Jewels of the Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali and Singapore
Discover the less-traveled jewels of the Java Sea. Snorkel and dive among vibrant coral gardens; kayak in secluded bays with hundreds of fish teeming below; and engage with local villagers, learning about their daily lives, music, and crafts—all unique and inspired by the amazing colors and beauty that surround them. Cruise through the remnants of Krakatoa and view the volcano’s “children” that have appeared since the 1883 volcanic explosion, one of the world’s largest.
Highlights
Experience the innovative melting pot that is Singapore–a spectacular blend of cultures, innovation, and beauty
Swim and snorkel the coral reefs off the pristine, uninhabited isles of the Natuna and Anambas archipelagos
Be awestruck at the grandeur and sheer size of Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site
Explore the jungles of West Bali Barat National Park and Menjangan Island–be on the lookout for the colorful Javan banded pitta, the Bali myna, and the native barking deer
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2025-27
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2025-27
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2025-27
Itinerary
Multiple routes available
Some departures follow a modified itinerary. Please refer to departure dates for exact routing of your departure.
Southbound
Starts atSingapore, SingaporeEnds atDenpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Day 1
Singapore
Arrive in Singapore and transfer to the Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel (or similar). Meet your fellow travelers this evening at a welcome reception.
Arrival Time: Arrive before 4:00 p.m. local time.
Arrival City: Singapore
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 1
SingaporeArrive in Singapore and transfer to the Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel (or similar). Meet your fellow travelers this evening at a welcome reception.
Arrival Time: Arrive before 4:00 p.m. local time.
Arrival City: Singapore
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2
Singapore / Embark Ship
This morning we check out of our hotel and set off to explore this landmark city-state. Cosmopolitan Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world’s leading and most innovative commercial centers. As we tour the old sections of the city, we see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. We also see ultra-modern design along the skyline and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine. This afternoon we embark National Geographic Orion.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Singapore / Embark ShipThis morning we check out of our hotel and set off to explore this landmark city-state. Cosmopolitan Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world’s leading and most innovative commercial centers. As we tour the old sections of the city, we see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. We also see ultra-modern design along the skyline and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine. This afternoon we embark National Geographic Orion.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia
Our first stop is the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or explore by glass-bottom Zodiac.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Anambas Archipelago, IndonesiaOur first stop is the remote Anambas Archipelago, where we snorkel the unspoiled reefs surrounding Pulau Lintang. Search for colorful giant clams and cardinalfish that make these waters their home. The island is private, so we have exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or explore by glass-bottom Zodiac.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Badas Islands
The rarely visited and remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches, vibrant corals, and an abundant array of marine life. Watch for clownfish darting between anemones, and, if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete. Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Badas IslandsThe rarely visited and remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches, vibrant corals, and an abundant array of marine life. Watch for clownfish darting between anemones, and, if luck is on your side, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete. Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling, and beachcombing.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Pulau Belitung
Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. We spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. 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, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung. The mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remains.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Pulau BelitungLocated off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. We spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, weaving our way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to kayak and snorkel. 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, popular gathering spots for all. The Dutch tin mines and the promise of work brought many families to Belitung. The mines may be gone, but the joining together of traditions remains.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Krakatoa
One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa, or Krakatau in Indonesian, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the Earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera—Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatoa” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe in the waters of big Krakatoa, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
KrakatoaOne of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa, or Krakatau in Indonesian, was known worldwide after the explosive eruption in 1883. Ash from the massive event circled the Earth for years. Along the Pacific Ring of Fire, new volcanoes have formed beneath Krakatoa’s caldera—Anak Krakatau, or “Child of Krakatoa” is the most active. Go ashore to explore the black sand beach and lush jungle that rises up to the volcano. Cruise to Legon Cabe in the waters of big Krakatoa, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Cirebon
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 trade port. Following the beautiful Cirebonese welcome ceremony, visit Kacirebonan Palace where the Sultan welcomes us to his home. Enjoy local delicacies while learning about the rich culture of his kingdom and the beautiful artistry of batik. These traditional textile designs are world famous for their intricacy.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
CirebonOur 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 trade port. Following the beautiful Cirebonese welcome ceremony, visit Kacirebonan Palace where the Sultan welcomes us to his home. Enjoy local delicacies while learning about the rich culture of his kingdom and the beautiful artistry of batik. These traditional textile designs are world famous for their intricacy.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Semarang / Borobudur Temple
Today we dock at the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We spend the day exploring this spectacular site.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Semarang / Borobudur TempleToday we dock at the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. Our destination is inland at the largest Buddhist temple in the world: magnificent Borobudur Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive complex sits perched on a hill, with bell-shaped stupas housing statues of Buddha seeming to rise from the jungle around it. Stone reliefs carved in exquisite detail line the base of the temple, depicting everyday life and the path to enlightenment. We spend the day exploring this spectacular site.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Karimun Jawa
A breathtaking chain of coral-fringed islands, Karimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a natural reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of seagrass, extensive coral reefs, and over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red-breasted parakeets. Kayak along the seagrass in water so clear we can see the fish and coral below.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Karimun JawaA breathtaking chain of coral-fringed islands, Karimun Jawa Archipelago sits off the coast of central Java. Designated a natural reserve, the marine park protects the biodiversity of the lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, 11 species of seagrass, extensive coral reefs, and over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves as we trek deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red-breasted parakeets. Kayak along the seagrass in water so clear we can see the fish and coral below.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Madura Island
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 a culture of fierce yet open-hearted sailors. We’ll visit Sumenep, a region rich in history and culture. Spend time exploring the Royal Palace and learning about the heritage of these proud people through dance performances and museum exhibits.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Madura IslandBordered 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 a culture of fierce yet open-hearted sailors. We’ll visit Sumenep, a region rich in history and culture. Spend time exploring the Royal Palace and learning about the heritage of these proud people through dance performances and museum exhibits.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
Menjangan Island / West Bali Barat National Park
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, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple of Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel among the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddleboard.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
Menjangan Island / West Bali Barat National ParkJavanese 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, located in the northwest tip of Bali. Teeming with untouched beauty both above and below the water, explore the island on foot, keeping an eye out for deer while wandering through the ancient white stone temple of Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel among the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddleboard.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12
Denpasar, Bali / Disembark Ship
This morning we arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Following disembarkation get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. After lunch transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Departure Time: Depart after 4:00 p.m. local time.
Departure City: Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12
Denpasar, Bali / Disembark ShipThis morning we arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Following disembarkation get a taste of this paradise, where life and art are interwoven. After lunch transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Departure Time: Depart after 4:00 p.m. local time.
Departure City: Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Video
Expedition Spotlight - Borobudur Temple
- Dec 2023
Adorned with more than 500 statues of Buddha, Borobudur Temple is one of the most important spiritual monuments in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site that overlooks the vast city of Java, this 8th-century architectural feat is an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. In this Expedition Spotlight, Expedition Leader Alex Searle follows "the path of enlightenment” as he climbs to the top of this astonishing shrine.
Expedition Team
Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.
Special Offers
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
BRINGING THE KIDS
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
COMBINING OFFERS
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2025-27