Journey through the enchanting landscapes of East Indonesia, where each moment unfolds as a testament to the country`s rich cultural tapestry. Here`s a glimpse of the extraordinary highlights that await you. Join Paspaley Pearl by Ponant on this luxurious expedition where every encounter is a celebration of Indonesia`s cultural treasures and natural wonders, promising an experience that transcends the boundaries of ordinary travel.
Expedition Highlights:
– Snorkel and swim with the world`s largest fish, the whale shark.
– Discover the traditional Alorese culture.
– Admire the intricate Ikat designs created by the Sikka women.
– Witness the recreation of history through song and dance in the mountains of Flores.
– Hike in search of the infamous Komodo Dragon.
– Enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Komodo National Park.
– Swim and snorkel in the clear tropical waters of the Seventeen Islands Marine Park.
– Visit the remote Lemabata Island and discover their ancient traditions.
– Witness the traditional Buffalo races of Sumbawa Besar.
– Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
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Encounters with Whale Sharks Dragons & Mystic Cultures cruise package includes:
– 10 night luxury expedition cruise aboard the boutique motor yacht Paspaley Pearl by Ponant from Dili to Bali (Benoa)
– All meals – menus designed by the famed Serge Dansereau of Bathers Pavilion
– Open Bar including French champagne, wine, beer, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
– Complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi (connectivity dependent on navigation and latitude)
– Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides
– Entry fees to National and Marine Parks
– Non-motorised water sports (Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling)
Additional Expenses:
– Pre and/or Post voyage packages
– Additional shore excursions such as scenic Helicopter flights
– Premium wines
– Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory
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Solo Travellers – Secure free solo supplement when you book the Ocean Twin Stateroom (Stateroom 102), applicable on every voyage. For other Ocean Deck staterooms, a 30% supplement applies, while Horizon Deck suites come with a 50% supplement. Solo Supplement is subject to change, and may be increased at any time at the discretion of the company.
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Flexible Expedition Itinerary:
Experience the freedom of a flexible expedition itinerary, where the adventure unfolds in harmony with nature. These itineraries adapt to tides and other environmental factors, ensuring an authentic exploration. Embrace the cultures, history and biodiversity of the remote areas visited, guided by a team of expert guides who offer a dynamic and unforgettable journey tailored to the whims of the elements.
Special Conditions
Special Validity Dates
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Mar 2025 | Dili, East Timor |
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| 16 Mar 2025 | Kupang, West Timor, Indonesia |
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| 17 Mar 2025 | Kalabahi, Indonesia |
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| 18 Mar 2025 | Lamalera, Indonesia |
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| 19 Mar 2025 | Maumere, Flores (Indonesia) |
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| 20 Mar 2025 | Seventeen Islands Marine Park, Indonesia |
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| 21 Mar 2025 | Komodo Island, Indonesia |
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| 22 Mar 2025 | Komodo Island, Indonesia |
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| 23 Mar 2025 | Sumbawa, Indonesia |
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| 24 Mar 2025 | Badas Islands, Indonesia |
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| 25 Mar 2025 | Benoa, Bali, Indonesia |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
10 Night Cruise sailing from Dili to Benoa aboard Paspaley Pearl.
Journey through the enchanting landscapes of East Indonesia, where each moment unfolds as a testament to the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Here’s a glimpse of the extraordinary highlights that await you. Join us on this luxurious expedition where every encounter is a celebration of Indonesia’s cultural treasures and natural wonders, promising an experience that transcends the boundaries of ordinary travel.
DAY 1 Embarkation | Dili. Timor Leste
Lying on the northern coast of the island of Timor, along the narrow plains between the central mountains and the Ombai Strait, the laidback seaside city of Dili was thrust into the role of a national capital when Timor Leste became an independent country in May 2002. The peaceful city has a small-town vibe with a distinct Portuguese flavour.
DAY 2 Kupang. West Timor. East Nusa Tenggara. Indonesia.
Perched on the southwestern corner of the island of Timor, lies the provincial capital of Kupang. Formerly known as Koepang, it is the largest city and port on the island of Timor with a population of just under 500,000 people. It was an important port and trading post during the Portuguese and Dutch colonial eras, and many ruins and remnants of the colonial presence remain today. During the twentieth century the city was used for landing and refuelling by long-distance flights between Europe and Australia. It was under Japanese occupation between 1942 and 1945, and much of the Old Town was destroyed by Allied bombing during that time.
DAY 3 Kalabahi, Alor. East Nusa Tenggara. Indonesia.
The unique culture of the Alorese continues among the Takpala indigenous group, who have preserved their traditional housing construction that resembles a pyramid, covered with coconut leaves, bamboo plaited walls, and four main wooden pillars. 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 Moko’s are still being uncovered today.
DAY 4 Lamalera, Lembata. East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
Located on the south coast of the island of Lembata, Lamalera remains one of the last traditional whaling villages on earth. As traditional tools and methods are used, the whale hunts are exempt from the international ban on whaling. Whaling is essential to the continued subsistence existence of this rarely visited remote village. The island is dry and barren, so very little food can be grown on its soil. Villagers depend almost entirely on what the sea provides.
DAY 5 Maumere, Flores. East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
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 has kept its charming atmosphere, an eclectic mix of a bustling trading town and a coastal paradise.
DAY 6 Seventeen Islands Marine Park, Flores. East Nusa Tenggara. Indonesia.
This diverse string of islands sit just off the northern coastline of the island of Flores. Ironically, there are in fact 23 small Islands that comprise the archipelago, but government authorities decided on the number 17 as a convenient tie-in with Indonesia’s Independence Day which is 17 August 1945. Largely uninhabited, except for the odd fishermen’s camp, the islands boast spectacular white sand beaches and turquoise waters surrounded by colourful coral reefs.
DAYS 7-8 Komodo National Park. East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
Komodo National Park was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1989. With one of the lowest rainfalls in Indonesia, its climate provides the perfect habitat for the exotic wildlife of Wallacea. Dense monsoon forests in the protected gullies give way to open grassland savannas, studded with prickly Ziziphus trees providing the perfect habitat for the infamous Komodo dragon. Originally designed to provide refuge for the Komodo dragon, the park now protects one of the richest marine ecosystems. This has resulted in an abundance of world class snorkelling and diving locations available to the traveller.
DAY 9 Saleh Bay, Sumbawa Besar. West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
Enclosed by Moyo Island and the imposing Tembora Peninsula, the serene Saleh Bay is far from the regular tourist trail. In 2017, Conservation International assisted in the development of eco-tourism ventures focused on swimming with the world’s largest fish. Still in its infancy, visitors can swim with the whale sharks in the clear calm waters of Saleh Bay all year round. In addition to the presence of these majestic marine creatures, numerous uninhabited islands, fringed by coral reefs are scattered across the azure waters of the bay.
DAY 10 Badas, Sumbawa Besar. West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
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.
DAY 11 Disembarkation | Benoa. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies and beaches. The island is home to many striking Hindu temples, such as the cliff side Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot, Goa Gajah in Ubud and the spectacular Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Bedugul. The beachside strip from Kuta to Legian offer lively bars and a multitude of dining choices, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are popular resort areas.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside at Benoa Harbour, Bali.
Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure. Marking a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, she offers a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region.
Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. Having the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels, each expedition promises an authentic and enriching experience, inviting you to not just observe but to participate in the timeless rituals and customs that define the remarkable cultures of the destinations we visit.
PASPALEY PEARL is designed to feel like a home away from home. A classic yet contemporary environment that expresses timeless luxury while harnessing the history of PASPALEY and PONANT’s spirit of adventure.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 53.5 m
- Tonnage: 994
- Maiden Voyage: 2025
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 30
- Officer Nationality: Australian
- Ship Registration: Marshall Islands
Ship Amenities
- Hair Dryer
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- International 240V sockets
- USB charging points
- Flat-screen TV
- On-demand entertainment system
- Complimentary WIFI
Ship Facilities
- Sun Deck Lounge & Jacuzzi
- Outdoor Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Main Deck Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Forward Sunset Lounge
EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.
Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.
To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment – a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared – and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.
To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.
Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege…
Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.
In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.
Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax – we take care of everything…
Select the Deck to view detail.
Select the Cabin to view detail.
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin beds. Its most striking feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, offering a panoramic view. The suite includes a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. There’s individually-controlled air conditioning and international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps are provided. Entertainment needs are catered for with a flat-screen TV and an on-demand entertainment system. Guests also enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one queen-size bed or two twin beds. It boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer for added comfort. The stateroom also includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Guests can enjoy entertainment through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although its connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
16m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Twin Stateroom offers a blend of elegance and practical design, featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one double bed or two single beds. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For convenience and comfort, the stateroom includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment needs are met with a flat-screen TV paired with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests are provided with complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
27m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Pearl Suite is sophisticated and meticulously crafted, complete with ample wardrobe space. It features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests have the option of one king-size bed or two twin beds. The suite boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For personalised comfort, there is individually-controlled air conditioning, along with international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Entertainment is provided through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although its connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
* Unless otherwise noted all pricing is on a per person twin share basis. All prices based on cash payment - credit card fees may apply. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Special conditions may apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Any pricing not in Australian Dollars will be converted on the day of payment into the relevant currency based on our daily rate of exchange. Please note that many of the prices shown on this website are not shown in real time. Whilst we endeavour to keep our pricing as up-to-date as possible, the advertised prices shown here may differ slightly from the live prices in our booking system. All pricing and offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. Please submit any data errors/omissions you may notice on this site.
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