Jewels of the Java Sea: An Exploration between Bali and Singapore

Arrive in Singapore and transfer to hotel. Meet your fellow travelers at an evening welcome reception. (D)

Explore this landmark city-state; Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world's leading and most innovative commercial centers. We'll see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. In the afternoon, we embark on National Geographic Orion. (B,L,D)

The first stop is the Anambas Archipelago, where we snorkel the reefs surrounding Pulau Lintag. The island is private so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or explore by glass-bottomo Zodiacs. (B,L,D)

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Explore by stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling and/or beachcombing. (B,L,D)

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is park of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Ashore we have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of three cultures: Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; and Sumatran coffee houses. (B,L,D)

One of the world's most powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa, or Krakatua in Indonesian, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption of 1883. Along the Pacific Rim of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa's caldera- Anak Krakatua, or "Child of Krakatoa" is the most active now. Explore black sand beaches and lush jungles that rise up the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe and snorkel the dazzling reefs around the island. The following day is spent on board with our team of naturalists. (B,L,D)

Our visit to Cirebon, on the coast of Java, will take you back in time to the 16th century. Palaces, mosques, and bustling markets full of batik stalls are all found alongside this thriving trading port.  Following the Cirebonese Welcome Ceremony, visit Kacirebonan Palace where the Sultan welcomes us to his home. (B, L, D)

Today we dock at Semarang, where we visit the Borobuder Temple, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist temple in the world. (B,L,D)

A breathtaking chain of coral-fringed islands, Kerimun Jawa Archipelago sits of the coast of central Java. Designated a natural reserve, the marine park protects biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests, 11 species of seagrass, extensive coral reefs and over 400 species of fish. (B,L,D)

Bordered by beautiful white sand beaches in the south and rocky cliffs in the north, Madura Island is a remote gem in the Strait of Madura. Not far from Surabaya, it feels like a different world- rural and steeped in culture of fierce, yet open-hearted sailors. Spend time visiting the Royal Palace learning about the heritage of those proud people. (B,L,D)

Javanese for "deer", Menjangan Island is named after the rare rusa deer who swim to the island during the spring. This secluded paradise is part of the West Bali Barat National Park. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot and snorkel among the brightly colored coral fans. (B,L,D)

This morning, we arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali. Following disembarkation, get a taste of paradise, where life and art are interwoven. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B,L)