The turquoise waters and pristine reefs of the Flores Sea are home to some of Indonesia’s best scuba diving and snorkelling destinations. To experience this wonderland of natural beauty, Aman is now offering a new and extraordinary six-night voyage, sailing from Bali through the Flores Sea, reaching Moyo Island on Sumbawa or vice versa. The journey also includes a hiking adventure in the tropical forests that are crisscrossed by trails inhabited by the island’s protected wildlife.

Combining Amankila, Amandira and Amanwana, Aman invites guests to discover Indonesia’s hidden beaches, distinct wildlife and experience world-class diving. The journey starts at Amankila, where guests can indulge in a stay at the stunning cliff-side beach resort overlooking the Lombok Strait. It continues with the unforgettable journey by sea to Amanwana onboard Amandira, a Phinisi-inspired private yacht travelling under sail and motor with five spacious cabins. Combining the ancient romance of the spice trade with cutting-edge contemporary amenities, guests will have the opportunity to discuss the itinerary with the Cruise Director before embarkation to ensure that the onboard experience is catered to specific interests and expectations. Disembark after a heartfelt farewell from the crew when arriving at Moyo Island and settle in the peaceful wilderness of Amanwana.

An Unforgettable Voyage

Nestled on a lush hillside beneath sacred Mount Agung, Amankila opens the door to untapped East Bali and its royal heritage. The temple-inspired resort with its iconic design has a three-tiered main swimming pool that tumbles down the hillside like a cascading rice field. Late afternoon teas together with Balinese confectionaries served at the bar is an ideal way to unwind before embarking on Amandira, which awaits in the nearby bay.

Inspired by the Phinisi sailing vessels of old, the twin-masted Amandira is a custom-designed 52-metre private yacht, handcrafted from local hardwoods by Konjo artisans. Featuring three cabins with king beds and two bunk cabins, all with en-suite bathrooms, Amandira ensures a comfortable journey towards the veritable Eden in the Flores Sea. Guests onboard are invited to see some of the most extraordinary undersea landscapes simply by diving off the pier and exploring the reefs at their own pace whilst being guided to the best spots for underwater exploration.

Dining aboard Amandira is also a gourmet experience not to be missed. Serving cuisine as artful and sophisticated as in any land-based Aman restaurant, the yacht offers multiple dining settings in which to savour exquisite Indonesian, Asian-inspired and international dishes, all prepared using the freshest ingredients. Superb brunches and exclusive beach set-ups where guests can comfortably lounge below umbrellas are prepared by a dedicated and experienced crew, providing around the clock Aman service throughout the journey. Drinks and canapes on the top deck are also offered, as well as al fresco dinners below the stars as Amandira makes its way further east.

More adventure awaits as the peaceful jungles of Moyo Island come into sight. Guests can enjoy an excursion through the lush trails on the island, home to beautiful waterfalls, and savour the famed Moyo honey as well as local cashews, a local speciality. Diving along the steep wall of Angel reefs which descends into the abyss is one of the highlights of this voyage. Angel Reef boasts healthy hard corals in its protected shoreward shallows and an abrupt vertical wall. Visiting the Bagans, large traditional fishing vessels also invites a once in a lifetime experience, where guests can snorkel or dive with the majestic whale shark.

Paradise Awaits

A natural paradise, Amanwana exclusively inhabits Moyo Island. Set on a beach overlooking the Flores Sea, the wilderness hideaway offers full-board accommodation in luxurious guest tents. Its own Dive Centre provides unparalleled access to some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling spots in Indonesia, many within ten minutes of Amanwana. The rich marine life ensures close encounters with sea turtles, moray eels, pufferfish, parrotfish, spotted rays and many more local species.

Afternoons are reserved for well-deserved relaxation sessions. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of their complimentary couple massage in the Jungle Cove Spa. The open-air treatment facilities will have anyone completely immersed in island life in no time. As the sun begins to set, it is time to sit back on a beach chair and take in all the beauty nature has to offer. Once the sun goes down, dinner is served on the golden sands of Amanwana Bay, complete with personal chefs and butlers. The sizzle of the barbeque will entice the senses while the soothing sounds of the Flores Sea gently lap on the shore and a warming glow from the lustrous bonfire eases the body and mind towards relaxed contentment.

The Journey Across the Sea by Aman is available from 19 July 2021, with a reverse route starting at Amanwana and ending at Amankila.