Fremantle

Fremantle is a dynamic and vibrant port city situated on the mouth of the Swan River. It is renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere with strong southern European, particularly Italian influences. Fremantle was established in May 1829 when Captain Charles Howe Fremantle formally took possession of the area for the purpose of establishing a British colony, which was initially known as the Swan River Colony. Later that year, Lieutenant Governor James Stirling arrived and decided that Fremantle would become a port and that a new colony (today known as Perth) would be developed approximately 20 kilometres up the Swan River on good soil which would allow for the development of agriculture.

In the 1980’s Fremantle became one of the premier tourist destinations in Australia after the victory of Australia II in the America’s Cup. Subsequently the America’s Cup challenge was held off Fremantle’s coast. Fremantle is popular for its maritime history, laid back atmosphere and unique culture that permeates the city.

Komodo Island

Komodo Island is home to Komodo National Park, where Komodo dragons reign supreme and visitors are granted an unforgettable glimpse in to the world of nature, marine biodiversity and preservation. Komodo Island was created in the volcanic uplift that created Sumatra, Java and Bali. There is only one settlement on the Island – a “fishing village” of around 2000 people, thought to be descendants of convicts exiled to the island from Sulawesi. The residents make a living fishing, breeding goats or as craftsmen. Little is known of the island’s early history, and Komodo dragons were thought a folk tale until their discovery in the early 1900’s. Komodo Island national park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986; it is the only place on earth where the famed prehistoric Komodo dragon can be found in the wild, and is accessible only by a ranger escorted tour.

Makassar, Ujung Pandang

Like much of Asia, Makassar is a melting pot of cultures, sights, sounds, smells and flavours. Dine on a delicious mix of Chinese, Sulawesi and local cuisines, take a stroll along the mid-city waterfront or experience an historic and impressive reminder of the city’s Dutch colonial history with a visit to Fort Rotterdam.

Lombok

Lombok is a key component of the West Nusa Tenggara Barat province and its indigenous Sasak people are Muslim. the culture and language is rich and unique, and animist beliefs still hold strong. Mataram, the capital of West Nusa Tenggara Barat, is around 30 minutes away. Lombok offers an honest, uncrowded glimpse into a beautiful time gone by. It’s fascinating and distinctive culture will envelope you as you experience its temples, colourful markets, beaches and the sacred volcanic site of Mount Rinjani – the second highest peak in Indonesia.

Still somewhat unknown to the outside world, Lombok’s natural landscape and traditions have remained untouched. Tourism is concentrated mainly in Senggigi Bay, and most businesses are run by local families. Farming of rice, tobacco, coconuts, coffee, kapok and cotton are very important to the local economy.

Benoa, Bali

Being nearby, affordable and sun drenched all year round, Bali has long been favourite holiday destination for Aussies. But beyond its beaches and the resorts (though they are a fine example of the lifestyle that this island stands for) is a place that embodies the essence of the Eastern world.

Here, monkeys scurry around forest flanked sacred temples, rice paddies lie perched on the hillsides and coffee, banana, cacao and spice plantations line the roads.

This is your chance to experience culture and history that stretches back to 2,000BC, as well as all the natural beauty that draw so many here. From lunch overlooking an active volcano, shopping tours and elephant safaris, to all the thrills of white water rafting, catamaran cruising and a visit to a local waterpark, a visit to Bali manages to encapsulate just what a holiday should be, no matter what your idea of that might be.

Probolinggo

Sure, it might seem difficult to pronounce, but it is certainly not a difficult place to find yourself for the day.

From historic Buddhist temples and quaint local towns, to towering volcanic peaks in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, there is so much more to get to know than the pronunciation – though that is definitely part of it. Learn something new, go somewhere new, feel brand new.

Jakarta

The word ‘epic’ gets thrown around regularly these days, but it’s amazingly appropriate when used to describe this sprawling city. History and atmosphere, culinary offerings and culture, there is a not a holiday craving Jakarta leaves unsatisfied.

You’ll get a taste of the bustling side of Indonesia with a stroll through this incomparably interesting city. See? Epic.

Singapore

Our cruises departing and ending in Singapore provide the perfect opportunity to explore this melting pot of culture and people.

Visit Orchard Road, home to over 5,000 brands, lots of them at marked down prices. There’s also souvenirs and handcrafts in Little Chinatown where a haggle is always welcome. Take a stroll through the famous Tiger Balm Park, peppered with whimsical statues. And your exploration of Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the sophisticated Raffles Hotel.