Bubbling Springs Reef at Dobu.
A journey here is more than travel—it’s an exploration of culture, nature, and the spirit of adventure.
Captured by Expedition Team member Luke
Mar 25
POV: Your camera roll after pioneering the first trip of the Kimberley 2025 season! Full of iconic destinations, memories and experiences. Who is coming onboard this year?
Mar 24
🪸🐠🛳️🤿
Guests have boarded Coral Discoverer on a citizen science expedition to the Great Barrier Reef, sailing from Brisbane back to her home port of Cairns. Over the next few days, they’ll dive into hands-on experiences with leading research experts, exploring remote reefs, islands, and marine habitats. From witnessing turtle conservation at Mon Repos Turtle Centre to snorkeling alongside manta rays at Lady Elliot Island, every moment is a chance to connect with the reef like never before. They’ll contribute to species surveys, help restore coral reefs, and even lend a hand at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. With visits to the Museum of Underwater Art and participation in groundbreaking programs like Coral Watch and Eye on the Reef, this journey is all about making a real impact.
Stay tuned as we share highlights from this incredible voyage! #CoralDiscoverer #GreatBarrierReef #CitizenScience #ExpeditionCruise
Mar 20
Not sure when to visit the Kimberley? A tough decision when our Kimberley season is broken down in three distinct periods known as, “Waterfall,” “Peak,” and “Whale”. Find your perfect month and let’s get sailing! 🛳️ 💦🌅🐳
➡️Swipe through to find when to visit these Kimberley highlights!
Mar 20
A diver’s delight! These stunning images were captured by Australian Geographic’s Nature Photographer of the Year 2022, Ashlee Jensen.🪸
As part of her award, Ashlee won a voyage with us—and she recently set sail on our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands expedition. Her lens has beautifully captured the vibrant marine world and untamed landscapes of this remote paradise.
A beautiful reminder of just how incredible our underwater world truly is.
Learn more about Ashlee and her photography on her profile here: @ashkarasphotography
Swipe through to see the wonders she encountered beneath the surface! #RajaAmpat #SpiceIslands #UnderwaterPhotography #ExpeditionCruising
Mar 19
Join Coral Expeditions on our final expedition series through Japan and the Philippines. Sail past Japan’s stunning coastlines, where ancient temples, sacred shrines, and vibrant cities offer a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Then, venture into the Philippines, where crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs invite exploration and relaxation. From Japan’s serene gardens and volcanic peaks to the Philippines’ pristine beaches and hidden coves, each day unveils new wonders. With our deep local knowledge and personalized service, we bring these two extraordinary regions together in one seamless and unforgettable adventure. 🥢🇯🇵🗾
Mar 17
Banda Neira, the heart of Indonesia’s historic Banda Islands, is a hidden gem where rich cultural heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty. Once the world’s only source of nutmeg and mace, the island blends colonial charm with warm hospitality. The Banda people, known for their kindness and deep connection to the land and sea, carry on traditions passed through generations, from intricate spice farming to vibrant storytelling and music. Coral Expeditions guests can explore nutmeg plantations, stroll past Dutch-era architecture, and experience the lively local markets. The island’s waters offer world-class diving and snorkeling, making Banda Neira a highlight of our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage.
You too can experience this slice of paradise with our remaining 2025 September departure or plan your visit for 2026 with a variety of dates: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/spice-islands-west-papua/raja-ampat-and-spice-islands/#fares-availability
Mar 17
At Coral Expeditions, we take great pride in our heritage of expert navigation and sustainable exploration. For over 40 years, our small ships have ventured into some of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations, guided by a deep respect for the environment and local communities.
Our voyages are carefully designed to tread lightly, allowing guests to experience nature’s wonders without leaving a lasting footprint. From the rugged coastlines of northern Australia to the vibrant reefs of the Coral Sea, we navigate with precision and care, ensuring safe passage while embracing the spirit of true expedition travel.
Through our commitment to eco-tourism, we partner with conservation initiatives, support Indigenous communities, and provide enriching experiences that foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Whether snorkeling at remote reefs, exploring ancient cultural sites, or learning from our expert guides, guests can be assured that their journey is one of discovery, education, and respect for the environments we explore.
🍃🌏🐠🗺️
Mar 16
The Cape York Peninsula coastline is a wild and remote stretch of over 1,200 kilometers, where rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and vast mangrove systems meet the waters of the Torres Strait, the Coral Sea, and the Gulf of Carpentaria. To the east, the Great Barrier Reef fringes the coast, offering vibrant coral formations, turquoise waters, and islands like Lizard Island and Restoration Island. In contrast, the western coastline is marked by mudflats, tidal estuaries, and dense mangrove forests, critical habitats for fish, birdlife, and the region’s iconic saltwater crocodiles. At the northernmost tip, the land narrows into a rocky headland, where strong currents shape the island-dotted seascape of the Torres Strait. From secluded white-sand beaches to thriving marine ecosystems, Cape York’s coastline is one of Australia’s most unspoiled and breathtaking natural frontiers.
Mar 13
🌊🐠 POV: You booked a Coral Expeditions Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage… and this was your underwater paradise. 💙✨
From vibrant coral gardens to schools of tropical fish, every dive and snorkel reveals a world beyond imagination.
Who’s adding this to their bucket list? 👀⚓
#RajaAmpat #SpiceIslands #CoralExpeditions #ExpeditionCruising #UnderwaterWonderland
📸Captured by Expedition Team Members Cara and Mariah
Mar 13
The Torres Strait is home to the Torres Strait Islanders, an Indigenous Australian people with a distinct culture, language, and identity separate from mainland Aboriginal groups. The Torres Strait Islands, located between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea, are home to communities with strong connections to the sea, rich storytelling traditions, and vibrant art, music, and dance. The culture blends influences from Melanesian, Australian Aboriginal, and European heritage.
Thursday Island (Waiben) is the administrative and cultural hub of the Torres Strait, with a population of around 2,500 people. Historically, it was a major pearling center, attracting workers from Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Today, its residents include Torres Strait Islanders, Aboriginal Australians, and people of Asian and European descent.
Torres Strait Islanders are skilled seafarers, relying on fishing, trading, and traditional navigation. Their customs and traditions revolve around the sea, with ceremonies, songs, and dances reflecting their deep connection to their island environment.
Mar 11
Are you ready for waterfall season? We are! As the Kimberley’s rivers swell and cascades roar to life, there’s no better time to explore this untamed wilderness—and no place we’d rather be. Departing from Broome today, Coral Adventurer will be the first of our fleet to sail through this spectacular region, where thundering waterfalls, lush landscapes, and dramatic gorges make this season truly unforgettable. Stay tuned as we venture deep into one of Australia’s most breathtaking natural wonders!
🎥 Video captured by Seb Bang
#KimberleyCruising #WaterfallSeason #CoralAdventurer #ExploreTheKimberley #BroomeToDarwin
Mar 10
Guests aboard Coral Expeditions, Coral Adventurer had the opportunity to explore the remote beauty of Cape Peron, where the striking contrast of red cliffs, white beaches, and turquoise waters created an unforgettable landscape. In Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed region, they ventured ashore to discover scenic coastal trails, lookout points, and secluded beaches, with our expert guides sharing insights into the area’s rich ecology and diverse wildlife.
Mar 10
Guests aboard Coral Adventurer were treated to a delightful encounter with the playful Australian sea lion pups of the Easter Group, part of the remote Houtman Abrolhos Islands in Western Australia. As the expedition vessel anchored in the sheltered waters, the curious pups emerged, playfully darting through the shallows and investigating our guests with their characteristic inquisitiveness.
The Abrolhos Islands, known for their rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs, provided a stunning backdrop for this special wildlife encounter, leaving guests with lasting memories of one of Australia’s most endearing marine species.
🦭🩷
📸 Captured by Expedition Team members Allan & Howard
Mar 10
The Tip of Cape York, often referred to simply as “The Tip,” is the northernmost point of mainland Australia. Located in Queensland’s remote Cape York Peninsula, it is a rugged and iconic destination, marked by a sign that reads “You are standing at the northernmost point of the Australian continent.”
Surrounded by turquoise waters and overlooking the Torres Strait, The Tip offers breathtaking coastal views, with nearby islands visible on clear days. The journey to this remote landmark is an adventure in itself, with travelers navigating red-dirt tracks, dense rainforests, and tidal river crossings.
Rich in Indigenous culture, the region is home to the Gudang Yadhaykenu people, the traditional custodians of the land. It also played a strategic role in World War II, with military relics still scattered throughout the area.
For those traveling with Coral Expeditions, reaching The Tip is an unforgettable moment, offering a rare chance to stand at the very edge of the Australian continent, immersed in the wild beauty of Cape York.
Mar 9
Osprey Reef is a remote and spectacular atoll in the Coral Sea, about 220 km northeast of Cairns, Queensland. It’s part of the Coral Sea Marine Park and is known for its dramatic underwater topography, including sheer drop-offs, caves, and deep-water trenches that plunge over 1,000 meters.
As part of our Torres Strait & Cape York expedition, Coral Expeditions guests have the rare opportunity to visit this world-renowned dive site, where exceptional visibility reveals vibrant coral gardens and large pelagic species like sharks, manta rays, and barracudas. Our expedition ships provide exclusive access to this remote reef, offering guided snorkeling and diving experiences that showcase its breathtaking underwater landscapes.
Mar 4
Have you ever wondered how to reach the northernmost point of Australia? It’s a unique challenge that many attempt by 4WD, helicopter, or private charter.
Coral Expeditions offers a different way to experience this remote region through a small ship expedition, exploring the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York’s coastlines. Aboard the Coral Discoverer, with a maximum of 72 guests, you’ll visit the northern Great Barrier Reef, hike Cape York`s coastal trails, and discover the rarely seen Torres Strait Islands. Home to nearly 300 islands between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, the Torres Strait boasts a rich Indigenous culture, uninhabited sand cays, isolated islands, and pristine reefs. Our expert guides will share their deep knowledge of the environment and local culture, while local elders provide valuable insights into the customs and stories of this ancient land.
Learn more about the voyage here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/cape-york-arnhem-land/torres-strait-cape-york/
Mar 3
✋🏻 Stop what you are doing!
Raja Ampat & The Spice Islands are calling ☎️
With 2025 or 2026 sailing dates you will want to add this cruise to your bucket list.
Discover the remote islands of Indonesia destination that almost doesn’t seem real. ☁️🐠🌴🌀🏝️
#RajaAmpat #CoralExpeditions #ExploreRajaAmpat #RajaAmpatCruise #SmallShipExpedition #PristineParadise #CoralTriangle #SnorkelRajaAmpat #DiveRajaAmpat #ExpeditionCruising #BucketListTravel #AdventureAwaits
Feb 24
Stanley, Tasmania, is a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved colonial heritage, stunning scenery, and fresh seafood. The town’s most famous landmark is The Nut, a striking volcanic plug that rises 143 meters above sea level. Our guests hiked to the top and took the chairlift for panoramic views of Bass Strait and the surrounding coastline. It’s a must-visit spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike available on our Circumnavigation of Tasmania voyage.
Feb 17
How many people can say they’ve circumnavigated the entire Australian continent by sea?
Sixty days. An entire continent. Endless stories to tell.
After an incredible sold-out inaugural voyage, our Australian Circumnavigation returns for a second sailing. This rare and remarkable journey will take you from the towering sea cliffs of Tasmania to the fiery red gorges of the Kimberley, from remote island outposts to vibrant coastal cities—revealing the full breadth of Australia’s coastline.
Be one of the few people in the world to experience this rare achievement. Join us while we still have staterooms available for our October 17th 2025 departure.
Find out more about this voyage here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/cruise-around-australia-circumnavigation-of-australia/
Feb 17
Our first Kimberley 2025 expeditions are less than a month away! The Kimberley Icons, Ashmore Reef & Rowley Shoals voyage departs Broome on March 11, 2025, and arrives in Darwin, combining our classic 10-day Kimberley itinerary with an exploration of the remote Rowley Shoals Marine Park and Ashmore Reef. Guests on this expedition will pioneer the Kimberley’s waterfall season at its peak, cruising through towering sandstone gorges, riding the Horizontal Falls, and discovering ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock art with expert guides. Witness the dramatic tidal shifts of Montgomery Reef, spot rare birdlife at Ashmore Reef, and snorkel or dive in the pristine waters of Rowley Shoals, home to vibrant coral and diverse marine life. This voyage offers an unforgettable blend of rugged landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class reef experiences.
Thinking of exploring the Kimberley? Contact our reservations team today to secure the best available offer, including options for solo travellers.
Feb 14
When you love travel, exquisite cuisine, and the thrill of adventure, nothing compares to an expedition with Coral Expeditions.
Join us for an unforgettable journey, where breathtaking landscapes, gourmet dining, and the excitement of discovery await at every turn.
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? 🩷
Feb 13
Join Coral Expeditions for our third Citizen Science voyage along the Great Barrier Reef, departing Brisbane on March 20, 2025, and concluding in Cairns. With just 70 guests aboard Coral Discoverer, explore remote reefs and islands alongside leading research experts. Gain hands-on experience at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, meet resident scientists, and collaborate with Project Manta at Lady Elliot Island. Snorkel and dive at John Brewer Reef’s Museum of Underwater Art, assist at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, and contribute to biodiversity monitoring programs. This immersive expedition offers a rare chance to explore, learn, and actively support marine conservation efforts.
Contact our reservations team to secure the best deal available today!
Feb 12
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.
