The unspoiled waters of the Indonesian archipelago are one of the hottest yachting destinations on the world cruising map. A handful of modern yachts are now venturing into these exciting waters as part of their round-the-world tours, but there are also a few traditionally built luxury vessels (named phinisi) based in the area year-round. The 167.3-ft Dunia Baru is just one example of the elegant Indonesian phinisi schooners offering high-end luxury in a traditional package.
There are numerous routes you can take around the thousands of islands, and as many variations in the daily activities available aboard Dunia Baru. From starlit beach parties and kayaking through secluded coves to uninhabited desert islands, the Indonesian waters are blessed with year-round warm temperatures and ideal sailing conditions.
From April through October, Dunia Baru cruises around the Komodo Islands, taking in the islands of Sabolo, Rinca, Pantai Merah, Padar, Batu, Banta and Komodo itself. Alternatively, she generally spends the winter months (October through March) cruising in the Raja Ampat archipelago, which lies off the northwestern coast of New Guinea. Comprising four main islands and thousands of small islets, the largely uninhabited waters here provide ample opportunities to find peaceful anchorages. Under the surface, however, is a very different story, since these waters are home to the country’s largest marine national park, a huge number of world-class dive sites and the highest recorded marine biodiversity on Earth.
[See more: A Closer Look On Board The Orient Express’s First Sailing Yacht]
Step aboard Dunia Baru for a yachting adventure through the Komodo Islands on the island of Flores and discover the nearby islands and islets of the Komodo National Park. The waters surrounding all the islands in this region offer spectacular diving. Fortunately, Dunia Baru has a full set of diving equipment and, no matter your dive certification, crewmember Carl Rousse is a certified dive instructor and knows all the best sites suitable for all abilities. Jump in the water with him and discover sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays. Ashore, a hike up Mount Kelimutu will afford you 360-degree views over Komodo Park.
Deserted beaches adorn the coastline of the nearby island of Sabolon. Spend more time under the sea here, or trace the coastline on one of Dunia Baru’s kayaks or paddleboards. The water temperature and currents that surround this area make for great pearl-growing grounds, and there are a number of pearl farms that welcome visitors to see how the pearls are grown.
Take advantage of the crystal-clear waters that lap Komodo Island with an early morning dip before heading ashore for your first encounter with a prehistoric Komodo dragon. Hike through the rain forest with a local guide to see these creatures in their native habitat.
There are over 5,000 Komodo dragons here and they can eat up to 80% of their body weight in a single meal. Rest assured, there are no dragons on the nearby island of Batu, which instead offers its visitors crystal-clear water for swimming and ample underwater marine life to see, whether you’re diving or snorkeling. Those wishing to explore the world above the water’s surface can use Dunia Baru’s variety of water toys in the bays that lap the crescent-shaped beaches.
Spend the last night on board Dunia Baru outside the boundaries of the Komodo National Park. Worth the small detour, Banta Island is surrounded by waters literally teeming with giant turtles and manta rays. Back on board, head towards Flores for your disembarkation, perhaps jumping in for a final swim at Pulau Sebayor.
Sleeping up to 14 guests and with a crew of 20, the 167.3-ft (51-m) Dunia Baru is available to charter in the Komodo cruising grounds from April through September, and Raja Ampat from October through March. From $140,000 per week including all expenses.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 Flores
Day 2 Flores to Sabolo Island
37 nautical miles
Day 3 Sabolo Island to Gili Islands
17 nautical miles
Day 4 Gili Islands to Komodo Island
19 nautical miles
Day 5 Komodo Island to Padar Island
11 nautical miles
Day 6 Padar Island to Rinca Island
31 nautical miles
Day 7 Rinca Island to Batu Muncul
12 nautical miles
Related Story
Day 8 Batu Island to Banta Island
12 nautical miles
Day 9 Banta Island to Flores
37 nautical miles
