Set Sail for Komodo!
Itinerary
NB Price is based on 2 adults and 1 child sharing a triple cabin on Komodo cruise
Days 1-3 – Cycling through the green fields of Ubud
Only an hour’s hop away from the airport, you’ll find Ubud – the green heart of Bali. Nestled in between bright green rice paddies, this is the best place to come and relax after having arrived in Bali. You’ll head out on a cycling tour with a local guide, passing rice fields and artisan villages. You’ll be staying in a traditional Balinese-style hotel just outside of the centre, as this way you can really enjoy the surrounding views of the tumbling rice paddies.
Days 3-4 – Cruising to Komodo: welcome aboard & Komodo National park
Today, you’ll leave Ubud behind, head back to the airport and hop on a flight to untamed Flores. Over the next 9 days you’ll uncover Indonesia’s best kept secrets: remote villages and tiny islands only accessible by boats. There will be volcanoes, Komodo dragons, pristine coral reefs and no shortage of snorkelling!
Upon arrival at Labuhan Bajo, Flores’ main hub, you’ll be met and greeted by your tour leaders, who will show you around your new home for the next 9 days. After you’ve settled in and met the crew and your neighbours, enjoy a cold beer on the deck (juice for the kids) and get ready to explore the mesmerising marine world of the Komodo National Park. From colourful fishes to sea turtles feeding grounds and manta ray cleaning stations.
Days 5-6 – Cruising to Komodo: pink beach & crater lake
As the sun comes up you’ll reach another deserted island with the pink-shaded powdery beach. it’s a great spot for some snorkelling and relaxation on the beach. Later you’ll set sail towards a different island, where the traditional phinisi boats (similar to the one you’re sailing on) are being assembled by the local people right on the shores. You’ll gain an insight into the local culture, as well as the boat-making techniques which form an important part of the community.
Another day, another adventure as you visit a volcanic island, and one of the highlights of the journey. The locals believe that the water of the Crater Lake can extend your life and that the nearby trees can fulfil wishes…..worth a try at least! You’ll head for a guided jungle walk and race across the crater lake on your paddle boards before heading to a different tropical island for a spot of lunch. In the evening you’ll be treated to a mesmerising sight of hundreds of bats flying across the sea to feed.
Days 7-8 – Cruising to Komodo: whale sharks & village visit
The next few days are all about your sea-based activities, but there sure is a highlight worth mentioning. Wake up before dawn and head to a secluded bay where the whale sharks feed. If you’re in luck and the sharks are there, your tour leaders will instruct you on how to behave to not scare them away and you’ll be in for a swim with these amazing creatures. The rest of your day will be filled with kayaking, beaching around and exploring the island (and its wildlife!).
You will continue your island-hopping adventure and discover many more tiny islets with secluded beaches and incredible coral reefs. One of them is inhabited by local people and you’ll have a chance to meet them and learn abut their culture, traditions and a local way of life.
Days 9-10 – Cruising to Komodo: underwater world & Rinca island
After more snorkelling opportunities and visiting some of the best coral reefs there are in Indonesia, you’ll reach Rinca, home of the famous Komodo dragons and a part of the Komodo National Park. With the help of your leaders you’ll encounter other wildlife too and if you’re in luck – spot the dragons (from a safe distance). The evening will be quite special too. The crew will treat you to a delicious beach barbeque under the Indonesia starry skies. With a bonfire, sailing stories and fresh memories of your recent adventures it might be just the perfect farewell. At night you’ll continue your journey to Labuhan Bajo, our final destination.
Day 11 – Cruising to Komodo: tribal Flores & back to Bali
Enjoy your final breakfast aboard the ship, take in the sea views and make a splash in the sparkling waters one last time. Sadly it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and your fellow travellers as you disembark in Labuan Bajo. Before you part ways, you’ll be whisked away from the shore for one last glimpse of Indonesian life. Visit the local village, try some authentic snacks (and fiery arak if you’re brave enough – sorry kids, yet again – juice for you!) and be amazed by the skilful dance performed by the locals. Now you’re ready to continue to your next destination.
We will arrange your domestic flight back to Bali (and a private transfer to a charming seaside hotel) for a few more days of sunshine.
Days 12-14 – Surfing in Sanur
Sanur is a little seaside town in Southern Bali and a perfect place for families due to its serene atmosphere and child-friendly beaches. As well as soft white sands, you’ll find plenty of cosy cafes and restaurants. The next few days are for you to do nothing but relax whilst the kids play in the sand and if they’re old enough; can even take part in some surfing lessons. Chill out by the pool, take a walk along the shores and grab a drink as you watch the sun go down. Bliss!
At the end of your holiday, you’ll be transferred from Sanur to the airport, which takes about half an hour, to begin your journey home.
Accommodation
