Jewels of The Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali & Singapore

This morning, check out of the 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. While touring the old sections of the city, see how Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures thrive side by side. Also see the ultra-modern along the skyline of high rises and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style and cuisine. This afternoon, embark the ship.

The first stop is in the remote Anambas Archipelago, to 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 enjoy exclusive access to walk the beach, dive, snorkel, or choose to explore by glass-bottom Zodiac.

The remote Badas Islands offer excellent beaches and corals. These rarely visited islands offer an abundant array of marine life. Watch clownfish darting between anemones and with luck, a beautiful royal blue tang might make this idyllic story complete! Explore above and beneath the sea via stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling and beachcombing.

Located off the coast of Sumatra, Belitung is part of the relatively unknown Bangka-Belitung sister islands. Spend the morning cruising the pristine waters, the ship weaving her way through the smaller islands and clusters of granite formations that dot the coastline, looking for the perfect quiet cove to stop in for kayaking and snorkeling. Ashore have the opportunity to meet the locals and witness the blending of the Sumatran, Malay and Bugis cultures—Malay homes on stilts; Bugis fishing villages; 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 remain.

One of the world’s most beautiful and powerful volcanoes, Krakatoa or Krakatau, 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 Krakatau,” 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, Big Krakatau, and snorkel in the dazzling reefs that surround the island. The following day spend time on deck with the team of naturalists, listen to compelling presentations in the lounge, or enjoy one of the many onboard amenities as the ship travels down the coast of Java.

Today, dock on the island of Java in the bustling port of Semarang. The day’s 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. Spend the full day exploring this spectacular site.

A breathtaking chain of coral fringed islands, Kerimun 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 sea grass, and extensive coral reefs, home to over 400 species of fish. Observe life in the mangroves while trekking deep into the forest on raised footpaths, ever watchful for black-tailed monkeys and red breasted parakeets. Kayak along the sea grass in water so clear it’s easy to see the fish and  coral below. A true island paradise.

Pulau Bawean is a small jewel in the Java sea. Travel past the beautifully terraced rice paddies while heading to the center of the island and Lake Kastoba. According to ancient lore, a swim in these pristine waters will keep you forever young. Curious monkeys and a variety of birds make their home in the surrounding jungle. Local villagers eagerly share their traditional music and dance.

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 – Pura Segara Gili Kencana; snorkel amongst the brightly colored coral fans; or glide through the clear water on a stand-up paddleboard.

This morning, 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. Following lunch transfer to the airport for your flight home.