indonesia travel

Cruising Indonesia – The Best Destinations to Visit

 

If you are thinking about how to make your next trip an unforgettable tropical adventure, embark on a luxury Indonesian cruise. Why settle for visiting only one island, when Indonesia has 18,000 islands and you can visit the best of them. With a tailored-made experience designed to satisfy your every want and need, a private cruise of Indonesia is everyone’s dream come true.

Even though picking and choosing which islands to visit can be confusing, every Indonesian island has something beautiful to offer. From stunning temples and archeological sites to modern architecture. From tasting a variety of excellent cuisines to experiencing a variety of different cultures. From pearly white beaches and blue waters to amazing green hills.

Here is a list of the best of the best Indonesian islands you mustn’t miss.

Indonesian cruise
Indonesian cruise

Bali

The best destination to start or end an Indonesian cruise is Bali. It has everything Indonesia has to offer, so it’ll serve as a preview or a reply of the best moments on your trip.

Whether you are in need of relaxing or in a mood for partying – Bali’s got your back. Although it’s home to both amazing beaches and extravagant nightclubs, Bali is also full of beautiful temples. They are an architectural testament to the importance of Balinese Hinduism and every one of them has a special story that contributes to that old Bali magic.

If you want to fully experience Bali you only need a positive spirit and a scooter to help you get around. And well, maybe a little bit of patience because initially you can be overwhelmed by its chaos. Don’t worry, you will grow to love it within moments.

Rice Fields Indonesia
Rice Fields Indonesia

Komodo Islands

The Komodo Islands are widely famous for being the home of the Komodo National Park. The Park encompasses a total of 29 volcanic islands, including the major 3 islands – Komodo, Rinca, and Padar. A place where you can walk among Komodo dragons and other fascinating terrestrial fauna such as various types of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

But the Komodo islands aren’t only famous for their extraordinary land wildlife. Komodo National Park conveniently sits in the heart of the Asia Pacific Coral Triangle. This makes it a world-class dive destination.

Sunbathe on the Pink Beach on Komodo Island. Take a scenic hike on one of the beautiful hiking routes on Padar Island. Get a glimpse of the traditional life of the Bajau people on Mesa Island. Feel every part of the Indonesian culture and natural beauty on every island in the Komodo islands.

Komodo Islands
Komodo Islands

Moyo Island

Moyo Island is mainly uninhabited. It has a population of 1000, spread out to 6 small villages. The villages depend on mainly fishing or farming to survive and you’ll get the opportunity to experience the same for yourself.

But in case that kind of a lifestyle is not something you’d be interested in, you can tour the island’s Hunting Park. There you’ll be able to see two endangered bird species that are endemic to Indonesia – the yellow-headed parrot and the Tanimbar Megapode. In the jungle, you can also hang out with long-tail macaques and barking deers.

Because as said previously the island is uninhabited, the Milky Way is visible at night and you can gaze upon it from one of the many majestic Moyo Island’s beaches.

 

Indonesian cruise
Indonesian cruise

Flores

Long hidden in the big shadow of its neighbor Bali, Flores is finally emerging as a go-to destination on its own. That’s mainly because of its many wonders.

In Flores, you can swim in lakes and waterfalls and dive in pristine sea waters among dolphins and huge manta rays. You can go kayaking among mangrove shores and explore awe-inspiring caves. In Flores, you also get a unique and rare chance to participate in the islanders’ rituals and daily life and visit prehistoric heritage sites.

The Forgotten Islands

Indonesia’s “Forgotten Island’’ is also known as Maluku Tenggara. They are not a single destination, but a 1000 km long chain of archipelagos. Largely isolated from Indonesia and the rest of the world, The Forgotten Islands are Indonesia’s most beautiful hidden treasure. Because of their gin-clear waters, patch reefs, and collar bommies – The Forgotten Islands offer the best diving experience in Indonesian waters.

As you are cruising through The Bandana arc, an excursion to Spice Island is also a must. The taste of cinnamon and nutmeg as well as the architecture will take your mind back to Bandaneria’s colonial time and your soul in tropical heaven.

Raja Ampat Islands

The Raja Ampat Island is a place made of over 600 small islands and four large ones. The name “Raja Ampat” literally translates to Four Kings in honor of the four biggest ones – Waigeo, Bantanta, Salawati, and Misool.

These jungle-covered islands are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also worldly known for their white sand beaches, rich marine life, and coral reefs. But the incredible wildlife of Raja Ampat does not stop underwater. On Waigeo Island lives the crimson bird of paradise. While on Misool Island, you can visit ancient rock paintings and caves. This makes The Raja Ampat Island a destination that will offer you diversity and open your eyes to new amazing things.

 

by Sorin

Sorin is a freelance travel writer. He is an experienced travel writer and traveller. Since 2012 he explored more than 60 countries on 4 continents: Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Currently is based in Romania after spending the last 7 years in Myanmar.