Ponant Explorations unveils last-minute Indonesia and East Timor itineraries for 2026

• Ponant Explorations has several expeditions to Indonesia in 2026 to cater for guests looking to travel closer to home
• The line has also unveiled some exotic expeditions to Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Borneo and Vietnam for 2027 and 2028.
• Guests will learn about the ancient cultures, cuisine and history of these less-explored corners of Asia.

Ponant Explorations has unveiled some last-minute Asian itineraries to cash in on travellers looking to travel closer to home.

The line has a selection of expeditions to Indonesia and East Timor later this year and new itineraries exploring the Philippines, Borneo, Vietnam, Japan and South Korea in 2027 and 2028.

“Travellers can discover extraordinary adventures at sea without the need for long-haul travel,” the line said.

Highlights of some last-minute Indonesia voyages in 2026

Le Soleal is offering a 15-day sailing from Darwin to Bali departing 9 November 2026 to explore the remote islands of Indonesia and East Timor including Dili, Baucau, Banda Neira, Triton Bay, Komodo National Park and Sumbawa. Travellers will be able to explore pristine coral reefs, volcanic landscapes and engage in ancestral cultural immersion with some of Southeast Asia’s most isolated communities.

Prices start from $16,110pp.

Le Soleal is also sailing an 11-day round-trip from Benoa, Bali to the remote islands of Indonesia, Sumba and Sumbawa departing 24 November 2026. Guests will be able to discover immaculate, pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, vibrant marine life, secret lakes and traditional villages. They will also learn about the local heritage and ancestral culture of charming villagers. They will also visit Dili, the capital of East Timor and discover the history of the former Portuguese colony. When Le Soleal calls at Satonda Island, the little-known gem, north of Sumbawa, guests will explore the mysterious saltwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation and cliffs. At Saleh Bay, the waters are particularly rich in plankton which make it one of the country’s prime spots for observing whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.

Prices start from $11,510pp.

Le Soleal will also offer a 16-day sailing from Bali to Cairns departing on 4 December 2026. Travellers will explore the Indonesian archipelago and the northern shores of Australia including Komodo National Park, Flores, the Barat Daya Islands, West Papua and the Torres Strait. Besides snorkelling and swimming in crystal clear waters, you will also be able to immerse in the local Indonesian and Papuan communities and learn about their thousand-year-old traditional way of life and plunge into the mysteries of the remote lands and wild nature. You will visit Barat Daya Islands which are surrounded by coral reefs and lush fauna and flora where more than 162 different bird species flourish. You will also visit Banda Neira and the Maluku Islands, better known as the Spice Islands and experience the eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture and the remnants of a tumultuous history.

Prices start from $14,500pp.

Highlights of the new Asian itineraries for 2027 and 2028

Ponant Explorations will sail to the less-explored corners of the Philippines and Borneo with an 11-day expedition onboard Le Jacques Cartier or Le Soleal departing 21 April, 20 May and 5 November 2027 and 28 April 2028. Sailing between Keelung, Manila and Singapore, guests will be able to explore the pristine coastlines and remote islands and experience the diverse cultures of the local communities. From Puerto Princesa in the Philippines to Balabac Islands in Brunei, you then cruise to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Borneo.

Princes start from $12,380pp.

There’s a 15-day expedition from Manila to Darwin onboard Le Soleal, visiting the Philippines, Indonesia and West Papua departing on 28 August 2027 or 1 June and 4 September 2028. You will visit pristine beaches, traditional villages, Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Banda Neira in the historic Spice Islands with lots of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.

Prices start from $14,440pp.

Le Soleal will also offer a 14-day voyage from Singapore to Hong Kong  exploring Vietnam’s amazing coastline including Con Dao Islands, Quy Nhon, Chan May and Ha Long Bay. You will experience Vietnam’s vibrant culture, cuisine, history and heritage.

Departing 27 November 2027 and 9 January 2028 with prices from $16,150pp.

As Japan continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations, Ponant Explorations is offering an 11-day voyage onboard Le Soleal to explore the cultural and natural treasures of Japan and South Korea. You will visit traditional gardens, UNESCO-listed sites, sacred shrines and experience the region’s cuisine and heritage.

 Departing Busan to Osaka on 1 May or 2 August 2028, prices start from $13,570pp.

Le Soleal is also sailing from Osaka to Tokyo on an 11-day expedition to explore Japan’s rich cultural treasures. From historic cities, sacred shrines to traditional coastal towns, you will also explore UNESCO-listed sites and savour local cuisine to understand local spiritual traditions and heritage that have shaped Japan for generations.

Departing 29 September 2027 or 9 March and 12 May 2028, prices start from $10,370pp.

 There’s also a 12-day expedition from Osaka to Busan onboard Le Soleal visiting Hiroshima, Miyajima, Hagi, Kanazawa, Sado Island and Kanmon Strait. You will visit modern cities, historic districts, sacred shrines to UNESCO World Heritage sites, and learn about the contrasts between Japan’s ancient traditions and modern society.

Departing 7 October 2027 or 17 March and 4 May 2028, prices start from $10,370pp.