Summary
Encountering Whale Sharks in Komodo National Park
This luxurious sailing vessel offers small-group voyages to explore some of Indonesia’s most remote coastal destinations. Initially intimidated by the ocean, I found myself in awe when two majestic whale sharks cruised effortlessly beneath me. Their blue-gray skin, adorned with unique patterns, made for a captivating view. Under the guidance of my snorkel instructor, Yoyok Hariawan, my fear transformed into an appreciation for these gentle giants, known to be the largest fish on the planet.
We were in Saleh Bay, renowned worldwide for opportunities to see whale sharks up close. These remarkable creatures are tagged by nonprofits like Conservation International, which has been tagging them in Indonesia since 2015. Despite ongoing research, much about their behavior and life cycle remains a mystery.
Aboard the Vela Luxury Sailing Yacht
I was privileged to experience the Vela, a luxury yacht that started its private charters in August 2022. Modeled after traditional wooden phinisi ships, the Vela reflects the exquisite craftsmanship of Indonesia, built from ironwood and teak by the skilled artisans of South Sulawesi.
Owned by Dimitri Tran and Adrien Portier, the yacht reflects a combination of modern luxury and traditional Indonesian design. With a focus on sustainability, Vela encourages eco-friendly practices by utilizing large sails to harness wind power, eliminating single-use plastics, and providing reef-safe toiletries.
The 18-person crew ensures comfort and enjoyment, including a mixologist and experienced yoga instructors aboard. While the primary journey mostly takes place in Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat Marine Park, the ship is capable of venturing to more secluded locations across Indonesia.
Exploring Indonesia’s Breathtaking Islands
During my five-day voyage from Sumbawa to lesser-known areas of Komodo National Park, we navigated approximately 220 nautical miles. Spread across 29 islands, the park offers stunning landscapes, including the pristine waters of the Flores Sea and the Savu Sea.
Onboard, the interior features custom-made furnishings from sustainably sourced materials alongside artwork by upcoming Indonesian artists. The facilities provide an outdoor gym and water sports equipment, including WaveRunners and Zodiacs for adventurous explorations.
I stayed in the exquisite Owner’s Suite, which boasts a private terrace and luxurious amenities. My serene experience was complemented by calming in-room massages and traditional Indonesian culinary delights, including grilled pork satays and beef rendang.
Observing Komodo Dragons in Their Natural Habitat
On our final day, we anchored at Rinca Island to witness the legendary Komodo dragons. Observing these remarkable lizards, which are native to Indonesia, was a highlight. The population of around 1,400 on protected Rinca ensures their survival, and under the guidance of our expert Oji Iskandar, we learned fascinating details about their behavior and capabilities.
Reflecting on my journey, I recognized that the encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and Komodo dragons transcended mere observation. Each moment spent with these extraordinary creatures ignited a sense of wonder and an invitation to embrace a more adventurous spirit within myself.
This article originally appeared in the September 2023 issue of iBestTravel under the headline “In the Wake of Giants.”
