Destinations
Komodo Island
Komodo National Park, situated to the east of Bali and Lombok, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts of the iconic and endemic Komodo dragon. These majestic creatures are held in high regard by the locals who believe that they are descendants of a dragon princess who gave birth to one of them centuries ago. The dragons are a symbol of power and strength, and their presence on the islands adds to the natural beauty and wonder of the park.
This island is one of the most popular cruising destinations in Indonesia, known for its striking landscapes of Jurassic island peaks covered in savannah grasses and lontar palms, and the sparkling blue waters. Visitors can explore the many beautiful underwater sites that are just a stone's throw away from the beaches.
With an official count of more than 1,000 types of fish and 260 types of corals, the warm tropical waters of Komodo National Park are one of the most species-rich underwater environments on earth. One of the wonderful things about this underwater playground is that around 60% of its dive sites are also suitable for snorkeling with their shallow, fringing reefs.
Spices Island
The Spice Islands, also known as the Banda Islands or the Molucca, have a long and rich history as the original source of nutmeg and mace during the 17th century Dutch, English, and Portuguese colonisation. However, today, these islands are not only known for their historical significance but also for their breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore a blend of history and natural beauty, including abandoned forts, nutmeg groves, and local markets. The region offers an abundance of sights to see on land, making it a must-visit destination.
Explore the stunning colonial architecture of Banda Besar, climb the majestic Mount Api, join in on boat races with the locals, witness the awe-inspiring sight of whales and dolphins, and dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. The Spice Islands region of Indonesia is a place of legend, often featured in literature, folktales, and songs. Experience breathtaking sunrises in front of the volcano and indulge in leisurely sunsets with cocktails on secluded, white sandy beaches surrounded by lush rainforests. Beneath the surface, the region boasts a diverse array of coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, making it one of the most biodiverse seascapes in the world.
Raja Ampat
ocated off the northwest tip of the Bird's Head Peninsula in West Papua, Raja Ampat is considered a truly exceptional environment. Spanning an area of 9.8 million acres, both on land and in the sea, as well as beneath the surface, it is renowned as the planet's most bio-diverse marine ecosystem. Boasting over 1,200 species of fish, 550 types of coral, and six out of the seven known species of turtle, Raja Ampat is truly a marvel of nature.
The cultural heritage of the islands above water is quite varied, including ancient cave paintings and artifacts from previous times as well as more recent history in the form of cave bunkers and World War II shipwrecks lying on the ocean floor. Adventure seekers can trek through the dense jungle to spot unique bird species, visit remote villages, observe sea turtle nesting sites and pearl farms, or navigate the mangroves by kayak.