Christmas cruising in Indonesia

Cruising the incredible Indonesian islands during the season of merriment can offer superyacht visitors a memorable voyage to Bali, and even on to the Forgotten Islands and Banda Group.

For those who enjoy blue skies and warm days, December is the ideal time to visit Bali. The essence of the festive season has crept into Balinese culture in Indonesia over time, and there are plenty of festivities to enjoy in Bali. Unlike the western world, a Bali Christmas is influenced by the Bali-Hindi culture where locals adorn traditional clothing and erect a Penjor outside of their homes and buildings.

Created from plaited young coconut leaves, the Penjors are hung from the pieces of bamboo and set in front of the Christian Balinese homes during their big celebrations. These can be seen on the roads and are unique to Bali, found predominantly in the South. Other colourful culture can be experienced, such as catching the traditional kecak dance or visiting famous ancient Hindu temples. Across Indonesia leisure activities include surf lessons or zip lining through the trees, swimming, snorkelling and beach barbeques, as well as volcanic terrain, rainforest jungles, black beaches and much more.

Captain Jimmy Blee, heading up Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia, stated, “Asia Pacific Superyachts is looking at a busy Christmas client program with boats in four differing cruising locations in the country. The most adventurous of these cruises is called the Forgotten Islands and the Banda group trip and I’ll be on board for the four week trip.”

In the very south of Maluku, the Banda Islands lie in the remote and hard-to-reach Spice Islands. In widespread Indonesia, this little archipelago is one of the most incredible destinations and, due to its isolated location, is not an over-populated island.

Boasting rich history, the Spice Islands are renowned for nutmeg, cloves, almonds and cinnamon.  Nearby is the active volcano at Banda Api, last erupting in 1988. For those who crave adventure, it takes approximately three hours to climb.

Captain Jimmy added, “In addition to marvelling at its abundance of marine life and incredible topside scenery, you can relax on peaceful, secluded beaches and seek out indigenous handicrafts and ancient art.

“You might not see another boat for days, if not the whole trip, particularly if you’re not hitting the main dive sports.”

The Forgotten Islands of Indonesia is a group of hundreds of islands, from Timor in the South, up to West Papua. With a diverse culture, wildlife and marine life, the Forgotten Islands, make up Indonesia’s ‘Ring of Fire’.

For more information, visit Asia Pacific Superyachts. Sign up to our newsletter to get the best of Yachting Pages delivered direct to your inbox every month.