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Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys

Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys

About This Cruise

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

On this 12-day voyage from Bali through the myriad islands of eastern Indonesia to the northern shores of Australia you will sail through the heart of the Coral Triangle, where beaches, mangroves, and rainforests host an amazing biodiversity, and where the surrounding seas comprise the richest coral reef system in the world. You will also encounter a rich human history as you discover the colonial legacy of European powers who fought one another for control of the trade in valuable spices, and as you visit with villagers whose way of life continues age-old traditions.

Leaving Bali, the aptly-named "Island of Gods," your first port of call, on the island of Sumbawa, is also your first encounter with a traditional village, where you will be welcomed by the residents and introduced to some of their customs. This glimpse of ancient and enduring ritual is followed by a day exploring the abundant wildlife of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the eponymous Komodo dragons, giant monitor lizards that grow to more than ten feet long.

On the islands of Flores and Alor, you will experience some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities of the voyage, as well as an opportunity to delve into the customs and traditions of the indigenous Takpala people. And in the Barat Daya Islands you will find more of the same, as well as amazing birdlife, including 162 different species, a number of which are endemic.

A full day in Band Neira in the Maluku Islands (spice islands) introduces you to the history of these small volcanic outcroppings that were fought over by virtually every colonial power interested in the South Pacific and the trade in cloves, nutmeg, and mace. As you walk the streets of the town, you will discover an eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture—the remnants of a long and tumultuous history.

Kitikiti Waterfall and Triton Bay, both on the coast of West Papua, provide two days of unparalleled diving, snorkeling, swimming, and Zodiac cruising in the "epicenter of the Coral Triangle." And your last call, before a day at sea brings you to Darwin, Australia, and the end of the voyage, will be in the Kei Islands, located in the heart of the Malukus, home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    Refined, unhurried cruising with enrichment on board

Type

Ocean, Luxury

Ship

Le Jacques Cartier

Departure Date

15 May 2027

Cruise Line

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Duration

11 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at (01) 554 1010

Itinerary

Indonesia

Benoa, Bali

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities.

Indonesia

Sumbawa Island

No summary for this day yet.

Indonesia

Komodo National Park

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Indonesia

Maumere, Flores

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Indonesia

Kalabahi

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Indonesia

Barat Daya Islands

No summary for this day yet.

Indonesia

Banda Neira

Banda Neira is the main island and town of the minute Banda Archipelago in the Banda Sea some 2500 kilometers away from Jakarta. Although the Portuguese already contacted the Banda Islands for nutmeg and mace in 1512, it was only ninety years later that the Dutch established a trading post on Neira and neighboring Lonthor to export the spices. Rivalries between the Dutch and the British led to forts being built –the ruins of Fort Nassau and the restored Fort Belgica can be visited on Banda Neira. The area surrounding the town still has nutmeg plantations and several sites relate to the Dutch spice trading time.

Indonesia

Mommon Peninsula, West Papua

No summary for this day yet.

Indonesia

Triton Bay

In 2008, the Kaimana Regency declared a 6000 square kilometer (over 2,300 square mile) Marine Protected Area around the waters of Triton Bay. Conservation International maintains an office in Kaimana and a field station out in Triton Bay where visiting scientists can do their work studying the staggering marine biodiversity of the reserve. It is truly second to none, and the area offers everything from the tiniest pygmy seahorses, to large and graceful whale sharks. Triton Bay is known for its beautiful soft coral gardens as well as nesting green turtles, and a population of coastal Bryde’s whales.

Indonesia

Kai Islands

The Kei islands are home to some of the most beautiful, pristine and untouched beaches in the world. They are the most accessible islands of southern Maluku and offer visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling nature of Darwin. Referred to as the hidden gems of Indonesia, Kei Islands are relatively unknown and therefore make for the perfect place to enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.

No summary for this day yet.

Australia

Darwin, Northern Territory

Darwin is Australia's most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it's a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia's shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.

Overview

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

On this 12-day voyage from Bali through the myriad islands of eastern Indonesia to the northern shores of Australia you will sail through the heart of the Coral Triangle, where beaches, mangroves, and rainforests host an amazing biodiversity, and where the surrounding seas comprise the richest coral reef system in the world. You will also encounter a rich human history as you discover the colonial legacy of European powers who fought one another for control of the trade in valuable spices, and as you visit with villagers whose way of life continues age-old traditions.

Leaving Bali, the aptly-named "Island of Gods," your first port of call, on the island of Sumbawa, is also your first encounter with a traditional village, where you will be welcomed by the residents and introduced to some of their customs. This glimpse of ancient and enduring ritual is followed by a day exploring the abundant wildlife of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the eponymous Komodo dragons, giant monitor lizards that grow to more than ten feet long.

On the islands of Flores and Alor, you will experience some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities of the voyage, as well as an opportunity to delve into the customs and traditions of the indigenous Takpala people. And in the Barat Daya Islands you will find more of the same, as well as amazing birdlife, including 162 different species, a number of which are endemic.

A full day in Band Neira in the Maluku Islands (spice islands) introduces you to the history of these small volcanic outcroppings that were fought over by virtually every colonial power interested in the South Pacific and the trade in cloves, nutmeg, and mace. As you walk the streets of the town, you will discover an eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture—the remnants of a long and tumultuous history.

Kitikiti Waterfall and Triton Bay, both on the coast of West Papua, provide two days of unparalleled diving, snorkeling, swimming, and Zodiac cruising in the "epicenter of the Coral Triangle." And your last call, before a day at sea brings you to Darwin, Australia, and the end of the voyage, will be in the Kei Islands, located in the heart of the Malukus, home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.

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Suite

Owner's Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 430 ft² terrace with hot tub and lounge area with 2 deck chairs, sofa, and armchair
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • A bathroom with shower, spa bathtub, and smart mirror
  • Butler service
  • A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
  • A private return transfer
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A fruit basket every day
  • A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Grand Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 344 ft² terrace with two deck chairs and a dining table for four people
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • A bathroom with shower and spa bathtub
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Butler service
  • A fruit basket every day
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Suite

Privilege Suite

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
  • A 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

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Suite

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 86 ft² balcony with four armchairs
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • Priority boarding (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • Butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • A fruit basket every day (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchair, TV, and a courtesy sliding door
  • Two bathrooms with showers

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Deluxe Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Suites on Deck 6 have a 32 ft² private balcony with two armchairs Suites on Deck 5 have a 43 ft² private balcony with two armchairs Suites on Decks 3 and 4 have a private 64 ft² balcony with two armchairs
  • Suites on Deck 3 have a panoramic glass door and porthole; suites on Decks 4, 5, and 6 have a sliding panoramic window
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • An armchair and sofa
  • A bathroom with shower
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival for suites on Decks 5 and 6

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Balcony

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 4m² balcony with two armchairs
  • Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A chaise lounge
  • A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Balcony

Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 4m² balcony with two armchairs
  • A porthole and glass door
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm), and TV
  • A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Direct line telephone
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • 2 ADA stateroom
  • Electronic safe
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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buffet

The Le Nautilus

At the back of deck 4, you will find a gourmet restaurant complete with wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

varies

Grill Restaurant

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

room

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Sun Deck, Pool Deck

The Pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.

Bar, Lounge

The Main Lounge

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

Lounge, Library

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Theatre

Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts, and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

Shop

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

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Bar, Lounge

The Blue Eye

Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.

Studio, Photographers

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return.*

Reception

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Bar

Open Bar

From the moment you board and throughout your cruise, your unlimited drinks are included*, at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, refreshments on your return from an excursion or in the calm of your Stateroom’s balcony: enjoy a large selection of beverages (mineral waters, cold drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea). A selection of premium alcoholic drinks is also available "à la carte".

*It doesn't include premium alcoholic drinks indicated in the Bar Menu. It is valid only for individual personal consumption, without limitations.

Spa, Wellness

The Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations. 

Gym

The Fitness Room

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

Salon

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

The Kids Explorers Club

During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.

A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.

Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.

This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)

To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.

The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.

A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.