Do you dream of sailing away to discover the wonders of the Indonesian Archipelago? Imagine an unparalleled adventure cruising among Indonesia’s 19,000 named islands – the ideal way to discover this unique geography. Whether diving coral reefs teaming with multicoloured tropical fish, exploring exotic villages, enjoying leisurely evening barbecues on deserted beaches, or just sitting on deck sipping a glass of wine and watching the world go by – there’s something magical and timeless about being out on the open ocean.

Savour the technicolour sunsets of Raja Ampat, looking out over the jade-coloured ocean and breathing in the rejuvenating air after a day enjoying the pristine white sands of remote, palm-fringed islands. Sailing is the way to do it! Whether aboard a modest sailboat, a luxury traditional sailing yacht or a tall ship, each new day brings renewal – new surprises and a breadth of experiences.

Now, how about planning an amazing journey around the Indonesian archipelago aboard the spacious, gracious traditional wooden sailing yacht? El Aleph is a symphony in finely polished hardwoods; not an inch of plastic.

Beautifully handcrafted in 100-year-old teak and ironwood with an attention to detail unmatched by any other Phinisi schooner ever built, El Aleph brings together traditional Phinisi design and 21st-century technology with no detail has been left to chance in ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment. The vessel was purpose-built by the current owner – with the dream of exploring the remote and legendary Raja Ampat, a naturalist’s paradise.

The broad decks offer ample space – with endless areas to socialise or sit quietly enjoying the ever-changing beauty of the Indonesian seascape; the islands and coastlines of the archipelago offer unforgettable vistas. While underway, sit on the Promenade Deck watching the new horizons opening before you – tan or watch the stars on the Sun Deck, or enjoy the amazing sight of bow-riding dolphins leaping out of the water across the bow; for quiet moments, retreat to the ample private terrace of the master cabin.

Coming aboard, you’ll find the master cabin – as large as many city apartments, year-round living; en-suite with a dressing room, blown glass sinks, a large mosaiced shower stall, and an exclusive private terrace. Below the deck, there are four generously sized guest cabins, all en-suite and a double-bunked “nanny cabin”, also en-suite. Although the cooling sea breeze ensures a very pleasant climate, all cabins and indoor lounge areas are fully air-conditioned to ensure your comfort.

With all this at your fingertips, you’ll be itching to take to the waves and let this beautiful yacht take you on a memorable journey around Indonesia. Depending on your interests, you can choose one of their well-charted itineraries, or they are ready to help you customise the adventure of a lifetime – from the high life of Bali to the wildlife of Papua New Guinea; from spectacular scuba diving to bird-watching on rain-forest mountaintops, from spa-treatments to exploration of stone-age villages, not forgetting some of the world’s most spectacular coral reefs for diving or snorkelling – the choice is yours. Go beyond the tourist hotspots to find some amazing sites of natural beauty.

For scuba divers, this luxury yacht charter is equipped with dive compressors, full dive equipment, wet suits, NITROX, Poseidon rebreathers, and even a helium mixing facility for technical and rebreather diving. Not a diver? Not a problem! You can experience all the beauty of the Indonesian coral reefs snorkelling with your cruise director – safe and easy, from kids to grandmothers, everyone can join in. Plenty of other water activities are included – sea kayaks, wakeboards, body-board, fishing equipment, banana boats and water skis.

You can never step in the same river twice – likewise, no matter how many times you set sail, you will never have the same experience. For once in your life, leave the noise and stress of the world behind you. Come on-board to experience the freedom of the seas!

www.elalephcruising.com