There are few better ways to explore an archipelago country than by boat. Especially when the country in question has an estimated 17,000 islands. I say estimated because the powers that govern Indonesia aren’t even sure how many there are! By the same yardstick it’s hard to say how much coastline there is – the best guestimate is over 200,000 km. Whatever the actual numbers, what isn’t in dispute is how stunning this island archipelago country is.
What you may not know is that the real treasures lie beneath the sea’s surface. The underwater marine world is simply stunning. Whether you’re a hard core scuba diver or a newbie snorkeller, you’ll not be bored in Indonesian waters. I was fortunate to travel east recently from Bali towards Flores onboard traditional sailing vessel (known as a pinisi) Al iikai. Owned and run by Australian expat, and serial snorkeller, Amanda Zsebik, Indonesian Island Sail offers extraordinary cruises through the Indonesian islands.
Highlights were many, but the moments that will stay with me forever come from a morning spent snorkelling with enormous, oh-so-elegant manta rays in the aptly named Manta Alley. Unfortunately I don’t have any images from this remarkable experience, but I do have plenty of others to share. Follow Travel Boating Lifestyle and Al iikai on #BetterthanBali on Instagram for more photos. Enjoy!
Fiona Harper was a guest of Indonesian Island Sail
