The dreamy landscapes of Eastern Indonesia are irresistibly alluring for intrepid travellers: sublime island chains and forest-covered peaks that rise out of the ocean to form a pristine backdrop for island-hopping adventures. The team behind sustainable Balinese hideaway Nirjhara are inviting guests to explore this primordial landscape this summer aboard Vela: a 50-metre luxury yacht that can accommodate up to 12 guests at a time.
Vela sets sail around the waters of Eastern Indonesia this month, with bespoke itineraries that can include must-visits such as Komodo National Park, Raja Ampat and the spellbinding Nusa Tenggara region, stopping off at sights such as Manta Alley in Langkoi Bay and the pink beaches of Padar Island. Itineraries are planned together with guests, allowing plenty of time for hiking, birdwatching and barbeques on hidden beaches, or exploring the teeming waters of the archipelago on diving, snorkelling and paddleboarding excursions.
Naval architect Tresno Seery has transformed the traditional Indonesian phinisi boat into a vessel worthy of well-heeded travellers, with contemporary interiors furnished with a combination of locally made ceramics and traditional hand-dyed textiles, and elegant Italian fabrics courtesy of Hermès and Dedar Milano, plus a collection of Indonesian artwork.
On board, guests will find a spacious lounge, bar and wine cellar, indoor and outdoor dining spaces and a yoga deck for early morning classes, as well as a crew of 18 including a spa therapist, chef, mixologist and cruise director. Private charters start from approx. US $15,000 per night and include all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, spa treatments ad activities.
