We've partnered with SeaTrek, a small company in Indonesia offering unique cruises aboard traditional Indonesian phinisi boats. During this week-long sailing adventure, you will explore remote nooks of Indonesian islands, otherwise unreachable by land. You'll pass through spectacular volcanic landscapes, snorkel amongst colourful reefs, visit traditional island villages and enjoy a starlit barbeque on a deserted beach. The journey is a round-trip from the untamed island of Flores, through the Komodo National Park where you can swim with whale sharks and get close (but not too close....) to the famous Komodo Dragons. You’ll sail onboard a beautifully crafted phinisi boat, with comfortable en-suite cabins and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the sun and the sweeping sea views. With many exciting activities led by the experienced local guides, this epic journey is sure to be a memorable one.
2027 departure dates: 17 April, 28 April, 09 May, 20 May, 31 May, 12 June, 23 June, 07 July, 18 July, 29 July, 9 August and 21 August.
Days 1 & 2 - Welcome onboard, snorkelling & dragon spotting
This morning you’ll take an early flight from Bali to Flores, where you will be met by your tour leader and taken to a beautifully crafted phinisi boat which will be your home for the next week. You’ll sleep in a comfortable en-suite cabin and there’s plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the sun and the sweeping sea views. Relax on the sun deck and get used to life onboard as you set sail.
During the first two days of the journey there will be plenty of opportunity to don your snorkel mask and explore the impressive underwater world. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles who hangout amidst the pristine coral reefs. You will also go ashore on Rinca Island in search of the legendary Komodo dragon. The world’s largest lizard, they can grow up to 3 metres long and weigh up to 70kg!
Days 3 & 4 - Volcanoes, villages and island life
Next, you’ll sail towards Sangeang, an active volcanic island where life revolves around the sea and the fertile volcanic soil. Go ashore to visit a local village and get a glimpse of everyday life before heading into the water to snorkel among colourful coral just offshore. Back on board, there’s time to relax before a special evening on the beach. Enjoy a BBQ under a star-filled sky, with fresh local food prepared by your chef and live music from the crew.
The following day, you’ll explore the forested island of Moyo, travelling inland to a beautiful waterfall hidden among the rainforest. Take a refreshing dip in the cool water before returning to your boat.
Days 5 & 6 - Swimming with whale sharks & village visit
Now for one of the real highlights of the trip: the chance to get into the water with whale sharks. These enormous but gentle creatures have long gathered in the bay around local fishing platforms, and you’ll have the opportunity to swim alongside them and learn more about their relationship with the local fishermen.
There’s plenty more to experience above water too. Visit a local village to see the traditional spectacle of buffalo racing, where riders and their animals race through muddy rice paddies. You’ll also explore a volcanic island with a mysterious sunken crater lake before visiting a coastal community where traditional phinisi boats are still built by hand using generations-old techniques.
Days 7 & 8 - Mantas, turtles & coral conservation
Back in Komodo National Park, there’s more time to explore beneath the surface. Snorkel above volcanic black sand where bubbles rise from the seabed, drift over some of the park’s healthiest coral reefs and visit a coral restoration project on Hatamin Island. You’ll even get the chance to help create and place your own coral rack. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles and manta rays as you snorkel, with plenty of time to swim, paddle and explore the remote islands along the way.
Day 9 - Tribal Flores & depart
After breakfast, disembark at the port of Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores and take a scenic drive to Melo Village, where you’ll experience a traditional Caci dance performance. This energetic ritual combines music, dancing and ceremonial whip fighting and offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions of the local community.
After lunch back on the boat, say farewell to the crew and your fellow shipmates. From here you can set off to explore the volcanoes and tribal cultures of Flores, or simply fly back to the comforts of Bali for a relaxing end to your Indonesian adventure.
Please note…
The plan described above gives a good idea of the route but it is subject to change, dependent upon weather, delays and local factors.
The cancellation conditions for this bite-sized trip differ from our usual terms and conditions, and are as follows; more than 90 days before cruise departure = 25% charge / 90-61 days before cruise departure = 50% charge / 60 days or less before cruise departure = non-refundable. We’d recommend buying some travel insurance early on to cover this.
Accommodation
