DESTINATIONS CRUISE |INDONESIA
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE
EWho’s it for: Suitable for relatively active and mobile travellers of all ages, SeaTrek attracts solos, couples and groups of friends. Many would never consider big-ship cruising, so don’t just think of established cruise clients – suggest it to those that book long-haul land stays.
E How to pack: SeaTrek’s ships are laid-back and passengers are encouraged not to wear shoes, to protect the wooden decks. Sarongs, water bottles, snorkelling equipment and sunscreen are provided, so advise customers to pack light. Do recommend bringing water shoes and a change of swimwear.
ABOVE: Komodo National Park is the only place to see the world’s biggest lizards in the wild PICTURE: Wow Borneo
out on gorgeous beaches tinged blush pink by glistening fragments of coral washed ashore by the clear waters. Invariably, we are the only people on the beach. Indeed, while we see a few other boats during the week, including SeaTrek’s smaller second ship Katharina, other vessels are a rarity. Most are tourist day boats and, at night, as the orange sun dips behind remote volcanic islands, we are alone beneath the inky star-studded sky. One night I camp out on deck, cocooned in a sleeping bag. Although I admit defeat and retreat to my cabin when the wind whips up in the early hours, it adds to the sense of adventure.
HERE BE DRAGONS
Another day brings the chance to walk with dragons. Unesco-listed Komodo National Park is an archipelago of islands, several of which are home to the world’s biggest lizards and the only place to see them in the wild. The largest population of Komodo dragons is on the namesake island and our skipper ensures we’re the first ship to arrive, providing the best chance of seeing them as they wake and emerge to warm up in the morning sunshine. Lumbering out of the undergrowth, tongues flicking in and out, these 3m-long reptiles are a formidable sight. Like the whale sharks, they are indifferent to our company – although I feel reassured when the park guide says they eat only once a month. Thankfully, we don’t have to wait that long. Every day, the crew conjures up an array of fresh
46 11 SEPTEMBER 2025
33With their tongues flicking in and out, the 3m-long Komodo dragons are a formidable sight
and tasty meals from the small galley, with fish, stir fries, veggie dishes and salads served buffet style. After dinner, insightful talks by the excellent tour leaders prepare us for the following day. The experiences come thick and fast. We snorkel above kaleidoscopic coral reefs; get hands on with an inspiring coral-conservation project; hop on the back of motorbikes to reach a waterfall, where we swim beneath the cascade; see a pinisi being built on a beach, using centuries-old techniques; and enjoy a magical beach barbecue under the stars. One morning, we bathe in the lake on Satonda
Island. Created by a volcanic eruption, the inland lake was later filled with seawater, following a massive tsunami wave. Today, the glassy crater lake feels serene and peaceful, surrounded by lush vegetation. Locals believe it has magical properties, so we join in with the custom of tying a stone to one of the ‘wishing trees’ by the water’s edge and making a silent wish. It’s said if the wish comes true, you will return to the lake. I certainly hope mine does.
TW
EWhat to do: Don’t let nervous clients be deterred by the number of snorkelling tours, as SeaTrek’s guides can teach guests who have never snorkelled before. Flotation aids are available and swimmers can return to the vessel at any time.
EWhat to drink: While a small selection of drinks is available to purchase, passengers are actively encouraged to bring their favourite wines and spirits on board. Mixers and soft drinks are included in the fare.
BOOK IT
Kuoni offers a 10-night SeaTrek with Whale Sharks, Corals & Dragons itinerary from £6,199 per person, departing in April 2026. The price includes a night before and after the cruise at Puri Santrian Beach Resort in Bali, plus eight nights on board (all meals and soft drinks included) and Malaysia Airlines flights from Heathrow.
kuoni.co.uk
travelweekly.co.uk
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