Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Two Island Hideaways: Pulau Senua and Pulau Bawah


Since our original itinerary shifted once we got on board Orion II, our last two days in Borneo were spent as beach bunnies on the Indonesian islands of Pulau Senua, in the Riau Islands Province, and Pulau Bawah, at the southern tip of the Anambas Islands (approximately 150 nautical miles northeast of Singapore).

Orion II operated in “expedition mode” on both days, which means Zodiacs ran continuously from the ship to the island where guests enjoyed swimming, snorkeling, and a BBQ on Pulau Bawah. We even got to release some baby turtles into the sea!


Disembarking in Singapore
It’s safe to say that Orion’s “Camp Leakey: Faces in the Forest” itinerary gifted us with experiences that we never expected to have. I knew we’d get close to orangutans, but I had no idea I’d be able to cradle a little baby in my arms or roughhouse with a juvenile! 

Sailing the rivers of Borneo also put so much into perspective with regard to how the Indonesians and Malays live and how conservation can fit into their framework for the future. Many of us talk about planning a “trip of a lifetime” or putting a destination on our “bucket list.” If you haven’t yet researched Borneo, do it now. Orion makes it possible for average travelers to easily access this enchanting region of Borneo in style and comfort. This cruise is your chance to make close contact with the great red ape!

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com

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