Welcome to your eastern Indonesia expedition—where traditional whaling villages meet prehistoric dragons, and every island reveals cultural traditions shaped by centuries of isolation and maritime heritage.
Over the next 11 days, you’ll witness water buffalo races staged in your honour, swim alongside gentle whale sharks in pristine bays, and walk cautiously among Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. This isn’t cultural observation—you’ll participate in traditional ikat weaving demonstrations, join village ceremonies unchanged for generations, and snorkel vibrant coral reefs where traditional fishing communities maintain sustainable practices passed through countless generations.
Each morning brings new discoveries across Indonesia’s eastern archipelago, where 24 pristine islands create marine sanctuaries and remote villages preserve distinctive traditions. You’ll explore traditional whaling communities demonstrating ancient seafaring skills, witness elaborate textile creation using natural dyes, and discover megalithic ceremonial sites where spiritual practices connect communities to ancestors spanning hundreds of years.
From walking among the world’s largest lizards to experiencing one of Earth’s last traditional whaling cultures, every encounter connects you with ways of life few travellers witness. Our small expedition community of just 30 guests ensures authentic cultural exchanges and intimate wildlife encounters, whether you’re learning traditional crafts from village artisans or sharing meals with families whose ancestors navigated these waters for millennia.
This is expedition travel where ancient traditions meet remarkable wildlife: respectful, educational, and utterly transformative. Your eastern Indonesia adventure begins the moment we depart from Timor-Leste.
- Badas’ Buffalo Races and Cultural Ceremonies: Immerse yourself in Badas’ vibrant traditions, witnessing thrilling buffalo races (Barapan Kebo) staged in your honour, alongside ancient rice pounding, ikat weaving demonstrations, and ceremonial events reflecting centuries-old agricultural heritage.
- Saleh Bay’s Whale Shark Encounters: Swim alongside majestic whale sharks, known as “gurano bintang,” in the crystal-clear waters of Saleh Bay, engaging with sustainable eco-tourism practices around traditional fishing platforms called “bagans.”
- Komodo National Park’s Dragons and Pink Beach: Track Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, with park rangers in the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, and snorkel the vibrant coral reefs of Pink Beach, one of only seven pink-sand beaches globally, teeming with diverse marine life.
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.
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.
Paspaley Pearl
| Length | 53 m |
|---|---|
| Max passengers | 30 |
| Built/refurbished: | 2021/2024 |
PASPALEY PEARL marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, offering a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region. As a modern boutique expedition vessel in the Kimberley featuring private balconies, we have the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels. You’re invited to ignite your sense of discovery, all whilst travelling in comfort and safety that has been designed to create the smallest possible footprint, with a philosophy of empowering local people and creating ambassadors for the destinations visited.
Designed to feel like your home away from home
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.
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.
The perfect place to relax while exploring
Main Dining, Lounge and Bar
Nestled on the Ocean Deck is our main dining area, lounge, and bar. As our skilled chefs craft your locally-inspired dinner, take a moment for a pre-dinner drink before being spoiled with the finest produce Australia has to offer. If you’re interested in exploring some of PASPALEY’s exquisite offerings, you’ll be delighted by their showcase of the world’s most beautiful pearls, available for purchase as a cherished memento of your time on board.
Outdoor Dining, Lounge and Bar
When journeying through the tropics, immersing yourself in the outdoors becomes essential. Indulge in breakfast and lunch daily within a relaxed yet refined setting. With two expansive dining tables and abundant lounges, relish the idea of dining amidst the natural surroundings you explore. Craving a refreshing drink after a day of exploration? Our friendly staff at the Outdoor Bar have you covered. The Outdoor Lounge doubles as the perfect space for afternoon briefings with your expedition team, ensuring you receive all the information needed for the following day’s adventure.
Sun Deck Lounge and Jacuzzi
Bask in the sunshine on the Sun Deck, furnished with sun beds, lounges, and an 8-person jacuzzi. Whether you prefer reading a book under the shelter of the protective shade cloth or engaging in conversations with newfound friends, the Sun Deck promises a haven of pure relaxation.
Sunset Lounge
Located ahead of the bridge, you can savour panoramic views rivaling those of the captain at the Sunset Lounge. Order a drink from one of the bars downstairs and relax as you witness some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen.