Sailing around Bali on the rise

Special interest sailing trips around Bali has not only begun to trend, but will continue to rise steadily in popularity as more and more travellers venture beyond Bali in search of untouched islands and authentic Indonesian experiences.

Indonesian Island Sail, owner and cruise director, Amanda Zsebik, says with 70 percent of Indonesia’s 17,800+ islands uninhabited, travellers, especially sailing enthusiasts, are realising the endless opportunities to be had or experienced around this nation of islands.

“As one of only three sailing boats out of the 500+ that offer non-diving sails in the region, it has become evident that a gap exists in the market when it comes to catering to other special interest groups,” Zsebik said.

While sailing holidays on a small traditional phinisi (a traditional Indonesian two-masted sailing ship) is still relatively new, Zsebik’s determination to introduce the concept to Australian holidaymakers keen to explore new island territories and local island experiences is paying off.

Zsebik said since launching the business in 2014, they have added a number of special interest itineraries based on customer feedback and interests.

“Along with our original program of sailing to West Nusa Tenggara, we are extremely pleased that our yoga and cruise fit itineraries, which combine sailing, watersports, yoga or cross fit, have proven popular among travellers,” Zsebik added.

According to Zsebik, her clients not only enjoy small group sailing holidays away from the masses, but even more so, they appreciate restful escapes in untouched natural surrounds.

Indonesian Island Sail has added cooking and golfing to its itineraries for 2017. The seven-day cooking itinerary involves classes on preparing classic Indonesian meat and vegetable dishes as well as traditional desserts. The seven-day golfing itinerary involves learning, practicing and friendly golf matches with a PGA pro. All sailing itineraries include snorkelling, visits to marine life sanctuaries and isolated islands.

All sailing tours are operated on-board the Al Iikai, which accommodates up to 15 guests in a mix of twin, double and bunk rooms. Agent commissions of 20 percent apply. For bookings and more information, visit www.indonesianislandsail.com.