Our tip
Cool and laid back is the style here. Don’t lose face by losing your temper, and don’t fret about delays – arriving on time isn’t polite anyway.
From Manila to Darwin
Exploring the Malay Archipelago
From Manila to Darwin
Exploring the Malay Archipelago
Voyage Itinerary
1 June
Setting sail from Manila
Manila is a sprawling conglomeration of soaring skyscrapers, faded colonial facades and ramshackle slums, and it's certainly not everyone's cup of tea. But if you have the stamina and an inquisitive nature, there is plenty to be enjoyed in the Philippines' boisterous capital, including the world's oldest Chinatown, the historic walled city of Intramuros and the shopping malls of Makati. Grab some respite in Rizal Park, or explore the remarkable Chinese Cemetery, where Manila's wealthiest Chinese citizens are laid to rest in lavish mausoleums, complete with chandeliers, kitchens and air-conditioning!
2 June
Philippines: Cresta De Gallo Island
3 June - At sea
4 June
Philippines: Limasawa Island
5 June to 6 June - At sea
7 June
Indonesia: Tangkoko National Park
8 June - At sea
9 June
Indonesia: Pulau Molana
9 June
Indonesia: Pulau Saparua
10 June
Indonesia: Banda Neira
Banda Neira is part of the Banda Archipelago, often known by the more evocative name of the Spice Islands thanks to the Myristica trees that produce nutmeg and mace. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive here, later supplanted by the Dutch, and the streets are still home to an eclectic mix of colonial architecture.
11 June
Indonesia: Mommon Peninsula (West Papua)
12 June
Indonesia: Triton Bay
The protected marine reserve of Triton Bay rivals Raja Ampat as one of Indonesia’s premier locations for snorkelling and scuba diving. The biodiversity here is remarkable, with species ranging from pygmy seahorses to mighty whale sharks, and it’s also a nesting site for green turtles.
13 June
Indonesia: Kai Archipelago
The Kai Archipelago, part of the Maluku islands, is known for its idyllic beaches. The ancestors of the Kai people are believed to have come here from Bali, but there is no written history, with an oral tradition of stories known as Tom-Tad that are passed down from generation to generation.
14 June - At sea
15 June
Arriving in Darwin
More of a large town than a city, Darwin is less about what’s contained within the city limits and more about the huge expanse of wild landscape that’s outside it. Closer to Jakarta than Sydney, the city really does feel remote in its tropical perch.
Don't miss
With rugged escarpments, sites of Aboriginal art, dramatic waterfalls and huge wetlands, Kakadu National Park is truly beautiful. The iconic scenery is some of Australia’s best, and served as the backdrop to the film 'Crocodile Dundee'.
The ship
Le Soléal
- Capacity:
- 264 Guests
- Crew:
- 145 Staff
- Style:
- Refined with a wonderful mix of a modern super yacht and nautical tradition, all with a French flair.
Sleek and stylish, Le Boréal, Le Soléal, L'Austral and Le Lyrial are wonderful small ships that blend luxury and intimacy with a discreet elegance and tasteful décor.
What we love
These chic sisters are amongst the most stylish ships at sea, with muted natural tones, minimalist interiors and playful splashes of colour. The accommodation is flexible, with the option to combine staterooms and create expansive suites, while the restaurants deliver the sort of outstanding gastronomic experience that you would expect from a French flag cruise line.
inclusions
- All meals in all venues
- Tea, coffee, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- All onboard entertainment
- Unlimited use of the Fitness Centre
- Zodiac outings and landings on expedition sailings
- Complimentary WiFi
- One complimentary excursion per port
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Manila
If you’re a fan of classic colonial hotels, the Manila Hotel is one for you.
Excursions from Manila
Visit the nearby heritage town of Taal and step back in history.
Where to stay near Darwin
Don’t hang around in Darwin itself; if you want to see more of the Top End, we recommend Bamurru Plains.
Visit the Red Centre
From Darwin take a flight to the Red Centre to see the magical sites of Uluru and Kings Canyon, yet another one of those once in a lifetime experiences!
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
cruise news
Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
