AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, Labuan Bajo’s award-winning five-star resort, is now inviting guests to share an unforgettable two days, one-night sailing adventure aboard its flagship luxury phinisi, AYANA Lako di’a. Guests are invited to reserve one cabin for a shared voyage of up to 14 guests through the ecological wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park.
The star of the resort’s fleet of vessels, the AYANA Lako di’a is a modern phinisi, a wooden sailing ship that has been an integral part of seafaring cultures of South Sulawesi since the early 20th century and listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. An inspired blend of the art of boatbuilding technique in South Sulawesi with modern elegance, the Lako di’a is one of the largest luxury vessels in Western Flores, providing prestigious, ultra-modern suite accommodation in nine fully air-conditioned cabins with ensuites. With its design reflecting the charmingly rustic atmosphere of Flores Island, the ship also features a library, lounge, bar, an indoor dining area and daybeds on the main deck.
Departing for the first time on Friday, April 12, 2024, this year the Lako di’a Shared Luxury Cruises will be conducted from Friday to Saturday during most weeks up until October 19. The voyage itinerary has been carefully designed to take in Komodo National Park’s most spectacular destinations and an exhilarating mix of marine and land excursions, with ample time to relax and rejuvenate on board. From marveling at the graceful movements of Komodo Dragon to admiring the radiant hues of spectacular sunset, the two-day voyage promises the best that this remarkable region has to offer.
Depart at 04:00 pm, the first destination is Kalong Island, a tiny mangrove islet home to thousands of fruit bats, known locally as kalong. Guests will gaze in awe as the bats fly from their roosts and fill the golden sky at sunset. The night ends with a thoughtful dinner under the stars on the main deck of AYANA Lako di’a.
On Day 2, the cruise will explore the three most renowned destinations of Komodo National Park. An essential experience while visiting the region, a 90-minute hike to the summit of Padar Island provides a panoramic view of four crescent-shaped, shimmering beaches below green-capped mountains. The following destination is a true ecological wonder. One of only seven beaches of its kind in the world, Pink Beach gets its unusual color from a microscopic creature that produces a red pigment on the fringing coral reefs, which combined with crushed red coral creates a dazzling dusky pink.
The final destination is of course Komodo Island, home of the iconic Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on earth. Expert local rangers guide guests around the park for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe the dragons in their natural habitat, as well as other animals large and small that make up the island’s rich biodiversity.
Explore Komodo National Park in unparalleled comfort and style
The Shared Luxury Cruise includes full-board meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner; free-flow mineral water and a refreshing range of other non-alcoholic beverages; water activities including snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding; leisure activities including karaoke, film screenings and yoga; Komodo National Park entrance fee; airport transfers; and digital documentation.
Guests can choose from the Master Suite or one of six Luxury Suites. Featuring a king bed, private balcony, ocean view bathtub, walk-in wardrobe and VIP access to the stylish upper deck, the elegantly appointed 69 sqm Master Suite is the ultimate way to experience Komodo. For single occupancy it is priced at IDR 26,686,000++, or for double occupancy at IDR 19,982,000++ per person.
Ideal for families or groups traveling together, the six Luxury Suites are all conveniently located on the protected middle deck and feature twin beds or a double bed depending on guest preferences and availability. The 20 sqm Luxury Suites feature a thoughtfully appointed bedroom, exquisite ocean views from the generous bathroom, and private balcony to breathe in the glorious surroundings. For single occupancy they are priced at IDR 18,000,000++ per person, or for double occupancy at IDR 14,146,000++ per person.
“Lako di’a means ‘safe travel’ in the local Manggarai language,” explains Dermot Birchall, General Manager of AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach. “Our floating sanctuary allows you to discover the most magical parts of Komodo National Park in unparalleled safety, comfort and style. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard for what we hope will be an experience they’ll never forget.”