Our recent journey from Komodo to Bali offered a unique immersion into Indonesia’s diverse marine life, complemented by fascinating insights from Dr Charles Anderson, the marine biologist and cetacean specialist leading this trip. Dr Anderson’s riveting talks enriched our understanding, sharing knowledge about the behaviours and ecology of the cetaceans we sighted.
Throughout the trip, we encountered diverse species of cetaceans: pygmy sperm whales, melon-headed whales, an assortment of dolphins and a rare encounter with some pygmy killer whales. Every day brought new encounters, each different from the last, creating a captivating rhythm to our time at sea.
Each sighting was brought to life by an explanation or interesting fact about the species, adding layers of meaning to our experience. Observing the plethora of cetaceans and the vibrant reef life with this new knowledge made the encounters even more profound for our guests.
Our onshore visit to Komodo and Rinca Island offered an equally remarkable experience, observing Komodo dragons in their natural habitat paired with fascinating commentary enlightening us on the life of these prehistoric-looking beasts.
When our cetacean spotting was done for the day, we took a plunge into the ocean, and snorkelling along incredible reefs revealed even more marvels. Vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish set the stage as we encountered beautiful Green Sea Turtles, some resting, others swimming gracefully through the water column. Soering effortlessly, Manta Rays made an appearance and put on an incredible display of elegance. However, gliding alongside a majestic Whale Shark was the highlight for many of our guests. Its gentle presence is a magnificent spectacle to behold.
Reflecting on the encounters, from the serene presence of whales and dolphins to the vibrant reef life and the imposing Komodo dragons, this trip through Indonesia’s stunning natural habitats has left an indelible impression. Each moment underscored the remarkable diversity and beauty of these ecosystems, blending marine wonders with terrestrial marvels into an unforgettable journey.
– Aaron Sanders
Mermaid II Alor-Komodo-Bali
October 16 to 25, 2024