Cruising South Sulawesi

Cruising South Sulawesi is awfully fantastic island of Indonesia. Makasar ( formerly Ujung Pandang ) is the capital and most important city in South Sulawesi province thanks to its bustling natural harbor.

Makasar is one of the biggest port towns in Indonesia. Many of the sights around Makassar reflect a past and tradition that are closely linked with the sea. Makassar and its surrounding regions is home to the seafaring Buginese.

Paotere Harbor north of the city is docked by colourful traditional Buginese schooners or phinisiqs waiting for their cargo to be loaded or unloaded.           See the best preserved fort in the country, Benteng Ujung Pandang (formerly Fort Rotterdam), a newly restored 17^th century Dutch fortress. In its time, the fort was an important center of trade and the colonial government. The nearby Museum Negeri La Galigo is also worth a visit, exhibiting a good collection of ethnic art crafts, musical instruments and traditional costumes.

Makasar is famous for silk sarongs, silver filigree, and goldworks. Its cuisine features a lot of seafood and barbeques. See a great collection of rare Indonesian orchids and hybrids as well as sea Shells at the Clara Bundt Orchid Garden.

Pare-pare is a municipalities of South Sulawesi Province, 155 km north of Makasar. This second largest port in Sulawesi is more pleasantly than Makassar. The city was once part of Suppa Kingdom, a powerful influence that shaped the local history.

Places of Interest

Sungguminasa

In Sungguminasa, the Balla Lompoa Museum was once the Sultan of Gowa’s residence. It is constructed entirely of wood and built on stilts in the typical Buginese design.

Malino

75 kms east of Makassar is Malino, a cool resort situated about 1,050 meters above sea level. In the past, Malino was the favorite weekend retreat for the Dutch. Today, the town has many graceful colonial buildings still standing. In the outskirts, scenic rice fields borders the town. A visit to a tea plantation just outside Malino shows the entire tea making process, from picking tea leaves to the finished ‘ready to brew’ product.

Bantimurung Waterfall

About 38 kms northeast of the provincial capital is the Batimurung Waterfall measuring 15 meters high and 20 meters wide. The area is famous as the habitat of around 150 species of rare butterflies.

Bantaeng and Bulukumba

Further south is homeland of the seafaring Buginese. Cape Bira in Bulukumba is the center of traditional boatbuilding industry and has a stretch of pristine beach.

Palopo

This traditional port was the old capital of the powerful Luwu people, and is now the capital of the Luwu district. The Sultan’s former palace is now the Batara Guru Museum, which exposes relies of the once royal presence . On the scenie waterfront you will find a Bugis Village as well as numerous  fishing boats. Palopo gives easy access to destination in Tana Toraja.

Sengkang

A Buginese Silk Weavers Village. Leaving Toraja Land for Sengkang via Palopo. Lunch enroute at local restaurant. Arrive in Sengkang for overnight and dinner. And after breakfast at hotel, then visit Lake Tempe of Sengkang to see the way of life of those who live at the lakeside with some of them having their floating houses on it. Visit the traditional silk weaving villagers.

Toraja Highland Tour

Upon arrival at Pare-Pare Harbor transfer to Tana Toraja with 8 hours drive trip (155 kms) takes across Bugis Village with their typical houses built on poles along the magnificent mountainous ranges. Late afternoon arrive in Toraja Land check in at hotel for your accommodation.

After breakfast, visit the stone grave with Tau-Tau installed on a high cliff balcony overlooking the green valley of the Toraja at Lemo, the royal family tombs at Suaya and proceed to Kambira, a giant tree as a burial site for a new born baby who died before teething. Then drive to Kete Kesu, the traditional carving village and proceed to their wealthy status in Toraja community. Then continue on to visit the ancient house grave at Marante.

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

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Cruising East Nusa Tenggara

Cruising East Nusa Tenggara consists of three major islands (Sumba, Flores, Timor) and hundreds of island around those three islands, that includes Komodo Island, Alor, Sawu and others.

Cruising East Nusa Tenggara is uniquely different from any other region in Indonesia as it is geographically, ethnically, and culturally closer to Australia and Micronesia than mainland Asia. The islands in East Nusa Tenggara were occupied by the Portuguese, the first Europeans to colonize this area. The majority of the people are Christians. It is only recently that this region was opened to the outside world due to its isolation from the major transportation and communication networks in Indonesia.

Sumba is known as Sandalwood Island and famous for its arts, handicrafts (more specifically the Ikat Weaving Textile) and their authentic ancient traditions or rituals.

Flores means flower in Portuguese. It is a long Island with a mountainous landscape which offers scenic beauty, great beaches, natural wonders and unique tradition. The famous three colours crater Lake of Kelimutu is situated on this island, and Larantuka has been port of call for many world class cruises. The Island of Komodo offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity – a chance to see the Komodo Dragon.

Timor Island is divided into two parts, the eastern half has proclaimed their independence and is now separated from Indonesia. Kupang, the provincial capital city of East Nusa Tenggara that is a part of Indonesia territory is situated in the southern tip of the island.

Places of Interest

Komodo Island

Cruise ship have to anchor on the east coast of Komodo Island in the Slawi Bay. The passengers have to disembark by group of about 25 person and be escorted by local rangers when visiting the Komodo National Park.
 A wooden landing stage allows tenders to land passengers at low tide. But authorities have installed a floating pontoon which is fixed at the end of the landing stage so tendering operation are possible at anytime.

The Komodo island is a national park that covers approximately 170.000 ha in total, includes Rinca Island, Padar Island and its surrounding. Komodo ( Varanus Komodoensis ) or people call it as Komodo Dragon is the world’s largest living lizard, this carnivore species can grow to 3 m length and weight over 150 kg. There are rangers who will lead you to the feeding place, visitors normally share the cost of goat to feed the komodo. Komodo has been declared a “Man and Biosphere Reserve” and a World Heritage Site in 1986.

                                                                                                                                          

Lesser Sunda

This beautiful mountainous island in the Lesser Sunda stretches for over 350 km in the eastern part of the archipelago. The first contact with the outside world was recorded in early 12^th century when the Chinese traded sandal wood. One of the towns in the island is Larantuka. Its strategic position has made this town an important port. The Portuguese missionaries exerted great influence especially in Larantuka. Larantuka now remains among the most obviously Christian town on the island.

Mount Kelimutu

Visitor from all over the world come to this holy mountain for its magnificent view of its three coloured crater lakes. The lakes are situated at 1,640 m high and the colours have changed over the years, they are now maroon (almost black), iridescent green and yellow souls.

Wolowaru Village

The small town of Wolowaru is worth visiting as a photo stop for its beautiful scenery and mountain sights. During market day( Monday, Wednesday, Saturday ) there is a range of Ikat on sale. Jopu is another traditional village where visitors can watch the process of making Ikat and even have the opportunity to see the megalithic  culture of the Lio tribe.

Komodo Dragon Walking Tour

Duration : 4 Hrs 

08:30	Disembark
09:00 – 10:00	Welcome greetings, briefing & preparation
10:00 – 12:00	Walking tour to the site
12:30	Rejoin the ship

Larantuka Sightseeing 
Duration : 4 Hrs

09:00	Lamalohot, Departure
10:00 – 11:00	Muda Kaputuk Village
11:15 – 11:45	Traditional market
13:00	Lamalohot, Arrival

Kelimutu Tour
Duration : 11 Hrs 15 Mins 

06:30	Ende, Departure
09:30 – 11:20	Kelimutu
12:10 – 12:40	Jopu Village
13:00 – 14:00	Lunch
14:30 – 15:00	Nduaria
17:45	Ende, Arrival

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

www.my-indonesia.info

www.indonesiatourism.go.id

www.indonesia.travel

Cruising West Nusa Tenggara

The area of West Nusa Tenggara (Lombok Island and Sumbawa Island) is marked as the “Wallace Line”, point of transition between the flora and fauna of the western part and eastern part of the Indonesian archipelago. The Oxford zoologist W. George writes that Wallace’s Line marks the division between a rich continental fauna associated with high rainfall, forests and varied habitats and an impoverished fauna associated with low rainfall, thorn scrub and restricted habitats.

The Lombok Island is similar in size to Bali and divided only by the narrow Lombok Strait. The Lombok of today is often said to be what Bali was twenty years ago. The fact is that there are major differences in geography, climate, culture and religion of the people. The people of Lombok are called Sasak. They are Moslem, following their own particular traditions and  a with a unique identity, even though some of Balinese influence can be seen here.

Sumbawa Island is located in the east of Lombok, it is a harsh, dry landscape with some active volcanoes on it. Sumbawa consists of two island that are joined by a thin isthmus, the western part is called Sumbawa Besar and the eastern part is known as Bima. The people in the west speak a language similar to those in Lombok while the those in the east speak the same language spoken in Flores. To replicate the success of Bali as a tourist destination, Lombok has been trying to attract more visitors in the last ten years. Lombok has some beautiful white sandy beaches, traditional Sasak houses and the famous hand – woven textiles ( tenun ikat ) to offer, and Lombok is less crowded than Bali.

Places of Interest

Port of Lembar

Sukarare Village – Traditional Songket Textiles

Here you can see and shop for traditional hand woven textiles. The impressive technique, patterns and beautiful motifs have been handed down through generations.

Sindhu Market

A place where local people buy their daily needs. Here you can find some interesting items, such as local sweets, cakes, cloths, fruits, spices that you will not find back home.

Narmada, The Kingly Garden

Named after a sacred river in India, this beautiful garden was built as a royal park and is a place to worship God Shiva. These day, this garden is famous for its spring, located right in the center of the garden. People come for the holy water that they believe brings eternity.

Karang Bayan Village

Karang Bayan is a traditional Sasak Village. Here you can see traditional Sasak Houses, an old tribe that have been living in Lombok for many years and have become its major inhabitant. Also visit Mesjid Kuno, the oldest mosque on the island.

Senggigi Beach

An ideal place for relaxing, Senggigi is a white sandy beach that is safe for swimming. The beach overlooks Lombok strait and when the weather is clear you can see most sacred mount in Bali, Mount Agung, from a distance. Along the main road there are various kind of accommodation and restaurants.

Echo Sasak Tour

Duration : 4 Hrs 30 Mins

13:00	Lembar, Departure
14:10 – 14:30	Sengkol/Rambitan Village
15:40 – 16:05	Karang Bayan Village
16:35 – 17:00	Pondok Perase Fishermen Village
17:30	Lembar, Arrival

Lords and Shrines Tour
Duration : 8 Hrs 30 Mins

08:30	Lembar, Departure
09:00 – 09:45	Arrive at Local Market
10:00 – 10:45	Mayura Palace
11:00 – 11:45	Lingsar Temple
12:30 – 13:30	Lunch, Senggigi Beach
14:30 – 15:15	Karang Bayan
15:50 – 16:25	Weaving Factory
17:00	Lembar, Arrival

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

www.my-indonesia.info

www.indonesiatourism.go.id

www.indonesia.travel

Cruising Bali

The original inhabitants of Bali are the Bali Aga, who still live and maintain their tradition in small communities on the eastern part of the island. They are descendants of a prehistoric race who migrated from mainland Asia and were later influenced by the Indian traders who brought Hindhu learning and religion. The recorded history of Bali begins with the marriage of Balinese King Udayana and the princess of Mahendradata from East Java in the 10^th century. During the fall of the Majapahit Kingdom in East Java to the Islamic influence, the last Hindhu prince crossed the Bali Strait in 1478 together with many thousands of Hindhu priests, nobles, soldiers, artists and artisans. The prince was then declared as the King of Bali.

Bali has been effectively preserved from Islamization and is now the only island in Indonesia that still embraces Hindhuism. Unlike other major Islands, the majority of Balinese are Hindhu.

The Hindhu teaching and local tradition are still practiced in daily life. Every family has a temple at home and this family temple is the most important part of a Balinese house compound. The Balinese have a strong social community. The village where they live and share public facilities is called Banjar, and every family in a Banjar is obliged to take participate in any social activity ( birth,weddings,funeral,and temple ceremony) that is taking place in their Banjar.

The majestic volcanoes, the breathtaking view of rice terraces, the beautiful white sandy beaches, the rich culture and tradition and the hospitality of the people has made Bali the most visited tourist destination in the archipelago for many years.

Places of Interest

Port of Benoa and Padang Bai

Taman Ayun Temple

Taman Ayun Temple was built in 1634 by the founder of Mengwi Kingdom. It is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali, with a classic design complete with a lawn, ponds and surrounded by a moat.

Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park or locally known as Taman Burung was built in 1995. The park provides sanctuary to almost 1,000 birds of 250 different species and accommodates an amazing display of flora with more then 2,000 tropical plants including 50 varieties of palms alone and attracts numerous butterflies.

Celuk Village, Home for Gold & Silver Smiths

There are a large number of shops selling gold and silver jewellery, both in traditional and modern designs along the main road of celuk village. In this relatively small village, hundreds of family live as gold and silver smiths.

Kesiman Village, Batik Processing

In Kesiman Village you can see the process of making batik, the Indonesian traditional textile. Balinese wear batik on many occasions, mostly in official events and religious festivities.

Denpasar

The capital city of Bali Province. There are two places worth visiting in Denpasar :

·         *Werdi Budaya Art Center is where young artist study, train and sell their works. Here, they perform Kecak Dance every night. Kecak is an attractive and unique dance which is telling of the Hindhust epic, Ramayana.

·         *The Bali Museum, an ethnographic museum showing the history and culture of Bali, Balinese way of life, the arts and the religion.

Bedugul

As a cool mountain area, this area is very popular among local visitors for its fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers. There are three beautiful lakes in Bedugul, one of them is lake Beratan, where the beautiful Ulun Danu Temple was built at the edge of the lake. Here you can visit the first and only botanical garden in Bali and the famous Bali Handara Golf Course.

Jagatnatha Temple

Pura Jagatnatha, a temple dedicated to the Supreme God, Sang Hyang Widi Wasa. The statue of a turtle and two nagas signify the foundation of the world and you will find lotus thrones which Balinese believe they are the seats of the Gods.

Ubud Village

People simply describe it as “ a place to go in Bali “. Ubud has for decades attracted foreign artists and celebrities, Walter Spies, Rudolf Bonnet, Antonio Blanco are few among those who have settle here and become a part of the local community. In the Puri Lukisan Museum, you can find a collection of world class paintings in traditional and contemporary styles. Dining and staying in Ubud can be a memorable experience for those who appreciate the beauty of the country side with genuine family hospitality.

Monkey Forest

A six hectares forest with giant nutmeg trees that is inhabited by hundreds of monkeys. Here you have the chance to stand close to the monkeys and feed them with peanuts, but beware they are easily attracted to shiny objects, they will snatch your belonging quicker than any pick pocket in town, to trade for food.

Cultural Lesson

A short course on learning the art of “Banten” making, Balinese ceremonial offering, the ‘“Canang” daily offering and other ceremonial equipment, as well as learning how to wear the traditional Balinese cloth, or how to play the Balinese bamboo musical instrument.

Bali Tours

Denpasar City Sightseeing

Duration : 3 Hrs 45 Mins

08:30	Benoa,Departure
09:15 – 09:30	Parliament House (passing by)
09:30 – 10:15	Bali Museum
10:15 – 11:00	Werdhi Budaya Art Centre
11:00 – 11:45	Kumbasari Market
12:15	Benoa, Arrival

Ubud Walking Tour
Duration : 4 Hrs 15 Mins

14:00 – 14:30	Traditional Market, Ubud
14:45 – 16:15	Start Walking Tour
17:15	Benoa, Arrival

Bali Bird Watching
Duration : 5 Hrs 30 Mins

07:00	Benoa, Departure
08:00 – 11:30	Bali Bird Walk, Ubud
12:30	Benoa, Arrival

Bali Countryside
Duration : 5 Hrs 30 Mins

08:00	Padang Bai,Departure
08:30 – 09:00	Kerthagosa, Klungkung
09:00 – 09:20	Bukit Jambul
10:10 – 10:20	Selat
10:50 – 11:20	Putung Refreshment Stop
11:45 - 12:30	Tenganan
13:30	Padang Bai, Arrival

Hindhu Pilgrimage & Batur Volcano
Duration : 9 Hrs 15 Mins

09:30	Padang Bai, Departure
10:00 – 10:45	Sidan Village, The Barong Dance
12:15 - 12:40	Batur Temple
12:45 - 13:45	Lunch
14:15 – 15:00	Tampak Siring
15:30 - 16:15	Ubud
16:45 - 17:15	Mas Village
18:45	Padang Bai, Arrival

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

www.my-indonesia.info

www.indonesiatourism.go.id

www.indonesia.travel

Cruising East Java

Historically, East Java can be divided into three periods, Kediri Kingdom (929-1222), Singasari Kingdom (1222-1292), and Majapahit Kingdom (1292-1527). Majapahit was the greatest and most powerful empire in the history of Java. The glory of the Majapahit empire began in the 14^th century, during the reign of the brilliant King Hayam Wuruk and his skilled general (chief minister) Gajah Mada. Majapahit (the bitter gourd) had control over Sumatra, Malaya and Borneo, its influence extended to as far as Burma, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. The centre of activity of the empire was its capital, Trowulan, which was the largest city in Asia at that time.

The people of East Java consist of three major ethnic groups, the Javanese who live in the mainland and make up the majority of the population, Maduranese who live in Madura island and Tenggerese, the hindhu community who live in the area near Mount Bromo. The Tenggerese are the direct descendants of Majapahit refugees and the only group of hindhu left in Java today.

Surabaya, the provincial capital city of East Java was the most important port in Dutch East Indies by the early 1900’s and is now the second largest city after Jakarta. Even though the city is not a popular tourist destination. Surabaya is a gateway to the historical sites of old East Java – the magnificient sunset over Mount Bromo, the Mountain Resort of Tretes and some other places of  interests around area.

Places of Interest
Port of Tanjung Perak 

Tantular Museum

Tantular Museum is an ethnographic and archeological museum that is located in the former residence of the Javaasche Bank agent. Here you will find the interesting collections of historical and archeological artifacts.

Wonokromo Zoo

Wonokromo Zoo is the oldest and largest zoo in Southeast Asia, with a variety of local and regional animals. Komodo Dragons and Borneo river dolphins are among of many endangered species visitors can see in this zoo.

Joko Dolog

The Joko Dolog is a stone statue that was carved in 1326. It was removed from its original place in Mojokerto during the Dutch occupation. Joko Dolog or the guardian of the young teak forest was erected as a memorial to King Kertanegara, the last King of Singasari Dynasty.

 Seloliman Centre for Environmental Education

This centre for environmental education gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about tropical forests and environment related issues, as you enjoy a walking tour. Seloliman center for environmental education is located in Trawas.

Surabaya City Sight Seeing Tour
Duration : 4 Hrs

13:00	Tanjung Perak,Departure
13:15 – 13:30	Joko Dolog, the monument
13:50:30 – 14:20	Mpu Tantular Museum
14:30 – 15:30	Wonokromo Zoo
16:00 – 16:30	Mirota Souvenir Shop
17:00	Tanjung Perak, Arrival

Trawas Excursion
Duration : 6 Hrs 15 Mins

13:30	Tanjung Perak,Departure
15:00 – 17:15	Trawas Centre for Environmental Education
18:45	Tanjung Perak, Arrival

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

www.my-indonesia.info

www.indonesiatourism.go.id

www.indonesia.travel

Cruising Central Java

Central Java was the historical center of Java in the early 8th century. This Javanese Kingdom was rule by the Sailendra Dynasty, which was then followed by an array of kingdoms, empires,sultanates and dynasties. The people still pay great respect to the descendants of their kings. The palaces are still well maintained and even though by law the kings do not govern all the tradition and rituals are still practiced.

In Central Java lies some of the world's most magnificient monuments. There are at least two great masterpieces located in this region which portray the glory of the Hindus and Buddhist royal dynasties of the past. They are Prambanan, an enormous Hindhu temple complex in Bokoharjo Village and Borobudur, a magnificient Buddhist monument which is claimed to be one of the seven wonders of the world.

Ancient palaces in Central Java have also been attracting foreign visitors from all over the world, among the finest is Surakarta Palace in Solo.

Central Java is the centre of art, culture, and tradition of the island. The traditional dance institute in Solo is known to be one of the best in Indonesia. Here visitors can see and learn the typical Central Java traditional dances and hear the famous Gamelan orchestra. Three of the world's known Batik factories (Batik Keris, Batik Semar and Batik Danar Hadi) are situated in Central Java. The performance by shadow puppets, wayang kulit, is performed regularly at some places.




Places of Interest
Port of Tanjung Emas, Semarang

Losari Coffee Plantation

Losari Coffee Plantation is situated in the highlands of Central Java and has cool and pleasant weather all year round. A tea/coffee stop is normally made here after a long drive. The area offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view.







Prambanan Temple

Prambanan was built in the 9th century. It is a large temple compound and is considered one of the greatest Hindhu temple ever built. Some call it Loro Jonggrang which is the name of a princess from Javanese legend. The name Prambanan refers to the name of the village where the temple is located. It was discovered in 1773 and after much work has now been restored to its former glory. At the open theater in front of the temple during nights of a full moon, the epic Ramayana unfolds.

Borobudur Temple

Borobudur was built during the Sailendra Dynasty in the 8th century, it is one of the greatest monuments on earth and is one of the wonders of the world. The meaning of Borobudur itself has been disputed for many years, some say it means The Buddhist Monastery on the hill, others say Boro means monastery while Budur is the name of the place where this monument resides.



Railway Museum

The Ambarawa Railway Museum is located in the old train station and has a large and interesting collection of locomotives from as early as 1891. Visitors have the opportunity to ride an old steam engine from Ambarawa to Bedono which takes approximately one hour.

Gedong Songo
This is a complex of Hindhu temples dating between 730 and 780. Gedong Songo is located on top of a hill, in a volcanic area. The place offers a breathtaking view of nothern Central Java.



Borobudur Tour
Duration : 8 Hrs 45 Mins

07:30	Tanjung Emas,Departure
08:45 - 09:15	Eva Coffee Plantation, Bedono
10:15 – 12:15	Borobudur
12:30 – 13:30	Lunch
14:30 – 15:00	Eva Coffee Plantation, Bedono
16:15	Tanjung Emas, Arrival

Bedono and Tlogo Plantation
Duration : 8 Hrs

08:00	Tanjung Emas,Departure
09:00 - 11:20	Tlogo Plantation
11:30 – 12:30	Lunch
13:00	Train Museum
13:10 – 14:05	Steam Engine Train Side
16:00	Tanjung Emas, Arrival

Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic of Indonesia

www.my-indonesia.info

www.indonesiatourism.go.id

www.indonesia.travel