Australia’s pioneering small-ship expedition cruise operator, Coral Expeditions, has unveiled its 2027-2028 sailing program, introducing new ways to explore the remote coastlines, islands and marine environments of Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
Leading the program is a new 12-night Kimberley and Beyond itinerary aboard the yacht-like 68-guest vessel Coral Discoverer, alongside new Raja Ampat and a reimagined Great Barrier Reef series with a stronger focus on marine science and conservation. The expanded schedule also includes the return of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, additional South Australia and Western Australia’s southern coastline, complementing established voyages to Tasmania, Cape York, Arnhem Land and Papua New Guinea.
Coral Expeditions Chief Commercial Officer Jeff Gillies said the 2027-2028 program built on more than four decades of small-ship exploration, giving guests more time to discover remote destinations in the company of experienced expedition teams.
“Our guests are curious travellers who want to do more than see a destination. They want to get out on the water, walk with knowledgeable guides, learn about the places they visit and make a genuine connection,” Mr Gillies said. “With this program, we’re creating more opportunities for a more personal kind of exploration, whether it’s spending longer in the Kimberley, discovering the marine life of Raja Ampat or reaching the wildlife sanctuaries of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.
“Coral Expeditions ability to adapt to the conditions and make the most of what each day brings is central to expedition cruising. Our small ships and experienced teams allow us to offer flexibility alongside meaningful discovery; with the warm Australian hospitality and care our guests know and value.”
Operating between April and September, the new Kimberley and Beyond voyages aboard the recently refurbished Coral Discoverer build on more than three decades of experience in the region. Carrying a maximum of 68 guests, the extended itinerary combines time at the Kimberley’s celebrated natural landmarks with opportunities to explore further into its remote river systems and offshore reefs.
Shaped by tides and seasonal conditions, the voyages will offer opportunities to discover Ashmore Reef, Scott Reef and the Berkeley River, with more time for guided walks, snorkelling, birdwatching and cultural interpretation. Additional expedition personnel will support a wider choice of activities, giving active travellers greater flexibility to explore via specialist-guided walks, snorkelling and cultural exchange.
On the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Expeditions will introduce a limited series of three annual 10-night expeditions, replacing its shorter departures with longer voyages exploring the outer reef and its marine environments. The program will feature Osprey Reef, the Ribbon Reefs, Lizard Island, Nathan Reef and Mackay Reef, alongside new experiences at Restoration Island and in search of the majestic whale sharks at Wreck Bay. A stronger emphasis on reef science and conservation will connect guests with research and the people working to understand and protect these environments, including through Coral Expeditions’ continuing collaboration with Port Douglas-based Reef Legacy foundation and Coral biobank facility.
Looking ahead to January and February 2028, Coral Geographer will operate five new 10-night expeditions in Indonesia, departing from and returning to Sorong. The shorter itineraries provide a new option for travellers keen to experience expedition cruising in Raja Ampat and West Papua. Voyages will explore Raja Ampat’s limestone islands, sheltered lagoons and rich marine environments, with opportunities to encounter whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay. The expanded deployment builds on growing interest in the region’s compelling combination of nature, culture and history.
Voyages to New Zealand will return as a dedicated annual season, operating from late November 2027 to early February 2028. Alongside voyages exploring the country’s coastlines and fiords, the program includes a return to the remote Subantarctic Islands, with Campbell Island and the Auckland Islands among the wild destinations.
Coral Expeditions will also return to South Australia and the south-west region of Western Australia during October and November 2027. The program includes an extended voyage across the Great Australian Bight between Fremantle and Adelaide and two 10-night Wild Islands of South Australia departures. These southern voyages will combine island and coastal exploration with opportunities to discover the region’s seafood, wine and agricultural producers. They complement the company’s wider Western Australian program, including Abrolhos Islands and the Coral Coast voyages between Fremantle and Broome.
Across the program, which will open for sale this month, Coral Expeditions’ Australian-flagged expedition ships, specialist guides and dedicated tender craft will bring guests closer to remote coastal environments, with small-group excursions and itineraries designed to make the most of local conditions.
