Life's Different After Fire & Dragons
Where fire meets water, adventure becomes transformation. This voyage through Indonesia’s ancient archipelagos invites you to witness raw, elemental beauty — from Komodo’s prehistoric giants to the restless volcanoes of the Banda Sea. It’s a journey through time and nature, where every sunrise reveals a new horizon, every island tells an untold story, and every day reminds you that life is different after True North.
- Sequence builds from apex-predator encounters to high-intensity volcanic geology, giving the itinerary an uncommon dual focus: megafauna and active earth systems.
- Underwater density peaks across Komodo, Alor, and Wakatobi, delivering three distinct marine environments in one voyage — manta sites, critter-rich slopes, and world-class wall systems.
- Cultural depth is strongest in Flores and Alor, where weaving traditions and sea-based livelihoods anchor the human dimension of an otherwise elemental route.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Your adventure begins with a private charter flight from Darwin, the frontier capital of Australia’s north. After a short journey, you’ll arrive in Kupang — a former Portuguese and Dutch trading port on the island of Timor. The True North crew will guide you through customs and welcome you aboard. As we set sail for Komodo, enjoy sunset cocktails on deck and your first taste of what life is like when routine fades and the unknown takes hold.
Few experiences compare to standing face to face with the world’s largest lizard. On Komodo Island, walk alongside these ancient predators — a living reminder of Earth’s untamed beginnings.
Beyond the dragons lies another world entirely. Dive and snorkel the technicolour reefs of Komodo National Park, home to swarming fish, graceful mantas, and some of the richest marine life on the planet. Later, sip sunset drinks on a pink beach or explore “Torpedo Alley” after dark — a night dive alive with mystery and movement.
At Horseshoe Bay, photograph Komodo dragons against volcanic backdrops before diving Cannibal Rock — one of the region’s most spectacular underwater sites. Then journey to Rinca Island for another encounter with these extraordinary creatures. In the afternoon, tour a local pearl farm and witness the delicate craft of cultivating treasures from the sea. Return to True North for dinner beneath a sky full of stars as we cruise overnight toward Flores Island.
The island of Flores is as rich in culture as it is in beauty. Visit the town of Ende, where generations of artisans have perfected the art of weaving vivid, hand dyed fabrics. Each motif tells a story — of ancestry, ceremony, and belonging. Browse these stunning textiles, or simply watch as skilled hands bring tradition to life.
Rise early to the spectacle of sunrise over Lewelling Bay — a natural amphitheatre of volcanoes. Later, we anchor off Pulau Komba, where Batu Tara dominates the horizon. Watch as the volcano breathes smoke and light into the evening sky while you enjoy cocktails on deck. Our famous Volcano Party celebrates this primal landscape - a reminder that nature is both power and poetry.
The Alor Strait is a place where life slows, and the sea reveals its secrets. Snorkel and dive through vibrant coral gardens alive with unfamiliar species. Ashore, meet the island communities known for their warm welcomes and intricate weaving.
In Kalabahi Bay, visit a village whose people have long relied on the sea - learn how traditional fishing practices and modern conservation efforts now work hand in hand to protect these waters.
Today we enter the heart of the Coral Triangle — the world’s richest marine ecosystem. Explore Lintea Island, where every dive and snorkel reveals another world of coral walls, turtles, and tropical fish. These waters are alive with colour and movement, a vivid reflection of life beneath the surface.
The Penyu Islands mark your final full day aboard True North. Spend the day diving sheer coral walls, snorkelling turquoise lagoons, or trolling for mackerel and giant tuna. As the sun melts into the Banda Sea, raise a glass to new friends, shared stories, and the adventure that changed you.
After breakfast on board, you’ll disembark for your charter flight from Ambon to Darwin. The journey home is quiet - the kind of silence that follows something extraordinary. You leave with salt in your hair, stories in your heart, and the unshakable sense that life is different after True North.
Itineraries are subject to change.
True North
| Built: | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Length | 50 metres |
The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world.
A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.
Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
