Indonesia Yacht Charters: What You Need to Know

With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers some of the world’s most jaw-dropping scenery and tropical escapes. But for landlubbers, its sheer size can make the country hard to navigate. The solution: take to the sea. Here we break down five tips you need to know about Indonesia yacht charters.

Ready to plan your cruise in Indonesia? Contact Indagare today and get excited for the trip of a lifetime.

1. This is a bucket list trip

Travel by yacht in Indonesia offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, with island landscapes resembling something Dr. Seuss dreamed up (think rolling peaks rising whimsically out of the ocean). A major highlight: Seeing the fascinating (and endangered) Komodo Dragons on both Komodo and Rinca Islands in Komodo National Park. In the same park, Padar Island is among the most photogenic islands in the world. Here, you’ll have the rare sight of beaches with white, black and pink sand all from one spot, after a gorgeous hike up a hill. (Pro tip: arrive at sunrise for the perfect lighting.) Throughout the journey, you’ll have chances to snorkel the cerulean waters, often accompanied by manta rays, sea turtles and other marine life. Another favorite destination: the diver-adored islands in Raja Ampat National Park.

A great family adventure, a cruise through Indonesia is also particularly special for a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday or special occasion.

2. Choose your vessel wisely

There isn’t great infrastructure in Komodo National Park or Raja Ampat National Park, so it’s essential to stay on a luxury yacht, allowing you to cover the most ground and experience all the parks have to offer—in style. Indagare knows the ins and outs of the best options and the answers to your questions, because we have been on the yachts.

For buyouts, Rascal Voyages has space for 10 passengers, with five above-deck cabins and a 1:1 staff ratio (so expect a lot of pampering). The newly built ironwood and teak yacht, Rascal, resembles a traditional Indonesian phinisi ship, only without the sailing masts and with contemporary creature comforts (Sonos sound systems, air conditioning, spacious floor-plans). Rascal has the added luxury of a rooftop deck, perfect for a morning yoga or meditation session, lounging in the sun, or sunset cocktail hour. A few times a year, Rascal Voyages offers per-cabin voyages so couples or families have an opportunity to join other like-minded passengers. Some of these voyages have a special focus, including ocean conservation or wellness.

Aman’s two Indonesia cruise vessels feature the brand’s signature minimalist zen design and top-notch service. The twin-masted Amandira, built in 2015, is a true phinisi sailing vessel, stretching 170 feet from bow to stern. Its three king cabins and two bunk cabins can accommodate 10 guests. The ship’s sister yacht, Amanikan has three cabins for up to six guests. Both boats have extensive diving equipment and access to facilities, letting experienced divers enjoy deep-sea adventures—and giving new enthusiasts an accredited PADI certification. Larger groups may want to consider buying out both Amandira and Amanikan for a tandem cruise with up to 16 passengers.

Aqua Expedition’s Aqua Blu is the best pick for couples or smaller families, as its 15 suites can all be reserved separately. This is the largest vessel, so while you may not have the level of customization as the other, more traditionally designed vessels above, you are getting additional amenities. Highlights include the bridge deck’s outdoor jacuzzi, an exercise zone and a library.

Our team would be happy to provide you with additional information about each experience and help you choose which is the best fit for your preferences. If these vessels don’t have availability, we can look into other options from our collection of preferred yachts.

3. Seasonality is important

You can take a cruise through Indonesia year-round. Which national park you want to sail through, though, will dictate the best timing. The sunny, dry season in Raja Ampat lasts from October to April. For Komodo National Park, nearly 1,000 miles to the southwest, it’s the opposite, with the least rain falling between March to November. Both parks offer striking scenery, excellent diving locations and unique wildlife (Komodo dragons in Komodo; whalesarks in Raja Ampat). Raja Ampat has the added benefit of fewer visitors—you can cruise for days without seeing another boat—which may be why it is preferred by divers.

4. Don't forget the add-on