By: Torben Lonne
Measuring 27 meters or 88 feet, the Duyung Baru sails the famed diving areas of Komodo National Park, South Sulawesi, and Wakatobi. This traditional Indonesian phinisi offers intimate liveaboard experiences to its guests because it only accommodates up to 6 guests maximum. This vessel has earned the reputation of being an excellent liveaboard for intimate dives as this family-owned operation is capable of letting its guests dive into sites where there won’t be sightings of any other divers at all. On board, guests are accorded the top notch service. On dive sites, they are taken to underwater worlds unknown to most of us.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Many people stated that the liveaboard was in pristine condition. -
Several divers commended the diving instructor for finding the best spots to dives that were away from other vessels.
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The boat is spacious with lots of amenities that you would expect from a world class liveaboard.
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Many people said they had a fantastic time and would return.
Things we don't like:
Some people said the boat is small in nature and can only fit 6 people not suitable for larger groups.
Some people said the boat is small in nature and can only fit 6 people not suitable for larger groups.
Diving on the Duyung Baru in Indonesia
Boat Features
After hours of dives and water-related activities, guests can find that there are plenty of spaces to relax in the entire liveaboard. The sun deck is an ideal spot to have the skin be blessed with natural vitamins from the sun. But, there is also a shaded portion where one can comfortable have a recline and take some needed naps.
Similarly, the saloon and dining area both provide comfort – either while having conversations, while eating, while drinking – or all at the same time. These areas can also serve as spots for solitude.
The air-conditioned main lounge is where guests can enjoy music and movies as it is equipped with entertainment facilities such as a TV set and CD/DVD player. Several books can be borrowed from its small library. This is perfect for bookworms or to just simply have some break from the usual dives.
The yacht’s photography station is where the guests can view the underwater memories they have captured.
The Cabins
As intimate as it is, the yacht accommodates 6 guests at maximum. They are housed at any of the 3 cabins available – one of which is a twin cabin with 2 king-size single beds. Two of the cabins have queen size beds.
All cabins have high-quality mattresses to make sure that the guests are given a comfortable sleep during their rest hours. All are equipped with individual air conditioning as well as with en-suite bathrooms.
There is a routine cleaning performed in each cabin as soon as the guests are out for their first dives in the morning. This ensures the cleanliness of the accommodation and the en-suite bathrooms as well.
Food and Beverage
The flavors of Indonesia, Japan, and the West melt at Yani’s Kitchen, which is regarded as the heart of the yacht. In this area, the onboard chef and other kitchen staff assure that only the freshest and most mouth watering dishes are prepared for the guests.
Aside from the full meals, which can be enjoyed at the saloon’s dining area, there are also snacks served all day. Loads of fresh fruits and vegetables are also offered.
For beverages, beer can be served but guests can also bring forth their alcoholic drinks.
Vegetarian choices are also available while special dietary restrictions can be placed in advance notice upon booking. This is to ensure that adequate nutritional requirements of the guests will be attended to.
Itinerary
Duyung Baru’s itinerary is largely concentrated on the great dive sites of the Komodo National Park but also includes traversing of the untouched islands of South Sulawesi and Wakatobi. The vessel offers a year-round schedule of sails in these routes. However, the most recommended months for great dives are during the dry season from April to August. The other months have cooler weather but visibility is generally better.
From the most familiar fish species to those marine creatures you never know exist underwater, the routes of Duyung Baru will introduce you to them.
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