Jakarta has long been the gateway to the thousands of magnificent islands that make up the vast archipelago of Indonesia. The majority of tourists stop briefly in the city, if at all, before heading to the famous shores of Bali, Lombok or Sulawesi for their piece of paradise. The city, chiefly, has the reputation of being a business destination and not a place where you would want to spend your hard earned holiday. It may come as a surprise to learn that the area of "Greater Jakarta" includes a collection of islands that, in terms of natural beauty and exclusivity, are amongst the finest in the region. White sandy beaches, lazy hanging palms and clear waters, alive with a thousand varieties of tropical fish, are not a long air trip away but practically within swimming distance of South East Asia’s most vivacious metropolis.
The boat is fully equipped with fitted galley facilities, including a microwave and two freezers, a dining area, an outdoor barbeque and four cabins which can comfortably sleep eight guests. On deck there is plenty of room to enjoy the sunlight or take a siesta on the large mattresses to the front and rear of the captain’s cabin.
Arriving on Kaliage Kecil in the morning is like discovering a modern day treasure island. Sparkling sand, emerald water and thick tropical vegetation greet you as you motor ashore. You are met by what looks like a clever replica of a classic Javanese house, hidden in the trees. On entry you realise that this is no replica but a beautifully carved original wooden house from Central Java dating back to the eighteenth century. This magnificent structure originally belonged to a religious teacher in the small town of Demak, but in 1996 there were plans to pull it down in order to build a mosque. The island’s owner, an avid antique collector, heard about its impending fate and immediately bought it and then painstakingly took it apart. It was then transported to Jakarta and brought to the island where the same craftsmen restored it to its glory. From where it stands, sheltered in the trees, you could be forgiven for thinking it has been on the island for eternity and not less than two years. The interior is like stepping into a antique gallery. The owner has been collecting antiques and historical artifacts for over 25 years on extensive travels around the globe and these treasures are spread over the island. A set of chairs were discovered at a trance dance in Central Java, chests used for storing rice in Magelang now house the linen, and chairs, previously owned by Dutch plantation managers, are now arranged on the beach for sunset cocktails. Four poster beds with hanging mosquito nets add to the feeling of being on a romantic safari at the turn of the last century.
Apart from the main house, the rest of the island’s design is the result of the genius of renowned landscaper and architect Made Wijaya. Hidden in the jungle at the end of winding sandy paths you discover a beautiful natural bamboo and rattan villa, an outdoor bathroom shaped like an African kraal and a raised rice barn which also serves as a cool bed in the trees. Made is also responsible for the kitchen and dining area which tends to act as the centre of activity at extended meal times. The decoration is a charming mix of maritime paraphernalia, antiques and Indonesian artifacts. Raffles style lamps hang above the comfortable seating while Balinese cow bells sway in the fresh sea breeze.
The fantastic meals prepared by the chef are one of the high points of the trip. Breakfast includes fresh croissants, yoghurt and fruit, with sausages, eggs and grilled tomatoes for those who prefer a fuller start to the day. Lunch and dinner consist of a buffet of international and local cuisine which tempt even the strict dieter to eat until truly full before retiring to a hammock for an extended siesta.
If the fresh air gives you a burst of energy, there are plenty of water orientated activities to keep you busy. Apart from swimming, you can water ski, canoe and snorkel or take a round trip of the neighbouring islands in the dinghy. Diving equipment is not provided but expeditions can easily be organised if you are qualified and have your own gear. The easiest thing to do however is just lie back, relax and enjoy the silence and peace of your own private island.
The most impressive part of the island package is also the most important, the service provided. As soon as you step aboard the yacht you are placed in the hands of a first class professional crew who successfully tend to your every need on land and sea until you arrive back in Jakarta. The standards of service attained are not a result of a recent hospitality course but through a relationship with the boat and island which has grown over the past fifteen years. The head cook has been with the boat since 1983, the captain since 1988 and this ensures that everybody knows exactly what they are doing, from guiding the boat in darkness to serving perfect gin and tonics at sun down. On the island everything is continually scrupulously cleaned, beds are made, meals prepared without you being disturbed or noticing any activity. As you leave the island after a large Sunday lunch, the crew is magically already on board, fully prepared for departure.
