Indonesia
Private, Luxury Surfing by Yacht or Resort in the World’s Most Wave Diverse Destination
When to go
Indonesia is such a large country that there isn't one simple surf season.
For the classic southern Indonesian destinations, April to October is generally the main surf season, with May to September often producing the most consistent Indian Ocean swell for the Mentawai, Telo Islands and Sumba region. November till March there can be some fun waves also suited for the beginner to intermediate surfer however wind conditions do change and limits the amount of swell in the area.
From December to March is when a very remote area in the east of the country, the Spice Islands comes alive. This region of Indonesia hardly has any travelling surfers and is truly one of the worlds final surfing frontiers. Definitely a bucket list destination.
The advantage of travelling with the right guide is that the destination can be chosen around the conditions rather than simply choosing a date and hoping for the best.
Where’d I Stay
NIHI Sumba
NIHI Sumba is one of my favourite options for combining exceptional accommodation with serious surfing. This is true luxury in a remote setting. Nihi Sumba has been awarded Top Resort in the world two years running.
The resort sits in front of Occy's Left, one of Indonesia's most famous waves. When the swell is big, the wave is powerful and can be challenging, although when smaller, there are also opportunities for less experienced surfers to enjoy the wave. The surfer numbers are low here so crowds are never a problem. NIHI also offers surfari trips to other breaks around the island.
The surfing is only part of the attraction. Sumba itself is incredibly beautiful, with a strong sense of place and plenty to experience away from the water. It is the perfect place for a luxury family surf adventure.
Kudanil Explorer
For something completely different, I can arrange surf expeditions aboard Kudanil Explorer, the most luxurious expedition yacht in Indonesia.
This is about exploration as much as surfing. The yacht can move with the swell and weather, allowing the itinerary to evolve rather than following a fixed route. It also opens up access to remote coastlines that are difficult to reach by land.
For the right group, this is one of the most memorable ways I know to experience Indonesia. This yacht gets you to places most surfers never see. With 2 jet ski’s, 2 tenders and a full dive centre, the Kudanil is the ultimate way to experience Indonesia from the east to the west of the archipelago.
You might surf in the morning, dive or snorkel in the afternoon, explore an island, have dinner on board and wake up somewhere completely different the next morning.
Siloina Yacht
Onboard this beautiful modern day Phinisi style yacht, you will experience the perfect vessel to explore the islands west of Sumatra including Mentawai, Telo and Nias region. The Siloina Yacht is perfect for a luxury surf trip with family or a group of friends.
The 15-person strong crew will welcome you and provide top-notch service and safety, setting the foundation for a perfect trip. The Siloina yacht is built with space and comfort to ensure a smooth sail from surf break to surf break or island to island.
She is one of the newest yachts cruising these waters and is a testament to the importance of safety, comfort and adventure that I look for when I collaborate with providers. The six double cabins include an ensuite, air conditioning and local touches to ensure a good nights sleep in comfort.
Indonesia
The greatest variety of surf and adventure.
Indonesia is probably the destination I return to most often for good reason.
There is an extraordinary variety of waves, islands, cultures and ways of travelling. You can stay in a beautiful resort, surf from a private villa, travel by yacht or head somewhere genuinely remote.
The Mentawai Islands are one of the world's great surf destinations, with powerful reef breaks such as Macaronis, Lance's Right, Rifles and Greenbush. They are generally best suited to experienced surfers. The Telo Islands are a bit more user friendly with multiple waves for most abilities to choose from.
Further east, places such as Sumba offer a very different experience — rugged coastlines, remote beaches, beautiful resorts and fewer people.
The jewel in the crown is found in the east, the Spice Islands. This is one of the final frontiers in surf exploration
I have collaborated with many different luxury resort and yacht providers throughout this region to ensure a safe, luxury surf trip to this part of the world.
Who Is Indonesia Suited For
Best for:
Experienced surfers chasing world-class waves
Intermediate surfers looking to progress
Adventurous couples and families
Small groups of friends
Travellers who want surfing combined with culture, nature and exploration
People who don't want a conventional resort holiday
A private, bespoke luxury surfing holiday in this part of the world is sure to open your eyes to a unique part of the world full of adventure and discovery.
My advice
Indonesia is a destination where local knowledge really matters. Certain times of year in different areas of the country there are waves for all abilities.
There are hundreds of islands and an enormous number of waves. The best trip isn't necessarily about finding the most famous break. The sense of adventure and discovery is what makes a luxury surf trip in Indonesia so memorable.
It's about knowing where to go, when to go, how to get there and which waves suit the people you're travelling with.There are numerous operators however I have hand picked the safest, most professional and luxurious brands to collaborate with.
I will search out the experience you and your group want. That's where having me along can make a real difference. Remote Indonesia is a surfers dream and I will make sure you have a trip of a lifetime.