Once an offshore oil supply vessel, luxury charter yacht KUDANIL EXPLORER underwent a total transformation in 2018 to become one of the most beautifully presented, safe and sturdy superyachts currently available for charter in Indonesia. The meticulous redesign was influenced by traditional Indonesian style but introduced contemporary features and amenities.
Explorer yacht KUDANIL EXPLORER
CharterWorld’s Director of Charter, Nick Benazeth was lucky enough to be part of a recent Fam trip on board luxury yacht KUDANIL EXPLORER on a stunning journey around Raja Ampat. Over the course of six days cruising through the breathtaking waters of Misool, he enjoyed the action-packed itinerary, gourmet cuisine and some of nature’s unique hidden treasures.
“A truly unique yacht, KUDANIL offers amazing volumes and deck spaces far exceeding what you usually find on vessels in Indonesia. Her unrivalled stability, range and ‘go anywhere’ expedition ethos will equally please those seeking adventure and those looking for a luxurious vacation. Beyond the love and attention to detail that have made the yacht extremely comfortable, it is the crew that makes this programme stand out – it is hard to find a more friendly, welcoming and efficient group of professionals anywhere and they effortlessly adapt to the most diverse charter groups, making everyone feel part of the KUDANIL family shortly after stepping onboard.”
Family-owned and operated, with an onboard team of 21, KUDANIL EXPLORER is an exclusive vessel with accommodation for up to 16 guests in an eight-cabin layout. Beautifully furnished to maximise guest comfort each suite is over 30sqm in size and includes a premium ensuite and private terrace.
KUDANIL EXPLORER Main deck lounge and dining
There is over 1,000sqm of serene guest space across four expansive decks including an al fresco dining setting, lounge and sunbathing areas – furnished with stylish day beds – and a stunning jacuzzi on the roof, all with 360-degree ocean views. Sail shades and the gentle local breeze will keep guests cool while they sunbathe during the day or stargaze at night. Once inside, the main deck can host guests for dinner or drinks in the dining room, library lounge and bar, or for a movie night in the cinema and pampering treatments in the spa.
Evening Jacuzzi – KUDANIL EXPLORER
Having spent time unwinding on deck guests can take to the water on the array of tenders, jet skis and other water toys to explorer the region and ocean up close. As well as the jet skis, the yacht carries glass-bottomed kayaks and SUPs for those who prefer a gentler pace, a full range of diving equipment for underwater explorers and an inflatable sea pool to keep the kids safe. The onboard dive master and activities coordinator is bound to keep everyone busy!
Both the head chef and head steward will ensure every meal is an occasion by presenting a blend of Indonesian and Western cuisine while embracing ‘gotong royong’ – the Indonesian spirit of cooperation and harmony. And if you still need help relaxing, a range of traditional and modern spa treatments are available on board including Balinese massage, hot stone treatments and mani/pedicures.
Dining on board – KUDANIL EXPLORER
KUDANIL EXPLORER – Spa
Explorer yacht KUDANIL EXPLORER offers itineraries across the Indonesian archipelago which includes some 17,500 islands, 719 local languages and a warm and welcoming culture. Of the inhabited islands, some of the most well-known are Raja Ampat, Komodo and Bali each representing their own diverse landscape and wildlife and charter itineraries may include the Spice Islands.
“First timers to the region may want to start by discovering the Komodo and Flores areas, which are relatively easy to access and offer a lot of great locations within short cruising distances. Moving on to Raja Ampat and West Papua opens up the possibility of some of the finest diving and snorkelling on the planet, as well as stunning scenery and unique interactions with local communities. For the more adventurous, the opportunities are endless to explore the mythical Spice Islands, Sumba, Ambon, Timor Leste and Sulawesi…and the list goes on, all places that KUDANIL has been to and can take you to in ideal conditions.”
PAPUA Indonesia
Raja Ampat’s huge pristine coral reef systems are a scuba dream come true – and a fantastic site for snorkelers too. Just like the underwater world, the scenery above water is equally mesmerising. Enjoy some quiet time kayaking around the picturesque bays full of orchids and other tropical plants or simply relax lying on one of the spectacular beaches taking in the sounds of nature.
Guest stateroom – KUDANIL EXPLORER
Komodo is part of the Lesser Sunda chain of islands in Indonesia and is perhaps best known for the giant Komodo Dragon lizards which inhabit the volcanic landscapes. Locals believe that the historic looking Dragons are descendants of a century’s old dragon princess.
Experiences in Indonesia on board KUDANIL EXPLORER
Top deck – KUDANIL EXPLORER
Bali is perhaps the island with the most established tourist industry but remains a quintessential Indonesian experience. Known as the ‘land of the gods’ Bali is a magical place where the ancient culture and Hindu religion is celebrated across the island’s reported thousand temples.
The Spice Islands are named after the abundance of nutmeg, mace and clove which were once exclusively found there and are now a paradise for diving and snorkelling.
Experiences in Indonesia
Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, cockatoos and even rare Pygmy Seahorses are all there to be discovered alongside lush mangroves, enchanting waterfalls and crystal-clear lagoons. As the sun sets on our Indonesian adventure, cocktail in hand, we’ll leave you with a few parting words from Nick about his time in Indonesia aboard the luxurious explorer yacht, KUDANIL EXPLORER.
“As Indonesia continues to open up to charter and an increasing number of guests are being drawn to its unspoilt natural beauty, welcoming inhabitants and intriguing culture, KUDANIL offers the advantage of a long experience of cruising every part of this archipelago, and expert local knowledge.”
