Sailing Around Bali with Star Clippers

(32 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Daniel Oppliger

El Paso, TX
Group Travel Expert

 

I have been immersed in the travel industry since relocating to El Paso in 1986. Initially, I worked with a local tour operator before venturing out on my own.Over the years, I've developed specialties in Destination Resorts and River Cru...

Bali, Indonesia Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

 We set sail from Benoa, Bali, Indonesia on a Saturday night. After dinner, we gathered on the top deck, and to my delight, my photos of the raised sails against the black sky turned out beautifully. The sails were raised to the soundtrack of Vangelis's "Conquest of Paradise."


Our first stop was East Madura on Giligenteng Island. We booked a shore excursion to explore the small town. We were welcomed with a parade, local music, and Indonesian food, all offered with great hospitality. The locals were very friendly, except at the mosque, where we were dressed in local attire but still denied entrance.Around noon, we departed for our ship, which had moved to the other side of the bay. The ride across the bay in the launch was rough, causing some passengers to become seasick.


The next day, we ventured to Probolinggo on Java Island. Many passengers visited the base of the volcano and returned filthy. We chose to go shopping instead. I bought several name-brand polo shirts for $5 each, but unfortunately, they didn't have my size. I wear a large in the US, which is equivalent to an extra small for the locals.


At West Loving Beach, we took local transit to Holy Hot Spring and soaked in the warm, though not hot, water. There is a line of dragon heads spitting water, providing a refreshing shower.


After a long sail to Lombok Island, we negotiated a tour with a taxi driver. We visited the monkey forest, where I dropped my camera while being attacked by monkeys for food. Our driver had bought peanuts for us to feed them. We also went to a park where a guide spoke about Bali being a crossroads of religions. We enjoyed a scenic drive and ended up at the beach.


The next day was spent at the famous Gili Islands, enjoying a relaxing beach day. Our final night aboard featured a lobster dinner, and we stayed in the dining room late, reminiscing with our new friends.

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