The remote Anambas Islands archipelago of Indonesia is slowly gaining recognition as a new and exceedingly attractive cruising destination. So say Asia Pacific Superyachts’ agents, who have first-hand knowledge of the region. They say the interest stems from a few things. A huge improvement in facilities is a primary reason. Efficient clearing of yachts in and out, and glowing reports from visiting yachts are two further reasons. Here, Asia Pacific Superyachts explains what makes the Anambas Islands so special, and how it’s much easier than you might think to clear immigration, despite the archipelago’s remoteness. In fact, the agents say those with a penchant for exploring new seas and lands will find a cruising paradise.
ABOUT THE ANAMBAS ISLANDS
The Anambas Islands is a collection of upwards of 200 small Indonesian islands in the South China Sea. The group lies between Singapore and Borneo and is among Indonesia’s northernmost border archipelagos. Despite the proximity to Singapore at a mere 150 miles, this island group has remained under the radar. Its existence never really reached outside its own boundaries for centuries. However, when the government announced the reclassification of the Anambas Islands in 2016 as an official port of entry for Indonesia, yachts no longer needed to clear at the closest entry in Nongsa Point, Bataam.
Facing the wide-open ocean, the archipelago provides a panoramic view of blue seas and green islands. Azure lagoons dot them, with sheer endless reefs teeming with a kaleidoscope of colorful coral species and magnificent sea creatures big and small. Meanwhile, verdant jungles of exotic plant species and countless cultural and culinary experiences await travelers on land.
Setting foot on an intriguing world of bountiful islands also awards visitors the opportunity to meet the locals. They’re descendants of the once mighty Orang Bugis ethnic group. These proud people, with their colorful past, retain their strong bond with the sea today.
SIMPLIFIED SUPERYACHT CLEARANCE
Customs, immigration, the port captain, and quarantine offices are all at the town of Terempa, on Sintan Island. “There has been huge improvement with this official port of entry,” says Capt. Thomas Taatjes, Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia general manager. He notes that “E” immigration forms are accepted. “Fly-ins are still at about 99 percent of visitors,” he continues, “but we are currently sussing out the boat arrivals.”
Changing regulations are paving the way to welcoming more yachts, Taatjes adds. Formality-wise, he says you can clear into Indonesia here the same as elsewhere in the country. Cruising permits are valid for three years. Visas, meanwhile, are the same as they are for traditional tourists. Specifically, a Visa on Arrival is valid for 30 days, extendable for another 30 days. Pre-arrival visas are good for 180 days. “There’s a lot of praise for what the local and administrative people have done for cruising visitors,” Taatjes explains. “Your agent will know the ports where e-forms are accepted, as not all ports in Indonesia accept e-forms.”
Another captain who knows these waters well reports yachts can sail directly to Tarempa from a variety of international destinations. Borneo, for instance, is 240 miles away, while Tioman, Malaysia is 130 miles. Additionally, as already mentioned, Singapore is 150 miles away.
WHERE TO GO
Regardless of where you arrive from, within a 40-mile radius of Tarempa, enjoy amazing anchorages for diving, snorkeling, and meeting the locals. For a luxurious stay on land, Pulau Bawa Island is a top choice. Don’t miss the enriching experience of visiting the small villages scattered among the bays, though. The friendliness of the locals is a nice surprise.
Whether spending a few weeks or, better yet, a month in the Anambas Islands, you’ll find clear waters and fishing villages along the way. This ensures a fresh supply of seafood. The fishing is fantastic, as the waters are fertile with tuna, mackerel, giant trevally, grouper, and even billfish. Fish-based dishes are the archipelago’s signature. The two most popular ones are Mie Tarempa and Luti Gendang.
Taatjes suggests including Pulau Bawah Island, Pulau Ritan Island, Pulau Airabu Island, and Durai Island in your itinerary. The biggest island is Siantan Island, home to the town of Tarempa, where all formalities on arrival take place. It’s a pleasant town as well, plus the best place to resupply. The anchorage is deep, near a long road built on piles. Furthermore, it’s the spot to welcome guests flying in to the airport, on Pulau Matak Island. The airport is less than 10 miles away, although you can anchor closer to it if it’s more convenient. The east side of both Siantan Island and Pulau Matak offer an incredible choice of anchorages. Many reefs border the Anambas Islands and provide well-protected anchorages. (Note, nonetheless, that because of narrow passages to enter the lagoons, navigation can be tricky.)
WHEN TO VISIT
It’s possible to cruise among the Anambas Islands any time of the year. But, Taatjes says April to September offers drier conditions and a calmer sea. “While most of the predominant winds come from the southwest or northeast according to the season, it is advisable to anchor with the possibility to swing 180 degrees with a switch of wind under a passing cloud and with reefs normally not too far away,” he explains.
It’s rare to cruise to a new destination that appears remote but is closer than you think and easier to access than ever before. The wonderful anchorages and significant easing of cruising formalities are now helping to welcome yachts to the amazing Anambas archipelago.
Asia Pacific Superyachts asia-pacific-superyachts.com
Leave a Reply