Coral Expeditions

Coral Expeditions Australia's Pioneering Cruise Line For 40 years, Coral Expeditions has focused on small ship expedition cruises to remote destinations.

Our fleet of three Australian-flagged and crewed ships are purpose-built for exploring. With no more than 120 guests, there are no queues. Our cuisine is small-batch, our wines are Australian artisanal, and our service is personalised. Come explore your world with Australia’s pioneering cruise line. Our range of expedition destinations include the Kimberley, Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, South Aus

tralia, Australia’s West Coast, Cape York, Arnhem Land, Papua New Guinea, Spice Islands, Raja Ampat, Indian Ocean, Japan and beyond.

Stay & Sail: Broome Kimberley Cruising Special – 2026Start your Kimberley adventure the right way with our all-inclusive...
08/04/2025

Stay & Sail: Broome Kimberley Cruising Special – 2026
Start your Kimberley adventure the right way with our all-inclusive 2026 Broome Package – designed to make your journey seamless and stress-free.

Your experience begins with a relaxing night at the Mangrove Hotel in a Superior Poolside Room, followed by a fresh breakfast and smooth transfer to the ship. After your expedition, we’ll also arrange your post-cruise transfer to the airport or your Darwin accommodation.

This package is included in your cruise fare across all stateroom categories, with no extra cost, and is available on select Broome departures.

Offer valid for new bookings made between April 1 and June 1, 2025.

Let us take care of the details—so you can focus on exploring the breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and cultural treasures of the Kimberley.

Learn more here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/special-offers/packages/
Contact our team to book!

Sail the Series! Looking for an extraordinary adventure? Extend your journey and explore more destinations with series s...
02/04/2025

Sail the Series! Looking for an extraordinary adventure? Extend your journey and explore more destinations with series sailings. Combine voyages, enjoy Xplorer Club Member benefits, and receive a 10% discount on adjoining trips. Availability is open across Explorer and Promenade Decks—don’t miss out!

Voyage Combinations:
30 Nights – Through the Heart of Japan + Through Japan’s Ryukyu Islands
32 Nights – Through Japan’s Ryukyu Islands + Island Trails of the Philippines
32 Nights – Island Trails of the Philippines + An Equatorial Adventure Across North Borneo
35 Nights – Island Trails & Traditions of Indonesia + Raja Ampat & Spice Islands

Contact our reservations team for a quote and learn more about combining voyages.
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/japan/
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/islands-indonesia/

Onboard Coral Adventurer, guests set out early for Montgomery Reef, arriving at the peak of the low tide. The reef stood...
01/04/2025

Onboard Coral Adventurer, guests set out early for Montgomery Reef, arriving at the peak of the low tide. The reef stood fully exposed at three meters in height, revealing coral formations and cascading waterfalls rarely seen. The winds had eased as we entered the sheltered waters, and the sun broke through, creating perfect conditions. We spotted reef egrets, terns, and turtles before witnessing a rare moment—a crocodile with a green turtle in its jaws. After a tense 30-minute struggle, the turtle managed to escape, an unforgettable sight. With no other vessels around, we had the reef to ourselves—a perfect way to begin our Kimberley season.

📸Captured by Expedition Team members Luke, Lachlan, and Ester.

27/03/2025

This Sunday, March 30th, 2025, take a moment to tune into Channel 10 at 3:30 PM for our 20-minute documentary, Torres Strait and Cape York. This captivating program offers an in-depth exploration of the Torres Strait and Cape York Peninsula, revealing the vital ecosystems that sustain this diverse and vibrant region.

Join us as we immerse ourselves in the world of talented artists from Badu Island in the Torres Strait, whose artwork beautifully reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. Hear from local experts as they share their knowledge of the fascinating history and traditions that have shaped this extraordinary part of Australia. For those who can’t tune in live, the documentary will also be available to watch on 10 Play after the broadcast.

Through the eyes of our expert guides and guest lecturers, you’ll gain insight into the region’s deep connection to the land and sea, and its significant role in Australia’s cultural fabric. From ancient traditions to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, the northernmost tip of Queensland offers a unique destination brimming with adventure, history, and cultural richness.

Our sailing schedule offers the opportunity to embark on three incredible cruises through this region in 2025 and 2026: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/cape-york-arnhem-land/

Where Will Your Curiosity Take You in 2025? Set out on a journey through the Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea. Departi...
25/03/2025

Where Will Your Curiosity Take You in 2025? Set out on a journey through the Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea. Departing from Cairns or Madang, this expedition takes you deep into landscapes rarely seen—volcanic peaks, vast rainforests, and mighty rivers that shape remote villages and rich traditions. Sail past the Kadovar Islands, venture up the Sepik River to discover riverside life unchanged for centuries, and browse intricate masks and carvings at village markets. Snorkel or dive the vibrant Fly Islands reefs, and witness the surreal Bubbling Springs Reef at Dobu.

A journey here is more than travel—it’s an exploration of culture, nature, and the spirit of adventure.

Learn more about this unforgettable expedition here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea/cairns-madang-12-nights/

Pioneering the Kimberley!Are you ready for adventure? Take a look at the season ahead with stunning images from our firs...
24/03/2025

Pioneering the Kimberley!

Are you ready for adventure? Take a look at the season ahead with stunning images from our first 2025 Kimberley Icons, Ashmore Reef & Rowley Shoals expedition. Over 12 incredible nights, guests immersed themselves in the ultimate Kimberley experience—blending remote reef exploration with iconic destination highlights.

Read the voyage log here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/articles/voyage-log-the-kimberley-icons-broome-to-darwin/

Not sure when to visit the Kimberley? A tough decision when our Kimberley season is broken down into three distinct peri...
20/03/2025

Not sure when to visit the Kimberley? A tough decision when our Kimberley season is broken down into three distinct periods known as, “Waterfall,” “Peak,” and “Whale”. Find your perfect month and let’s get sailing! 🛳️ 💦🌅🐳
➡️Swipe through to find when to visit these Kimberley highlights!

One of our personal favourites is June 😍
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/the-kimberley/the-kimberley-cruise/

A diver’s delight! These stunning images were captured by Australian Geographic’s Nature Photographer of the Year 2022, ...
19/03/2025

A diver’s delight! These stunning images were captured by Australian Geographic’s Nature Photographer of the Year 2022, Ashlee Jensen.🪸

As part of her award, Ashlee won a voyage with us—and she recently set sail on our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands expedition. Her lens has beautifully captured the vibrant marine world and untamed landscapes of this remote paradise.

A beautiful reminder of just how incredible our underwater world truly is. To learn more about Ashlee and her incredible photography you can visit her website here: https://www.ashkarasphotography.com/

Swipe through to see the wonders she encountered beneath the surface!

Join Coral Expeditions on our final expedition series through Japan and the Philippines. Sail past Japan’s stunning coas...
17/03/2025

Join Coral Expeditions on our final expedition series through Japan and the Philippines. Sail past Japan’s stunning coastlines, where ancient temples, sacred shrines, and vibrant cities offer a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Then, venture into the Philippines, where crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs invite exploration and relaxation. From Japan’s serene gardens and volcanic peaks to the Philippines’ pristine beaches and hidden coves, each day unveils new wonders. With our deep local knowledge and personalized service, we bring these two extraordinary regions together in one seamless and unforgettable adventure.

Find out more about our Japan and Philippines cruises here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/japan/

Banda Neira, the heart of Indonesia’s historic Banda Islands, is a hidden gem where rich cultural heritage meets breatht...
17/03/2025

Banda Neira, the heart of Indonesia’s historic Banda Islands, is a hidden gem where rich cultural heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty. Once the world’s only source of nutmeg and mace, the island blends colonial charm with warm hospitality. The Banda people, known for their kindness and deep connection to the land and sea, carry on traditions passed through generations, from intricate spice farming to vibrant storytelling and music. Coral Expeditions guests can explore nutmeg plantations, stroll past Dutch-era architecture, and experience the lively local markets. The island’s waters offer world-class diving and snorkeling, making Banda Neira a highlight of our Raja Ampat & Spice Island's voyage.

You too can experience this slice of paradise with our remaining 2025 September departure or plan your visit for 2026 with a variety of dates: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/spice-islands-west-papua/raja-ampat-and-spice-islands/ -availability

16/03/2025

At Coral Expeditions, we take great pride in our heritage of expert navigation and sustainable exploration. For over 40 years, our small ships have ventured into some of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations, guided by a deep respect for the environment and local communities.

Our voyages are carefully designed to tread lightly, allowing guests to experience nature’s wonders without leaving a lasting footprint. From the rugged coastlines of northern Australia to the vibrant reefs of the Coral Sea, we navigate with precision and care, ensuring safe passage while embracing the spirit of true expedition travel.

Through our commitment to eco-tourism, we partner with conservation initiatives, support Indigenous communities, and provide enriching experiences that foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Whether snorkeling at remote reefs, exploring ancient cultural sites, or learning from our expert guides, guests can be assured that their journey is one of discovery, education, and respect for the environments we explore.
🗺🛳🌏🍃

13/03/2025

The Cape York Peninsula coastline is a wild and remote stretch of over 1,200 kilometers, where rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and vast mangrove systems meet the waters of the Torres Strait, the Coral Sea, and the Gulf of Carpentaria. To the east, the Great Barrier Reef fringes the coast, offering vibrant coral formations, turquoise waters, and islands like Lizard Island and Restoration Island. In contrast, the western coastline is marked by mudflats, tidal estuaries, and dense mangrove forests, critical habitats for fish, birdlife, and the region’s iconic saltwater crocodiles. At the northernmost tip, the land narrows into a rocky headland, where strong currents shape the island-dotted seascape of the Torres Strait. From secluded white-sand beaches to thriving marine ecosystems, Cape York’s coastline is one of Australia’s most unspoiled and breathtaking natural frontiers.

🌊🐠 When you book a Coral Expeditions Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage, this is the underwater paradise waiting for you....
13/03/2025

🌊🐠 When you book a Coral Expeditions Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyage, this is the underwater paradise waiting for you. 💙✨ From vibrant coral gardens to schools of tropical fish, every dive and snorkel reveals a world beyond imagination. Who’s adding this to their bucket list? 👀⚓

11/03/2025

The Torres Strait is home to the Torres Strait Islanders, an Indigenous Australian people with a distinct culture, language, and identity separate from mainland Aboriginal groups. The Torres Strait Islands, located between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea, are home to communities with strong connections to the sea, rich storytelling traditions, and vibrant art, music, and dance. The culture blends influences from Melanesian, Australian Aboriginal, and European heritage.

Thursday Island (Waiben) is the administrative and cultural hub of the Torres Strait, with a population of around 2,500 people. Historically, it was a major pearling center, attracting workers from Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Today, its residents include Torres Strait Islanders, Aboriginal Australians, and people of Asian and European descent.

Torres Strait Islanders are skilled seafarers, relying on fishing, trading, and traditional navigation. Their customs and traditions revolve around the sea, with ceremonies, songs, and dances reflecting their deep connection to their island environment.

10/03/2025

Are you ready for waterfall season? We are! As the Kimberley’s rivers swell and cascades roar to life, there’s no better time to explore this untamed wilderness—and no place we’d rather be. Departing from Broome today, Coral Adventurer will be the first of our fleet to sail through this spectacular region, where thundering waterfalls, lush landscapes, and dramatic gorges make this season truly unforgettable. Stay tuned as we venture deep into one of Australia’s most breathtaking natural wonders!

Guests aboard Coral Expeditions, Coral Adventurer had the opportunity to explore the remote beauty of Cape Peron, where ...
10/03/2025

Guests aboard Coral Expeditions, Coral Adventurer had the opportunity to explore the remote beauty of Cape Peron, where the striking contrast of red cliffs, white beaches, and turquoise waters created an unforgettable landscape. In Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed region, they ventured ashore to discover scenic coastal trails, lookout points, and secluded beaches, with our expert guides sharing insights into the area’s rich ecology and diverse wildlife.

Guests aboard Coral Adventurer were treated to a delightful encounter with the playful Australian sea lion pups of the E...
10/03/2025

Guests aboard Coral Adventurer were treated to a delightful encounter with the playful Australian sea lion pups of the Easter Group, part of the remote Houtman Abrolhos Islands in Western Australia.

As the expedition vessel anchored in the sheltered waters, the curious pups emerged, playfully darting through the shallows and investigating our guests with their characteristic inquisitiveness.

The Abrolhos Islands, known for their rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs, provided a stunning backdrop for this special wildlife encounter, leaving guests with lasting memories of one of Australia’s most endearing marine species.
🦭🩷

09/03/2025

The Tip of Cape York, often referred to simply as "The Tip," is the northernmost point of mainland Australia. Located in Queensland’s remote Cape York Peninsula, it is a rugged and iconic destination, marked by a sign that reads "You are standing at the northernmost point of the Australian continent."

Surrounded by turquoise waters and overlooking the Torres Strait, The Tip offers breathtaking coastal views, with nearby islands visible on clear days. The journey to this remote landmark is an adventure in itself, with travelers navigating red-dirt tracks, dense rainforests, and tidal river crossings.
Rich in Indigenous culture, the region is home to the Gudang Yadhaykenu people, the traditional custodians of the land. It also played a strategic role in World War II, with military relics still scattered throughout the area.

For those traveling with Coral Expeditions, reaching The Tip is an unforgettable moment, offering a rare chance to stand at the very edge of the Australian continent, immersed in the wild beauty of Cape York.

Address

246 Hartley Street
Cairns, QLD
4870

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 5:30pm
Thursday 8am - 5:30pm
Friday 8am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+611800079545

Website

https://linktr.ee/coralexpeditions

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Our Story

Started by a fisherman-entrepreneur with a passion for life at sea, the original Coral Princess, a converted ‘Fairmile’ submarine chaser was commissioned in 1983.

The company has always been based in Queensland, in the tropical north of Australia. Moving from Townsville in 2002 to its current base in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the company pioneered small ship expedition style cruising in the Kimberley, the Islands of the South Pacific and Papua New Guinea. Coral Expeditions remains the only major operator of extended small ship cruises on the Great Barrier Reef.

Many of the additions and developments during this period were innovative for the industry, including the use of interpretive guides and the build and launch of Coral Discoverer (formerly Oceanic Discoverer) in 2005 – a landmark vessel with global ocean capabilities built to very high standards in Australia. The Coral Discoverer remains the only Australian-flagged passenger vessel operating unrestricted international voyages.

Today, the Coral Expeditions fleet includes three purpose-built small ships that can be found anywhere from the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the rugged coast of Tasmania and now, the coastal villages and great rivers of South East Asia.