Sailing the Indonesian Wonders; Orangutans & Dragons

A day to day guide

D A Y  1

Meet at Bali airport as you begin your Indonesian adventure holiday with a connecting flight to the island of Borneo in the company of your voyage guide who will travel with you to meet the boat.

As you join Ombak Patih, you’ll be greeted by the rest of the crew before setting off along the forest lined river, gliding past local villages of floating houses on stilts and watching in wander as native wildlife fills the forest canopy.

Stop and visit a traditional local village and library foundation before continuing upstream to a beautiful black lake system that guests can canoe at sunset and anchor overnight.

D A Y 2

Enjoy breakfast as Ombak Putih moves further upriver to a pre-release island operated by the Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS). Guests will then take a motorised canoe to observe the Orangutan’s from the water before meeting back at the BOS education centre where there are Orangutan’s awaiting release into socialisation. Spend some time here learning the history and rehabilitation programs that BOS offer before heading back to the boat for lunch.

After lunch we will cruise further upstream passing more Orangutan pre-release islands which provide the perfect vantage point to see these great apes in their natural environment. Guests can transfer to smaller canoes to get closer observation before heading for a refreshing swim in the black water lake.

D A Y 3

Rise early as guests travel by car to visit a local Dayak village to see the cultural spirit houses and learn about their ancient forest culture. Ombak Putih and her crew have spent many years building connections with the local people and guests are met by the village elder and a Dayak Ngaju welcoming ceremony. The elder will then take guests to stroll his village, showing their home gardens and rubber fields with a rubber tapping demonstration.

Take a visit to the elder’s home and enjoy traditional spices and coffee while exchanging stories before returning to the boat to cruise downstream through the rainforest, watching out for fascinating wildlife species along the way!

D A Y 4

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast onboard and then cruise to a local village where guests can see the ancient Dayak painted sandungs and watch a colourful traditional dance. In the afternoon, Ombak Putih will continue up stream to the village of Palangkarava where guests will depart the boat and head to the airport for a connecting flight back to Bali to continue the Indonesian adventure.

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D A Y 5

Stay in a typical beachside resort on the coast where guests can enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast and take a tour of East Bali to explore its deep culture and glorious landscapes. Visit water palaces, ancient Indonesian villages, lush rice terraces, wildlife rich jungles and the islands volcanic peaks. Dine on the freshest Balinese traditional cuisine before heading back to the resort where you can unwind or enjoy a snorkelling lesson with your guide.

After a dinner with your fellow guests, sleep in the shadow of Bali’s active volcano of Mount Agung, an imposing but impressive figure on the landscape of Bali.

D A Y 6

Watch a spectacular sunrise from the beach as hundreds of traditional “jukung” fishing boats return from their overnight haul. Ombak Putih is also horizon as she picks guest up to continue the voyage back on the water. Sail across the famous Wallace Line, a deep-sea boundary separating Asia and Australia’s biological system. It boasts incredible landscapes rich with a plethora of animal and plant life.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on board and snorkel the magnificent coral gardens off the Gili islands on the northwest corner of Lombok. The water temperature around this coral reef stays at an average of 27-29 degrees all year making for superb diving conditions. Discover clown fish, blue ringed octopus, sea turtles, manta rays and pygmy seahorses to name but a few!

D A Y 7

Wake up under the gaze of Lombok’s towering Mount Rinjani, the largest volcanic peak in Indonesia. Off the coast of Kenawa island, guests can spend the morning swimming, snorkelling or exploring ashore before we head to the famous village of Bajao “Sea Gypsies” of Southeast Asia where nomadic sea-faring tribes live in wooden huts on stilts above the turquoise waters.

D A Y 8

An early start in Saleh Bay gives a great opportunity to swim with a group of whale sharks. There are no promises that guests will be able to swim with these gentle giants but good connections with the local fisherman have seen a mutually beneficial alliance formed. The fishermen are paid a healthy fee to spot the whales for sustainable tourism, rather than hunting them. Whale Sharks are under constant threat due to the sky-high value of their fins but the fisherman are very glad to protect these beautiful animals and you get to be a conservationist!

Explore the mystical volcanic island of Satonda with a sunken crater lake at its centre. It was filled with saltwater when the nearby Mount Tambora erupted in 1815 and is believed by locals to possess special magic. Recent research at the crater lake found that the reefs here are like those found in the Precambrian era – the earliest part of Earth’s history. Swim, snorkel explore this natural wonder, and make use of the boats kayaks and paddle boards.

Drink sunset cocktails as the boat floats on the current providing the chance to watch the resident fruit bats from the boat at sunset as they fly to and from their roost on the mainland.

D A Y 9

A local connection sees guests visit the volcanic island of Sulawesi where local villagers are building traditional wooden pinisi boats – similar to Ombak Putih. Walking around this village, guests can really get a feel for their simple way of life, chatting with happy locals and maybe buying some hand-made textiles.

Snorkel a colourful and vibrant coral reef where small geothermal fissures release air bubbles from the volcanic chambers below before setting the sails on to the next destination.

Anchor off a deserted white sand beach on an extinct volcanic island boasting magnificent coral reefs and rolling hills to trek. Spend the afternoon exploring this deserted island either by foot or by kayak and then bring in the evening with sunset cocktails.

D A Y 1 0

After cruising overnight, the crew will bring guests north of Komodo National Park to enjoy a morning of sea-based adventures by kayak or paddle-board or enjoy a drift snorkel over the reef at Gili Lawa Darat.

Wander at the graceful manta ray as they feed and circle in the currents. Swim with these noble beasts for as long as you wish before spending the evening relaxing on the local sandbar beach.

D A Y 1 1

Today will see guests ashore on Rinca island as you trek in search of the ancient Komodo dragon. The Komodo Dragons are a species of lizard found only in Indonesia. The largest living species of lizard, they can grow up to three metres long and weigh in at approx. 70kg! They are a fascinating species to watch on – land as you explore the island of Komodo. Look out for monkeys, deer, pigs and buffalo and listen to the myriad of native bird life as you trek through the forests and savannas of Komodo island.

Spend the afternoon snorkelling at the nearby Saba Island, a well-known sea turtle hangout where guests will have the opportunity to swim with these gentle creatures as they cruise the shallow waters of the reef. Enjoy traditional Indonesian hospitality as the crew hosts a beach BBQ and bonfire with plenty of good food, traditional music, cocktails and dancing under the clear tropical night sky.

D A Y 1 2

Cruise in to the final harbour as guests eat their last breakfast a board and reflect on the end of their Indonesian adventure. Take a short drive with the crew to a traditional local village where guests will be greeted y locals with fresh coffee, betel nuts and a highly potent local “arak” (alcohol) before begin treated to a traditional dance by the village men and women
Head back to the boat for your final lunch before the crew take you to the airport for your onward flight 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

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)

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: Bali, Indonesia

To: Bali, Indonesia

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