Alila Purnama to Set Sail for Raja Ampat From October

After its successful launch in December 2012, Alila Purnama, the luxury Phinisi from Alila Hotels and Resorts will begin its tour of the Raja Ampat region this October until March 2014. Raja Ampat, set in Indonesia’s West Papua province, means “four kings”, referring to the islands of Salawati, Batanta, Waiego and Misool. The ship sets off for its voyage from Sorong, taking guests on an amazing sea and island-hopping adventure, through a myriad of smaller, untouched isles with picturesque beaches and majestic mountains.

Sailing on the Alila Purnama opens up parts of the region that were previously inaccessible and exceptionally difficult to get to without a boat, offering a rare opportunity to discover the southern coastal region that is home to the fascinating Asmat tribe. Over six nights and seven days, guests will encounter the world’s most bio-diverse region, with unspoiled dive sites home to over 70% of the planet’s coral and 1,200 species of fish, from wobbegong sharks, manta and eagle rays, to schools of barracuda. For those with a sense of adventure, there’s kayaking, surfing, fishing and snorkeling, as well as a chance to explore local islands and pearl farms.

For the first time, passengers can experience what the Alila Purnama has in store through the new Captain’s log. Guests will get a behind the scenes look from Captain Annalisa as she posts her daily adventures, tips and pictures aboard the ship.

Raja Ampat expeditions are available from October 3, 2013 to February 28, 2014. Private charters (full ship chartering) may be tailored to guests’ preferred itineraries and sailing duration, subject to availability. Six nights, seven days of full charter starts at $54,000, which includes live-aboard meals and accommodation for 10 persons, unlimited dives, water activities and shore excursions.

Alila Purnama is open for Limited Edition voyages which cater to individual reservations (two persons sharing a suite). Several trips from October 19, 2013 to February 14, 2014 are available based on two people sharing a cabin, for six nights from $10,500 for a standard suite and $12,000 for the master suite.

Guests arrive by flight from Jakarta to Sorong with all booking details and transfers for the internal flights, taken care of by Alila.

Alila Purnama is one of the most luxurious liveaboard Phinisi ships in Asia, providing ultra-modern and relaxing accommodation for up to 10 guests. Handcrafted in the traditional style of a Phinisi, as used by the Bugis seafarers from south Sulawesi in Indonesia, the 46-meter long Alila Purnama consists of three decks. In keeping with Alila’s emphasis on style and sustainability, the furniture throughout the ship is custom-made from teak, rattan and other locally sourced materials from Indonesia. On-board are five well-appointed en-suite including a master suite with large wraparound windows offering 180-degree views of the ever-changing yet incredible landscape.

For more information, visit www.alilahotels.com/purnama or www.alilapurnama.com.