Flores/Komodo August 2011: On the boat

Our boat

It was busy season so there were two boats that set off together from Lombok. We were lucky and scored an upper deck cabin, fresh air and a constant sea view as the door didn't close, which didn't matter because the view was great. The cabins were small about the floor size of a large desk top, bottom bunk is on the floor. Really, really comfy mattresses. We soon had serious boat envy as the other boat boat was newer and bigger. The cook on our boat needs a medal as he turned out such great food considering the conditions. He catered for meat lovers and vegetarians. And always helpful with a hot Indo coffee in the early morning.

Our cabin on top deck 3rd door open from front

First day we had a great stop over on uninhabited island for swim, snorkel and a BBQ dinner.

Then sailed all night, and reached gorgeous Santonda Island early in the morning. It was so rough that night and many fellow passengers were sea sick. Not us, whew. A hint to help prevent sea sickness is to lay yourself lengthways with the rocking i.e. your body like a see saw.

Inland lake Santonda Island

Snorkelling at Santonda beach was pretty good, and a swim in the lake excellent. There were little fish that came up and nibbled off dead skin from your immersed parts. Then sailing on for a beach sunset in East Sumbawa.

Sunset at Eastern Sumbawa

I know you have all seen lots of sunsets but it was a good one.

Sailed all night (not so rough) to awake at 5am, and sit up the front of boat to watch the captain navigate his way through some small Islands to Komodo. Memorable coffee and views of the sunrise over Komodo. Also exciting as at last we were really going to see the famed Komodo Lizards. Every landscape from the boat looked like a huge lizard. Komodo is such a huge island, guides were required to venture away from the main landing area. The guides all had a long forked stick to assist if required in keeping dragons away.