Couples can save almost $4000 on flights and accommodation when booking Ponant’s new Western Melanesia and Indonesia voyage through Cruise Express.
The boutique travel agency is offering a great value package including transfers, pre-cruise accommodation and return flights from Sydney to Darwin – worth $3750 per couple – for travellers wanting to join an exotic close-to-home expedition onboard Le Soleal.
Sailing roundtrip from Darwin to West Papua and Indonesia’s Spice Islands in September next year, the voyage features a mix of breathtaking natural landscapes from teeming coral reefs and lush tropical forests to waterfalls, multicoloured lagoons and picture postcard beaches.
The 11-night cruise allows ample time for guests to immerse in Raja Ampat, with four days to explore the Indonesian archipelago, as well as the chance to explore the Maluku Islands, a natural paradise on the Spice Route.
A luxury small-ship, the 264-guest Le Soleal offers all the traditional Ponant features and benefits including a swimming pool, spa, choice of restaurants, an open bar and exceptional levels of comfort and service.
Departing September 9, 2025, the 12-night Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands trip is priced from $12,490* per person twin share and includes:
- Return economy airfares from Sydney to Darwin (flights from other cities may incur surcharge)
- An 11-night voyage onboard Ponant’s Le Soleal including all meals and select drinks, all shore tours including zodiac expeditions, expert guides, park entry fees, onboard gratuities, unlimited Wifi, and 24-hour room service
- Private transfers from airport to hotel, hotel to ship, and ship to airport
- One night pre-cruise stay in Darwin including breakfast
- Port charges
Cruise Express Managing Director Meg Hill said this new itinerary presented an easy way to explore a remote and untouched region north of Australia without having to fly overseas.
“With Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands, Ponant has crafted a beautiful itinerary that takes in some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world that are right on Australia’s doorstep. This voyage offers world-class snorkelling and diving, delicious local cuisine, scenic cruising in some of the world’s most remote bays and a glimpse into a colourful culture, all from the luxury of Ponant’s stunning Le Soleal. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover the little-known gems of Indonesia and Western Melanesia and with flights, transfers and accommodation thrown in, it’s also incredibly good value,” Meg said.
