Coral Geographer Review | Ultimate Expedition Ship [2024]

For over three decades, Coral Expeditions has been a pioneer in small-ship cruising, offering adventurous travellers the chance to explore some of the most remote and pristine regions of Australia and the rest of the world.

Founded in 1983 to explore the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef, the Australian-owned-and-operated Coral Expeditions has grown from a single vessel operation to a renowned expedition cruise company, now boasting a fleet of purpose-built ships designed for intimate and immersive experiences.

The Coral Geographer, the latest addition to their fleet, continues the company’s tradition of delivering exceptional journeys to off-the-beaten-path destinations.

With a focus on exploring Australia’s Kimberley coast, the wilds of Papua New Guinea, and the idyllic islands of the Indian Ocean, Coral Expeditions offers itineraries that are rich in natural beauty, cultural encounters, and unique wildlife experiences.

What sets Coral Expeditions apart is their commitment to small group travel, typically with fewer than 120 passengers on board, ensuring a personalised and enriching experience.

We recently had the immense pleasure and privilege of working onboard the Coral Geographer as ‘Photographers-in-Residence’, spending 17 days navigating the remote atolls of Micronesia and rugged landscapes of West Papua on their Darwin to Yap expedition.

Having travelled the world on multiple expedition cruises, from Antarctica to the Arctic, the Galapagos Islands and now the Indo-Pacific, we have a huge amount of intricate experience on these types of ships, covering the most luxurious right down to rustic Russian research vessels.

And now with the Coral Geographer under our belt, we can confidently vouch for just how superb this purpose-built explorer is for travelling to the most remote regions in the tropics.

In our detailed and firsthand Coral Geographer review we dive deep into our thoughts and experiences of the entire ship, from the cabins and lounge areas to the dining and even safety, so you can make a decision on whether or not you think this vessel is right for you on your next adventure.

Introducing the Coral Geographer

The Coral Geographer was constructed at the Vard Vung Tau shipyard in Vietnam, renowned for building high-quality expedition vessels.

As the sister ship to the Coral Adventurer, which was launched in 2019, the Coral Geographer shares many design elements but incorporates enhancements based on feedback and experiences from its predecessor.

Both ships are part of Coral Expeditions’ new generation of expedition vessels, designed to offer an intimate and luxurious cruising experience while being capable of accessing some of the world’s most remote and hard-to-reach locations.

The Coral Geographer is equipped with the latest technology and features that enhance exploration, including a fleet of Zodiacs, signature Xplorers, and the capability to venture into shallow bays and hidden inlets that larger ships cannot reach.

Onboard, guests are treated to the expertise of highly experienced expedition teams, who provide insightful commentary, guided excursions, and a deep understanding of the regions visited.

Whether you’re diving the reefs of Raja Ampat, sipping cocktails in ancient ruins, or engaging with local communities, a journey aboard the Coral Geographer is designed to inspire a sense of wonder and discovery, all while maintaining the comfort and elegance of a modern expedition ship.

The Cabins and Suites

The Coral Geographer offers a range of elegantly designed cabins and suites, each thoughtfully crafted to provide comfort and luxury while maintaining a connection to the stunning surroundings.

All staterooms feature:

• Ocean views
• Compact en suite bathrooms
• Comfortable bedding
• Ample storage space
• Climate control
• Writing desk
• Daily housekeeping

Personally we stayed in cabin 413, a Promenade Deck Stateroom with a large window, which stands out for its blend of space, style, and accessibility.

The stateroom is designed with a calming colour palette, hanging wall art and modern amenities, creating a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration.

The ship also features Coral Deck Staterooms with twin portholes, Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms and Bridge Deck Suites.

Each cabin type provides ample space, luxurious furnishings, and thoughtful, decorative touches.

The Bridge Deck Suites in particular offer the ultimate indulgence with expansive private balconies and larger lounge area, perfect for those seeking extra comfort and privacy on their expedition.

The private balcony in these suites provide stunning views and comfortable seating. Additionally, the private balconies in various suite categories include an outdoor daybed, offering a luxurious space for guests to unwind while enjoying scenic views.

No matter which cabin you choose, the Coral Geographer ensures that every guest enjoys a luxurious and comfortable experience, complete with modern amenities and the convenience of a home away from home.

The Explorer Lounge

The Explorer Lounge aboard the Coral Geographer is more than just a gathering space – it’s the ship’s social hub where drinks are shared, games are played and presentations excitedly listened to.

With its panoramic windows, the lounge offers stunning views that make you feel connected to the remote landscapes you’re exploring.

There are more than enough comfortable chairs, lounges and tables for all guests to sprawl out and relax, and a number of TVs to watch movies or the slideshows from the expedition crew.

Naturally there is a well-stocked bar as well which opens up in the afternoons, so you can enjoy a drink while hearing about what the plan is for the next day or while getting to know your fellow passengers.

Library

Tucked next to the entrance to the Explorer Lounge is the ship’s library, with a collection of curated books that cover a wide variety of destinations, wildlife, history and culture that Coral Expeditions immerses their guests in.

There were books on Australian indigenous rock art, the birds of paradise found in Papua.

You are welcome to borrow any of the books you’d like for free. You’re just asked to return them to the library before you disembark.

The Dining Room

The Dining Room aboard the Coral Geographer is a beautifully designed space that blends elegance with a sense of warmth.

Large windows offer stunning views, making every meal a visual feast as well as a culinary one.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, with seating arranged to foster a sense of community among guests.

Breakfast is served buffet style, fostering a communal dining experience where guests can choose from various options at their leisure.

This setting allows for a relaxed, casual atmosphere, contrasting with the more formal plated dinners offered in the evenings.

You can choose to join large tables for multiple people, or grab a more intimate 2-person setup if you’d prefer a bit of tranquility with your meal.

Tables are also set for breakfast, lunch and dinner out on the aft deck for those that would like uninterrupted views and fresh air with their glass of wine.

The natural light during the day and the cozy ambiance in the evening create a perfect setting for guests to gather, share stories, and savour the journey.

READ MORE: Check out our article on our favourite travel photography tips to help you capture epic images on your next adventure.

Gym

Just because you’re on holiday doesn’t mean you need to let your fitness regime disappear, because there’s a small yet varied gym aboard Coral Geographer!

Located on the Explorer Deck, the gym features a couple of cardio machines and free weights.

Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, with inspiring views of the surrounding seascape as you work out.

The Bridge

The Bridge on the Coral Geographer is the heart and soul of the ship where all navigation and operations are conducted.

Thanks to the Coral Expeditions’ open bridge policy, guests are welcomed to visit during almost any time of the day, with it really only being closed during difficult navigation and when local pilots are onboard who prefer not to have guests in the room.

This unique access provides an inside look at how the crew navigates through remote waters, offering a chance to observe the advanced navigation systems and interact with the captain and officers.

On every voyage an official bridge tour is offered where one of the officers will explain all of the tools they have at their disposal and how they sail the ship.

Having access to the bridge is one of the most interesting aspects of any journey with Coral Expeditions, and we would often wander in to chat with Captain Andrew, Josh, Mohammed and Brock and watch what was going on.

On a side note, the captain and his officers were also the most welcoming, friendly and chatty ship crew we’ve ever come across on an expedition vessel.

Xplorer Bar and Vista Deck

The Xplorer Bar and Vista Deck on the Coral Geographer is found near the bow of the ship on Deck 7 and is one of the most picturesque and sought-after locations on the entire ship.

When the sun is rising or you’re entering a new destination, this is where you’ll find most guests with a drink in one hand and a camera in the other soaking up whatever is pouring out of the outdoor bars.

A key feature of the Xplorer Bar experience is enjoying sunset drinks while taking in the panoramic views during sunset.

It offers sprawling 270-degree views, lots of seating areas and of course the Xplorer Bar that opens up for special occasions.

During our journey the Coral team organised a fantastic cocktail party on the upper deck as we sailed out of Raja Ampat.

With the drinks free-flowing and vistas that need to be seen to be believed it became one of the most enjoyable evenings on the entire trip.

While there isn’t always a party happening here though, it is still one of our personal favourite areas on the ship.

Bridge Deck Bar

Smaller, yet often busier, the Bridge Deck Bar on the Coral Geographer is constantly buzzing with guests who would like a book to read or drink to savour as they take in mind-blowing views.

Found at the stern of the Explorer Lounge, the bar is where afternoon drinks are prepared, always with a cocktail of the day designed by one of the talented bartenders.

There are speakers outside as well that project what is being said on the presentations, so if you’d lke to sit outside but don’t want to miss the talks, this is the spot to be.

Reception and Shop

The Reception on the Coral Geographer is the central hub for guest services and information.

You can’t miss it, as it’s right at the entrance to the Dining Room, and you’ll usually find one of the friendly crew hanging out there answering questions.

If you need to put your name down for any daily activities, check to see what’s on the schedule or just have a query, this is where you’ll end up.

Adjacent to the reception area is the onboard shop, which offers a selection of travel essentials, souvenirs, and expedition gear.

There’s not a lot available, so you can’t rely on it to do all your expedition shopping before arrival or to pick up things like a decent camera, but if you’d like a shirt or something to take home you’ll find something suitable here.

Outer Decks

The outer decks on the Coral Geographer provide guests with ample space to fully experience the surrounding environment during their expedition.

The fantastic wraparound deck on deck 4 allows you to walk pretty much the whole way around the ship (with the bow being closed during operations), making it perfect for photography, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying the sea breeze.

The front Coral Geographer decks allow for better views of what’s coming up ahead, while the rear upper deck provides a quieter space to relax and take in the scenery.

These outdoor areas are designed to enhance the overall journey, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the landscapes they’re exploring.

The Coral Geographer Experience

The Coral Geographer experience offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort, with thoughtfully designed spaces, engaging excursions, and a focus on connecting guests to the incredible environments they explore.

The Staff

One thing we really loved about Coral Expeditions is that the entire team, from the officers to the expedition guides to the hotel and restaurant staff, are all part of the same company.

That might be a strange thing to say, but if you’ve ever travelled to the Arctic or Antarctica you know what we mean.

On those trips there are essentially three different crews – the expedition team, the ship crew and the hotel staff.

And while guests are friendly with them all, there is often a large disconnect amongst staff due to cultures, workloads and schedules.

This is not the case with Coral Expeditions, where every team member you meet is part of one big family.

The Expedition Team

As with any expedition cruise, the journey is only as good as the team. And luckily with Coral they have some of the most outstanding expedition staff in the industry.

The expedition guides on the Coral Geographer make the adventure truly special, combining professional expertise with a personal touch that resonates with every guest.

From the moment you step aboard you’re greeted with warm smiles and genuine interest in your experience.

In fact the first person we met at the top of the gangway was Captain Andrew, and he was so casual and engaged with all the guests coming onboard we thought he must have worked in customer service, not the boss!

The crew’s deep knowledge of the regions visited adds layers of insight to the trip, as they share stories and information that bring each destination to life.

The amount of experience held was truly remarkable, with the team consisting of certified dive instructors, Master Reef Guides, marine biologists and lifelong sailors.

Their attentiveness goes beyond the usual, making sure you feel comfortable and cared for throughout the voyage.

Finally what we loved most about the expedition team was how they were so engaging with the guests, and let their sense of humour shine through.

With Coral Expeditions being a premium, luxury product, you might think the team would be discouraged from joking around with the guests, but the opposite is true – they know how to read each person individually, and adjust their interactions accordingly.

The crew’s passion for what they do is evident in every interaction. They create an atmosphere that feels more like a family than typical large cruise ships.

The Ship Crew

The ship crew on the Coral Geographer are essential to creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for every guest.

The restaurant staff, with their attentive service and warm hospitality, ensure that each meal is a delightful occasion.

The pursers are always on hand to assist with any needs, providing a friendly and helpful presence throughout the voyage.

The housekeepers are respectful with a high attention to detail, and always seem to have a smile on their face.

Meanwhile, the sailors work hard behind the scenes, ensuring the ship’s smooth operation and safety, playing a vital role in the journey.

And they aren’t hidden away in the engine room – they are out on decks cracking jokes with the guests, driving the Xplorers back and forth to excursions and doing what they can to make sure everyone is having the legitimate best time ever.

Together, these dedicated professionals create an environment where guests feel genuinely cared for, making every moment aboard the Coral Geographer a memorable one.

The Food

We never used to be ‘foodies’, but over time we’ve acquired a passion for enjoying the finer things in life (our previous backpacker selves would be shocked).

We’re clearly not alone either, because when we got chatting to guests who had been multiple Coral trips, they often said that the food was one of the core reasons they keep coming back.

The food aboard the Coral Geographer is a highlight of the journey, offering a diverse and high-quality dining experience that caters to all tastes and dietary requirements.

The kitchen team crafts a wide range of dishes, from fresh seafood and local specialties to international favourites, often inspired by the areas we’re travelling, ensuring that every meal is both delicious and thoughtfully prepared.

The wait staff are fantastic, remembering everyone’s names and special requests from day one and always being on hand to bring whatever you’d like.

Special dietary needs are attentively accommodated, with options available for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific preferences.

Breakfast is a buffet, with lunch and dinner being mostly a-la carte.

Drinks

The drinks packages onboard offer a variety of complimentary options that enhance the dining experience.

House wines, beers, and spirits are available at no extra cost during meal times, allowing guests to enjoy a beverage with their meals.

Non-alcoholic drinks such as soft drinks, zero-alcohol wine and beer (this made Alesha very happy, as they had a wide variety to choose from) and juice are available throughout the day, free of charge of course.

For the coffee lovers out there, which is us through and through, a proper coffee machine is on hand with the trained baristas delivering high-quality brews.

There’s also the automatic coffee machines in both the dining room and the Explorer Lounge that make up a decent batch as well.

For those seeking a bit more luxury, premium drink packages are available, complete with exceptional vintage Australian reds, offering an expanded selection of beverages, and cocktails are available to purchase in the evenings.

The Xplorers

One thing that sets Coral Expeditions apart from their competitors are the use of their iconic Xplorer boats rather than the traditional zodiacs most expedition cruises rely on.

The Xplorers on the Coral Geographer are essential for off-ship excursions, designed to provide safe and comfortable access to remote locations with foul-weather protection.

These sturdy, purpose-built tenders are launched directly from the ship’s stern using dedicated platforms, allowing guests to board easily and efficiently, even if they have mobility issues.

Each Xplorer boat can carry 72 passengers and boasts two 300hp motors, making them well equipped to handle all kinds of conditions, from exploring secluded bays to rugged coastlines, and shallow waters.

The Xplorers are used as a floating adventure platform as well for snorkelling and diving activities.

Getting On and Off the Xplorers

The system that has been developed to board and disembark the Xplorers is very sophisticated, and we were genuinely impressed at the safety, speed and accessibility of how it all worked.

Guests step in and out of the Xplorer boats directly from the Coral Geographer’s specially designed launch platform at the stern of the ship.

A large platform lifts and lowers the Xplorers from the Coral Geographer deck to the water, so there’s no crawling in and out or risk of losing your balance like you find with zodiacs.

You’re scanned when you get on the Xplorers and again when you get back on, which guarantees guests aren’t left behind.

To exit the Xplorers on land (or directly into the sea if snorkelling and diving) there are three exit points; one at the bow and two on port and starboard.

There’s also large, angled step ladders at the stern to make climbing back in from the water very easy.

This setup is designed to accommodate all kinds of sea conditions, providing a safe and comfortable way for guests to explore remote shorelines and other off-ship locations during their expedition.

Presentations

Coral Expeditions prides itself on welcoming expert guest lecturers (and sometimes professional photographers too…*cough cough*) to enrich the passenger experience.

The presentations given on the Coral Geographer are an integral part of the expedition, designed to deepen guests’ understanding of the destinations they explore.

These talks cover a wide range of topics, including local history, wildlife, geology, and cultural insights.

The presentations are held in the Explorer Lounge, which provides a comfortable setting with modern audio-visual equipment.

Diving, Snorkelling and Kayaking with Coral Expeditions

A highlight of travelling with Coral Expeditions is the emphasis they place on water activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and even scuba diving.

It really adds an entirely fresh and exciting element to the trips, and with some of the destinations they visit such as the Great Barrier Reef and Raja Ampat being amongst the best marine destinations on the planet, the water activities quickly become the highlight of any departure.

Diving and snorkelling on the Coral Geographer are carefully planned to provide guests with a safe and enjoyable opportunity.

There’s high-quality gear, including masks, fins, snorkels, and wetsuits, available in a range of sizes, and you keep your equipment with you for the duration of the itinerary.

For the certified scuba divers out there, the dive operations are efficient and professional.

A PADI dive instructor leads all dives with a small group (maximum 8 per instructor) and can also organise Discover Scuba sessions for those who want to try it out for the first time.

For our trip we had Jacob as our guide, who was simply phenomenal in looking after all the divers.

The gear were all fairly new ScubaPro BCDs and regulators with built-in dive computers, along with masks, weights and fins supplied.

Scuba diving must be pre-booked when signing up for a trip, and divers must complete a specific medical before coming onboard.

Kayaking is an optional activity at some of the locations, and are free to borrow for all guests.

Technology, Sustainability and Environmental Practices

Coral Expeditions keeps sustainability at the forefront of their business principals, being ECO Certified and contributing to many scientific research programs.

The Coral Geographer is designed with a focus on modern technology and environmental stewardship, ensuring that every expedition is both safe and sustainable.

The ship’s navigation and communication systems are state-of-the-art, allowing for precise and reliable operations even in remote areas.

Sustainability practices are integrated into daily operations, with an advanced wastewater treatment system and comprehensive waste management protocols to minimise the environmental footprint.

The ship adheres to strict environmental standards, including fuel-efficient engines that reduce emissions, and eco-friendly practices that protect the delicate ecosystems visited during expeditions.

Additionally, the ship’s design allows for minimal disruption to wildlife and habitats, with careful planning and execution of shore excursions to ensure that natural environments remain undisturbed.

Coral Expeditions is committed to responsible travel, and the Coral Geographer embodies this commitment, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travellers.

Final Thoughts – 9/10

That’s it for our Coral Geographer review, and we hope you now have a thorough understanding of what life is like onboard.

The Coral Geographer is a testament to the evolving world of expedition cruising, offering a harmonious blend of modern design, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

With its spacious cabins, thoughtfully designed public areas, and exceptional dining, the ship provides a luxurious yet authentic platform for exploration.

The crew, with their expertise and genuine hospitality, plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience, making guests feel both welcomed and cared for throughout their journey.

While the Coral Geographer excels in many aspects, there are a few areas where improvements could elevate the guest experience even further.

The fitness facilities, though adequate, could be enhanced to offer more advanced options for guests looking to maintain a rigorous exercise routine during their voyage.

Additionally, extending the selection of included beverages beyond meal times would add an extra layer of convenience and luxury to the overall experience.

Despite these very minor areas for improvement, our review of the Coral Geographer ship remains an outstanding choice for those seeking a blend of comfort, adventure, and environmental consciousness when exploring the most remote places on the planet.

Its ability to navigate isolated and pristine regions, combined with the quality of service and amenities onboard, makes it a top choice for intrepid travellers.

The ship’s dedication to sustainability, without compromising on luxury or guest experience, sets a new standard in expedition cruising.

For travellers looking to explore the world’s most offbeat and beautiful locations, the Coral Geographer offers an unforgettable journey that balances adventure with comfort in a truly unique way.

Thanks for reading our Coral Geographer ship review, and we hope to see you onboard one day soon.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!