Coral Expeditions has rolled out a new series of cruises to the “Small Islands of Japan and the Philippines”. Part of the “Small Islands of the World” series, these cruises will continue the theme of visits to remote islands that are of historical, biological or anthropological significance. Coral Adventurer will cast off from Guam on the inaugural expedition of the series in September 2023.
“This is the Japan that most visitors have not seen,” says Commercial Director Jeff Gillies. “Very few local Japanese people have ventured into these hard-to-reach coastal communities of southern Japan, let alone western travelers. These islands are a mix of ancient traditions, unique landscapes and rare wildlife and an area we have long sought to explore.”
The 14-night “Journey to Japan” itinerary from Guam to Tokyo departs September 8, 2023, and sails to the Mariana Islands to uncover World War II history at Tinian and Iwo Jima. Guests can explore the marine environments of Rota, Pagan and Maug islands. The voyage continues to the Japanese Ogasawara and Izu archipelagos and guests can explore remote Japanese islands including Chichijima, Hahajima and Mukujima. They can immerse themselves in local culture by witnessing the traditional kashitate dance and hachijo taiko drum performance at Hachijojima. Other highlights include exploring Shimizu’s seafood market and the hiking trail to enjoy ropeways and views of Mount Fuji.
The 14-night “Through the Heart of Japan” voyage departs Tokyo on September 23, 2023. Guests can experience traditional Japanese culture at the township of remote Shimizu and visit the Kamikura shrine at Shingu. They will continue to the ideal vantage point of Kobe port to explore Osaka for a food tour or spend time at Kyoto amongst the diverse cityscape of modern architecture and ancient temples. Other highlights include a visit Jeju Island in South Korea to view the UNESCO-listed Manjanggul Lava Tube before sailing to the little-known Goto Islands. The journey concludes in Fukuoka.
The 16-night “Through Japan’s Ryukyu Islands” departs October 7, 2023. Guests will set sail from Fukuoka to visit Nagasaki and venture deep into the remote Okinawa Islands to encounter lifestyles of those who make their living by the sea, including at the fishing village of the Suwanosejima. They will learn about ancient legends tied to Okinoerabujima and discover the marine ecosystems of the Kerama Islands. Other highlights include walking amongst towering cedars in the ancient woodland of Yakujima, kayaking through the forested scenery of Iriomote Island and witnessing the Strombolian eruption of passing volcanic landscapes. The journey concludes in Keelung.
The 16-night “Island Trails of the Philippines” voyage departs October 24, 2023 departs from Keelung to discover the small islands of the Philippines shaped by Spanish colonial heritage and World War II history. On Taiwan’s east coast, guests can go hiking through Taroko National Park. Guests will learn about Japanese trading heritage at Luzon and visit the historic Cabo Engaño Lighthouse on Palaui Island. Other highlights include beachcombing on the Philippines’ idyllic beaches; snorkeling and diving in Catanduanes and Cuatro Islas; and visiting handicraft stores, heritage churches, houses and shrines of Marinduque. The journey concludes in Manila.
For more information, visit www.coralexpeditions.com.
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