We are sailing

A bounty of marine encounters and wildlife wonders await. The five-star

Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach resort on Flores Island, Indonesia, is about to welcome guests on cruises aboard its luxury yacht, the Ayana Lako Di’a.

Departing for the first time in April this year, the two-day cruise will visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park – home of the Komodo dragons, the largest lizards on Earth. Guests can now reserve one cabin on a shared voyage of up to 14 people.

And what a yacht. The Ayana Lako

Di’a is a modern revival of the traditional phinisi wooden sailing ships that have been part of the seafaring cultures of South Sulawesi since the early 20th century.

But you won’t have to give up on any contemporary creature comforts while aboard. It is one of the largest luxury vessels in Western Flores, offering suite accommodation in one of nine airconditioned cabins with ensuites. The sumptuous vessel boasts a living room, lounge bar and indoor dining area, as well as daybeds on the main deck to soak up that glorious Indonesian sunshine.

That’s when you’re not exploring. Discover Kalong Island where you’ll witness the amazing sight of thousands of fruit bats taking flight from their roosts in a synchronised dance that fills the coral pink sky at sunset.

Later, experience one of only seven beaches in the world of its kind – the stunning Pink Beach, which gets its vibrant hue from a microscopic creature that produces a red pigment on the fringing coral reefs. How cool is that?

But the main event has to be seeing the Komodo dragons in all their graceful glory. Observe the dragons in their natural habitat on a shore excursion to Komodo Island, where you’ll also get to check out other endemic wildlife that makes up this island’s colourful biodiversity.

Enjoy all-inclusive meals while aboard the yacht, plus activities including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and yoga. The night owls among us will also enjoy karaoke sessions and popular film screenings.

Luxe your stay by choosing the opulent 60sqm master suite with a king bed, ocean-view bathtub, walk-in wardrobe and private balcony, or opt for a luxury suite featuring ocean views and private balcony. Both are fabulous. reservation.komodo@ayana.com

Indulge in opulence and exploration on an awe-inspiring yacht journey to visit the world-famous Komodo dragons.