beached sailboat indonesia

Discover the Best Sailing Spots in Indonesia: A Guide to Hidden Gems and Pristine Waters

As a sailor and travel enthusiast, I can confidently say that Indonesia is one of the best places in the world to go sailing. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers an abundance of sailing destinations that cater to all types of sailors, whether you are a beginner or an experienced sailor. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the best sailing spots/destinations in Indonesia that you should consider when planning your next sailing adventure.

Table of Contents

Best Sailing Spots in Indonesia

• Raja Ampat: Raja Ampat, located in West Papua, is a group of islands that is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The islands are home to over 600 species of corals and 1,500 species of fish, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Sailing in Raja Ampat is a unique experience as you can explore the hidden lagoons and bays, and visit traditional fishing villages.
• Komodo National Park : Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the world-famous Komodo dragon. The park comprises three main islands – Komodo, Rinca, and Padar – and offers a breathtaking landscape of hills, mountains, and beaches. Sailing in Komodo National Park allows you to explore the beautiful islands and spot the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
• Bali : Bali is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, and sailing in Bali is a great way to explore the island’s coastline. Some of the best sailing spots in Bali include Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Benoa Harbour. Sailing in Bali also allows you to visit some of the smaller islands nearby, such as Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
• Banda Islands : The Banda Islands, located in the Maluku province, are a group of ten small islands that offer a peaceful and remote sailing experience. The islands are known for their nutmeg and other spices, and you can visit the historical nutmeg plantations while sailing in the area. The Banda Islands are also great for diving and snorkeling, with an abundance of colorful coral reefs and marine life.
• Wakatobi National Park : Wakatobi National Park, located in Southeast Sulawesi, is a marine park that is home to over 942 species of fish and 750 species of coral. The park is also known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Sailing in Wakatobi allows you to explore the park’s islands and visit traditional fishing villages.
• Labuan Bajo : Labuan Bajo is a small fishing town located in Flores, and it serves as a gateway to the Komodo National Park. Sailing in Labuan Bajo allows you to explore the town’s beautiful coastline and nearby islands, such as Rinca Island and Kanawa Island. The town also offers a great nightlife, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from.
• Togean Islands : The Togean Islands, located in Central Sulawesi, offer a remote and peaceful sailing experience. The islands are home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and dugongs, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The Togean Islands also offer a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.
• Gili Islands : The Gili Islands, located off the coast of Lombok, offer a laid-back sailing experience. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Sailing in the Gili Islands also allows you to visit nearby islands, such as Nusa Lembongan
• Taka Bonerate National Park : Taka Bonerate National Park, located in South Sulawesi, is the third-largest coral atoll in the world. The park offers a pristine and untouched sailing experience, with an abundance of marine life and colorful coral reefs. Sailing in Taka Bonerate also allows you to explore the nearby islands and visit traditional fishing villages.
• Sumbawa Island : Sumbawa Island is located east of Bali and is known for its beautiful beaches and untouched wilderness. Sailing in Sumbawa allows you to explore the island’s rugged coastline and visit hidden bays and coves. The island is also great for surfing and offers a variety of breaks for all levels of surfers.
• Ambon : Ambon is the capital city of Maluku province and is a great spot for sailing enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of sailing options, from day trips to week-long charters. Sailing in Ambon also allows you to explore the city’s rich history and culture, with a variety of historical sites and traditional markets to visit.
• Derawan Islands : The Derawan Islands, located in East Kalimantan, offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path sailing experience. The islands are home to a variety of marine life, including manta rays, sharks, and sea turtles, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Sailing in Derawan also allows you to visit traditional fishing villages and witness the local way of life.
• Belitung Island : Belitung Island, located in the Bangka-Belitung Islands, offers a laid-back and relaxing sailing experience. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. Sailing in Belitung also allows you to explore the island’s rich history, with a variety of historical sites and museums to visit.
• Moyo Island: Moyo Island, located in West Nusa Tenggara, offers a unique and secluded sailing experience. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, macaques, and various bird species. Sailing in Moyo also allows you to explore the island’s waterfalls and pristine beaches.

Best Time to Sail in Indonesia

The best time to sail in Indonesia depends on the region and the weather patterns of that particular area. Generally, the dry season from May to September is considered the best time to sail in most parts of Indonesia. The weather is dry and sunny with calm winds, making it ideal for sailing and exploring the country’s beautiful islands.

In Eastern Indonesia, such as Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat, the best time to sail is from October to April, which is the region’s dry season. During this time, the seas are calm, and the visibility for diving and snorkeling is excellent.

However, it’s important to note that Indonesia’s weather can be unpredictable, and sudden changes can occur. The months of December and January are prone to heavy rain and thunderstorms in some parts of Indonesia, which can affect sailing conditions.

In summary, the best time to sail in Indonesia is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September in most regions. For Eastern Indonesia, the best time to sail is from October to April, which is the dry season for that area. But always check the weather forecast before embarking on a sailing trip to ensure the best and safest experience.

Best Sailboat Charters in Indonesia

Indonesia is home to some of the best sailboat charters in Southeast Asia, offering a range of sailing experiences to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the best sailboat charters in Indonesia:

In conclusion, there are plenty of sailboat charters to choose from in Indonesia, whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or a more traditional sailing adventure. Each of these charters offers a unique sailing experience and the opportunity to explore some of Indonesia’s most beautiful destinations.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Sailing in Indonesia

Is indonesia good for sailing.

Yes, Indonesia is an excellent destination for sailing enthusiasts. With over 17,000 islands and a vast coastline, Indonesia offers an abundance of sailing opportunities, ranging from leisurely day trips to multi-day charters.

Indonesia’s sailing destinations are diverse and offer something for everyone, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush green islands and rugged coastlines. Sailing in Indonesia allows you to explore the country’s natural beauty, witness traditional fishing villages, and experience the local culture.

Moreover, Indonesia’s marine life is among the most diverse and abundant in the world, making it an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Many of Indonesia’s sailing destinations, such as Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat, are home to a variety of marine life, including manta rays, sharks, and sea turtles.

While Indonesia’s weather can be unpredictable, the country offers plenty of opportunities for sailing year-round. The dry season from May to September is generally considered the best time to sail in most parts of Indonesia, with calm winds and sunny weather.

In conclusion, Indonesia is a great destination for sailing enthusiasts of all levels, with an abundance of diverse sailing spots and natural beauty to explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely sailing trip or an adventure-filled expedition, Indonesia has something to offer.

Can you sail through Indonesia?

Yes, you can sail through Indonesia. With its vast coastline and thousands of islands, Indonesia offers endless opportunities for sailing enthusiasts. However, it’s important to note that sailing through Indonesia can present some challenges, such as strong currents, unpredictable weather, and navigation hazards such as shallow waters and reefs.

To sail through Indonesia, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and clearances. Indonesian maritime laws require all boats and yachts sailing in Indonesian waters to register with the local authorities and obtain a cruising permit. The cruising permit allows you to sail in Indonesian waters for a specific period, typically up to six months.

It’s also important to have a good understanding of the local weather patterns and tidal currents before setting off on a sailing trip in Indonesia. The Indonesian archipelago is located in a tropical region and is prone to sudden weather changes, so it’s important to check the weather forecast regularly and be prepared for any unexpected changes.

Navigation in Indonesian waters can also be challenging due to the numerous islands and shallow waters. It’s recommended to have an experienced crew or a local guide who knows the area well to help navigate through the waters safely.

In summary, sailing through Indonesia is possible, but it’s important to obtain the necessary permits, have a good understanding of the local weather and tidal currents, and navigate through the waters safely to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

How long does it take to sail from Singapore to Bali?

The sailing distance from Singapore to Bali is approximately 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 kilometers) and can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days, depending on the weather conditions and the speed of your vessel.

The journey from Singapore to Bali involves crossing the Java Sea, which can be subject to strong winds, currents, and occasional storms, making it important to have a well-prepared and experienced crew.

Before embarking on a sailing trip from Singapore to Bali, it’s essential to check the weather forecast and plan the journey accordingly. The best time to sail this route is during the dry season from May to September, when the winds are generally calmer and more predictable, and the seas are smoother.

It’s important to note that there are several ports of call along the way from Singapore to Bali, including Batam, Bintan, Karimun Jawa, and the Gili Islands, that can be used as a stopover point to restock supplies, refuel, or rest.

In summary, sailing from Singapore to Bali can take between 7 to 14 days, depending on the weather conditions and the speed of your vessel. It’s important to check the weather forecast and plan the journey accordingly, as well as make necessary stopovers along the way.

Can you island hop in Indonesia?

Yes, island hopping in Indonesia is a popular activity for visitors who want to explore the country’s diverse and beautiful islands. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers endless opportunities for island hopping, ranging from popular tourist destinations to remote and less visited islands.

Island hopping in Indonesia can be done by boat, either through a private charter or by using local transportation such as ferries or speedboats. Many of Indonesia’s popular destinations, such as Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands, are connected by regular ferry services.

One of the most popular areas for island hopping in Indonesia is the Raja Ampat archipelago in West Papua, which is home to over 1,500 islands and is renowned for its stunning scenery and marine biodiversity. Other popular destinations for island hopping in Indonesia include Komodo National Park, Flores, and the Maluku Islands.

Island hopping in Indonesia offers visitors the chance to experience the country’s diverse culture and natural beauty, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush jungles and volcanic landscapes. It’s important to note that some islands in Indonesia are less developed and may require some preparation and planning, such as bringing your own supplies or arranging accommodation in advance.

In conclusion, island hopping in Indonesia is a great way to explore the country’s diverse and beautiful islands. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventure-filled exploration, Indonesia’s islands offer something for everyone.

In conclusion, Indonesia offers an abundance of sailing destinations that cater to all types of sailors, from beginners to experienced sailors. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back sailing experience or an adventure-filled trip, Indonesia has something to offer. So, pack your bags, hoist your sails, and set off on a sailing adventure of a lifetime in Indonesia. Happy sailing!

Mark Alexander Thompson

Mark Alexander Thompson is a seasoned sailor with over five years of experience in the boating and yachting industry. He is passionate about sailing and shares his knowledge and expertise through his articles on the sailing blog sailingbetter.com. In his free time, Mark enjoys exploring new waters and testing the limits of his sailing skills. With his in-depth understanding of the sport and commitment to improving the sailing experience for others, Mark is a valuable contributor to the sailing community.

Recent Posts

Lagoon vs Leopard Catamaran: Which Sailboat Is Right for You?

Introduction When it comes to cruising on the open waters, catamarans have gained immense popularity for their stability, space, and comfort. Two of the leading catamaran manufacturers, Lagoon and...

How to Determine Sailboat Weight: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction Sailing is a thrilling and adventurous activity that has captivated humans for centuries. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice looking to set sail for the first time,...

There’s no denying that Bali makes for a wonderful holiday destination, but with over 18,000 islands, there are plenty of other places to explore in Indonesia, offering unspoiled island scenery and authentic cultural encounters.

Indonesia is also an ideal destination for liveaboard or adventure cruises – places like Komodo or Raja Ampat are best explored on a boat, allowing travelers to seek out the remotest islands and best scuba and snorkeling locations, without having to worry about tourist crowds.

Yet, until recently, planning an Indonesia cruise required a fair bit of forward planning. Many local operators don’t have a website, and there’s no way besides word of mouth to find out who to trust. True, you can always book onsite – but if you’re planning to head off the beaten track, you may be stuck for days waiting for a boat.

But companies like Nowboat.com are solving this. Nowboat is the first all in one seafaring platform, collecting over 900 trusted local operators worldwide and allowing travelers to get in touch with them and book at 0% commission.

Indonesia is one of the top countries featured on the platform, with over 160 yacht charters and adventures available – here we’ve selected for you our five favorite Indonesia cruise adventures, available to book on nowboat.com for this summer!

5 Amazing Sailing Destinations in Indonesia

Surf the moluccas.

Serious surfers will almost certainly have the Moluccas on their bucket list . These islands located between West Papua and Sulawesi have long been known for their perfect beaches and reliable winds, offering swells to die for.

A surf cruise of the Moluccas is truly the best way to enjoy these dreamy breaks – having your own charter allows you to chase the best winds and surf conditions, choosing between the West Coast from Morotai and Halmaherarn or the East Coast from Halmahera until the Buli Islands.

Check out this trip

Kite Safari Between Lombok and the Gili

Indonesia is not just about surfing – the reliable winds also make it a wonderful destination for kite lovers ! Winds from Australia reach the Lombok/Gili area during the Australian winter, making it the ideal region to visit.

This kite Safari travels to some of the most idyllic Gili Islands – not just the famous Gili Air and Gili T, but also hidden gems like Gili Nanggu, Layar and Renggit. If the group includes non-kiters, this is not a problem – there are excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities every day!

  Check out this trip

Image credit:  Fred Bigio

Dive Alor and Wakatobi

The most popular activity to combine with an Indonesian cruise is definitely diving – after all, Indonesia is home to some of the best scuba destinations in the world!

One of them is Alor, known for having the highest anemone concentration in the world – say hi to Nemo everyone! Nowboat offers a liveaboard expedition travelling from Alor all the way to Wakatobi in Sulawesi, known for their stunning underwater seascapes and hiking opportunities on land.

Meanwhile, the boat will also call at several small islands in the Flores Sea, another great and little-visited Indonesia scuba destination!

Image credit:  Christian Gloor

Dive Raja Ampat

Have you ever heard of Raja Ampat? If not, Google it – and you’ll fall in love for sure! This is an archipelago comprising of hundreds of jungle-covered islands, and known for its beaches and coral reefs rich with marine life.

The Raja Ampat Archipelago is not just home to spectacular seascapes, a unique culture and the famous Bird of Paradise – it’s also an incredible diving destination, second to none in terms of biological diversity.

For this reason, Raja Ampat makes for a great live aboard destination – Nowboat offers a 10day cruise of the southern part of Raja Ampat, taking in top dive sites like Southeast Misool famous for its large gorgonians, and the Dampier Strait where manta rays can often be seen.

Image credit:  bubusbubus

Jurassic Cruise in Komodo

There are so many reasons to love Komodo! The stunning Pink Beach, the amazing Komodo National Park, the many hidden beaches and untouched swimming spots throughout the area. Ah, and the diving of course!

A 5 day ‘Jurassic cruise’ in a traditional Indonesian phinisi (wooden boat) is a great way to explore Komodo, enjoying the best dive sites and the highlight of the trip – a hike on Rinca Island to see the last ‘dinosaurs’, the famous Komodo dragons!

Image credit:  Gary Campbell-Hall

OUR FAVORITE GUIDES TO INDONESIA. CLICK PHOTO TO LOOK INSIDE ↓

INSPIRED? PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS ↓

If You Liked This Post You May Also Like:

Four Reasons to Visit Jakarta, Indonesia

These are the Best Indonesian Islands for a Getaway

Paradise found: The Gili Islands, Indonesia

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind  Waking Up Wild ; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

26 Comments

Whoa look at those swells Meg! Not a surfer but can I still say, looks gnarley? LOL.

Indonesia is inspired. On the travel radar but off the travel beaten path in many ways. I have been to Bali more than 5 times. Or 6. I lost track. But Indonesia offers so much more, from dazzling seas to dinosaur-like dragons to jungles and kind locals and awesome food.

Definitely doing a trip outside of Bali the next time I visit.

What a fab round up of locations.

Terima Kasih!

Huge right!! I’m not a big surfer myself either, but always fascinated to watch people tackle waves like that!

Indonesia really is inspired – SUCH an incredible country, and so many places to see! Check out some of the adventures they have listed on Nowboat.com next time you visit and want to explore a little further than Bali :)

So glad you enjoyed the post!

Oh my gosh! Wish I was there now…So beautiful.

It’s a bit like that!! Hope you have the chance to travel soon :)

Indonesia is a wonderful place.

Absolutely! Such a unique destination – a place you could spend a lifetime exploring and never get bored :)

Are these reasonably priced Meg?

Because the platform brings together tours across various local operators, price will vary depending on which tours you’re looking at. There’s everything on there from a 3 Day Liveaboard in Komodo National Park for $235 per person, which is very cheap, to chartering your own private house boat for $1600 a day. The private charters will obviously be more of an expense than joining group cruises or day trips, which they offer at great prices :)

This has been on my bucket list.

Hope you have the opportunity to travel soon :)

*Pulls out bucket list and adds Raja Ampat* ??

It’s a bit like that!! Raja Ampat should be at the top of every bucketlist :D

Wow – I would love to explore those islands. How beautiful.

Hope you have the chance to travel soon :) You can’t go wrong with Indonesia!

Would love to go to Raja Ampat sometime.

Good choice – Raja Ampat is incredible :D!

Wow, Meg, it sounds incredible! Last year I tried sailing in Sweden. It was such an empowering experience – been in control of a boat that is gliding over choppy waters. I bet in Indonesia it must be even better (not freezing for starters ;) ). The kite safari is also so appealing. It reminded me of our good old times near Seattle and Perth.

Sailing is definitely one of those experiences you fall in love with instantly isn’t it! So glad you had a fabulous time in Sweden lol yes though definitely warmer waters in Indnoesia!! Keep Nowboat in mind if you visit at any stage :)

Did you love Raja ampat, I’m looking to go dive next year!

It’s so incredible spectacular – you’ll have a fabulous trip! Check out Nowboat when you start planning your trip :)

Awesome story.

Thanks Meka, glad you enjoyed the post :)

Meg Jerrard nice to see your feeds. specially the documentary of your sailing trip.

Hi Indra, thanks for your comment. So glad you’e enjoying our posts, and liked reading about sailing in Indonesia :)

Good morning from Hitchin! A fantastic read.

Good morning :) So glad you enjoyed the post.

Post a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search This Site

I am Megan Jerrard, professional travel blogger/journalist with a focus on adventure, discovery, immersion and inspiring you to explore!

Recent Posts

• 5 Mistakes People Make When Renting a Car in Colorado
• 5 Ways to Ease the Stress of Holiday Travel in Atlanta
• How to Style Cargo Pants for a Chic Travel & Airport Look
• Luxury on the Riviera Maya: How to Have a Relaxing Yet Adventurous Vacation in Tulum
• Strategies for Handling Unresolved Anger After a Long Distance Relationship Breakup

Popular posts

• International Love: Maintaining a Long Distance Relationship
• Illegal Ink – 11 Countries Where Showing Your Tattoos Could Get You Kicked Out!
• 7 Things To Know Before Travelling by Overnight Train in Vietnam
• A Travelers Guide to Tap Water: Countries Where The Drinking Water is Unsafe
• Countries That Don’t Celebrate Christmas

The art of being one with nature, at sea.

Come away with us: the inky night sky dotted with stars, waves lapping against the shoreline, the unparalleled serenity of weaving through untouched islands aboard our custom-built yacht.

The bespoke private sailing experience on board Celestia is immersive – during the day, take in the kaleidoscope of marine life amidst crystalline waters and pristine islands; in the evenings, feel the rhythm of the gentle ocean while gazing at the wonders of the celestial skies.

Activities include world-class diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, water-skiing, wakeboarding, birdwatching, private island-hopping, stargazing, private beach dinners, massage treatments and nature hikes.

Celestia sails to Raja Ampat, Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands and other destinations in Indonesia’s Coral Triangle.

FEATURED IN

Celestia is a 45 meter (148 foot) custom-designed phinisi yacht sailing the Indonesian archipelago, with 7 staterooms (accommodating 14 guests), and an in-house crew of 17. She is built by hand by the legendary Bulukumba boatbuilders, guided by centuries of UNESCO-recognised traditions, modernised and reimagined by an experienced team at the helm.

• Year built: 2023
• Length: 45 m (147.6 ft)
• Beam: 8.6 m (28.2 ft)
• Draft: 3.75 m (12.3 ft)
• Guest cabins: 7 (1 master, 4 doubles, 2 twin)
• Guest bathrooms: 7 (ensuite)
• Maximum guests: 14
• Engine: Yanmar Marine Diesel Engine 405 HP
• Generators: 2 x 60 kVA, 1 x 33 kVA
• Water capacity: 6,100 liters
• Fuel capacity: 13,000 liters
• Water maker: 10,000 liters per day
• Compressor: Nitrox available
• Max Cruising speed: 10 knots

Subtle glamour and sophisticated touches define the spaces aboard Celestia,  custom furnishings carefully selected with the height of comfort in mind. With interiors designed by Deirdre Renniers and fitted with pieces sourced from Balinese artisans, Celestia expresses a fusion of modern elegance and traditional Indonesian craftsmanship.

Destinations

Komodo National Park

Located in the Lesser Sunda Islands, Komodo National Park includes the three main islands of Komodo, Rinca, and Padar and over 20 smaller islands.

Spice Islands

The Spice Islands, started a chain of events that changed the world. The central islands of Banda Besar, Hatta, and Banda Neira, offer a unique opportunity to discover the unexpected.

The vast waters of Raja Ampat are known to have one of the highest concentrations of marine biodiversity in the world.

Testimonials

Boat was great. Crew was just lovely! Food was varied, fresh and good. Diving access, equipment, in/out  of water was all done with high professionalism and thoughtfulness. Yummy fun drinks upon return from dive or land excursions. Jennifer the cruise director is a winner and boat is lucky to have her. We enjoyed her company. We had 4 brand new divers, all of whom did their last certification with Celestia… it went off without any issues and we now have 4 more happy divers…. Ready for their next trip:))

My wife and I are traveling with friends and are currently aboard the Celestia. I have a bit of time to myself today and would like to share some feedback with you. While I have spent time scuba diving on a live aboard before, this is our first time on a charter boat such as the Celestia.

Before I mention the highlight of our experience, which is the crew, I do want to mention some other things that are also important. The vessel herself is both an adventure and a home away from home. It is a joy to be on the Celestia! This morning my wife and I woke up early and went up to the upper deck to look at the stars. The large cushions by the bow are a favorite with the children in our group. The dining area on the main deck provides our entire group – 13 of us – with beautiful views for each meal. Even simple things such as taking a nap and playing games seem too good to be true aboard the Celestia.

Of course the food has been amazing! Every meal has brought all sorts of praises. The menu is new and exotic, as well as familiar and comforting. This is true not only of the meals, but of all the snacks and beverages throughout the day, including every time we return aboard the ship after an adventure. Hot chocolate after our night dives!

But as I mentioned, as wonderful as the vessel is, what is most impressive to us is the crew of the Celestia. We have a very active group! On most days we are scuba diving 3 times! We also hike a lot and do water sports. The crew, every one of them, is active in happily assisting us with whatever we do. It is apparent to all of us how hard they are working and the long hours that they put in each day. Our cruise director Jennifer has assisted my wife and I now for several weeks as we prepared for our trip. In addition to her many other duties she has accompanied us on each dive to educate us and help us have a great experience. She also oversees the entire team, and her leadership comes out in the exceptional services that they provide. Every deck hand, food server, engineer, the pilots, dive master, the kitchen staff, and the other staff members are skilled not only in what they do, but how they serve the guests. This is true in everything from the cleanliness of the Celestia, to the dives and everything that is required for each scuba event, meals, massages, and our daily activities. It is also true for the little things such as opening the doors for us, assisting us with our wetsuits, arranging the deck furniture for us and many other routine tasks. God is blessing us through this entire team and all that they are doing. For my wife and I we wish to extend our thanks not only to the crew, but to your entire organization that creates experiences like this. Thank you!

We have just enjoyed 9 days on Celestia in Raja Ampat, I can not recommend this yacht highly enough. We have been on other liveaboards and the crew on Celestia went above and beyond in their caring for us. Everyone from the deckhand to chef, the masseuse, the dive guides were amazing.

The yacht itself is perfection, generously sized cabins with the most beautiful decoration, the bathrooms are also gorgeous with the 3 main cabins even having Japanese style toilets!

The food was above and beyond with Chef Wayan from Home in Bali being the menu creator with 2 onboard chefs creating the most delicious multi course meals 3 times a day!

Seriously if you are thinking of chartering in Indonesia then look no further, you have found heaven on the high seas!

We couldn’t possibly ask for more! Jennifer and the entire crew has seared a magical core memory in all of us, from start to finish! We are so lucky to have chosen Celestia and this is the best trip we ever have in our lifetime up to date and likely nothing else could exceed this experience.

We are forever grateful for the dedication to details and genuine hospitality of the crew in making every single moment of this trip special.

Rates & Schedule

*Charter Rate refers to the private charter of the entire vessel with 7 staterooms, that sleeps a maximum of 14 guests

50% non-refundable DP at time of booking. Full payment due 60 days before departure.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Follow us on Instagram

Get In Touch

Celestia’s multilingual Reservations team is available 7 days a week to assist with reserving your private charter.

Please contact us anytime via telephone, email or by filling in the form.

[email protected]

+62 812 4637 3025

Indonesia's 11 best beaches

Dec 10, 2023 • 6 min read

From surfers to sunbathers, divers to divas, Indonesia has a beach for everybody © John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images

With a lush tropical climate and more miles of coastline than any other country on earth (except Canada), Indonesia is the world’s ultimate beach destination. The beaches that line the shores of this enormous archipelago are famed for their black and golden sands, epic surf breaks, prismatic coral reefs and wild seaside parties. Indeed, there's a stretch of sand here for every type of traveler.

Of course, choosing the right beach for you is no easy task in a nation with more than 17,500 islands to choose from. Here is our pick of the best beaches in Indonesia, from Sumatra in the west all the way to Papua in the east.

1. Pantai Jelenga, Sumbawa

Best beach for surfers.

Indonesia has no shortage of surf beaches, but this emerging beach destination on the west coast of Sumbawa has a growing following amongst surfers, who are lured here by the chance to tackle Scar Reef, a world-class left-hand break that barrels just offshore. The Little Bingin and Phantom breaks also deliver thrilling rides.

A number of attractive surf lodges make this remote locale an incredibly comfy base, but you’ll rarely have to share the waves with more than a handful of fellow visitors (something you can't say about every Indonesian surf beach). Tranquil waters closer to shore along Pantai Jelenga are excellent for kayaking and standup paddle boarding.

2. Suluban Beach, Bali

Best beach for combining nature and culture.

Of all the pocket-sized beaches along the southwest coast of Bali ’s Bukit Peninsula, Suluban may be the most unique. You can paddle out to the surf breaks that Uluwatu is famous for, and there’s plenty to explore on land, from limestone grottos and hidden caves to spectacular clifftop cafes for a tropical sundowner. Suluban is also right by Pura Luhur Ulu Watu , a dramatic Hindu sea temple perched on the edge of a 70m (230ft) cliff, where traditional Kecak dance performances take place each evening at sunset.

3. Pink Beach, Komodo

Best beach for instagrammers.

Komodo may be most famous as the home of the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, but this small island of rusty-red hills, arid stretches of savanna and dense shrublands is also home to another oddity: a perfect pink-sand beach. Pantai Merah, or Pink Beach, gets its rosy hue from the crushed shells of millions of foraminifera – microscopic single-celled marine animals that live on the underside of offshore reefs.

We concede that the beach doesn’t look quite as radiant as the internet would have you believe when viewed under the midday sun (you can thank filters and Photoshop for that!). However, viewed at dusk or dawn, it’s every bit as amazing as the Instagrammers say it is.

4. Selong Blanak, Lombok

Best beach for beginner surfers.

On an island full of busy, bone-white beaches, Selong Blanak stands out from the pack with its bright turquoise waters and serene atmosphere. Located about 22km west of Lombok ’s southern resort hub of Kuta, this comparatively uncrowded beach is a favorite spot for locals, with a sprinkling of bamboo-framed warungs (small family-owned eateries) spread along a long crescent of sand, which you may occasionally share with wandering water buffalos. The sea is ideal for swimming, and novice surfers flock here to rent boards and test their skills on a beginner-friendly, sandy-bottomed beach break.

5. Bawana Beach, Sumba

Best beach for photography.

A giant stone arch towers over the white sands on this spectacular stretch of shoreline in northwestern Sumba , creating a perfect frame for epic beach shots. It’s a steep climb down to the sands, but there are usually local guides waiting at the entrance to help anyone who needs extra assistance. At certain times of the year, you can catch the setting sun as it drops into the middle of the arch, bathing those in front of its entrance in a heavenly halo.

6. Iboih Beach, Sumatra

Best beach for snorkeling.

Reefs abound in Indonesia, and this protected cove on Pulau Weh in Sumatra’s Aceh province is awash with healthy corals that attract a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. It's a favorite escape for budget-minded snorkelers, who mask up to explore the reefs right from the front of their beachside bungalows. Local dive shops such as Rubiah Tirta Divers also run Discover Scuba courses and shore dives at reasonable prices.

Beyond the beach, Pulau Weh boasts swimming holes under splashing waterfalls, puffing volcanoes cloaked by virgin forests, sulfur-fuming hot springs and an old Japanese World War II bunker, a relic from the island’s brief occupation from 1942 to 1945.

7. Gili T, The Gili Islands

Best beach for a party

If your ideal day at the beach ends in a party, then Gili Trawangan – Gili T to its friends – is the spot for you. Nightlife on the largest of the Gili Islands is not nearly as crowded or out-of-control as in Kuta or Seminyak on neighboring Bali, but that’s rather the point! This small, party-friendly island bounces to the beat of electronic dance music nightly, and the shots keep flowing from the western sunset beaches all the way to the main drag on the east shore. Party, crash, crawl back to the beach to rinse off, hydrate, eat and repeat: that’s the schedule of life on Gili T.

8. Pantai Ngurtavur, Maluku

Best beach for aerial photography.

Picture a thin squiggle of sand jutting out into a gem-colored bay, and you can begin to imagine the almost absurdly picturesque scene at Pantai Ngurtavur , the longest sandbar in Indonesia. This ephemeral snake-shaped beach, which is only visible at low tide, is located in the remote Kei Islands in the Banda Sea, just south of Papua , and is most easily reached by chartered boat from the island of Pulau Kei Kecil. To capture the sandbar in all its improbable glory, you may want to bring your drone.

9. Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida

Best beach for total privacy.

The island of Nusa Penida is encircled by the kind of jaw-dropping beaches that travelers expect to discover on neighboring Bali but struggle to find. Topping the billing is Diamond Beach on the southeast shore – like most spots here, it’s encased by soaring cliff walls that turn the beach into a private cove for those who make the effort to get here. In fact, this remote curl of sand only became accessible to visitors after a rough staircase was, quite literally, carved out of the rock in 2018.

10. Tanjung Tinggi Beach, Sumatra

Best beach for monkeying around.

Like your beaches with a side order of bouldering? Tanjung Tinggi is encased in a labyrinth of giant hunks of granite, making it a jungle gym for agile adults who also crave a dose of sun and sand. One of Indonesia’s most famous movies, Laskar Pelangi , was filmed here in 2017, skyrocketing the beach to national fame. Due to its isolated location on Belitung Island off the east coast of Sumatra, however, few international tourists have visited – yet! Get here by plane or slow boat from Jakarta or Sumatra.

11. Tangkoko Beach, Sulawesi

Best beach for wildlife watchers.

If your idea of a beach vacation involves hiking and wildlife-watching, with a quick dip in the ocean to wash off the sweat at the end of the day, then Tangkoko in North Sulawesi is the spot for you. This lovely grey-sand beach lies along the coast of Tangkoko-Batuangus Dua Saudara Nature Reserve, an 88 sq km (34 sq mi) rainforest conservation area filled with crested black macaques, cuscuses, red-knobbed hornbills and, most notably, big-eyed tarsiers, among other rare rainforest fauna.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2022 and updated Dec 10, 2023.

Explore related stories

Oct 10, 2024 • 8 min read

Bali versus Phuket – how do you choose between these two paradise islands? We’ve asked two travel writers who love the islands to make the case for each.

Oct 4, 2024 • 8 min read

Sep 25, 2024 • 5 min read

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Jul 10, 2024 • 7 min read

May 20, 2024 • 6 min read

May 16, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 12, 2024 • 10 min read

Sep 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Jun 20, 2022 • 4 min read

Charting Indonesia's Eastern Islands on a Luxury Yacht

The heat in southern Indonesia is unyielding, even in April. It hangs on you, becomes a permanent state. The nights, however, are soft and sweet, and it’s on such an evening that I’m standing on a pristine beach at Pulau Muang, in Komodo National Park , watching what feels like the world’s most remote soccer match. It’s a casual pickup game between two teams of blue-shirted crew members from Dunia Baru , the wooden yacht I’ve spent the last week on, sailing through West Nusa Tenggara. The game features quick, scrambling legs, stray driftwood fashioned into goalposts, and frequent yelps of laughter. Someone scores, but I hear it more than see it, as I’m caught trying to fully digest the happy scene: Key lime–colored peaks in the distance, low-hanging clouds, the cinnamon glow of the players’ arms in the fading sun, the cool sand.

Later that night, after a beach bonfire and a barbecue fit for a visiting dignitary—buttery Kobe steaks expertly grilled on a hibachi— Dunia Baru ’s owner, Mark Robba, is jonesing for fireworks. Fifty feet or so down the beach, the same crew I’d watched curl corner kicks are bent over on the sand, lighting rockets that hiss into the sky and explode in bursts of red, yellow, and white, sizzling down toward the sea and illuminating the boat—strong lined and bold masted—anchored in a cove like some kind of pirate ship. After the fireworks come the Chinese wishing lanterns, dozens of them, ignited by blowtorch and sent soaring out over this tiny island like dreams, until they vanish, snuffed out among the milky stars.

My arrival in Indonesia had felt no less otherworldly. After nearly a decade of grief and reconciliation, I’d begun, several weeks before, digging into the circumstances surrounding my father’s 2005 death—he jumped from a bridge and drowned in the sea. I’d made plans to return to Maine, where I’d grown up: I’d sent emails and made phone calls to my father’s lawyer, ex-wives, family friends, and old drinking buddies, gathering information about his life. I’d recovered a lockbox with his watch and his wedding ring, and a former roommate of mine had shown up in New York with childhood mementos I’d left in his attic after college. Everything was coming up Dad. In a final stroke of mystical interference, I accepted an assignment to sail seven days with Robba, his family, and a few friends, roughly 300 miles to Komodo National Park from Bali, the tropical island paradise where my now-expat stepbrother, Alex, had moved four years earlier. Our parents’ divorce and my father’s death had splintered communication between us, but he offered to let me stay at his villa. We would talk.

The sunrise over Rinca Island, in Komodo National Park.

“The locals avoid this place after dark,” Dunia Baru ’s Swiss cruise director, Sebastien, tells me as we hoist my luggage from a taxi at the beach in Serangan. It is my first night in Southeast Asia , and the mist hangs like a shroud. He explains that many Indonesians believe in ghosts, spirits of the dead that can take possession of living people, driving them mad. After a week spent poring over photo albums, letters, and other Dad-related ephemera, I can understand the concern. We load my things onto a tender and zip out to the yacht, which is massive and lit up with blue LEDs. In the blackness it looks like a floating nightclub. On board, Robba has waited up, nursing brown liquid in a mason jar. A New England salt, he spent his childhood summers on Cape Cod and began sailing in his teens. He skippered a yawl during college and moved to Indonesia in 1998, where he bought a glove factory and made his fortune. He began construction on Dunia Baru in 2006, and after seven and a half years of commuting from Jakarta by plane, river speedboat, and over ragged roads to the boatbuilding site on Borneo to check on the progress, he had a 167-foot wooden phinisi —a modern superyacht in an old-world shell. He also had a retirement plan. “That was the idea,” he says. “The boat being a way to force me away from the business, to pass it down to my son, to get out here and enjoy the ocean with my family.”

My bed in the master suite is big and soft, but the sea is unforgiving that first night; motoring east from Bali to Lombok, waves beat against the hull. My sleep is agitated. “Top five roughest nights on the boat I’ve seen,” Robba’s 31-year-old daughter, Courtney, chuckles the next morning at breakfast, unfazed. We’re sipping tea on the plush aft deck, surrounded by the calmest, most glasslike water—as if the recently thrashing ocean had been playing a practical joke. Over Robba’s shoulder, his five-year-old son, Colby, constructs a makeshift fort out of throw pillows, diving gleefully beneath them when Dad looks his way. In the pink predawn, a towering volcano, Mount Rinjani, spits fat, benign clouds into the blue sky. The silence is brilliant, broken only occasionally by cries of the fishermen who orbit us, the outriggers of their pump boats like mantis legs spread out over the sea.

Over the week, we will sail through some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning landscapes. Sitting on the bow of the boat, it’s possible to imagine slack-jawed early-16th-century Portuguese sailors setting eyes on the place for the first time: limitless stretches of cerulean water; pristine reefs with whales, manta rays, and tropical fish; jungle forests and pink sand beaches framed by craggy mountain switchbacks; and lakes cut by tectonic plates, tsunamis, and glaciers. It’s a place so rich with natural wonder that sighting “breakfast dolphins” becomes something I expect alongside poached eggs and avocado.

Dunia Baru superyacht.

Excursions begin the same way each day on Dunia Baru , with Sebastien nervously checking his watch. “We’d better be going,” he’ll say, with just a trace of a singsongy French accent. The anemic farming outpost we’re touring on morning three is a shake-your-head contrast to the five-star flavor of the boat. But its beauty is a more organic kind of astounding: Within 50 yards of the beach we notice that what had appeared to be only a smattering of sand dunes is actually dozens of grazing, chomping cows. In an open hut, a few aging herdsmen in flip-flops sit nursing their cigarettes in the shade, and a cluster of women in hijabs smile self-consciously through broken teeth. The smoke from small trash fires hangs in a hazy layer over the beach, and rickety wooden dwellings, connected by crisscrossing laundry lines, hunch in the high grass. We walk the beach silently, in awe or reverence—something about the austerity of the place borrows your breath.

On Rinca, villagers contend regularly with carnivorous lizards known as Komodo dragons. A trip to relieve myself in the bush requires a chaperone wielding a pitchfork-like stick, and when we spot a 10-foot turtle-like reptile lurking in a nearby graveyard, I am grateful for the escort. Catching my surprise, Sebastien quickly Googles “Komodo dragon attack” and laughs from his belly as I watch on his smartphone, horrified, while the creature disembowels a goat.

Then on Komodo, we encounter a decidedly different scene: beaming schoolchildren in green-and-gold uniforms lined up on the dock to ferry newly delivered desks and chairs to their island classroom. The mood couldn’t be higher. Eager to practice their English, they chirp at us: “Miss!” they shout. “Hey, mister!” They wave in unison from the dock, lit up by sunshine, as we retreat back to our big wooden ship.

Even without knowing this epic journey will lead me to Alex, it’s impossible to be aboard Dunia Baru without thinking of my father. A middle-class kid from Connecticut who aspired to New England affluence, my dad was enamored with boats, and with the leisurely lifestyle they connoted. Toward the end of his life, he had an ill-fated stint in the marine-brokerage business, specializing in “boats of character.” A boat of character, according to him, had to be made entirely from wood and handcrafted painstakingly by master boatbuilders using traditional methods. By these standards, Dunia Baru is the ultimate ship, a creation honed by carpenters wielding only saws and hammers to shape its hulking beams—28,000 cubic feet of dense ironwood. The detailing alone would make my dad weep: every door hinge, window latch, and knob carved by hand. I can see his hand following the smooth slope of a teak rail: Can ya even believe it?

Beaches in Komodo National Park.

One afternoon, napping on deck while serenaded by the hum of prayer calls from a village mosque, I remember a late-spring evening during my childhood when my dad and stepmother loaded up an Igloo with diet soda and Coors, and piled Alex and me into our 30-foot Southport for the trip from Yarmouth to Freeport for twilight lobster rolls. After what seemed like hours of boring, very cold cruising between the pine-dotted islands of Casco Bay, we arrived, windblown and salt crusted. My family seemed to relish the adventure in these voyages, but I wasn’t swayed. Wouldn’t it have been easier to drive? Now, 25 years later, sailing through the Indonesian islands, I feel regret for my failure to understand the untethered freedom of the open ocean, the natural miracles available to us.

But then I amble on deck during our sixth stunning sunset in a row and pass Colby, his eyes averted toward the floor, happily distracted by a Lego truck. He studies the pieces carefully, attaching each colorful block to the next as the panoramic blue-green views of the island of Flores and the Mount Sangeang Api volcano hover over the horizon. What do boys know about regret? After a short flight from Labuan Bajo to Denpasar, a taxi drops me at Alex’s villa. He is brown, healthy, chatty, a slightly wiser version of the post-college know-it-all I last saw. He inspects me for signs of wear. “Your beard,” he says, grinning. “You look just like him.” I laugh, running a palm over my stubbly cheek.

We pick up our rhythm effortlessly, like an old habit, catching up over drinks at a beach club in Canggu. With the wine and nostalgia urging us along, we speak about friends we’ve lost to the years, our childhood, and the common loss we’d shared. “I think a big part of my not being proactive about seeing you,” Alex tells me, “was I didn’t know if I wanted to go wading back into that pool.” I nod, looking out at the beach, the wild sea beyond it, the schools of surfers paddling, the kids screeching as the waves lap at their ankles. As night falls, we tour the island, traversing tiny Balinese roads on Alex’s scooter. I ride on the back, gripping tightly, yelling little details about my life in New York over the hum of the engine. “I want to show you my favorite road,” he says, cutting a hard left and swerving the bike onto a rocky path between two rice paddies, a hint of silver moon glowing overhead. Otherworldly. I hold onto my brother, and we agree to stay in touch this time, which we had done many times before. But in this meeting, in a place across all the world’s oceans, the promise feels different.

Motorbikes on Amlapura, Bali.

Get On Board

The Places You’ll Go Dunia Baru runs private charters throughout the Indonesian archipelago from April through November, accommodating up to 14 guests in six staterooms and a master suite with a crew of 20. Voyages through Myanmar and Thailand are available year-round upon request. Full charters for one week start at $102,500, all-inclusive.

Getting There Major carriers including American Airlines and [Qatar Airways] (http://www.qatarairways.com/us/en/homepage.page) fly into Bali Denpasar with one connection from New York and Los Angeles. From there it’s a short transfer to the dock.

Back on Land If you’ve had your fill of beaches, head inland for a few days once in Bali before flying home. Japan-based Hoshino Resorts opened its thatched-roof Hoshinoya Bali eight months ago in the hills of Ubud, known for traditional Balinese dancing and Hindu temples.

Sailing Destinations in Indonesia: Sail Away to Paradise

Published by sail on march 20, 2023 march 20, 2023.

Stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural history, and gorgeous landscapes are all gifts to the nation of Indonesia. Indonesia is a sanctuary for sailors wishing to explore clean waterways, remote coves, and tropical islands because it has over 17,000 islands. Indonesia has a variety of attractions, from the serene waters of Bali to the rough beaches of Komodo. Here are a few of the most popular sailing destinations in Indonesia:

One of the most well-liked sailing locations in Indonesia is Raja Ampat, which sits off the coast of West Papua. It is known for its magnificent coral reefs, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear seas. Raja Ampat is a secluded and distant archipelago that is ideal for individuals seeking to get away from the rush of city life.

Bali is one of Indonesia’s most well-liked tourist destinations, and with good reason. It offers breathtaking beaches, verdant forests, and charming villages, which is all you could want. With its tranquil waters and plenty of hidden bays and coves, Bali is also a fantastic location for sailing.

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is situated in the Lesser Sunda Islands and is the habitat of the renowned Komodo dragon. The park is renowned for its clean beaches, rocky coastlines, and great diving locations. A unique experience, sailing through Komodo National Park offers breathtaking scenery and a wealth of marine life.

Wakatobi is a remote archipelago in Southeast Sulawesi, known for its world-class diving and snorkeling spots. The waters around Wakatobi are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and even whale sharks. Sailing through Wakatobi is an excellent way to explore the islands and their natural beauty.

Gili Islands

Located off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands are a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the crowds of Bali. The islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Sailing around the Gili Islands is a great way to explore the islands and enjoy their natural beauty.

Labuan Bajo

On the westernmost point of East Nusa Tenggara’s Flores Island sits the town of Labuan Bajo. A variety of sailing alternatives, including sailboats, sailing yachts, and catamarans, are available at this entrance to Komodo National Park. The town is a wonderful starting point for exploring the nearby islands because it boasts a bustling waterfront with many eateries and cafes.

Anambas Islands

The Anambas Islands, a collection of more than 200 islands in the South China Sea, are a sailing enthusiast’s secret paradise. The islands include clean beaches, clear waters, and great snorkeling and diving locations. They are still largely undeveloped. Only accessible by water, the Anambas Islands are an ideal location for sailing.

A lesser-known location that provides a fantastic sailing experience is Sumbawa. There are several stunning bays, beaches, and coves there that can only be reached by boat. The island is a well-liked destination for surfers as it has some of Indonesia’s top surf breakers.

Morotai Island

The northern region of Indonesia contains Morotai Island, which provides fantastic sailing opportunities. The island has a long history, and the nearby waters are home to numerous WWII shipwrecks. Catamarans and sail yachts love Morotai Island for its white sand beaches, beautiful waters, and coral reefs, which make it a great place to visit.

Togean Islands

Located in Central Sulawesi, the Togean Islands are a collection of islands that provide some of the best sailing opportunities in Indonesia. Sailboats and catamarans love visiting the islands because of the calm waters. In addition, the Togean Islands include some of the best diving locations in the nation, with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life.

Right Boat for Sailing Destinations in Indonesia

From sailing across crystal-clear waters and coral reefs to discovering hidden beaches and coves, Indonesia offers a variety of sailing adventures. The appropriate boat can make all the difference in your sailing experience in Indonesia. To discover more about various sailboats, yachts, and catamaran types you can check out this Sailboat Data page. You may discover comprehensive details on different sailboat models and their performance here, making it easy for you how to pick the best boat for your requirements.

The following boat types are appropriate for sailing in Indonesia:

Sailboats: A traditional option for sailing in Indonesia is a sailboat. They are built for sailing in a range of circumstances, and their simplicity makes them easy to handle. Sailboats are fantastic for people wishing to have a leisurely sailing experience and are suitable for exploring calm waters.

Sailing Yachts: A step up from sailboats, sailing yachts provide more room and comfort. They are perfect for individuals who want to explore Indonesia’s beautiful waterways while sailing in greater comfort. All the basic amenities, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas, are included in sailing yachts.

Catamarans: In Indonesia, catamarans are a common choice for sailing. They are ideal for exploring the waters near Indonesia since they provide lots of room and are stable. Catamarans are also easy to maneuver and can access shallow seas, making them perfect for exploring quiet bays and coves.

Motor Yachts: Motorboats are an excellent choice for individuals who want to sail more quickly. They can travel farther than sailboats or catamarans since they are built for speed. Also, motorboats are perfect because they come with all the conveniences needed.

When choosing a boat for sailing destinations in Indonesia, it’s important to consider your preferences and the type of sailing experience you want to have. Sailboats, sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts are all suitable options for sailing in Indonesia. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, but no matter what type of boat you choose, sailing in Indonesia is an experience you won’t forget. Visit our sailing destinations page for some incredible ideas and places to explore if you’re feeling motivated to organize your own sailing holiday. Start preparing for your upcoming sailing excursion right away with Ocean Wave Sail !

Related Posts

How to Buy the Best Beginner Sailboat?

Sailing is an alluring activity because it offers the possibility of independence on the broad sea and the rush that comes from using the wind. You’re in for a gratifying experience if you’ve made the Read more…

Navigational Charts – How to read them?

The unsung heroes of every sailor’s voyage are their navigational charts. These painstakingly drawn waterway maps serve as the foundation for safe and effective sailing. Learning to read navigational charts is essential whether you’re cruising Read more…

Sailing Basics: Practical Steps to Learn Sail

Are you attracted to the sea’s call, seduced by the prospect of sailing into the distance, and enthralled by the sailing lifestyle? If so, you are not by yourself. Many people have this dream in Read more…

Subscribe to our newsletter

Don’t miss new updates on your email.

© OceanWave Sail. All Rights Reserved 2022

Terms & Conditions – Privacy Policy – Cookie Policy

About Us – Privacy Policy

• New account

Forgot your password?

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password.

Back to login

Privacy Overview

Life on Board

Destinations

• Specifications
• Nirjhara Resort

Welcome to Vela

Vela was conceived for modern day adventurers and experiential travelers eager to explore the most remote corners of the Indonesian archipelago. Each charter is fully personalized to accommodate the preferences of our guests. From scuba diving with manta rays and hiking among Komodo dragons to sheer relaxation on a secluded beach, no two experiences are ever the same onboard Vela.

With 6 luxury staterooms accommodating up to 12 guests, Vela is perfectly suited for families and groups of friends. Through an Indonesian yacht charter blending the best of adventure, refinement and safety, Vela seeks to redefine barefoot luxury by sailing off the beaten path and crafting lasting bespoke memories.

Discover Our Suites

Vela in Numbers

Allow us to tailor your next adventure

ULTIMATE SEA COMFORT

On Lamima, we believe that the ultimate holiday experience is best served with utmost privacy. Couple that with the spotless charm of a wooden sailing yacht with spacious cabins, several lounge areas, picturesque changing view, exotic destinations, and impeccable service. Lamima provide incomparable level of comfort in sailing through the waters of Indonesia and Myanmar.

LAMIMA EXPERIENCE

Our professional crew work at great length to offer you personalised service and tailor-made itinerary. We fully understand that no dream vacation is alike and you deserve only the best holiday experience that will create memories. No request is too small or too big for our crew that give their heart in every voyage.

UNMATCHED 5-STAR QUALITY

5-star service only is provided to our valued guests. Our sailing package includes a plethora of service given with a heart, recreational activities to recharge and relax, finest gourmet meals to satisfy your appetite, internet via satellite to stay connected when you need, Immigration formalities (when going to Myanmar), and much more.

Lamima is the only yacht which offer a full all-inclusive rate. Find our all-in rate inclusions below:

• Use of all water sports equipment including 1 Yamaha jetski, 2 Radinn Jetboards, 1 wakeboard, 1 water ski, 6 stand up paddleboards, 2 sea kayaks, 2 Indonesian canoes, snorkeling equipment for 14 guests, 6 surfboards, 1 wing surf, inflatable toys (banana boat and O’brien maple).
• All gourmet meals, drinks (soft drinks, juices), and alcoholic beverages*.
• Unlimited massages & beauty treatment (on-board 2 masseuses).
• Park entrance fees, boat clearance fees, excursions fees, and guide fees

See more of our all-inclusive rate offer here .

"Dear lamima crew " From the very beginning, we felt like we were visiting our family and that we were surrounded by close friends. Every single moment of every day and night, aboard Lamima, in the water, above or under the surface , were made to feel incredibly safe, comfortable and exciting due to the professionalism and care of every single crew member. From the countless dives, island visits,dinners and all other events, we thank you for sharing your beautiful country, amazing natural wonders, your culture, your music. We believe we will comeback. With endless gratitude" Sasha - September 2024

"Not because of the incredible biodiversity of the ocean ( which is beyond imagination ! ) but mainly because of Lamima crew ! Everyone is so kind, professional, and open that now all you can think about is, "I would like to comeback" Thank you so much for your incredible hospitality and high level professionalism. Thanks to Ali and Martinus for unforgettable diving!!! Ali is the best guide! Koko and Listi, your massages help me to relax and recharge my batteries! All the guys in the wardroom are always on duty! Your smiles warm our hearts! The food is awesome! The chef and his team managed to surprise everyone, not a single repetition in 10 days, Well done! Thanks so much for the best family holiday" Anna - August 2024

"No one could ask for -Boat - crew of ones dreams ! Food, service beyond expectation. Our very best vacation ever!" HARRISON FORD - January 2023

"I have sailed in Greece, Turkey and Croatia and, as an Indonesian myself, I am proud to see an all-Indonesian crew be of such high international standards. The Lamima can compete in international waters any day and you have put us on the map! Thank you!" Michelle - May 2022

The most memorable trip we’ve ever had. COVID makes us look for local destination more than overseas.. and we are amazed by Raja Ampat specially with such excellent service by Lamima crew. We celebrate our last night on board with something special as it’s Valentine's day. We dance under the stars.. Wow.. I will come back someday.. Linda and Rutiyan - February 2022

It’s just nice to come back after Komodo Island last year. So amazing. This one even better experience. The best that Lamima had it’s “The Crew”. So happy to be part to feel the experience. Super amazing food because of the amazing “CHEF” and the crew. Love it, love it! Hope can come back again in summer. Tasha and Stephane - February 2022

This is one unforgettable journey! To start with, they had less than 24 hour notice to prepare for the cruise. And yet, everyone did it flawlessly. I must admit that Lamima’s crew made our 2 weeks stay here memorable. I don’t know how we can move to other phinisis after this. YOU HAVE SPOILED us with your attention, service, playfulness. The kids are already begging us to come back on the boat even before we leave. Thank you so much for your hospitality. I will ALWAYS remember this trip for the rest of my life. Special thanks to Pak Wawan, Pak Ali, Captain, Chef, and others for your hospitality that went beyond my expectation. Aida - December 2021

Why is Lamima special? For the very obvious and the not-so-obvious reasons! I don’t know how you guys were ready for us, compromising any of your highest standards, in less than 24 hours! You have made my husband and kids smile endlessly even in the face of adversities and uncertain weather you never cease to amaze us. To say that you guys exceeded our expectation is an understatement. This has got to be the most memorable 14 days of our lives. You attended to ALL of our requests, memorized our favorite things, put special touches in all those 14 days. Thank you!! My Kids are already planning to return to Lamima ASAP! I hope you will have us again. . Winda Malika - December 2021

"Most amazing week ever with the best team and crew I have ever experienced. You are all so special and amazing. Thank you for everything." Jessica, February 2021

"Saya sangat puas kepada layanan dari semua staff di lamima, semua didahulukan sangat perfect,semua murah senyum,bekerja dengan hati.dari semua crew yang ada, cruises direcktor,captain,cheff, bartender,waitress dan semua staff yang ada memberikan layanan terbaik terhadap team teman kita yang sudah stay selama 6hari dilamima.saya akan merekomendasi ini lamima untuk teman teman saya.all the best kepada semua staff lamima, semoga semua diberkati dan diberikan rezeki dan diberikan kesehatan untuk semua.terima kasih berjuta juta  untuk semua." Tommy, January 2021

"Kapal yang bagus dan sesuai harapan untuk kami sekeluarga berlibur. Crew yang hebat dan ramah wajib di pertahankan. Selalu hebat dan sukses untuk Lamima. All the best." ---- Beautiful boat and meets all our expectations during our family vacation. Great and friendly crew, should always keep it this way. Always great and success for Lamima. All the best." Ahmad Sahroni & Family, November 2020

“This has been handsdown the best trip ever. The beauty above and under the water, on the boat and in the crew’s heart is what created all of it.”

Lisina, January 2020

“Thank you to the Lamima team for creating the most spectacular trip of a lifetime! Above all expectations! Going to miss you and lots of love!

Natasha, January 2020

“Wow! No words for the extraordinary time aboard Lamima. The fish and coral amazing, but even more the sensational crew, we want to come back!”

Corina and Andres, January 2020

"Turning the BIG 60 isn’t so bad when you’re sailing on the Lamima! A spectacular trip with an amazing crew. Thank you for making my birthday so special and memorable. We’ll be back!"

NANCY & JACK, OCTOBER 2019

"What a special experience on a wonderful boat with the main ingredient being the exceptional crew welcoming, helpful, knowledgeable, polite, etc. We cannot thank them enough for making the trip the best."

JON & ANASTASIA, SEPTEMBER 2019

"This second trip with you was incredible. Thank you so much. This boat is amazing but the crew is extraordinary. You are all so smiley, funny, and also really patient with us. Thank you for all that time you took us wake-boarding and surfing. Thank you Rizky for teaching us how stand up on the surf. Every one of you is so nice. We love you and will miss you! Thank you again and I cannot wait to see you again!" ELISA, AUGUST 2019

"Dear crew, thank you for letting us discover your beautiful country composed of so many amazing islands. The beauty is above and underwater and a week is not enough to see it all! But thanks to your care in every sense (food, massages, snorkeling & other activities) it was an experience to remember. Thank you so much!!!"

"Amazing week with you guys. Fantastic members of the crew, stunning places to visit and share. Your smile and professionalism always present. Fabien and I wish you all the best. Thanks again for all the good moments."

"A big thanks to the Lamima crew for organizing such a magical week. Spanning no efforts to keep everyone happy & comfy. The overall experience was spectacular and I can’t wait to return once more in the near future. Special thanks to Wawan and Ali for some excellent diving."

“The Client absolutely loved the experience and said it was one of his best trips ever! This comes from a very experienced Client, who booked over 10 charters with me on some great modern motor yachts in the West Med and the Bahamas. He particularly highly praised the crew and couldn't stop complimenting Wawan and Yani.”

"Thank you so much for an absolutely unforgettable experience!!! We loved every single day of our holiday here in great part because of the fantastic crew who worked tirelessly every day to give us the best trip possible."

"The crew is really nice!!! And every dive site was beautiful. They serve many kinds of wine and cocktail. I am really satisfied with this!!!"

“We are in-love with your boat! The crew is VERY special! We are having a wonderful time. Merci!”

“The trip was great! Whole family enjoyed it. Lamima's layout is excellent, whole crew team was very professional and nice, food was very good, diving was excellent, etc. I have chartered yachts for many years, I can confidently say that this was one of the best trips we have done so far.”

“Thank you for the joyous moments and memories we will treasure forever. Your kindness, attentiveness to detail and beautiful spirits made this more than exceptional – you made it phenomenal adventure filled with epic moments that have left a permanent impression on our lives. What a treat it was to sail with you”

“Thank you all for this trip. You are more than a crew, you are friends and I’ll miss you so much. The landscapes and activities were amazing. Massages, climbing, jet skiing, water skiing, eating and yoga, diving, incredible activities! You made this trip unforgettable! I‘ll miss you all! Lots of love. Elisa <3"

“I don’t know how to express what an amazing experience we had on Lamima. From the second we walked on the boat until the last dance party. We all haven’t stopped smiling + laughing for a straight week. The crew has done above + beyond the call of duty to make sure that we all felt so incredibly well taken care of → I don’t know how to thank everyone! Thank you, thank you, Thank you. We are going to miss everyone very much, so keep in touch!!! Much love, Kathy”

“Lamima is like walking through a looking glass. A true fairytale from the time you walk on board all your dreams come true. Majestic beauty Lamima. The staff extraordinary, I wanted to take them all home with me. They are family. The toys on boat epic! Jet skis, water skiing, surf boards, running on the beach… Sunsets beautiful, and the food over the top. I’m about to walk back through the looking glass to my reality. Never will I ever forget my fairy tale story Lamima!!! Love to all the staff.”

“We had a wonderful trip surrounded by the nicest crew that anyone could have. We expected to have a good experience but it was an incredible trip. All crew is happy and polite and make us feel like kings and queens. We will miss them ! Congrats !”

“A big thank you to the crew for this wonderful sailing holiday, delicious food, massage onboard, beach fun, diving…. unforgettable experience. Hope to see you again in the future”

“I found my love for the underworld through Lamima and all its crew. A family consisting of four men and one woman, Lamima a heavenly offering and we enjoyed every activity on hand. The crew was unparalleled with the care and affection”

“Thank you all for a fabulous time. We enjoyed ourselves tremendously and will remember our time here very fondly. Every person onboard helped to make this a very special time”

“We had one of the best holidays of our lives. As you know, the boat is as near perfect as can be, wonderfully luxurious in all the right ways but never Bling. The thing which made it for us were the crew. We fell in love with every one of them. Their combination of charm, humor, efficiency, and professionalism was unbeatable. They never crossed inappropriate boundaries but they always seem to be having as much of a good time as we were. I have done a lot of sailing on boats of all sizes but never enjoyed one as much as Lamima. I will almost certainly book the Lamima again.”

“Cannot put into word the gratitude we feel for the generosity, caring and kindness shown in work. You have made our holiday most memorable. Thank you all.”

“I could not have asked for a better way to discover Indonesia, thank you so much for the amazing memories”

“An amazing experience, the crew successfully made our home away from home. Always a step ahead of us, it’s going to hard to leave”

AS FEATURED IN

Privacy Overview