The Magical Allure of Alor

The Alor archipelago consists of the main islands of Alor, Pantar, Kepa, Buaya, Ternate, Pura and Tereweng. It’s a showcase of Mother Nature’s finest work with stunning white sand beaches and pristine coral reefs which have remained largely untouched since time began. This remote archipelago promises adventure and discovery.

Nothing could be more fitting than exploring this phenomenal region on board El Aleph. Her beautiful Indonesian Phinisi style is the same as the ships which would have sailed these waters for the first time centuries ago. El Aleph is no ordinary Phinisi yacht – she is one of the most luxurious Phinisi’s ever built and you’ll be making your voyage in absolute comfort with all of your needs taken care of.

Alor is the largest of the islands in the Alor Archipelago and is home to the only large town in the region – Kalabahi. Outside of the town, Alor island is remote and largely uninhabited aside from a few scattered tribal villages, such as Takpala. Visit Takpala and you’ll be amazed by the warmth and friendliness of the villagers who have been living in the same way since they first settled here. Watch them hand weaving ikat cloth, dancing traditional tribal dances and take a look at the hand built wooden houses. Despite having so few material possessions they are rich in smiles and happiness. It’s a humbling experience.

The people who live in the coastal villages throughout this impressive archipelago depend heavily upon the sea and it plays an important part of daily life. As you cruise around the islands expect to see local children racing along the sand to wave as you pass by and playing carefree in the shallow surf.

What lies underwater in the Alor Archipelago is one of the main highlights of this region. Pristine reefs which are literally teeming with life and bursting with kaleidoscopic colours. These are among the best reefs in Indonesia in terms of sheer biomass and marine biodiversity. Alor’s nutrient rich waters bring in pelagics including thresher, hammerhead and reef sharks, oceanic sunfish (mola) and eagle rays have been spotted here.

Some say that the macro diving is even better than in the famous Lembeh Strait. And this is also a hot spot for marine mammals: 16 different species of cetaceans have been positively identified here. Residential megapods of dolphins, migrating sperm whales,  blue whales and even orcas come for an occassional visit. Anything is possible here and there is still so much which has yet to be explored.

Alor’s reefs are home to over 1,000 species of reef fish and over 500 species of soft and hard corals. The dive and snorkeling sites encompass walls, coral gardens, sloping reefs, huge bommies and even some muck diving sites. Once you take a look below the surface in Alor you’ll be mesmerized by the underwater world around you.

El Aleph is perfectly designed for those wanting to spend most of their time on or under the water. With two small tender boats for taking you back and forth to the best diving and snorkeling spots, plus sea kayaks, waterskies, wakeboard and a donut ring and banana boat for those who prefer more action you won’t be short of activities. El Aleph’s sun deck and loungers are also perfect for those who want to relax, soak up the sun and watch the scenery gliding by.

Cruise by the active volcanic island of Kumba and  enjoy diving and snorkeling with some of Alor’s largest marine creatures (sharks, rays, mola, giant grouper, Napolean wrasse) and witness some of the most spectacular sunsets in the evening. Enjoy Al fresco dining on the deck and watch the sky change colours with your friends family and loved ones. After the sun has set, the clear skies of Alor are densely packed with stars and shooting stars are a highlight.

Explore the Alor Archipelago on board El Aleph and she’ll be your exclusive, luxury home away from home while you cruise this unique destination. With the yacht fully chartered you will have the freedom to choose where you go, what you do and when you do it. Our professional and experienced crew will ensure you have the level of privacy you desire and the trip of a lifetime. For more detailed information about El Aleph’s facilities and full vessel specifications click here.

If you are looking for an extended cruise and would like to explore more of Indonesia, Alor cruises can easily be combined with Komodo, the Banda Sea (the Spice Islands ) and the Forgotten Islands or Raja Ampat .

To enquire about our rates and availability, or to book your Alor Archipelago adventure on board El Aleph please contact us on: info@elalephcruising.com.

Please note that to ensure your privacy and an exclusive experience we only offer full charters and do not take bookings for individual cabins.

Sarah Wormald

 

Johannes Hennicke

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