Australia's pioneering small ship cruise line Coral Expeditions has announced a significant expansion of its Western Australian deployment through 2026 and 2027, responding to growing demand for close-to-home adventures as well as traveller interest in the state's extraordinary coastline and access to spectacular natural attractions including the Abrolhos, Coral Coast, Ningaloo, Southwestern Cape and the Kimberley.

With 54 Western Australian departures confirmed for 2026 and 56 for 2027, Coral Expeditions will operate the most frequent expedition voyages along the coast, affirming its position as the state's leading and longest-serving cruise operator. The new schedule represents a 15% growth in deployment from 2025, and Western Australian destinations feature on more than half of the line's annual deployment schedule. This year marks 32 years of Coral Expeditions' exploration of Western Australia, a pioneering legacy that continues to grow as new voyages and expanded series are released.

The new program announcement comes as Coral Expeditions prepares to showcase its Western Australia program at the Australian Cruise Association Conference in Fremantle this week, September 3 - 5, 2025.

The 2026/27 program will see the return of innovative special themed itineraries including Whales and Trails and Ningaloo and Bluewater Wonders. Guests will also have access to an extended series of Abrolhos and Coral Coast expeditions, with the 2027 departures coinciding with the 400-year anniversary of Dutch explorer Pieter Nuyts famed voyages of discovery in the region in 1627 as well as the 300-year anniversary of the wrecked Zeewijk at Half Moon Reef. The line also confirmed the return of the Across the Bight voyage from Adelaide to Fremantle, offering a rare opportunity to connect Australia's southern shores with Western Australia's rugged coastline.

Another highlight of Coral Expeditions expanded Western Australia program is the introduction of the new six-night Coastal Adventures expeditions, which sail in the Cape-to-Cape region from Fremantle to Albany and are timed to showcase the state's wildflower bloom and whale migration season. These new, short-form adventure-style voyages are designed to appeal to a new generation of active explorers who enjoy flexible itineraries, personal options and top-notch regional produce to eat and drink along the way.

Abrolhos Islands & The Coral Coast departing March, April, September to November 2026 | February, October & November 2027. Rates from $13,490 per person twin share.

Ningaloo & The Rowley Shoals departing May & June 2027. Rates from $12,500 per person twin share.

Whales & Trails of Western Australia departing October 2026 & 2027. Rates from $10,990 per person twin share.

Coastal Adventures: Western Australia departing October 2026 & 2027. Rates from $5,990 per person twin share.

The Kimberley Cruise departing March – September 2027. Rates from $11,815 per person twin share.

Coral Frontiers & Kimberley Icons departing September 21 and 17 November 2026 | February 2, September 22 and November 17, 2027. Rates from $9,200 per person twin share.

Looking to the future, Coral Expeditions will be among the first operators to utilise the new Broome Wharf and port facilities, ensuring world-class embarkation and improved access for guests. The company is also working closely with Tourism Western Australia and industry partners to create expanded pre- and post-cruise land packages, offering greater opportunities for travellers to extend their stay in the state and for travel advisors to create deeper itineraries for their clients.

Global charter partnerships with APT Luxury, Noble Caledonia (United Kingdom), and Olivia Travel (United States) continue to increase Western Australia's visibility in international markets as a trending expedition destination. These collaborations, combined with strong domestic demand, are driving Western Australia's emergence as the country's most sought-after expedition cruise region.

Coral Expeditions Chief Commercial Officer Jeff Gillies said the company's deep roots in Western Australian waters and commitment to innovation positioned it well to lead the state's cruise future.

“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,” Mr Gillies 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” he said.

For more information and bookings please visit www.coralexpeditions.com, email explore@coralexpeditions.com or call reservations on +61 7 4040 9999

About Coral Expeditions

Recognised as Australia's longest established and most awarded expedition cruise operator, Coral Expeditions is Australia's pioneering cruise line. Our single purpose is to take small groups of like-minded explorers to remote natural regions with expert guidance and warm Australian hospitality. Founded on offering environmentally sensitive cruises on the Great Barrier Reef 40 years ago, our modern fleet has grown into a purpose-built blue water fleet featuring the intimate Coral Discoverer and the advanced flagship vessels Coral Adventurer and sister ship Coral Geographer. All ships are equipped with the company's trademark 'Xplorer' safari tender boats and supporting zodiacs that take guests to shore quickly and comfortably.  Home ported in Cairns, Coral Expeditions offers expedition cruises to the Great Barrier Reef, the Kimberley, Tasmania's wilderness coast, Cape York and Arnhem Land, New Zealand and further afield to the small Islands of Japan, the Philippines, New Guinea, Indonesia and the South Pacific. www.coralexpeditions.com

Media Enquiries: Sarah Shields 0425 318 966