Signature Aviation Spring 2025

elite traveler SPRING 2025 103

DUNIA BARU IN INDONESIA OTHERWORLDLY AND REMOTE The unspoiled waters of the Indonesian archipelago are one of the hottest yachting destinations on the world cruising map. A handful of modern yachts are now venturing into these exciting waters as part of their round-the-world tours, but there are also a few traditionally built luxury vessels (named phinisi ) based in the area year-round. The 167.3-ft DuniaBaru is just one example of the elegant Indonesian phinisi schooners o ff ering high-end luxury in a traditional package. There are numerous routes you can take around the thousands of islands, and as many variations in the daily activities available aboard DuniaBaru . From starlit beach parties and kayaking through secluded coves to uninhabited desert islands, the Indonesian waters are blessed with year-round warm temperatures and ideal sailing conditions. From April through October, DuniaBaru cruises around the Komodo Islands, taking in the islands of Sabolo, Rinca, Pantai Merah, Padar, Batu, Banta and Komodo itself. Alternatively, she generally spends the winter months (October through March) cruising in the Raja Ampat archipelago, which lies o ff the northwestern coast of New Guinea. Comprising four main islands and thousands of small islets, the largely uninhabited waters here provide ample opportunities to fi nd peaceful anchorages. Under the surface, however, is a very di ff erent story, since these waters are home to the country’s largest marine national park, a huge number of world-class dive sites and the highest recorded marine biodiversity on Earth. Step aboard DuniaBaru for a yachting adventure through the Komodo Islands on the island of Flores and discover the nearby islands and islets of the Komodo National Park. The waters surrounding all the islands in this region o ff er spectacular diving. Fortunately, DuniaBaru has a full set of diving equipment and, no matter your dive certi fi cation, crewmember Carl Rousse is a certi fi ed dive instructor and knows all the best sites suitable for all abilities. Jump in the water with him and discover sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays. Ashore, a hike up Mount Kelimutu will a ff ordyou 360-degree views over Komodo Park. Deserted beaches adorn the coastline of the nearby island of Sabolon. Spend more time under the sea here, or trace the coastline ononeof DuniaBaru ’s kayaks or paddleboards. The water temperature and currents that surround this area make for great pearl-growing grounds, and there are a number of pearl farms that welcome visitors to see how the pearls are grown. Take advantage of the crystal-clear waters that lap Komodo Island with an early morning dip before heading ashore for your fi rst encounter with a prehistoric Komodo dragon. Hike through the rain forest with a local guide to see these creatures in their native habitat. There are over 5,000 Komodo dragons here and they can eat up to 80% of their body weight in a single meal. Rest assured, there are no dragons on the nearby island of Batu, which instead o ff ers its visitors crystal-clear water for swimming and ample underwater marine life to see, whether you’re diving or snorkeling. Those wishing to explore the world above the water’s surface can use DuniaBaru ’s variety of water toys in the bays that lap the crescent-shaped beaches. Spend the last night on board DuniaBaru outside the boundaries of the Komodo National Park. Worth the small detour, Banta Island is surrounded by waters literally teeming with giant turtles and manta rays. Back on board, head towards Flores for your disembarkation, perhaps jumping in for a fi nal swim at Pulau Sebayor. Sleeping up to 14 guests and with a crew of 20, the 167.3-ft (51-m) DuniaBaru is available to charter in the Komodo cruising grounds from April through September, and Raja Ampat from October through March. From $140,000 per week including all expenses, y.co

ITINERARY AT AGLANCE Day1 Flores Day2 Flores to Sabolo Island 37 nautical miles Day3 Sabolo Island to Gili Islands 17 nautical miles Day4 Gili Islands to Komodo Island 19 nautical miles Day5 Komodo Island to Padar Island 11 nautical miles Day6 Padar Island to Rinca Island 31 nautical miles Day7 Rinca Island to Batu Muncul 12 nautical miles Day8 Batu Island to Banta Island 12 nautical miles Day9 Banta Island to Flores 37 nautical miles

Photo Lawrence