Coral Expeditions has unveiled a major expansion of its Western Australia program for 2026 and 2027, cementing the state’s position as one of the hottest destinations in expedition cruising.
Australia’s pioneering small ship cruise line will operate 54 departures in 2026 and 56 in 2027 making it the most frequent expedition schedule along the WA coast and marking a 15 per cent growth on 2025.
More than half of Coral Expeditions’ annual deployment will now feature Western Australian destinations, from the Abrolhos and Coral Coast to Ningaloo, the South West Cape and the Kimberley.
The announcement coincides with the Australian Cruise Association Conference in Fremantle this week, where the operator is showcasing its long-standing commitment to the region. This year also marks 32 years of Coral Expeditions exploring WA waters.
The 2026/27 program brings back popular themed voyages such as Whales and Trails and Ningaloo and Bluewater Wonders, alongside an extended series of Abrolhos and Coral Coast journeys.
The 2027 schedule also commemorates two historic milestones – the 400th anniversary of Dutch explorer Pieter Nuyts’ voyage through the region and the 300th anniversary of the Zeewijk shipwreck at Half Moon Reef.
Another highlight is the return of the Across the Bight voyage linking Adelaide and Fremantle, plus the introduction of new six-night Coastal Adventures itineraries between Fremantle and Albany. Timed for the wildflower bloom and whale migration, these shorter voyages are aimed at younger and more active travellers, offering flexible itineraries, immersive nature experiences and premium regional produce.
Confirmed voyages and lead-in fares include:
- Abrolhos Islands & The Coral Coast – from $13,490pp twin share
- Ningaloo & The Rowley Shoals – from $12,500pp twin share
- Whales & Trails of WA – from $10,990pp twin share
- Coastal Adventures: WA – from $5,990pp twin share
- The Kimberley Cruise – from $11,815pp twin share
- Coral Frontiers & Kimberley Icons – from $9,200pp twin share
Looking ahead, Coral Expeditions will be among the first operators to use Broome’s new port facilities and is developing new pre- and post-cruise land packages with Tourism WA to encourage travellers to extend their stays. International partnerships with APT Luxury, Noble Caledonia in the UK and Olivia Travel in the US are also helping to raise WA’s global profile.
Jeff Gillies, Chief Commercial Officer of Coral Expeditions, said the company’s long history in Western Australian waters gives it a unique advantage.
“Western Australia has long been at the heart of our operations, and after more than three decades we continue to pioneer new ways for travellers to discover its extraordinary coastline,” he said.
“With the expansion of our program, new product offerings, and the support of industry partners, we’re proud to play a key role in shining the global spotlight on Western Australia as a world-class expedition destination.”
