PonantEX150527
Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys
Date
2027-05-15
Duration
11 nights
Departure Port
Benoa/Bali
Indonesia
Arrival Port
Darwin
Australia
Rating
Luxury
Theme
—
Ponant
Le Jacques Cartier
Launched
2020
Refitted
—
Tonnage
9,976 GT
Passengers
184
Cabins
92
Crew
118
Length
430 m
Width
18 m
Speed
13 knots
Adults Only
No
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1
Benoa/Bali
Depart 18:00
Bali, Indonesia's Island of the Gods, is a cultural and natural wonderland where ancient Hindu temples, emerald rice terraces, and vibrant artistic traditions converge around the cruise port of Benoa. Must-dos include Ubud's Tegallalang terraces, the cliff-top Uluwatu sunset kecak dance, and feasting on babi guling suckling pig. The dry season from April through October offers the most comfortable conditions.
Day 2
Day 2
Komba Island
Arrive 06:30Depart 11:30
Komba Island (Batu Tara) is an uninhabited, actively erupting volcanic island in Indonesia's Flores Sea, offering expedition cruise passengers spectacular nighttime displays of incandescent lava and volcanic pyrotechnics. Must-do experiences include nighttime volcano viewing from the ship's deck, snorkeling the surrounding nutrient-rich waters, and learning about the traditional whaling culture of nearby Lembata. May through October offers the clearest skies for optimal volcanic viewing.
Day 3
Day 3
Maumere
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Maumere is the principal port of eastern Flores, Indonesia, offering access to world-class diving on recovered coral reefs and the spectacular tri-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu volcano. Visitors should explore the vibrant morning market, taste smoked se'i babi pork and single-origin Flores coffee, and snorkel the diverse fringing reefs of Maumere Bay. The dry season from April to November provides the best conditions for both marine and overland adventures.
Day 4
Day 4
Kalabahi (Takpala)
Arrive 07:00Depart 12:30
Kalabahi is the gateway to Alor Island in eastern Indonesia, where over fifteen distinct languages are spoken and the traditional village of Takpala preserves ancient moko bronze drums used in ceremonial exchange. Must-do experiences include visiting Takpala's traditional houses and drums, diving Alor's world-class reefs with hammerhead sharks and manta rays, and exploring the vibrant morning market. September through November offers peak diving visibility and comfortable conditions.
Day 5
Day 5
Barat Daya Islands
Arrive 08:00Depart 12:00
Barat Daya Islands, Indonesia is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Ponant. Must-do experiences include exploring the vibrant local markets for regional specialties and fresh seafood, and discovering the waterfront quarter where maritime heritage meets contemporary energy. The optimal time to visit is November through April, when dry season brings clear skies and calm seas.
Day 6
Day 6
Banda Neira
Arrive 07:30Depart 18:00
Banda Neira is the historic heart of Indonesia's fabled Spice Islands, where Dutch colonial forts and nutmeg plantations recall the violent origins of the global spice trade. Visitors should explore Fort Belgica, dive the world-class coral walls of the Banda Sea, and taste nutmeg-infused local cuisine. The dry season from September to April offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 7
Day 7
Mommon Peninsula
Arrive 12:00Depart 18:00
Mommon Peninsula in West Papua lies within the Coral Triangle, offering coral reefs rivaling Raja Ampat in diversity, with spectacular soft coral walls and abundant marine life alongside rainforests harboring birds of paradise. Must-do experiences include diving or snorkeling the extraordinary reefs, spotting birds of paradise in the surrounding forests, and exploring Manokwari's multicultural morning market. October through April generally offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 8
Day 8
Triton Bay
Arrive 06:00Depart 18:00
Triton Bay in West Papua is an emerging frontier of world-class diving, where nutrient-rich waters support extraordinary reef diversity and year-round whale shark encounters at traditional fishing platforms, alongside ancient rock art sites and Papuan woodcarving traditions. Must-do experiences include snorkeling with whale sharks beneath the bagan platforms, diving the spectacular soft coral walls, and visiting coastal Kamoro communities. October through April offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 9
Day 9
Kai Islands
Arrive 07:00Depart 12:00
The Kai Islands in far eastern Indonesia's Maluku province feature Pasir Panjang — a three-kilometer sweep of powder-white beach consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful — along with pristine coral reefs, dugong habitat, and a distinctive mel-mel clan system. Must-do experiences include walking the deserted Pasir Panjang beach, snorkeling the Banda Sea coral walls, and visiting traditional boat-building communities. October through March generally offers the calmest seas for exploration.
Day 10
Day 10
At Sea
Day 11
Day 11
Darwin
Arrive 07:00
Darwin is Australia's tropical Top End capital, where sixty-five thousand years of Indigenous heritage meets extraordinary multiculturalism, saltwater crocodiles, and gateway access to Kakadu's ancient rock art. Must-do experiences include the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, swimming beneath Litchfield's waterfalls, and viewing twenty-thousand-year-old Aboriginal paintings at Ubirr. May through October's Dry season offers clear skies and outdoor market culture.
Day 1
Benoa/Bali
Depart 18:00
Bali, Indonesia's Island of the Gods, is a cultural and natural wonderland where ancient Hindu temples, emerald rice terraces, and vibrant artistic traditions converge around the cruise port of Benoa. Must-dos include Ubud's Tegallalang terraces, the cliff-top Uluwatu sunset kecak dance, and feasting on babi guling suckling pig. The dry season from April through October offers the most comfortable conditions.
Day 2
Komba Island
Arrive 06:30Depart 11:30
Komba Island (Batu Tara) is an uninhabited, actively erupting volcanic island in Indonesia's Flores Sea, offering expedition cruise passengers spectacular nighttime displays of incandescent lava and volcanic pyrotechnics. Must-do experiences include nighttime volcano viewing from the ship's deck, snorkeling the surrounding nutrient-rich waters, and learning about the traditional whaling culture of nearby Lembata. May through October offers the clearest skies for optimal volcanic viewing.
Day 3
Maumere
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Maumere is the principal port of eastern Flores, Indonesia, offering access to world-class diving on recovered coral reefs and the spectacular tri-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu volcano. Visitors should explore the vibrant morning market, taste smoked se'i babi pork and single-origin Flores coffee, and snorkel the diverse fringing reefs of Maumere Bay. The dry season from April to November provides the best conditions for both marine and overland adventures.
Day 4
Kalabahi (Takpala)
Arrive 07:00Depart 12:30
Kalabahi is the gateway to Alor Island in eastern Indonesia, where over fifteen distinct languages are spoken and the traditional village of Takpala preserves ancient moko bronze drums used in ceremonial exchange. Must-do experiences include visiting Takpala's traditional houses and drums, diving Alor's world-class reefs with hammerhead sharks and manta rays, and exploring the vibrant morning market. September through November offers peak diving visibility and comfortable conditions.
Day 5
Barat Daya Islands
Arrive 08:00Depart 12:00
Barat Daya Islands, Indonesia is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Ponant. Must-do experiences include exploring the vibrant local markets for regional specialties and fresh seafood, and discovering the waterfront quarter where maritime heritage meets contemporary energy. The optimal time to visit is November through April, when dry season brings clear skies and calm seas.
Day 6
Banda Neira
Arrive 07:30Depart 18:00
Banda Neira is the historic heart of Indonesia's fabled Spice Islands, where Dutch colonial forts and nutmeg plantations recall the violent origins of the global spice trade. Visitors should explore Fort Belgica, dive the world-class coral walls of the Banda Sea, and taste nutmeg-infused local cuisine. The dry season from September to April offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 7
Mommon Peninsula
Arrive 12:00Depart 18:00
Mommon Peninsula in West Papua lies within the Coral Triangle, offering coral reefs rivaling Raja Ampat in diversity, with spectacular soft coral walls and abundant marine life alongside rainforests harboring birds of paradise. Must-do experiences include diving or snorkeling the extraordinary reefs, spotting birds of paradise in the surrounding forests, and exploring Manokwari's multicultural morning market. October through April generally offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 8
Triton Bay
Arrive 06:00Depart 18:00
Triton Bay in West Papua is an emerging frontier of world-class diving, where nutrient-rich waters support extraordinary reef diversity and year-round whale shark encounters at traditional fishing platforms, alongside ancient rock art sites and Papuan woodcarving traditions. Must-do experiences include snorkeling with whale sharks beneath the bagan platforms, diving the spectacular soft coral walls, and visiting coastal Kamoro communities. October through April offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Day 9
Kai Islands
Arrive 07:00Depart 12:00
The Kai Islands in far eastern Indonesia's Maluku province feature Pasir Panjang — a three-kilometer sweep of powder-white beach consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful — along with pristine coral reefs, dugong habitat, and a distinctive mel-mel clan system. Must-do experiences include walking the deserted Pasir Panjang beach, snorkeling the Banda Sea coral walls, and visiting traditional boat-building communities. October through March generally offers the calmest seas for exploration.
Day 10
At Sea
Day 11
Darwin
Arrive 07:00
Darwin is Australia's tropical Top End capital, where sixty-five thousand years of Indigenous heritage meets extraordinary multiculturalism, saltwater crocodiles, and gateway access to Kakadu's ancient rock art. Must-do experiences include the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, swimming beneath Litchfield's waterfalls, and viewing twenty-thousand-year-old Aboriginal paintings at Ubirr. May through October's Dry season offers clear skies and outdoor market culture.
Cabin Categories
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Suite
290 m²Max 3
1
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Suite
290 m²Max 3
2
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic slidging bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Suite
290 m²Max 3
3
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Suite
290 m²Max 3
4
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Suite
484 m²Max 4
5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV
A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table
2 panoramic sliding bay windows
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedFree Wi-FiSafeHair Dryer+14
View Details
Owner's Suite
Suite
484 m²Max 4
OS
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), and second TV
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A bathroom with shower, Balneo bathtub and smart mirror
A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar
A private 40 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and outdoor lounge area with sofa and armchair
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerBathToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler Service+15
View Details
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Suite
9
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
View Details
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Suite
10
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
View Details
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Suite
344 m²Max 3
11
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Butler service
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+14
View Details
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Suite
344 m²Max 3
12
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+14
View Details
Deluxe Stateroom
Balcony
204 m²Max 2
D
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+11
View Details
Prestige Deck 4
Suite
409 m²Max 4
6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler Service+14
View Details
Prestige Deck 5
Balcony
7
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
View Details
Prestige Deck 6
Balcony
8
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
View Details
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