Destination Asia unveils expeditions division for bespoke cruise adventures

Destination Asia, a DMC operating across nine countries in Asia, recently launched a new division, Expeditions by Destination Asia, focusing on bespoke cruise expeditions to Asia’s remote and culturally significant destinations.

The new division partners with expedition cruise operators to design and lead journeys to Asia’s lesser-explored destinations.

Expeditions by Destination Asia ensures safe, sustainable, and engaging travel experiences that balance adventure with cultural and ecological responsibility.

The first two destination guides feature Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay in Vietnam, as well as Raja Ampat in East Indonesia.

Alvin Materi, director of Expeditions by Destination Asia, shared: “These destinations are a paradise for nature lovers and underwater explorers, offering a glimpse of the wonders that await on our unforgettable expedition journeys.

“We look forward to unveiling more incredible destinations, including those in Thailand, Japan and Malaysia, in the near future.”

He shared that the inspiration behind the new division stems from a growing demand for off-the-grid travel experiences where travellers can also engage in meaningful cultural exchanges and ecological exploration.

He noted: “We saw an opportunity to partner with expedition cruise lines to bring these incredible experiences to life while ensuring they are sustainable and responsible in these delicate regions. Our extensive knowledge of Asia, combined with our passion for adventure travel, inspired us to create this specialised service to cater to the evolving needs of modern explorers.

“Expeditions by Destination Asia differs from our existing cruise services by focusing exclusively on expedition-style cruises in remote and often less-explored parts of Asia. While our regular cruise services may involve more traditional, leisure-based experiences, the expedition cruises are designed for travellers who seek adventure, discovery, and deeper engagement with nature and local communities.”

Materi added that the activities are more specialised, ranging from wildlife encounters and environmental research to cultural immersion in remote villages.

“Moreover, the logistics and operations of these expedition cruises are tailored to the specific challenges of remote locations, with a keen focus on sustainability, minimal environmental impact, and close collaboration with local communities,” he said.

Materi foresees that demand for expedition cruising in Asia will grow significantly in the coming years, as travellers increasingly seek authentic experiences in off-the-beaten-path destinations, as well as those that highlight conservation and environmental protection. “Expedition cruises in Asia, especially in pristine or sensitive regions like South-east Asia, and Hokkaido are well-positioned to cater to this demand,” he shared.

Materi shared that operating in remote regions presents unique challenges, including logistical complexities, cultural sensitivities, unpredictable weather, and varying local regulations. Destination Asia uses its extensive network, strong relationships with local communities, and in-depth knowledge of each region to navigate these obstacles.

The company works closely with environmental experts, local authorities, and conservation groups to ensure responsible operations that benefit both travellers and host communities. It is also a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, which guides members on best practices and provides guidelines for sustainable operations.