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September 12 2019
Gaining new experiences or skills from a holiday is at the top of many travelling wish lists nowadays. It’s no longer always just about getting away from it all for some much needed R&R (though we don’t ever knock this!). We are very excited to now offer this incredible sea safari in Eastern Indonesia - it really is a trip not to be missed.
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Published: September 12 2019
Tiger Blue is a traditional 34m timber phinisi yacht which sails around the stunning islands of Eastern Indonesia. Designed with families and groups of friends in mind, a journey on Tiger Blue is guaranteed to be packed with unforgettable moments whether it be searching for dragons on Komodo, spotting birds of paradise in West Papua or snorkelling with giant manta rays over the coral gardens of Raja Ampat. Tiger Blue can accommodate up to 12 guests with a choice of 2 cabin types and the yacht can either be chartered exclusively or you can join an existing trip in one of the cabins on selected dates. All the cabins are fully air-conditioned and have en-suite facilities designed with families and different age groups in mind.
Enjoy sunset cocktails either on the sun deck or around a beach bonfire at the end of each day, and dine under a canopy of stars accompanied by tales of the day’s adventures. Meals are freshly prepared by an on-board chef and served up at the large dining table on the main deck, except for when the boat heads to a nearby island for a beach BBQ. Cuisine is a mix of Asian and Western flavours, and all soft drinks and beers are included (spirits, cocktails and house wines can be purchased by the glass).
From May to September, Tiger Blue spends her days sailing the turquoise waters of Komodo National Park just off the western tip of Flores. In October or November, as the weather changes, the yacht relocates to Raja Ampat, a stunning archipelago comprised of hundreds of jungle clad islands. Tailored trips to alternative destinations such as Triton Bay and even further afield are also available to book.
Just a short flight from Bali, Komodo National Park is located off the west coast of Flores and consists of the three large islands of Komodo, Padar and Rinca as well as 26 smaller ones which are only accessible by boat. Home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, the islands have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer world-class diving and snorkelling as well as beautiful pink sand beaches. Activities include a trek accompanied by a local park ranger to spot dragons in the wild as well as snorkelling in shallow waters to spot Manta and Eagle rays and giant trevally. Located in the southern region of Indonesia, Komodo National Park is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, primarily consisting of the three large islands of Komodo, Padar and Rinca as well as 26 smaller ones with a rich marine ecosystem that surrounds it.
Incredibly remote and almost completely undisturbed by humans, the islands and cays of Raja Ampat are considered by many as the most beautiful in the world. Renowned for its amazing diversity of marine life, the archipelago boasts some of the richest coral reef eco-systems on earth. The islands’ jungles are home to rare birds of paradise, with treks to watch their early morning dances a highlight of any trip to this tropical paradise. Explore coral reefs (some of the most colourful in the region), blue-water drop-offs, mangrove flats or even seagrass beds and the chance to swim with Manta Rays, Green Sea Turtles, Indian Lionfish, Large Wrase and several species of shark. Just one of many endemic species in the region, the rare red birds of paradise perform their ritualistic dances in the depths of the jungle in the early morning – a trek to find them starts at dawn and is also a good opportunity to meet with some of the local indigenous communities. From pre-historic hand paintings to a modern pearl farm, man’s impact here has been low-key and minimal. Raja Ampat is located off the northwest tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsular on the island of New Guinea in Indonesia’s West Papua province. The archipelago comprises over 1,500 small islands, cays and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo.
The activities on offer for all age groups include excellent diving in the crystal clear waters teeming with vibrant life, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to swim with creatures that will leave you in awe, long stretches of white sandy beaches and breathtaking landscapes filled with unique wildlife just waiting to be explored. The boat is also fully equipped for a variety of water-sports ranging from waterskiing to kayaking. And when you want to kick back on board, relax on the upper deck on the sun-loungers, taking in the spectacular views or retreat to the main deck to one of the two double daybeds or the chill out area at the rear of the boat.
In all instances Tiger Blue moors as close as possible to each airport - transfer to the boat is then by private car and RIB tender.
KOMODO: The best routes are to fly either via Bali or Jakarta and then a local flight to Labuan Bajo
RAJA AMPAT: The best routes are to fly either via Bali or Jakarta and then a local flight to Sorong (and via Makassar on the Bali route).
KOMODO: Prices from £3,800* for a Double Standard Cabin for 7 nights (for 2 people) - based on departure in January 2020. Includes all meals and snacks plus all teas, coffee, soft drinks and house beer as well as all excursions and activities, return airport transfers and personal laundry. Flights not included.
RAJA AMPAT: Prices from £8,600* for a Double Standard Cabin for 7 nights (for 2 people) - based on departure in Julyy 2020. Includes all meals and snacks plus all teas, coffee, soft drinks and house beer as well as all excursions and activities, return airport transfers and personal laundry. Flights not included.
Contact the team for more information and all the details on how to book this fantastic adventure on 020 8935 5779.
*prices are subject to change and availability, based on USD to GBP exchange rate as of 11 September 2019.
Hanna joined Go Bespoke in February 2018 and has over 15 years’ experience working in Marketing & PR. She studied Modern Languages at University, and lived in Granada in Spain before working for a city-based tour operator and then at Orient Express. Hanna is our resident Spanish speaker, and also speaks French and a bit of Portuguese. She looks after all our social media and marketing collateral, including the website and anything visual that you might see!
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