Sailing the Banda Sea with a Total Eclipse

A day to day guide

D A Y  1

Arrive onto the island of Flores and the port of Maumere as your guide meets you from the airport and takes you to the boat. Today will be a chance to relax and get acquainted with Ombak Putih, getting to know our fellow travellers and enjoying the tropical sunshine and breeze on our faces as we head east.

At sunset, we will enjoy cocktails on the deck as the sun sinks slowly into the west.

D A Y 2

Just after dawn, arrive at the small island of Batang, where we will have the morning to enjoy our first snorkel of the trip along the colourful coral reefs. The island has a small settlement on the northern side, so we may stop by for a visit and met the local people. Head east once more in the direction of Wetar, hopefully arriving in the morning.

D A Y 3

Waking up off the coast of Wetar, guests can head ashore and visit a local village and their school, where we will have a chance to meet the locals and be witness to a special cultural performance in our honour.

Later that morning we will go snorkelling on a nearby island in front of the village with good corals and lots of big fish. Early afternoon we will set off to Romang Island, enjoying sunset drinks and dinner on board.

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DA Y 4

We will wake up off the coast of the beautiful island of Romang, already in the eclipse zone. Go ashore and meet the local people to catch a glimpse into their daily lives, as well as visiting the school where we can donate books and school supplies.

We will spend the afternoon snorkelling and visit a second local village (optional). We then move to a small island near Maupora for a great snorkelling and a relaxing day beach time before heading to our viewing spot at a small white-sand island just off-shore.

D A Y 5

Waking up, we will organise into groups for the commencement of the eclipse at around midday. Those who have set upon the island will be transferred to the beach, while those who want to stay on the boat can relax and wait for the festivities to begin, maybe even go snorkelling or exploring on the spectacular coral reefs.

This evening we will be having a large communal BBQ party on the beach with all the boats to celebrate this wonderful celestial event. After the party, we will head off back in the direction of Weter for a long crossing back to Wetar Island to start the return leg of our journey.

D A Y 6

Waking up exhilarated and not without a few sore heads amongst us, today will be one of relaxation. Depending on what time we finish the party and depart the night before, we will make landfall in the afternoon in Wetar where we will go snorkelling and have some beach time before continuing our journey westwards towards the island of Sika.

D A Y 7

We will arrive in the early morning in Sika, a small Island in the northern part of Alor, which has some fantastic snorkelling with lots of corals and sea grass habitat, a favourite location of the dugong. If we are extremely lucky, we may have the chance to spot one. From here we will cruise to the southwest of Alor to Lingal and Pantar Islands.

DA Y 8

Lingal has a beautiful white sandy beach located on the southwest part of Alor, and we will enjoy the snorkelling and swimming before cruising to the southeast part of Pantar island to visit Tamakh village, a place seldom visited by foreigners before.

In fact, our 2018 textile cruise was the first time all the villagers had ever meet foreigners. They will welcome us to the village wearing their beautiful bitil tube skirts, and will perform the Lego-Lego dance for us, and we will be invited to enjoy a bit of audience participation. We will then head back to the boat and cruise to Solor.

DA Y 9

After breakfast, it will be a good time for some water activities, kayaks and paddle boards for the keen, and swimming for the others.

From Lohayong we cross to Larantuka, a bustling little town situated at the foot of the imposing Ile Mandiri volcano, and a very nice example of urban island life. As we go ashore, we will be welcomed by local Lamaholot villagers who will show us in detail how they produce their fantastic earthy-brown ikat fabric, which are decorated with small white seashells. We will go snorkelling in the afternoon before heading off for an overnight crossing to Maumere.

DA Y 1 0

On this, our last day, we will visit Wuring village, a Bajau ‘sea gypsy’ settlement, a village built on the water of coral rocks and wooden poles. Living right the way across the waters of the Coral Triangle, this is a fascinating insight into a very traditional way of life. We well then head back to the boat to have lunch and to bid or final goodbyes to our crew before heading back to the airport for our flights back to Bali.

All voyages for Ombak Putih

Ombak Putih

Guest berths: 24 Rig: Gaff Ketch

Ombak Putih is a traditional Indonesian pinisi sailing vessel built in 1995 on the island of Borneo. Part of a centuries-old maritime tradition of hand-crafted boat-building now classified as UNESCO cultural heritage.

Built by local Indonesian craftsmen using traditional hand tools and Indonesian hard-woods, Ombak Putih is full of cultural knowledge passed down from father to son over centuries. Working alongside her sister ship Katharina, (smaller but equally as beautiful!), they are both fine examples of some of the few original boats that still sail these waters.

Now led by Captain Jurfi, Ombak Putih takes guests on skippered sailing holidays to explore the cultural heritage, natural wonders and wildlife of the Indonesian islands.

Read more about what to expect from life on board Ombak Putih.

Above decks, Ombak Putih has over 400sqm of communal space divided over her two main deck areas. A large saloon sits mid-ships at deck level with 360degree views with a large-covered canopy area to the bows for alfresco dining and daytime relaxation. A top deck sits above the saloon giving guests a secluded relaxation and sun-bathing area, as well as stunning views across the archipelago.

The galley sits to the stern and is really where this boat comes to life. With 14 crew on hand, you won’t have to a lift a finger with freshly-prepared meals showcasing the very best of Indonesian cuisine and hospitality.

Below decks, her interior refit has been to a high standard with spacious cabins and campion-ways.  Hand-crafted beds using local timber and locally made soft furnishings give the boat an authentic Indonesian feel. There are 12 private ensuite cabins for guests in a combination of double beds, twin bunks and three berth cabins.

Deck plan

More about Ombak Putih

Life on board

Indulge in a world of adventure as you discover the natural beauty of the Indonesian archipelago from the water. Walk barefoot along sandy shores, enjoy delicious local cuisine and wonder at the endemic wildlife species across the islands.

Indonesian culture

Life on-board Ombak Putih is one of traditional Indonesian culture, from the welcoming local crew to the fresh local delicacies, fascinating endemic species and breath-taking Indonesian landscapes. The local people are at the heart of everything that Ombak Putih does. From employing local people to sail her to the traditional craftsmen that built her, the networks and connections that have been nurtured by the crew are heart-warming. Visit remote villages where you’re greeted by running children, laughing and joking, sharing their local crafts. Dance around the fire, play music, exchange gifts and wonder their fascinating corner of paradise.

Sleeping and Relaxation

With six private, air-conditioned en-suite cabins full of traditional Indonesian charm, spacious communal area, alfresco dining areas and sun-lounge deck, Ombak Putih offers plenty of seclusion and relaxation. There are kayaks, snorkel gear and SUP’s for guests to use and the crew can arrange extra activities ashore from kite-surfing to cookery classes.

There are a total of 14 crew on Ombak Putih so you really won’t have to lift a finger. From home-made cocktails, freshly prepared Indonesian cuisine, there is even a host to take care of any extra excursion planning.

Read more about what to expect from your Indonesian sailing holiday aboard Ombak Putih here.

SAMPLE MENU FOR Ombak Putih

All food is made on board and local, fresh produce is top of the shopping list. We try to rendezvous with the local fishermen to get local seafood and fresh produce. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served buffet style.

BREAKFAST

• Cereals, muesli and fruit
• Bread and spreads (jam, nutella, honey, peanut butter)
• A la carte – bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes

LUNCH & DINNER

A large mix of Indonesian, western and world cuisines. 

• Rib eye steak, pork spare ribs, Mexican fajitas.
• Scallops, prawns, chicken, pork, pasta
• A mix of side dishes; salads, vegetables, rice, chips
• A variety of Indonesian tofu and vegetarian options.

FINAL DINNER

• Indonesian Rijstaffel (Dutch word for rice table with a large variety of traditional Indonesian dishes.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Full board including all meals, soft drinks, tea, coffee and snacks. (Starting and ending with lunch on first and last days)
• All Indonesian tour leaders
• All park fees, cultural performances, local guides and off-boat activities.
• Welcome drink, cold towel upon boarding and each time guests return from off-boat excursions.
• Daily room cleaning
• Two pieces of laundry each day
• Towels and linens
• Complimentary cotton backpack, luggage tag, fan and stainless steel water (which guests are encouraged to take home)
• First aid kit containing all major medicines
• Sunscreen lotion
• Soaps, shampoo and conditioner
• Beach BBQ
• Free wine, beer and selected cocktails at the beach BBQ
• Selected wines with special farewell dinner
• All port fee
• Use of on-board TV and multimedia facilities
• Library of books, kids games and TV documentaries
• Use of all facilities on board including snorkelling gear, paddle boards, kayaks, board games
• Use of sleeping bags for sleeping on deck
• All transfer to and fro the boats
• Fuel surcharge

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Domestic flights
• Transit hotels
• Alcoholic drinks outside of specials dinners and beach BBQ
• Crew and tour leader tips
• Incidental expenses on land (souvenirs, private purchases etc)

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes - all meals are included in the price (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Hot Drinks)

• Are there any added extra's?

  No, unless you go ashore. Excursions are not included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Vegetarian, halal, kosher, children’s fare, low fat dishes, allergies, etc. However, we must be notified in advance of any special needs so we can make arrangements.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  (All cabins are ensuites) 6 x double cabins, 2 x triple cabins (one double bed & one upper single bunk), 4 x twin bunk cabins.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  There are 12 ensuites with each cabin.

• Is there WIFI?

  No! Time to disconnect from the modern conforms and reconnect with nature!

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes - there are plenty of USB sockets available.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  No

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a need for adventure.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure. Ginger tea and biscuits also help with sea sickness.

• Is bedding included?

  All bedding and shower towels are included. Please bring your own swimming towels.

Travel Planning

From: Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara

To: Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.