17 Oct 2022

Discovering Paradise with a Rockstar Reception and Making Cruise History on Buru

A flotilla of small boats greeted Heritage Adventurer as we made cruise history as the first expedition vessel to visit the remote village of Pasir Putih on Indonesia's Buru Island.

It was standing room only on the white sand beach where around 1,000 locals from 6 surrounding villages waited to greet our Zodiacs as we skimmed over the diaphinous blue water towards this picture perfect island paradise with its nodding palms, lush rolling hills and backdrop of jagged, jungled-capped ancient rock piercing the clouds looking like an undiscovered Tahiti.

Incredible smiles abound as we are welcomed ashore where specially created banners, school children, local dignitaries and chiefs, including the esteemed Chief of Regency Mrs. Safitri who travelled 6 hours to personally preside over the event, and excited guests met excited locals.

Following a traditional welcome dance in which Mrs. Safitri took part it was time for our Expedition Leader Aaron Russ to thank South Buru Island and its charming, friendly people for our unforgettable welcome and hospitality. Time for enjoying sampling traditional fare, dancing and learning everything about island life and culture with new found friends and being the subject of a celebrity level of selfies, before the wildlife-filled jungles and coral reefs of one of the most biologically-rich regions on the planet.

Though the day would have one last surprise in store as the Captain's call of "whales" saw us making our ways to the Bridge, Observation Deck and Observation Lounge where we were treated to an incredible aquatic display of up to 20 Sperm Whales logging and fluking, as we sailed towards Wayag, Raja Ampat.

Image on file (c): S. Noakes