Asia & Indian Ocean Expedition Cruises

An array of culture and biodiversity comes alive across Asia, promising an expedition experience abundant in discovery, from the remote islands of Indonesia and the hidden coastlines of Japan to the limestone seascapes of Ha Long Bay. Venture into the continent’s hidden gems and hard-to-reach treasure troves, including Komodo National Park and the secluded rainforests of Borneo where orangutans thrive, and discover traditional island communities across the Indonesian archipelago. An immersive journey awaits, where each day reveals a new discovery, whether by Zodiac, snorkelling beneath turquoise waters brimming with marine life, or with expert guides ashore for enriching and unforgettable tours.

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Best Time to Travel

Komodo Dragons

The best time to see Komodo dragons while on your expedition cruise to Asia is from April through to November. The dry season is an incredibly active time for these creatures, and the weather provides excellent hiking conditions to spot them on excursions.
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Whale Sharks

The most reliable location to spot whale sharks on an expedition cruise is Cenderawasih Bay in West Papua. They are typically present all year-round, here but the period from October through to early winter offers the best chances of spotting them.
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Birds of Paradise

If you’d like better chances to spot the many birds of paradise on your expedition cruise, optimal times to visit are between September to November. During this season, you can witness regular dawn displays from Red Bird-of-paradise and Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise, which are symphonies of songs intended to attract a mate.
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Wildlife

Destination Highlights

Raja Ampat

Located in eastern Indonesia, Raja Ampat is widely recognised as one of the world's richest marine ecosystems. Explore remote islands, hidden lagoons and coral reefs teeming with extraordinary biodiversity, making it a highlight for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts alike.

Komodo National Park

This UNESCO-listed archipelago is best known as the home of the Komodo dragon. Beyond its famous reptiles, the region offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, pink-sand beaches and exceptional underwater habitats rich in marine life.

Philippine Archipelago

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines provides endless opportunities for expedition exploration. Remote islands, limestone cliffs and vibrant coral reefs combine with a rich cultural heritage and abundant marine wildlife.

Inland Sea of Japan

Dotted with islands and historic ports, Japan's Inland Sea offers a fascinating blend of culture and nature. Expedition voyages reveal traditional villages, sacred shrines and scenic coastlines shaped by centuries of maritime history.

Spice Islands (Maluku Islands)

Once at the centre of the global spice trade, the Spice Islands offer a fascinating blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Scattered across eastern Indonesia, these remote islands feature volcanic landscapes, pristine coral reefs and traditional communities. Expedition voyages reveal a lesser-visited side of Asia, where rich biodiversity and centuries of maritime history combine to create an unforgettable experience.

Expedition Cruise Lines in Asia & Indian Ocean

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Emma

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Lisa M

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Dan

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Rebecca

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Laura W

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Claire

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Stacey

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Shirley

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Elizabeth

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