Exploring the Marine Majesty of the Coral Triangle

Spanning an impressive 5.7 million square kilometres, the Coral Triangle is a biodiversity hotspot that rivals the Amazon rainforest in richness and complexity. Here, marine life flourishes in abundance, boasting over 600 species of coral, 3,000 species of reef fish, six species of marine turtles, and an astounding three-quarters of all known mollusks. Beyond its natural wonders, this region delights with its diverse and rich cultural heritage.

Singapore, with its unique blend of modern attractions and traditional charm, is the perfect gateway for travellers seeking to explore the Coral Triangle. Amidst its urban landscape lie pockets of greenery, like the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. 

Venturing into the Philippines, you’ll find the laid-back charm of Puerto Princesa. Here, visitors can head to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or bask in the sun at Honda Bay before snorkelling among the colourful coral reefs.

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the islands of Papua New Guinea will not disappoint. In the idyllic lifestyle of Kiriwina Island, friendly locals live in a fascinating social structure based on matrilineal clans. The pristine waters of the Conflict Islands and Rabaul, surrounded by tropical landscapes and active volcanoes, offer spectacular diving and snorkelling opportunities.

 

Active travellers will find adventures like sailing, diving, and rainforest trekking in Cairns, Australia. Nearby, the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef, stretching 2,300 kilometres, is a haven for marine life, including the renowned Ribbon Reefs. Darwin, meanwhile, offers access to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Aboriginal-owned islands, and activities like the Jumping Crocodile Cruise.

Among over 13,000 islands, Bali offers iconic landmarks like the Royal Temple, Monkey Forest, and Tanah Lot Pagoda. As Indonesia’s busiest seaport, Jakarta’s Tanjung Priok provides easy access to the city’s dynamic urban landscape and heritage sites. Bitung showcases tranquil harbours, vibrant reefs in Lembeh Strait, and wildlife adventures in Tangkoko National Reserve, complemented by Manado’s local delicacies of fresh fish, spicy curries, and coconut desserts.

But perhaps the crown jewel of Indonesia is Komodo National Park, a UNESCO site since 1992, that houses roughly 5,700 Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, reaching lengths of three metres. The park features pristine beaches, including ones with pink-hued sands, and offshore coral reefs teeming with thousands of species of tropical fish, whales, dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and sea turtles.

No visit to the region would be complete without viewing these two volcanic wonders: Mount Batu Tara is a stratovolcano that captivates with its dramatic eruptions every 20 minutes, sending massive plumes of ash hundreds of feet into the air and lava rocks tumbling to the sea. Krakatau volcano is renowned for its historic 1883 explosions that triggered tsunamis and crimson skies for months.

 

Amid challenges like climate change and overfishing, there’s never been a better time to experience the beauty and diversity of the Coral Triangle. Join Craig Travel on a captivating 34-day Spice Islands cruise, departing on January 2, 2025. This voyage, operated by Holland America Line, was created in collaboration with a marine biologist, to showcase the region’s marine ecosystem and volcanic geology, and will explore the dynamic cultures of coastal communities across the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Australia, and Singapore.

The luxurious ms Noordam, with its lavish staterooms and museum-quality art, offers enhanced culinary experiences featuring menus inspired by these destinations. Onboard lectures by destination experts and cultural specialists further enrich travellers’ understanding of the ports visited, ensuring an unparalleled experience at sea.

As with all Craig Travel journeys, you can expect a carefree experience with included airfare and transfers, all meals and entertainment, the services of a Craig Travel Journey Leader, all gratuities for shipboard services, all cruise line and airline taxes, and more! 

For full details, visit our website at Craigtravel.com/zoomer or reach out to our Sales Specialist at 1-800-387-8890.