From the magical underwater world of Raja Ampat to the intriguing Komodo National Park with its eponymous dragons, phinisi charter in Indonesia opens up some of the country's most enchanting natural wonders in an exclusive and immersive way. Red Savannah have been operating luxury phinisi charters in Indonesia for many years, and can guide you through all the practicalities – as well as the countless unmissable experiences to be enjoyed along the way.
THE BEST TIME TO CHARTER A PHINISI IN INDONESIA
It is possible to embark upon a phinisi charter in Indonesia at almost any time of year. The key difference will be whether you sail around the Komodo National Park, or through the waters of Raja Ampat.
- May to October : phinisi cruises sail around Komodo Island and the wider Komodo marine reserve. During this season you can enjoy calm waters and plenty of sunny days as you discover the region’s spectacular landscapes and enthralling wildlife.
- November to April : this is the season for phinisi cruises in Raja Ampat. You will generally embark in Sorong and enjoy the calmest seas and optimum visibility for marine adventures in West Papua.
LIFE ON BOARD
The schedule during your phinisi cruise can be as active or as relaxed as you choose, but a typical day might begin with an irresistible breakfast out on deck in the shimmering morning light. This will be followed by a morning activity – perhaps a hike with a Park Ranger in search of the indigenous Komodo Dragon, or a jungle trek through an uninhabited island in Raja Ampat.
Lunch might be taken back on board – or perhaps a gourmet beach picnic in a hidden bay for a change of scene. In the afternoon spend some time relaxing in the warm sunshine on deck, or taking advantage of further fabulous diving and snorkelling opportunities. The attentive deckhands are available to mix your perfect cocktail in time for sundowners, and you can then settle in for a delicious al fresco dinner in the gentle evening breeze. If your phinisi is equipped for this, you may round off the night enjoying a movie out on deck under the stars, with a classic film projected onto the phinisi’s main sail.
MEET THE CREW
All of our luxury phinisi charters in Indonesia come with an experienced crew. This usually includes a captain, an English-speaking cruise director, a private chef, and a team of friendly deckhands who assist with everything from meal and drinks service, watersports, and keeping your cabin fresh and beautiful. The majority of vessels we work with also include the services of a professional scuba dive instructor.
In addition to the set crew, some cruises may also include a massage therapist to help you unwind after a day of adventures on land and in the ocean. If your preferred phinisi does not include a masseuse as standard, we can easily arrange one to be on board at an additional charge.
SAILING ROUTES IN INDONESIA
Whether you are sailing around the Komodo National Park or the kaleidoscopic islands of Raja Ampat, you will encounter spectacular natural beauty and pristine island havens at every turn. Some of the experiences include:
- Observing fascinating Komodo Dragons in their natural habitat on the islands of Komodo and Rinca
- Hiking to one of the summits of the Gili Lawa Islands for sweeping views across the Komodo marine reserve
- Kayaking or snorkelling in the mangrove-rich waters of Moskon Bay in Raja Ampat
- Discovering the colourful underwater wonderlands of the Wayag Islands, and the stunning coral reefs of Wofoh
- Learning about traditional ways of life on a visit to an indigenous community on Arborek Island
If there is anything specific you are hoping to experience during your phinisi cruise, please do let us know in advance so that we can ensure all of your interests are accommodated. Alternatively, simply relax and allow your captain to showcase the very best of these utterly unforgettable corners of the Pacific.
