Superior Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
21 m²
3
Island Treasures of Indonesia & East Timor
Darwin - Benoa, Bali
Dates:
9/11/2026
to
23/11/2026
days
nights on board
Timor, Flores, Sumbawa, Komodo, Banda Neira… Just mentioning the names of these islands is enough to conjure up images of spectacular blooms, wide emerald-coloured bays, island-volcanoes, villages peopled with inhabitants who have preserved long-lasting traditions, prehistoric animals, hills covered in tropical forests, dazzling white sandy beaches, and waves crashing down on the coral.
From the secret waterfalls gushing in the heart of luxuriant jungles to the peaceful lagoons edged with captivating coral reefs, the landscapes of the Indonesian archipelago and East Timor are like living paintings. In the gentle trade winds, set off to discover ancestral cultures and vibrant traditions. The villages of thatched houses, lulled by the soothing rhythm of the waves, invite you to discover welcoming communities and preserved know-how.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : SO091126
Your itinerary
Discover the lush and idyllic islands of Indonesia, combining beautiful scenery with unforgettable encounters with the locals. Spectacular natural paradises (the Moluccas, the UNESCO-listed Komodo National...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE BORÉAL
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BELLOT
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
This cruise can include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Naturalist team may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Pacific ocean
The fauna of the Pacific ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, racoonbutterfly fish, and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish, as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORTS OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Australia – Darwin |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Kei Islands,Maluku Islands |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Triton Bay, West Papua |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Kitikiti Waterfalls, Mommon |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Banda Neira,Maluku Islands |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Barat Day Islands |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Kalabahi,Alor |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Maumere,Flores |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Komodo National Park |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Komodo National Park |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Benoa Bali |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Exploration dives must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €100
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €280
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €525
Highlights
- Discover the lush and idyllic islands of Indonesia, combining beautiful scenery with unforgettable encounters with the locals.
- Spectacular natural paradises (the Moluccas, the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, etc.) and an immersion in the local ancestral culture.
- Activities*: opportunities for dinghy excursions led by naturalist guides, plus swimming, scuba diving** or snorkelling in heavenly spots (Kitiki Waterfall, Triton Bay).
*Subject to weather conditions and to sailing opportunities.
**A dive with an experienced instructor, Level 2 or CMAS 2-star diver or equivalent required.
Ports of Call & Excursions
9 November 2026 - Darwin
Embarkation 9/11/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 9/11/2026 at 6:00 pm
Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures, over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.
10 November 2026 - At sea
Arrival 10/11/2026
Departure 10/11/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
11 November 2026 - Kei Islands, Maluku Islands
Arrival 11/11/2026
Departure 11/11/2026
The Kei Islands are blessed with kilometres of stunning, yet almost entirely empty, white-sand beaches and a deeply hospitable population. Beneath the mostly Christian facade, Kei culture is fascinatingly distinctive. Local history holds that ancestors of contemporary Kei islanders came from Bali, part of the expanding Hindu Majapahit kingdom from the western archipelago. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.
12 November 2026 - Triton Bay, West Papua
Arrival 12/11/2026
Departure 12/11/2026
Triton Bay is one of three regions in Indonesia’s West Papua province that comprise the Bird’s Head Seascape (the other two are Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay), which is now considered by marine biologists to be the epicentre of the Coral Triangle. It contains more fish and coral species than anywhere else on the planet. Its unparalleled marine biodiversity and endemism, habitat richness, and relatively intact nature of its ecosystems are unique. Join your expedition team for a zodiac voyage through the spectacular rainforest capped karst islands. Later in the day enjoy the opportunity to explore the richness of the underwater realm.
13 November 2026 - Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon
Arrival 13/11/2026
Departure 13/11/2026
North of Triton Bay, in the Indonesian province of West Papua, lie the Bomberai Peninsula and Sebakor Bay. A real paradise for divers, this protected, authentic and very wild area boasts an exceptional biodiversity. Here, you will be able to admire the superb Kitikiti Waterfall where you could enjoy a swim or snorkel surrounded by lush nature, both on land and under water.
14 November 2026 - Banda Neira, Maluku Islands
Arrival 14/11/2026
Departure 14/11/2026
From age-old traditional cultures and ancient vestiges, to coral reefs and lush green jungle… The attractions of the remote Banda archipelago seem endless. Better known as the legendary “Spice Islands” of the Ancient World, these small volcanic landmasses were the fabled prize of colonial powers for more than four centuries. Every colonial power of significance fought for control of these ten small islands that today have become largely forgotten. Walking the streets of Banda Neira is a surreal experience as your eyes are drawn to the eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture, the remnants of a rich and tumultuous history. It is without doubt the most historically significant and interesting of all the “Spice Islands”.
15 November 2026 - Barat Daya Islands
Arrival 15/11/2026
Departure 15/11/2026
If you are looking for exoticism and authenticity, then you will be captivated by the Barat Daya Islands, an Indonesian archipelago lying to the east of the Lesser Sunda Islands, bathed by the Banda Sea and surrounded by coral reefs. With their fine sandy beaches, marine environments, preserved nature and paddy fields, these islands in the Maluku archipelago are a real concentration of the beauty South-East Asia has to offer. A lush environment in which fauna and flora flourish. Notably, there are almost 162 different bird species including four endemic ones and three endangered ones.
16 November 2026 - Baucau
Arrival 16/11/2026
Departure 16/11/2026
Located on the north coast of East Timor, not far from the Wetar Strait, the city of Baucau inspires wanderlust. The country’s second-largest city, where the vestiges of a Portuguese colonial past spanning nearly four centuries can still be found, is a small corner of paradise known among diving enthusiasts. And with good reason: this earthly paradise, nestling between lush green hills and long white-sand beaches lining a turquoise sea, is particularly renowned for its Coral Triangle. The latter is home to multiple protected marine species, some fifteen endemic corals, and 76% of the world’s coral reefs.
17 November 2026 - Dili
Arrival 17/11/2026
Departure 17/11/2026
Located on the northern coast of the island of Timor, along the narrow plains between the central mountains and the Ombai Strait, the seaside resort of Dili is the capital of East Timor, a former Portuguese colony that has been independent since May 2002. The uniqueness of this territory, still preserved from the tourist routes, is unveiled thanks to the beauty of its intact landscapes, with dense tropical forest covering undulating hills, coral reef and immaculate sandy beaches. You will be enchanted by this small and peaceful town with a distinctive Portuguese atmosphere, and will discover the riches of its historic and cultural heritage during your visit.
18 November 2026 - Kalabahi, Alor
Arrival 18/11/2026
Departure 18/11/2026
The unique culture of the Alorese continues among the Takpala indigenous group who have preserved their traditional architecture and ceremonies. The island of Alor is also known as the island of a Thousand Moko’s. The Moko is a small bronze kettledrum which is believed to have originated from the Dong Son culture of Vietnam. However, it remains a mystery as to how these prehistoric Dong Son drums arrived in Alor. Local legend says that the Moko’s were discovered buried in the ground, and indeed mokos are still being uncovered today. Join the expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to Takpala village, the Museum of a Thousand Mokos and the thriving main market of Kalabahi.
19 November 2026 - Maumere, Flores
Arrival 19/11/2026
Departure 19/11/2026
Floresians have an ancient culture stretching back millennia before the first arrival of Europeans in search of trade opportunities. Their history is shared through oral traditions and is recreated in song and dance. The mountainous terrain of Flores has preserved the diversity of cultures and Maumere serves as the capital of the Sikka district and main trading port. Few tourists make it to Maumere with most stopping at Labuan Bajo and heading west to the islands of Komodo. Consequently, Maumere and has kept its charming atmosphere, an eclectic mix of a bustling trading town and a coastal paradise. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to the markets and tribal villages in the hinterland of Maumere.
20 November 2026 21 November 2026 - Komodo National Park
Arrival 20/11/2026
Departure 21/11/2026
Between the islands of Sumbawa and Florès, Komodo National Park welcomes you to discover its natural wonders. At the very heart of the Indonesian archipelago, the three islands that form it – Komodo, Rinca and Padar - owe their renown to the famous eponymous dragons, enormous lizards over two metres long, which live in its grassy savannah. This jagged and hilly volcanic territory belonging to the Sunda Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its incredible terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Admire its palette of colours, intermingling the sparkling whites of the beaches, the deep blues of the coral-filled water and the soft greens of its pastures.
22 November 2026 - Badas, Sumbawa
Arrival 22/11/2026
Departure 22/11/2026
The port of Badas is part of the greater township of Sumbawa Besar, on the island of Sumbawa. Like most of Sumbawa the people hold their culture strong as a major part of their identity. The island has a strong influence from the Makassarese of Sulawesi, who over the centuries have introduced a lot of their culture into Sumbawa. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by bus to Pamulung Village where you will be welcomed by the head of the village and have the opportunity to witness first-hand the local traditions of rice pounding, weaving and also witness a wedding procession. Your visit will conclude with an exciting Sumbawa buffalo race, an event that will be held in honour of our visit.
23 November 2026 - Benoa, Bali
Arrival 23/11/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 23/11/2026 at 7:00 am
If it's a taste of exotic authenticity you're after, prepare to be spell-bound by the island of Bali, tucked away in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. The beauty and diversity of its landscapes, the depth and richness of its cultural heritage and the plethora of activities on offer here make Bali a little slice of heaven on Earth. The island's southern coast enthrals with its white sand beaches, its picturesque little fishing villages such as Benoa, and its hills patchworked with terraced rice paddies further inland. Nicknamed 'the Island of Gods' for its sumptuous temples, Bali is the beating heart of Indonesian Hinduism.
Le Soléal
Like Le Boréal and L’Austral, the two sister ships that preceded it, Le Soléal further reaffirms PONANT's signature approach: to take passengers to the farthest reaches of the planet onboard modern ships offering top-of-the-range services.
An elegant appearance and refined interior design combine with cutting-edge technology to offer a new type of cruising: adventure in a luxury setting.
Decks
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Discoveries
Embark on a journey where every destination is approached with fresh wonder and refined curiosity. Included excursions (one per day, per guest) and carefully curated optional experiences alternate with outings led by your team of expert naturalist guides. A bespoke approach to exploration, ensuring every stopover is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Activities guided by our team of naturalists (depending on the destination) are included and organised directly on board.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, local boats, or Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The team of naturalist guides.
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Darwin
Meet at Darwin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments 4*.
Check in time is approximately 2:00pm.
Afternoon and evening at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Darwin
In late morning, you will check out of the hotel.
Day at leisure.
You will enjoy the facilities of your hotel until your transfer to Darwin harbour to board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments is a modern establishment located by the waterfront, offering stunning views of Darwin Harbour. Ideally situated, it provides easy access to the city’s restaurants, shops, and markets. The warm and welcoming atmosphere complements the quality of the dedicated staff, ensuring an ideal setting for relaxation.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Standard Room at Darwin Waterfront Apartments, 4* local standards (or similar).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include:
- Meals and breakfast.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- Official hotel check-in time is 2:00 p.m.
- Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
- Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
Contact of your hotel:
Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments
7 Kitchener Drive,
Darwin City, Australia
Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 9999
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$340
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.RELAXING IN BALI (1 NIGHT)
Total : AU$1,360
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.