An Adventure on the Adelaar

Imagine traveling through one of the most idyllic tropical regions in the world, on a ship built more than a century ago, full of character, but with the luxury of a 5-star resort. You spend ten days at sea, watching the world go by and bearing witness to terrestrial and marine animals that can’t be seen on any other part of the planet. 

The adventure begins in Bali where you board the Adelaar, an exquisite ship which has been operating as a luxury liveaboard since 1993, but has a fascinating history that spans more than a century. As soon as you arrive, the crew takes your bags, hands you a cool drink and gives you an orientation of the ship before you embark on the 300 nautical mile journey to Komodo National Park. 

Nestled in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago, the park is made up of three large volcanic islands and a handful of smaller ones. This is the home of the infamous komodo dragon, outstanding natural beauty and some of the most coveted diving in the world. Adelaar is the only boat to offer the exclusive round-trip itinerary, catering to those who enjoy small group luxury sailing and diving.

Over the next ten days, a maximum of eight passengers voyage around the most interesting and beautiful spots of the park, stopping at Satonda Island on the outgoing journey and the impressive volcano of Sangeang on the return trip. As Adelaar starts her journey, the green rolling hills and volcanoes of Bali, Lombok and eventually Sumbawa peacefully drift by, allowing body and mind to unwind.

Stepping onto the vessel, it’s hard not to be impressed. The rigging of the 125ft schooner is in tip-top condition and the sun deck with its large teak table, awning and comfortable seating area is immediately inviting. There is plenty of space to relax or you can choose to sit in the net at the front of the boat––a top choice when the dolphins come to play alongside during the journey. 

The interior of the boat has rich teak wood paneling and high ceilings, which give it a spacious, yet cozy feel. It comprises a main salon, dining area, and four beautifully-designed staterooms. These large air-conditioned cabins are equipped with en-suite marble bathrooms, consistent hot water, exceptionally comfortable beds, and a complete surround sound entertainment system. 

Upon arrival in Komodo National Park, the main diving commences and it is absolutely breath taking. Situated in the coral triangle, the waters of the park contain some of the richest marine biodiversity in the world. You can dive in strong currents or peaceful bays, you can marvel at huge schools of fish, watch mantas dancing, or turn your attention to the large array of critters on the reef such as nudibranchs and pipefish. The topography is varied and the styles of diving often vary from black sand muck dives to blue drift dives so that every taste is catered for. 

Having operated in the area for over twenty years the crew and dive staff are extremely knowledgeable and crucially the standard of safety procedures is exceptionally high. All divers are equipped with a nautilus lifeline and with two dingys in the water, the crew are ready to welcome you back as soon as you surface. 

On terra firma, for a chance to stretch out the legs––sans fins––there is a range of activities including sunset hikes, a waterfall walk, a huge migration of flying foxes and, of course, the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the infamous Komodo Dragon. At 2-3m, this remarkable reptile is the largest living lizard and cannot be found wild anywhere else in the world. It’s an experience that cannot be replicated. 

When the night starts to draw in, the boat is moored in a peaceful secluded spot, away from other boats, allowing for some amateur stargazing before dinner is served al fresco or in the main salon. The ever-cheerful local chefs Wayan and Made were trained by a top Belgian chef and have developed their own sophisticated twist on contemporary Indonesian cuisine. Dinner starts with a tasty soup––perfect after a night dive––and is followed by a variety of local dishes including Gado-Gado, Satay and sumptuous Balinese curries.  Deserts range from fresh strawberries and cream to tiramisu.

Wayan, Made and host Agung ensure that guests are catered for throughout the day, with each meal different from the previous day and freshly prepared. A small breakfast is available comprising of juicy tropical fruits and croissants before diving commences, followed by a large breakfast after the first dive––pre-ordered from a menu the night before. Lunch is another delicious three-course affair and an afternoon snack such as apple pie, or spring rolls keeps the afternoon slump at bay.

Watching the sun dip over the horizon, with a warm breeze on the skin as the Adelaar carves her route through the islands, this magical trip is something that can never be forgotten.

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