Our tip
Bali is seriously busy – it’s a long way for us, but just on the doorstep for Australians. The central mountains, or north and west coasts, are quieter.
From Benoa (Bali) to Darwin
Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys
From Benoa (Bali) to Darwin
Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands – with Smithsonian Journeys
Voyage Itinerary
15 May
Setting sail from Benoa (Bali)
It's no surprise to us that Bali remains Indonesia's most popular tourist destination; though the island is not the undiscovered gem it once was, it's still a wonderful place to travel. The beaches, spectacular volcanic scenery and lush green rice terraces lend Bali a natural beauty that seems to dovetail perfectly with the island's distinct Hindu culture, which adorns the landscape with stunning temples. We advise steering clear of the backpacker beaches around Kuta, and heading instead for the quieter south coast resorts or the charming inland town of Ubud, the spiritual centre of the island.
16 May
Indonesia: Sumbawa
Sumbawa is just to the east of Bali and Lombok, though the island is drier, less developed and more conservative than its neighbours. It’s a popular spot for surfers, and home to sleepy villages where locals weave indigo cloth and build traditional wooden boats by hand.
17 May
: Komodo National Park
18 May
Indonesia: Maumere (Flores)
The island of Flores is home to some of the most staggeringly beautiful scenery in the Indonesian archipelago, a lush landscape of smouldering volcanoes, spectacular lakes and verdant paddy fields. Flores is also culturally distinct from the other islands, with a population that is 95% Catholic.
19 May
Indonesia: Kalabahi
The Alor Archipelago is a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving, much less well known than Raja Ampat and Komodo. On the main island, also called Alor, you can learn about the traditions of the Takpala indigenous people and visit the Museum of a Thousand Mokos in Kalabahi, with its collection of bronze kettle drums known as mokos.
20 May
Indonesia: Barat Daya Islands
21 May
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.
22 May
Indonesia: Mommon Peninsula (West Papua)
23 May
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.
24 May
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.
25 May - At sea
26 May
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 Jacques Cartier
- Capacity:
- 184 Guests
- Crew:
- 118 Staff
- Style:
- Refined with a wonderful mix of a modern super yacht and nautical tradition, all with a French flair.
Sleek and stylish, Ponant's wonderful Explorer yachts blend luxury and intimacy with a discreet elegance and tasteful décor.
What we love
Named after six of France's most famous explorers, Le Champlain, Le Lapérouse, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d'Urville, Le Bellot and Le Jacques Cartier offer exciting and adventurous itineraries in the utmost comfort. Technologically advanced, with the latest in environmentally friendly hardware, the new ships embody Ponant's trademark élan and flair, with just 92 spacious rooms and suites, a stylish pool deck and an intimate, refined onboard ambience.
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 near Darwin
Don’t hang around in Darwin itself; if you want to see more of the Top End, we recommend Bamurru Plains.
Beyond Bali
If you have time, make the slightly complicated journey via Labuan Bajo on to Rinca to see the Komodo Dragons.
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.
