Hafen
Semarang

Explore the wonderful Gedong Songo Temple complex on this tour that highlights Java's ancient culture. The Hindu temples themselves are not large in stature, but the setting, views of the highlands and atmosphere make it a memorable visit.

Settle in your seat for a two-hour drive through the picturesque countryside as you make your way to the Gedong Songo Temple complex. Constructed during the 9th century Syailendra Dynasty, the temples were discovered in 1804 by Sir Stamford Raffles and are considered excellent examples of the Early Classic style of Javanese architecture.

Arriving at the parking area for the complex, you'll continue your journey to the temples on horseback (optional). As the horse's owner leads you up the pine-forested trail, you are free to enjoy the panoramic scenery passing by. Situated at a height of approximately 4,000 feet above sea level, the temples provide breath-taking views across north-central Java and on a clear day, you can see a line of volcanoes on the horizon, from Mt. Lawu in the east to Mt. Sumbing, Mt. Sundoro and the Dieng Massif in the west.

The temples themselves are more or less evenly spaced between 300 - 700 feet apart on individual hills and ridges that project from the mountainside. On the main temple, which is dedicated to Siva, the statue of Nandiswara on the north side and Mahakala on the south side of the doorway, are still in place. The Siva temple stands as confirmation that Javanese Hindu iconography had reached its maturity by this time in history.

After enjoying the wonderful architecture and history of the Gedong Songo Temples, you'll travel to a resort in the highlands for a tasty Indonesian buffet lunch, before the return drive to the port.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Borobudur, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering volcanos. Enjoy Indonesian specialties while entertained by a local group.Journey into the dramatic landscape of central Java en route to the incredible site of Borobudur. You’ll be simply amazed at this man-made marvel that is nothing short of being spectacular. The world's largest Buddhist monument, Borobudur was constructed between 778 and 856 and built with over two million cubic feet of stone. This massive building project exhausted five generations of central Java's population, yet within little more than a century of its completion, was mysteriously abandoned. A subsequent eruption of neighboring Mount Merapi completely covered the site in ash and it wasn't rediscovered until 1814. The painstaking excavation and restoration of Borobudur was accomplished at a cost of $25 million, but has given us today an unquestionably remarkable monument that stands as a symbol to an ancient and glorious heritage. Following your exploration of the temple, you'll be treated to a buffet lunch of Indonesian specialties and a performance by local entertainers. After Lunch drive back to Harbor.

This tour provides a wonderful opportunity to see some of Semarang's most popular attractions. Travel to Central Java to discover some of its highlights and stop at the Grand Mosque, located in Gajah Raya Street, for a photo opportunity. Semarang’s Old City is a silent witness to the history of Indonesia during the Dutch Colonial period; some of its 50 ancient buildings still stand. Among the sites that you’ll visit is Sam Poo Kong, a unique temple where all religions and ethnicities are welcome to worship. The temple foundations were built by Admiral Chen Ho, a Muslim explorer of the Ming Dynasty. After the destruction of the original temple, by a massive landslide in 1704, the local community rebuilt it in the present location. Your panoramic drive though the city takes you past Simpang Square. Continuing the colonial theme, you’ll stop for refreshments located in a classic colonial building at Old City Area. Explore Blenduk Church from the Outside Building due to the renovation progress. Drive back to Harbor and rejoin with the ship.

An orientation drive through the historical sections of Semarang begins this truly pleasant day of touring. Ride a nostalgic steam train though charming scenery and visit a coffee plantation where you’ll be treated to a traditional buffet style lunch.

Leaving the city behind, you'll head through the lush tropical landscape of rural central Java as you make your way to Ambarawa Village, home of the Ambarawa Railway Museum and where you will board your antique steam train. Before getting underway, you’ll visit the train museum which is set around the grounds of the old railway station. Here, you'll find a substantial collection of well-restored classic locomotives, with the oldest dating back to 1891.

Boarding an original passenger coach complete with vintage wooden benches, your picturesque train journey begins. From either side of your train car, you'll enjoy scenic vistas of tiny villages, rice paddies and small creeks, all set against the backdrop of Java's green hills and majestic mountains. At the Tuntang Village station, your train will reverse direction and travel back to Ambarawa Village where you'll rejoin your coach for the drive to a local coffee plantation.

Arriving at the plantation which has been modernized to accommodate tourists, you'll have an opportunity to see Javanese coffee plants with beans at different stages of ripening. Your hosts at the plantation are happy to share with you their knowledge of coffee and the process of how the beans are grown and made into the final coffee product. A buffet lunch will be served along with the opportunity to try a cup of freshly brewed coffee before it's time to board your coach for the relaxing drive back to the pier.

Experience the lush, tropical beauty and history of central Java during this panoramic, full-day excursion.

Tanjung Emas, Central Java, Ambarawa Railway Station, Steam Locomotive Museum

Your exclusive tour begins with a scenic, approximately one-hour drive to central Java, and a visit to the Ambarawa Railway Station and Steam Locomotives Museum. Built in 1873 on 152,489 square yards (about 127,500 square metres) of land, the Ambarawa Railway Station was named the Willem I Railway Station, since it was the Dutch King Willem I who ordered its development. Ambarawa was a military city, and, during the Dutch Colonial Government, King Willem I ordered the construction of a new railway station to enable the government to transport its troops to Semarang. Upon arrival, visit the Steam Locomotives Museum, which is set around the grounds of the old railway station.

Guided Museum Tour, Vintage Locomotives, Steam-Train-Ride, Semarang, Tuntang

Here, view a substantial collection of well-restored classic locomotives, with the oldest dating back to 1891. The museum was established in the 1970s, primarily to preserve a wide array of steam locomotives that were nearing the end of their useful lives on the 39-inch (99-centimetre) gauge railways of the Indonesian State Railway. Following your visit, take an exclusive ride aboard a steam-train through the historical sections of Semarang and lush, tropical landscape of rural central Java en route to the small village of Tuntang. Upon arrival, a brief comfort stop is made before riding back to the Ambarawa Railway Station. Leaving the Ambarawa Railway Station, re-board your coach and head to the Mesastila Resort.

Mesastila Resort, Antique Buildings, Lunch, Plantation Tour, Coffee Tasting, Snack and Souvenir

This luxurious, 5-star resort and spa incorporates an unparalleled collection of remarkable antique and enchanting buildings, including central Javanese icons. The resort keeps the traditional, local and wholesome experience intact, which accentuates the magnificent of the local environment, people and culture, and facilitates a healthy lifestyle. Upon arrival, proceed for lunch at the resort's restaurant, then take a guided walking tour of the plantation. Along the way, visit a hut in which coffee is traditionally processed. Enjoy a tasting of freshly-brewed coffee accompanied by a special snack made of roasted coffee beans and brown sugar, and receive a local coffee product as a souvenir of your visit.

Your tour concludes with a 1.75-hour drive back to the pier.

The stunning temple complex of Borobudur is yours to discover during a memorable, full-day excursion to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Borobudur

Depart the pier in Semarang for the approximately 3 hours drive into the dramatic landscape of Central Java, site of mystical and fascinating Borobudur, with a comfort and refreshment stop made en route. Borobudur is considered to be among mankind's most imposing creations. It was built with more than 2,000,000 cubic feet (666,000 cubic yards) of stone, and is renowned as the world's largest Buddhist monument; a status Borobudur has probably held since its completion approximately 1,150 years ago.

Borobudur was the spiritual centre of Buddhism in Java for approximately 150 years before being mysteriously abandoned. When neighbouring Mount Merapi erupted, volcanic ash covered the site, concealing the monumental complex for centuries. Since its 19th-century rediscovery, painstaking efforts have been made to restore and preserve Borobudur.

Borobudur Walking Tour

Upon arrival at this stunning temple complex, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha, your journey begins with an approximately an hour and 15 minutes guided walking tour. The structure is comprised of six rectangular stories of lava-rock erected in the form of a stepped pyramid. Three circular terraces and a central 'stupa' form the summit. The entire structure is in the shape of a lotus flower, the sacred flower of Buddha. Today, this awesome monument stands as a symbol of an ancient and glorious heritage, which is depicted in the reliefs that encircle the walls of the building and describe the story of Buddha's life.

Lunch

Following your tour of Borobudur, proceed to the nearby Manohara restaurant for an open-air buffet lunch consisting of Indonesian/Western dishes. After lunch, re-board your coach, as your tour draws to a close and before returning to the pier you'll make a stop at the silver processing center to observe the craftsmen at work to create their intricate jewellery and there is a good opportunity to purchase their products.

After conclusion of your memorable visit, your motor coach then brings you back straight to the pier of Tanjung Emas for the approximately three-hour drive back to the pier in Semarang with refreshment and comfort stop made en route.

Semarang, located on the northeast coast Java, is the capital of the province of central Java.  A major port during the Dutch colonial era, and still an important port today, the city has a dominant Javanese population.

Lawang Sewu

Starting from the pier, you will first travel to beautiful Lawang Sewu, an icon of Dutch colonial architecture famous for its uniqueness and high historical value. The name Lawang Sewu comes from the Javanese language, which means “a thousand doors”. Upon arrival, your guide will give you some information about this old building and its history. Based on historical track records, this building was originally built as an administrative center and a train station by the Dutch railroad company in the early 20th century. The building was designed by a Dutch architect, C. Citroen, with an Indian Empire architectural style that combines European architectural elements with a local touch.

Buddhagaya Watugong Monastery

Located 45 minutes from the central city of Semarang, this monastery has many buildings set in a large area.  One of its most famous icons is Avalokitesvara Pagoda which has a height of 147 feet (45 meters), with seven levels,  painted red, with some statues on each level.

Balemong Resort

Your next stop, observe the process of making batik and try your hand at this art form. Balemong Resort's purpose is to maintain the true Javanese. The resort not only function as a hotel, but also as a resort where patrons can learn the Javanese heritage and history.

After lunch at the resort, observe a rice field plowing demonstration before re-boarding your coach for the 60-minute drive back to the port and your ship.

Explore the splendid art, architecture and history of Semarang during this panoramic, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Sambi Sari Temple

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to central Java for a visit to the Sambi Sari Temple, with a refreshment and comfort stop en route. Upon arrival, proceed for a guided walking tour of this 9th-century Hindu temple. According to the history, the temple was buried approximately 5.5 yards (about five meters) underground. During your visit, see the parts of the original temple that have been excavated from beneath the volcanic ash.

Lunch, Prambanan Temple and Banaran Cafe

Next, proceed for lunch at the Rama Shinta Garden resto. After lunch, re-board your coach and head to the renowned Prambanan Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest Hindu Temple site in Indonesia, and one of the biggest in Southeast Asia. Its tall, pointed design is typical of Hindu architecture, and is highlighted by a towering, approximately 154-foot-high (about 47-metre-high) central building inside a large complex of individual temples. Following your visit, re-board your coach and head for a refreshment and comfort stop in the Banaran Cafe, then commence the approximately 55-minute drive back to the pier.

Lawang Sewu

Starting from the pier, you will first travel to beautiful Lawang Sewu, an icon of Dutch colonial architecture famous for its uniqueness and high historical value. The name Lawang Sewu comes from the Javanese language, which means “a thousand doors”. Upon arrival, your guide will give you some information about this old building and its history. Based on historical track records, this building was originally built as an administrative center and a train station by the Dutch railroad company in the early 20th century. The building was designed by a Dutch architect, C. Citroen, with an Indian Empire architectural style that combines European architectural elements with a local touch.

Pagoda Avalokitesvara Ungaran/ Buddhagaya Watugong Monastery

Following your delightful visit, your journey continuous with a pleasant drive toward the Buddhist temple called Pagoda Avalokitesvara Ungaran or Buddhagaya Watugong Monastery: located about 45 minutes from the central city of Semarang, this monastery has many buildings set in a large area. One of its most famous icons is Avalokitesvara Pagoda which has a height of 147 feet ( 45 meters ), with seven levels, painted red, with some statues on each level.

Hotel Santika Premier with Refreshment and Dance Performance

Next, re-board your motor coach and proceed to the Hotel Santika Premier where your refreshment will be served, accompanied by a presentation of traditional Javanese dance performance.

Sam Po Kong

Following your dance performance and refreshment and as your tour draws to a close, you'll make your way to your final stop to visit an old Chinese temple namely Sam Po Kong: the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang. Originally established by the Chinese Muslim explorer Zheng He (also known as Sanbao), it is now shared by Indonesians of multiple religious denominations, including Muslim and Buddhists and ethnicities, inclduing Chinese and Javanese. Due to Semarang's large Chinese population, the city boasts several admiral Cheng Ho, who visited the area in 1405.

After conclusion of your memorable visit, your motor coach then takes you back directly to the harbor of Tanjung Emas, commencing approximately a 25 minutes drive from Sam Po Kong Chinese Temple.

The stunning temple complex of Borobudur is yours to discover during a memorable, full-day excursion to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Borobudur

Depart the pier in Semarang for the approximately three-hour drive into the dramatic landscape of Central Java, site of mystical and fascinating Borobudur, with a comfort and refreshment stop made en route. Borobudur is among mankind's most imposing creations. It was built with more than 2,000,000 cubic feet (666,000 cubic yards) of stone, and is renowned as the world's largest Buddhist monument; a status Borobudur has probably held since its completion approximately 1,150 years ago.

Borobudur was the spiritual centre of Buddhism in Java for approximately 150 years before being mysteriously abandoned. When neighbouring Mount Merapi erupted, volcanic ash covered the site, concealing the monumental complex for centuries. Since its 19th-century rediscovery, painstaking efforts have been made to restore and preserve Borobudur.

Borobudur Walking Tour

Upon arrival at this stunning temple complex, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha, your journey begins with a 1.5-hour guided walking tour. The structure is comprised of six rectangular stories of lava-rock erected in the form of a stepped pyramid. Three circular terraces and a central 'stupa' form the summit. The entire structure is in the shape of a lotus flower, the sacred flower of Buddha. Today, this awesome monument stands as a symbol of an ancient and glorious heritage, which is depicted in the reliefs that encircle the walls of the building and describe the story of Buddha's life.

Lunch

Following your tour of Borobudur, proceed to the nearby Manohara restaurant for an open-air buffet lunch consisting of Indonesian/Western dishes. After lunch, re-board your car as your tour draws to a close and before returning to the pier you'll make your final stop at the silver processing center to observe the craftsmen at work to create their intricate jewellery and there is a good opportunity to purchase their products. After conclusion of your memorable visit, your motor coach then brings you back straight to the pier of Tanjung Emas for the approximately three-hour drive back to the pier in Semarang, with a brief refreshment and comfort stop made en route

The stunning temple complex of Borobudur is yours to discover during a memorable, full-day excursion to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Borobudur

Depart the pier in Semarang for the approximately three-hour drive into the dramatic landscape of Central Java, site of mystical and fascinating Borobudur, with a comfort and refreshment stop made en route. Borobudur is among mankind's most imposing creations. It was built with more than 2,000,000 cubic feet (666,000 cubic yards) of stone, and is renowned as the world's largest Buddhist monument; a status Borobudur has probably held since its completion approximately 1,150 years ago.

Borobudur was the spiritual centre of Buddhism in Java for approximately 150 years before being mysteriously abandoned. When neighbouring Mount Merapi erupted, volcanic ash covered the site, concealing the monumental complex for centuries. Since its 19th-century rediscovery, painstaking efforts have been made to restore and preserve Borobudur.

Borobudur Walking Tour

Upon arrival at this stunning temple complex, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha, your journey begins with a 1.5-hour guided walking tour. The structure is comprised of six rectangular stories of lava-rock erected in the form of a stepped pyramid. Three circular terraces and a central 'stupa' form the summit. The entire structure is in the shape of a lotus flower, the sacred flower of Buddha. Today, this awesome monument stands as a symbol of an ancient and glorious heritage, which is depicted in the reliefs that encircle the walls of the building and describe the story of Buddha's life.

Lunch

Following your tour of Borobudur, proceed to the nearby Manohara restaurant for an open-air buffet lunch consisting of Indonesian/Western dishes. After lunch, re-board your van as your tour draws to a close and before returning to the pier you'll make your final stop at the silver processing center to observe the craftsmen at work to create their intricate jewellery and there is a good opportunity to purchase their products. After conclusion of your memorable visit, your motor coach then brings you back straight to the pier of Tanjung Emas for the approximately three-hour drive back to the pier in Semarang, with a brief refreshment and comfort stop made en route

Explore Semarang at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Semarang at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Solo, Royal Palace of Mangkunegara.

Depart the pier in Semarang for the approximately 2-hour drive to the traditional city of Solo also known as Surakarta, and before continuing the journey a stop will be made at Banaran Café Colomadu for a refreshment. Afterward, re-joining your motor coach and your journey continues on to Solo Mangkunegara to visit Royal Palace of Mangkunegara.

Upon arrival, a guided walk accompanied by your Tour Guide to visit Royal Palace of Kertanegara well-known as the center of culture and art. This palace complex still functions as the residence of Sri Sunan and his royal household who still run the royal tradition until now.  This palace now become a center of culture and art in Solo city, also one of the tourist attractions in Surakarta. Some of the palace complexes are museums that store various royal collections, including the gifts of European kings, replica of the royal heirlooms and gamelan.

The Surakarta palace is one of the exotic building today. One of the palace architect is KGPH. Mangkubumi (titled Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I)  who also became the main architect of Yogyakarta Palace. Therefore, it isn't surprising that the basic patterns of the two spaces of the palace (Yogyakarta and Surakarta) have many common equations. These two palaces were not built simultaneously in 1744-1745, but were gradually constructed by the reigning Sri Sunan by maintaining the same basic pattern of spatial layout.

Danar Hadi Batik Museum and Lunch.

After touring the Royal Palace of Mangkunegara ground, proceed to the local restaurant (Soga Restaurant for lunch). Then, after lunch your delightful journey continues on to visit Danar Hadi Batik Museum, which was inaugurated by President Megawati Soekarno Putri in 2000.

The museum has many collections from different regions likes Lasem (Chinese influence), Pekalongan, Yogyakarta, Batik or even we can find batik from Netherlands and China in this museum. The history of batik in Indonesia, especially Java has ever been in bad time in the middle of the 19th century with the beginnings of the westernization of fashion. UNESCO acknowledgement of batik as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009 batik got its glory again. Since then, batik has received great attention from the world community, and it make Javanese fan of batik became proud with what they had.

Sugar Factory Museum

As your tour draws to a close and before returning to the pier of Semarang where the ship awaits, you'll make your way to final stop at Sugar Factory Museum. Upon arrival ,join your Tour Guide as you stroll around and admire the historical evidence of Sugar Factory Museum, was previously a sugar factory. Built in 1861 by the principality ruler Mangkunegara IV, the factory was the world's second-largest sugar exporter after Cuba in its heyday. The museum is in the former factory's carbonation station. Visitors can learn about the factory's history through various info-graphics, photographs and texts. The museum also has a showroom showcasing documentation of the old sugar trade's economic.

After conclusion of your memorable visit, your motor coach then brings you back directly to the pier of Semarang, commencing approximately 2-hours drive from Sugar Factory Museum Tjolomadoe.