Coral Expeditions, Australia’s pioneering cruise line, has expanded their cruise offering with the development of a series of themed expeditions in its annual sailing calendar.
As emerging trends towards authentic experiences, immersive shore excursions and small group programmes take centre stage in 2018, Coral Expeditions continues to support the growth of expedition cruising in Australia; with delivery of a new purpose-built expedition ship, collaborations with industry trend setters, and itinerary curation that introduces passengers to the most vibrant and remote destinations.
General Manager Mark Fifield explains, “As a leader of expedition cruising, our on-board experience is renowned for delivering enjoyment and education to our guests. Our annual series of themed departures continues to develop around pillars of maritime history, natural seasons, arts and culture and regional food and wine. We are excited to continue to be leaders in the market and look forward to working with key curators to deliver this unique offering to our guests.”
Indigenous Art – Voyage to coastal Cape York & Arnhem Land
October 2018
This October, guests can join this special itinerary to immerse themselves in the ancient art and culture of remote coastal Cape York & Arnhem Land. The unique journey brings together the cultural immersion and understanding of our vibrant Indigenous art communities around Australia’s remote northern coastline such as Yirrkala, Maningrida, Elcho Island and Badu Island.
Joined by guest artist and curator, Brian Robinson, guests will learn about songlines and stories that shaped this country. A prominent Torres Strait artist, Brian will host workshops on board exploring tradition carving methods, print making, sketching and weaving. Guests are encouraged to tune into their creativity and be inspired by the passing landscapes of Australia’s ‘Top End’. Brian will also be joined by naturalist, Chris Done who has travelled extensively throughout the region cultivating an in-depth understanding of its flora, fauna, Aboriginal art, and geology, as well as its history, culture, and management issues.
Your Stateroom awaits
The 11-night Indigenous Art Experience aboard Coral Expeditions I departs from Cairns on 5 October 2018, priced from $8,290 per person twin share.
Australian Cuisine – Cape York & Arnhem Land
October 2018
Coral Expeditions has added to its Cape York & Arnhem Land itineraries by introducing a special departure emphasising the seasonal ingredients of tropical Australia. This Australian Cuisine themed itinerary along Australia’s remote northern coastline will be hosted by award-winning chef Craig Squires. Expedition guests can look forward to signature menu items, cooking demonstrations and presentations showcasing how unique ingredients can be incorporated into modern dishes at home.
During the sailing across coastal Arnhem Land all the way to the Great Barrier Reef, Craig will be hosting cooking demonstrations featuring unique Australian ingredients. Craig will also prepare special menus with locally sourced ingredients from the rich and vast landscapes of this journey.
Craig is a culinary masterchef with a passion for showcasing Australian produce. He has been creating award-winning dishes at his Ochre Restaurant in Cairns for over 20 years and is an International consultant and was an ambassador for Tourism Australia.
Your Stateroom awaits
This 11-night Australian Cuisine sailing aboard flagship, Coral Discoverer departs from Cairns on 12 October 2018, priced from $10,290 per person twin share.
A Yachtsman’s Cruise – Sydney to Hobart Race Special
December 2018
Guests eager to experience the adrenaline-fuelled atmosphere of the legendary Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race will enjoy Coral Expeditions’ annual voyage that starts with the beginning of the iconic race in Sydney Harbour.
Guests watch on from the Explorer Bar sundeck as the fleets round the heads and sail south. The sailing continues down the mercurial southern coast from Jervis Bay to Twofold Bay with expert commentary from Coral Expeditions’ Senior Master, Gary Wilson and ex-America’s Cup yachtsman and Maritime Historian, John Longley.
After crossing the Bass Strait, and as the ship nears the island state of Tasmania, hop off and experience walking the remarkable Maria Island National Park. Guests will walk amongst the historic ruins, secluded bays, rugged cliffs and visit World Heritage-listed Darlington, which is part of the Convict Trail of Australia.
Arrive in Hobart in time for the unmissable Sydney to Hobart race celebrations on New Year’s Eve with a view of the fireworks over the Derwent River and enjoy the festivities at the Taste of Tasmania epicurean festival.
Your Stateroom awaits
The 6-night cruise on board Coral Discoverer departs from Sydney on 26 December 2018, priced from $4,277 per person twin share.
Coastal Treks of Tasmania
January 2018
Experience remote wilderness regions on two special departures with a focus on bushwalking and hiking. Part of the existing Pristine Tasmanian itineraries, guests can choose from a range of shorter casual walks to longer day hikes. This expedition voyage along the Tasmanian coastline has been developed with local authorities paying close attention to the ecosystem of the region.
Some of the featured walks include Mt Beattie, Port Davey; Cape Hauy, Three Capes; and Fluted Cape, Bruny Island. Group sizes are kept small to ensure excursions are not only enjoyable but also have minimal impact on the environment. Guests are rewarded at the end of the day with delicious handpicked, regional produce and Tasmanian wine.
Your Stateroom awaits
This 7-night coastal expedition from Hobart aboard Coral Discoverer departs 8 January and 15 January 2019, priced from $4,990 per person twin share.
Wildlife and Warriors of West Papua
May 2019
Follow the voyage of Abel Tasman as he sailed from Banda, through the remote, spectacular and historic regions of the Kai and Aru Islands, and along the south coast of what is now West Papua.
Expedition guests explore Sangliat Dol with its ancient megalithic stone stairs and ship structures, the rock art of Kei Islands and Adnamata; and Triton Bay in the heart of the global centre for marine biodiversity in the Coral Triangle recently featured in David Attenborough’s Blue Planet 2, Coral Reefs documentary.
2019 is the 375th anniversary of Tasman’s great voyage through these waters, when newbuild Coral Adventurer sets sail to these rarely visited areas and relives those early voyages through this remote area.
The new multi-purpose rooms will be used for hands-on research workshops or used as a gallery space. A guest observation lounge located in the bridge allow guests to immerse themselves in the navigation activity.
Your Stateroom awaits
The 10-night expedition cruise on board Coral Adventurer departs from Darwin 13 May 2019, priced from $11,690 per person twin share.
For more information on these special themed cruises with Coral Expeditions, see www.coralexpeditions.com or call 1800 079 545.
SOURCE: Coral Expeditions