Sailing the remote Ring of Fire in Indonesia

A day to day guide

D A Y  1

In the early morning, we will arrive at the airport, where we will be picked up by the tour leaders and taken straight to the Ombak Putih. We will head out into Komodo National Park to Makassar reefs to snorkel with mantas. We will also stop at Pink Beach for snorkelling. Cruise to Rinca Island and spend the night at anchor in the bay.

D A Y 2

Rise early in Komodo National Park, taking a ranger led tour around the island of Rinca.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.

In the afternoon we’ll snorkel Siaba Reef’s corals, home to many sea turtles. Set sail in the afternoon for the Riung Islands and enjoy sunset cocktails as we cruise along the north coast of Flores..

D A Y 3

Today we will wake up near Riung Island. It will be a full day of island exploration, hiking, snorkelling, paddling and kayaking. In the evening we will be anchored off-shore to witness thousands of fruit bats come out from their roosting trees to head to the mainland to forage.

D A Y 4

Today we will wake up off Paluweh Island, an active volcano that rises 3000m from the sea floor. We will spend the day exploring the island and the surrounding reefs with hikes, swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding and pay a visit to the local Christian village.

D A Y 5

We will wake up off the coast of the Capo de Flores, ‘the Cape of Flowers’, as named by the Portuguese for the island’s beauty.

We will spend the day snorkelling, paddling and exploring in this beautiful part of Indonesia, including a visit to a local village before heading further east at sunset.

D A Y 6

Wake up under the gaze of the giant active volcano of Ile Api – aptly named the Island of Fire on the island of Lembata. Guests are welcomed ashore to the local village with traditional singing and dancing and the production of their famous local textiles. There are some superb ikat textiles produced in this region as we meet weavers from at least three neighbouring villages.

After lunch on the boat, we will sail across the bay to snorkel on a vibrant local reef . It is also possible to swim and paddle on a local beach. This evening, the crew will set up for a beach BBQ and party under the stars.

D A Y 7

Wake up on the island of Solor as we spend the morning exploring the island, local villages and a 16th century Portuguese fort. After we have finished exploring, head for the island of Lembata, stopping off along the way to explore ashore.

D A Y 8

We will wake up once again under the gaze of another imposing volcano, this time the mighty Ile Mandiri off Larantuka. After breakfast, we will go ashore and be welcomed into the local village by the residents with songs and dancing.

After lunch on board, we will move north along the Capo des Flores to a great snorkelling site and beach, where we will snorkel, swim and paddle. We will then cruise off into the night at about 8pm, for our overnight passage heading back west to Maumere.

D A Y 9

Arriving just before dawn, we will be anchored off a small cluster of islands surrounded by white sand beaches and beautiful coral reefs.
We will spend the day snorkelling, hiking and exploring this beautiful area, before having a final night’s party on the beach with the crew.

D A Y 1 0

We set sail at 7am and cruise into Maumere. From here, we make a final visit to Watublapi village for a cultural performance. Back to boat for lunch and then to airport for our afternoon flight to Bali at 3.45pm.

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, 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.