Coral Expeditions

Unique Itineraries

Coral Expeditions offer a wealth of the unique destinations, diverse shore excursions and expert-led programmes. From the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the rugged coast of Tasmania, the phenomenal experience of The Kimberley to the coastal villages and great rivers of South East Asia, the idyllic islands of the South Pacific and the Indian Ocean. Every itinerary is planned with care and attention to allow guests to get closer to the ‘real’ destination.

Curated shore excursions

With a strong focus on visiting places not often accessible to tourists, shore excursions are all included and are designed to be immersive. They promote local interaction and cultural exchange; bringing you closer to nature, culture and history through the spirit of discovery and shared knowledge. Every day typically has at least one stop for water or land-based activities. One of the great benefits of travelling on a small ship is the ability to make impromptu stops when extraordinary opportunities present themselves. Equally, small group sizes ensure that shore excursions are comfortable and enjoyable, but also have minimal impact on the communities and environments visited.

Small ship expedition fleet

On board, you will discover a personalised style of cruising. With Coral Expedition’s ships carrying only 42 to 120 guests, you can say goodbye to queues, long waits and assigned seating. Instead, enjoy a relaxed, convivial atmosphere shared with like-minded explorers. The shallow draft and high manoeuvrability of the purpose-designed expedition ships allows you to get closer on coastal adventures and to explore the sheltered bays and hidden inlets inaccessible to larger ships. Each ship carries an Xplorer tender vessel, which is hydraulically lowered and lifted, enabling guests to transfer for excursions right off the main deck. Coral Discoverer’s Xplorer tender vessel can carry all 72 guests at the same time, while Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer carries all 120 guests in two Xplorer tender vessels. Additionally, Zodiac tenders are utilised for more intrepid excursions or to get even closer to attractions. For those feeling adventurous, complimentary use of the onboard kayaks is great fun.

Outstanding crew

People are at the heart of Coral Expedition’s experience. Throughout the cruise, guests will savour the attentive service of the professional Australian and New Zealand crew. Carefully selected for their engaging personalities, attention to detail and commitment to delivering the highest standards of service, their staff will ensure a warm welcome aboard is received by all. On each voyage, Expedition Leaders bring guests the depth of experience required to put together daily programmes, given prevailing weather and local conditions. They are complemented by Guest Lecturers, who are experts in geology, history or flora and fauna of the region, Marine Biologists and Scuba Instructors, meaning that guests get a true understanding of the destinations through the shared knowledge of the expert onboard team.

Relaxed onboard atmosphere and outstanding dining

True to their Australian heritage, the onboard environment is designed to be casual. There is no dress code or assigned seating at mealtimes. Ship layout encourages mingling and convivial conversation with fellow like-minded passengers. All comfortable staterooms are outside facing, with ensuite facilities, many featuring a private balcony. Complimentary coffee and tea stations are open throughout the day in the lounge and dining areas, as well as plenty of comfortable common spaces. The open bridge policy means guests are encouraged to visit the bridge and observe ship operations. Captains enjoy the open interaction they share with guests, and the crew is handpicked to reflect the friendliness that Australians are renowned for.

At Coral Expeditions dining is a celebration of great food and good company enjoyed in extraordinary destinations. The approach to cuisine is about simplicity and generosity, creating dishes bursting with flavour. They are made from fresh ingredients, sourced locally and sustainably wherever possible. From Australia’s Kimberley and Great Barrier Reef regions through to the exotic Spice Islands, New Guinea and islands of the South Pacific, they have built a community of local providers, farmers and growers. Regional menus champion seasonality, allowing guests to enjoy adapted menus that source local produce at its best. What’s more, is drinks such as beer, wine and spirits are all included during the cruise.