Sailing the Indonesian Wonders; Whale Sharks, Dragons & Coral Reefs

A day to day guide

D A Y  1 – 2

The first night of this “voyage” will see guests staying in a small beach-side resort on an island just outside of Labuan Bajo. Known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park, you can spend the afternoon here exploring at your own pace.

There is a fascinating opportunity to watch a local, traditional dance performance known as Caci (whip). Two local strongmen perform a dance ritual “whip-fight” where each man is armed with a rattan shield and whip as they try to hit each other to the rhythm of traditional acoustic instruments.

Indonesia’s Ring of Fire is home to a coral reef restoration project that begun in 2017 and makes for some beautiful snorkelling opportunities. In the evening, there is the chance to watch the resident fruit bats from the boat at sunset as they fly to and fro their roost on the mainland.

D A Y  3  –  4

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 we trek through the forests and savanna’s of Komodo island.

The waters surrounding this island are teeming with marine life. Explore uninhabited islands of pure white sand where world famous coral reefs run parallel to the beach. Swim with manta rays and hangout with sea turtles as they cruise the shallows of the coral reef.

A local connection sees guests visit a volcanic island where local villagers are building traditional wooden pinisi boats – similar to Katharina. 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.

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D A Y  5  –  6

Visit a mystical volcanic island 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 similar to 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.

Onto the next wildlife wonder of this adventure holiday, the Whale Shark. 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 off the coast of Sumbawa 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 fisherman are very glad to protect these beautiful animals and you get to be a conservationist!

D A Y  7  –  8

A village visit to the famous Bajao “Sea Gypsies” of Southeast Asia where nomadic sea-faring tribes live in wooden huts on stilts above the turquoise waters. Spend the afternoon relaxing on board or enjoying snorkelling, kayaking and paddle-boarding on the water.

Anchor off the coast of Bali for the final night aboard before you wave goodbye to the crew and start the day tour back to the south of Bali. Travelling through East Bali will see guests tour through its deep culture, glorious landscapes and fresh local cuisine.

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: Komodo

To: Bali

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