There’s something timeless about the sea—the way the sun paints the horizon with colors only the ocean dares reflect, the wind’s soft whistle against the sails, and the quiet thrill that comes with every new destination. This is a story of a journey, not just to one of the world’s most unique destinations—Komodo Island—but aboard a vessel that encapsulates both the old world and the new: the Grace Phinisi.
The Grace Phinisi is not just any boat; she’s a floating symbol of Indonesia’s rich maritime tradition. Phinisi boats are handcrafted, majestic wooden ships, inspired by the Bugis-Makassar people of Sulawesi, who have been navigating the seas for centuries. With sails towering over the sea, the Grace Phinisi carries a sense of ancient elegance, mixed with modern luxury—perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The Call of the Wild
I had always dreamed of seeing the fabled Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. These prehistoric creatures, the largest lizards on Earth, can only be found in a few scattered islands in Indonesia, with Komodo Island being the crown jewel. So when the opportunity came to sail to Komodo aboard the Grace Phinisi, I leapt at it.
The crew welcomed us aboard with open arms, offering fresh coconuts and warm smiles. As I stepped onto the polished teakwood deck, I was struck by the seamless blend of comfort and history. The sails were hoisted, and with a gentle creak of the rigging, we were off.
Setting Sail into the Unknown
The sea was calm as we left the bustling harbor of Labuan Bajo behind, the last outpost before the wilderness of the Komodo National Park. As the Grace Phinisi cut through the crystal-blue waters, I could feel a sense of adventure bubbling inside me. The modern world seemed to melt away as the islands loomed on the horizon, each one more mysterious and untamed than the last.
Days at sea were spent basking in the sun, reading books, and chatting with fellow travelers. But there were also moments of quiet solitude, when I would stand at the bow, watching dolphins play in the wake of the boat, or gaze at the shimmering coral reefs beneath the surface. The Grace Phinisi moved with grace (true to her name), and the gentle rocking of the boat soon became a soothing lullaby.
A Land Untamed: Komodo Island
We anchored at Komodo Island early one morning, the sun just beginning to rise over the jagged volcanic peaks. The island felt wild, untouched. Our guide, a local ranger, briefed us on the creatures we were about to encounter. Komodo dragons, he explained, were not to be underestimated—apex predators, with a venomous bite, they command respect from all who dare cross their path.
As we hiked through the rugged terrain, the air thick with humidity, I could feel my heart racing. Suddenly, there it was: our first dragon, basking lazily in the sun. Its massive body, armored in rough scales, was both terrifying and awe-inspiring. We stood in hushed reverence, watching as the creature slowly raised its head, gazing at us with ancient eyes.
Seeing a Komodo dragon up close is an experience that stays with you. There’s a primal connection that stirs deep inside—a reminder of a time when nature ruled, and humans were just another part of the food chain.
Discovering Hidden Wonders
Beyond the dragons, the Komodo National Park is a paradise of biodiversity. On our return to the Grace Phinisi, we set sail for Pink Beach—a surreal shoreline where the sand is tinged with soft pink hues, thanks to microscopic organisms and coral fragments. We snorkeled in the warm waters, surrounded by vibrant coral gardens and schools of colorful fish. It felt like swimming in an underwater world from a dream.
The Grace Phinisi anchored in quiet coves each night, where the stars seemed to spill across the sky. There were moments when we’d gather on deck, sipping drinks and sharing stories, with nothing but the sound of the waves lapping against the hull. The sense of camaraderie, of shared adventure, brought us closer together as we ventured further into this wild archipelago.
Reflection and Return
After days of exploration, it was time to return to Labuan Bajo. As we sailed back, I found myself reflecting on the journey. There’s a magic to traveling by sea—an element of unpredictability, of discovery. The Grace Phinisi, with her towering sails and sturdy build, had carried us through a world few get to see.
The journey to Komodo Island was not just about seeing dragons or swimming in pristine waters. It was about the act of discovery—both of the world and of oneself. The wildness of the islands, the beauty of the sea, and the quiet strength of the Grace Phinisi all played a part in shaping this experience.
Komodo Island remains one of the few places on Earth where the natural world reigns supreme, and for those lucky enough to journey there, it’s a reminder of the wonder that still exists in this world. For me, the memories of that voyage, aboard the Grace Phinisi, will forever be etched in my mind—a true adventure that I will carry with me always.
