OMBAK PUTIH

This fact sheet introduces our traditional Buginese schooner, the Ombak Putih.

click here for the print ready fact sheet

Welcome aboard
We invite you to set sail to one of the most stunning areas in the world: the Indonesian Islands. For centuries 'pinisis' have sailed the Indonesian waters and beyond. These schooners originate from South Sulawesi, home of the Buginese who are known as skilled shipbuilders and seafarers. Nowadays few real sailing pinisis are left. The "Ombak Putih", or "white wave", revives the days that the waters in and around Indonesia were ruled by the Buginese. Welcome aboard, to discover Indonesia's hidden treasures!

The Vessel
Whenever possible more than six hundred square meters of sails are raised, but we rely on an engine to safeguard our schedule. We will sail you from island to island in traditional style blended with all modern comforts. The hull and deck house are completely made of wood. Below deck there are twelve spacious cabins, each with private bathroom and individually controlled air-conditioning. The Ombak Putih is a forerunner in safety and environmental protection at sea. We combine tradition with modern technology and an awareness of Indonesia's natural resources.
On deck, the spacious lounge overlooks the sea. You can decide to have your breakfast, lunch or dinner here or on the large table outside on deck. In the daytime you can relax in teak deck chairs, have some lazy hours under the canopy or on our sun deck. Guests should not be overly worried about seasickness. Waters in our sailing area are generally calm.

Safety and Seaworthiness
The vessel is fitted with all internationally required safety and communications equipment such as SSB and VHF radios, life jackets, life rafts, and satellite telephone. Experienced navigators consider it an axiom that the seaworthiness of a vessel depends on the seaworthiness of the crew. Our ship has a well trained and well seasoned Indonesian crew of sixteen, complemented by a multilingual European Cruise Director. We are proud of the fact that most of the crewmembers that joined us when the vessel was launched are still on board today.

The vessel is stocked with a well appointed first-aid box to treat all kinds of minor ailments. It is however always advisable for guests to bring their own first-aid kit. We have an agreement with an air-charter company in Bali using a sea-plane in case of emergency evacuation. We recommend that all participants take out a personal travel insurance that would cover such evacuation.
 

Ship specifications

• Construction: Kalimantan, Indonesia, 1996/7
• Registry: Indonesia Length 36 meters (118 feet)
• Beam: 10 meters (33 feet) Draft 3.5 meters (11.5 feet)
• Decks: 1 main deck, 1 sun deck, 1 cabin deck
• Motor: Detroit Diesel, 8 cylinder
• Sails: 2 masts, 7 sails, total 600 square meters
• Max. speed 10-12 knots under sail
• Crew: 16 (Indonesians) and one European cruise director
• Capacity: 12 cabins for 24 passengers
• Safety: inflatable life rafts, life buoys, life jackets (SOLAS)
• Navigation: radar, GPS, depth sounder
• Tender boats: 2 (with 60 and 25 HP outboards)

On Board Services
Indonesia is known all over the world for its food: our cook can compete with the best chefs. The ship's kitchen serves local and international specialties and we organize at least one barbecue at the beach during the cruise. All food is washed and cleaned with boiled water. Food, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the daily fare. Beer and Australian, Chilean or Balinese wine, several spirits and tropical cocktails are available at reasonable prices.

We have a laundry service on board taken care of by two room boys. We allow two pieces (complimentary) and other laundry needs can be paid on board according to the laundry price list.
We have snorkeling equipment on board for you to explore the fascinating underwater world. The speedboat can bring you to places where the Ombak Putih cannot go. Do you like fishing? Since our crew is seafaring people they can help you catch your evening meal. Our latest water sport activity service is two sea canoes. Try them out; it is real fun!