An incredible Sea Safari
A yacht charter is one of the most thrilling ways to explore this remote part of Indonesia.
Why sail here?
The waters of Indonesia are as close to a tropical paradise as you can imagine. Strung between the Indian and Pacific Oceans on the edge of the Ring of Fire, this immense archipelago of thousands of islands draped in rainforest, is like sailing in a world far removed. Glide across vast empty tracts of crystal clear water to secluded lagoons and idyllic beaches, seeing an abundance of exotic wildlife on land and beneath the waves and experience indigenous cultures along the way.
The tropical climate ensures it’s an all year round destination – with glorious temperatures and warm waters. The region boasts some of the world’s richest marine ecosystems, offering incredible diving and snorkelling, whilst the surrounding landscape is truly stunning. The boats, known as Phinisis, or Sulawesi Schooners, are traditional Indonesian wooden yachts, with all the contemporary luxury you need. They’re the closest thing to a floating hotel! And each crew knows the waters like the back of their hand.
A day in the life...
No two days are the same as you explore these waters, and before you set sail, your crew will discuss your itinerary with you, suggesting places you’d like to see and activities you’d like to do. Depending on the season, the destination changes – from November to March you’ll sail around Raja Ampat and from May to October, the waters around Komodo. Start your day with a swim to the beach, or a gentle kayak through the mangroves, getting up close to vibrantly coloured birds, and seeing a myriad of tropical fish beneath you.
After breakfast, set sail for another deserted lagoon, or step ashore and explore an uninhabited island or visit an indigenous village. Have lunch on the beach, then spend the afternoon snorkelling, or maybe have a massage on the foredeck – it’s a difficult choice.
Food & Drink
Each boat comes with a private chef who freshly prepares each and every meal. You’ll dine on a mix of Asian and international fare, either on board or on the beach. Start each day with bowlfuls of tropical fruit, yoghurts, cereals and eggs cooked any way you like. Lunch seems to magically appear, with salads and grilled fish or meat, and dinners are absolute feasts. The boat also comes with a well-stocked bar.
Activities & Experiences
Sailing in Eastern Indonesia promises a wealth of activities both on and off the water. The boats come with kayaks for exploring the secluded bays or mangroves, and snorkelling and dive equipment. The region has some of the best dive sites in the world – part of the “coral triangle” – with an exceptional variety of coral and incredible marine life. Expect to see manta rays, turtles, mandarin fish, whale sharks and more. Each boat has a dive master, who can help with beginners and guide the more experienced.
The national parks are protected, so in certain waters, the crew can take you waterskiing or wakeboarding. On dry land, you’ll feel like an early explorer. Your guide will take you to deserted beaches, islands untouched by humans and local villages where life hasn’t changed for centuries. Climb the sides of volcanoes and scale limestone peaks to marvel at the panorama from the highest point, or go in search of the famous Komodo dragons. And when you’re not exploring, you’ll find that one of the best things to do, is sit on deck and view the stunning scenery glide past.
Our favourite spots
The islands of Raja Ampat are some of the most beautiful places we have ever seen, and there are over 1500 of them. Tall limestone peaks rise out of turquoise water, and the marine and bird life is something else. They are remote and barely touched by mankind, with dense rainforest and mangroves, and some of the most exceptional diving you’ll ever experience. An early morning trek or swim is unbeatable, and you’ll be blown away by how stunning the beaches are. If you’re a nature lover, this is definitely a bucket list destination.
Nothing also, quite prepares you for the beauty of the Komodo National Park. Made up of three main islands – Komodo (the largest), Padar and Rinca and 26 smaller ones, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop off at Pink Beach – where the sand really is that colour – and enjoy a sundowner.