El Aleph began its journey in the boat building village of Bira, South Sulawesi, where it was meticulously crafted based on the traditional Indonesian phinisi design. These trading vessels have sailed the Indonesian archipelago for over four centuries. After completing its build in Bali, El Aleph was equipped with modern luxury features like inverter-based power systems, satellite internet, and a state-of-the-art navigation suite. Its interior, finished with precious hardwoods, required over 200,000 man-hours of craftsmanship from a dedicated team of nearly 100 skilled artisans.
El Aleph’s primary mission was to explore the remote and legendary Raja Ampat, a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Raja Ampat is home to the world’s richest biodiversity, with 70% of all known hard corals and over 1300 species of fish. The waters also boast extraordinary bird life, including the famous Bird of Paradise. The yacht's owner, alongside a team of guests, arrived at Sorong Harbour after a long journey from Jakarta, greeted by the sight of the magnificent yacht at sunrise.
The crew aboard El Aleph represents a diverse mix of Indonesia’s ethnic groups, with descendants of the Buginese seafaring pirates and traders who once roamed these seas. The crew, led by Captain Kahar, a former chief captain of Indonesia's largest ship charter company, brings together a unique blend of expertise and character. Alongside them, we have Balinese Hindus as waiters and cooks, a Christian first mate, and a Swedish cruise director with extensive diving experience in Indonesia.
Raja Ampat, meaning "Four Kings," consists of more than 600 islands, only 35 of which are inhabited. This isolated paradise offers pristine waters, untouched beaches, and incredible marine life. From vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish to encounters with giant mantas and sea turtles, Raja Ampat offers an unforgettable underwater experience. The area is a protected sanctuary, ensuring that the aquatic life remains abundant and fearless of human presence.
Guests aboard El Aleph also enjoy activities like sea kayaking around rocky islands, exploring mysterious caves, and interacting with the local aboriginal communities. One of the highlights was trekking through the forest to witness the amazing mating dance of the Bird of Paradise, a rare and breathtaking spectacle.
During the voyage, guests explored some of the world’s best diving spots. Among them was the famous “Chicken Reef” where divers encountered reef sharks, as well as the stunning underwater scenes at the Dampier Straits and Cape Kri, which offered an unparalleled diversity of marine life. In Wacmac, snorkelers swam alongside massive schools of sardines, a dazzling kaleidoscope of transparent fish.
Misool’s cathedral cave was another highlight, where guests swam through a dark tunnel to emerge in an immense limestone cave, more magnificent than even the grandest cathedrals.
Our journey continued to the Banda Islands, once the center of the spice trade. Here, guests could explore the sleepy town of Banda Nera, shop for antique items, and climb the active Junu Api volcano for breathtaking views over the bay. The Banda Islands offer a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect stop on the journey.
The name "El Aleph" was inspired by both Arabic and Hebrew traditions, symbolizing the first letter of the alphabet, representing the beginning of all things. It also references a short story by Argentine author Jorge Luis Borges, where El Aleph represents a point where past, present, and future are visible simultaneously. This concept resonates perfectly with the experiences aboard El Aleph, where every journey feels timeless and magical.
If you are interested in embarking on your own unforgettable journey aboard El Aleph, or if you would like to inquire further about our bespoke yacht charters, please contact us at server@elalephcruising.com.
Visit our website for more details: elalephcruising.com.
