10 Most Popular Cruise ship Visit Bawean Island
10 cruise ship Visit Bawean Island
As Bawean Island (Gresik, East Java) transitions into a key destination for expedition and luxury cruises, it is no longer just a “hidden gem” for backpackers. World-class cruise lines now include this volcanic “Island of 99 Hills” in their Indonesian itineraries to offer passengers a mix of rare wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and authentic culture.
10 most popular cruise ship experiences and vessels that visit Bawean
Here are the 10 most popular cruise ship experiences and vessels that visit Bawean, along with the reasons why travelers find this stop so unforgettable.
1. Coral Geographer (Coral Expeditions)
The Coral Geographer is arguably the most frequent luxury guest at Bawean. This Australian-flagged expedition ship is designed specifically to access remote ports that large ocean liners cannot reach.
- Why tourists love it: Its “Xplorer” tenders allow all 120 passengers to disembark simultaneously for shore excursions, such as visiting the Bawean Deer Sanctuary or snorkeling in the volcanic caldera.
2. Aqua Blu (Aqua Expeditions)
A former British Royal Navy vessel turned long-range explorer yacht, the Aqua Blu represents the pinnacle of luxury “off-the-beaten-path” cruising in Indonesia.
- Why tourists love it: With only 15 suites, it offers an incredibly private experience. Cruise guests often cite the world-class Indonesian-fusion dining and the ability to anchor in secluded spots like Noko Selayar for private beach barbecues.
3. Heritage Adventurer (Heritage Expeditions)
Known as the “Grand Dame of Expedition Cruising,” this ship visits Bawean as part of its Indonesian Archipelago voyages.
- Why tourists love it: It focuses heavily on natural history. Tourists return because of the expert-led lectures about the Bawean Deer (Axis kuhlii), which is endemic only to this island.
4. Katharina & Ombak Putih (SeaTrek Sailing)
These traditional ironwood Phinisi schooners provide the most authentic “old-world” sailing experience. They are staples for small-group charters visiting the Java Sea.
- Why tourists love it: Passengers often mention the “pirate-ship” nostalgia and the intimate connection with the Indonesian crew, who share local seafaring tales and lead “drift snorkels” back to the ship.
5. National Geographic Orion (Lindblad Expeditions)
This ship brings world-class photographers and researchers to Bawean’s shores.
- Why tourists love it: The presence of National Geographic experts. Tourists keep coming back for the high-level educational experience, particularly when exploring the ancient ecosystem of Lake Kastoba.
6. Le Laperouse (Ponant)
As a French luxury liner, Ponant’s Le Laperouse combines “chic” style with expedition grit. It often stops at Bawean during trans-Indonesian routes from Singapore to Australia.
- Why tourists love it: The “Blue Eye” underwater lounge, where guests can listen to and see marine life through windows below the waterline while anchored in Bawean’s turquoise bays.
7. Seven Seas Explorer (Regent Seven Seas)
One of the most luxurious ships in the world, it occasionally features Bawean as a “discovery port” on its Asian itineraries.
- Why tourists love it: The contrast between ultra-luxury onboard (all-suite, all-balcony) and the raw, untouched nature of Bawean’s white-sand beaches.
8. Silver Cloud (Silversea)
This ice-class expedition ship shifts to tropical waters in the winter, visiting Bawean for its unique cultural heritage.
- Why tourists love it: The personalized service (butler service for every suite) and the highly curated shore excursions, like private performances of the Zafin Mandailing dance.
9. Viking Orion (Viking Cruises)
Viking includes the Java Sea in its “Southeast Asia & Beyond” routes, often positioning Bawean as a scenic highlight between Surabaya and Singapore.
- Why tourists love it: The focus on “The Thinking Traveler.” Guests appreciate the lack of casinos and kids, opting instead for quiet days exploring Bawean’s terraced rice fields.
10. Star Clipper
This four-masted tall ship offers a true sailing adventure, relying on wind power whenever possible.
- Why tourists love it: The sheer majesty of approaching Bawean with full sails. It attracts travelers who want to feel the pulse of the ocean and the tranquility of an island that feels frozen in time.
Why Tourists Keep Coming Back to Bawean
- The “Island of Women” Intrigue: Tourists are fascinated by the local culture where many men work abroad, leaving women to manage the island’s social and economic life.
- Eco-Exclusivity: Unlike Bali or Komodo, you won’t see dozens of other ships. For a few hours, the island belongs solely to the cruise passengers.
- Endemic Wildlife: Seeing the Bawean Deer is a “lifer” experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Pristine Waters: The coral reefs around Pulau Cina and Gili Noko are among the healthiest in the Java Sea due to minimal industrial impact.
