At Jakare Liveaboard, every cruise is more than just a journey—it’s a deep immersion into the beauty of the ocean and a celebration of marine life. In honor of World Turtle Day (May 23rd) and World Boating Day (May 24th), we’re taking a moment to share our passion for life at sea, traditional Indonesian sailing, and the fragile ecosystems that surround us.
World Turtle Day – May 23rd
A Magical Encounter Beneath the Surface
Few experiences match the quiet thrill of encountering a sea turtle in its natural environment. Whether you’re diving in Raja Ampat, drifting with the currents in Komodo, or snorkeling in the Banggai Archipelago, you may find yourself face to face with a green turtle, a hawksbill, or—if you’re lucky—the elusive leatherback.
These ancient mariners have been navigating Earth’s oceans for over 100 million years. Today, most are endangered—yet their presence remains a powerful symbol of resilience and grace.
Did You Know?
- Sea turtles can live up to 80 years.
- Females return to lay eggs on the beach where they were born, sometimes decades later.
- Only 1 in 1,000 hatchlings survives to adulthood.
At Jakare, we believe that beauty inspires protection. Witnessing a turtle in its natural habitat often sparks a deep connection—and a desire to protect what we love.
Threats to Sea Turtles in Indonesia
Despite their importance, sea turtles face serious threats in Indonesian waters:
- Coastal development and unregulated tourism reducing nesting beaches
- Plastic pollution—turtles often mistake bags for jellyfish
- Illegal fishing gear and ghost nets
- Poaching of eggs, meat, and shells
Fortunately, local NGOs like Yayasan Penyu Indonesia, The SEA People, and Misool Foundation are working tirelessly to protect sea turtles through community programs, research, and beach conservation efforts.
Where to Spot Turtles with Jakare
Our sailing itineraries through the Indonesian archipelago bring us to some of the best regions in the world to observe sea turtles in the wild. From shallow reefs to protected bays, each location offers unique chances to encounter these gentle marine reptiles in their natural habitat.
Raja Ampat (West Papua)
Raja Ampat is a biodiversity paradise—and a stronghold for both green and hawksbill turtles. These turtles are frequently spotted while diving or snorkeling, especially around:
- Cape Kri
- Melissa’s Garden
- Arborek Jetty
- Friwen Wall & Yenbuba Jetty
Komodo National Park (East Nusa Tenggara)
Beyond dragons, Komodo is home to vibrant coral reefs where turtles thrive. Both hawksbill and green turtles are regularly seen:
- Siaba Besar
- Mawan & Mauan
- Batu Bolong
- Pink Beach
Banggai Archipelago (Central Sulawesi)
Less traveled but incredibly rich, the Banggai Islands offer a quieter experience where green turtles are often observed near:
- Pulau Banggai
- Bakakan
- Masoni Island
These waters also host the endemic Banggai cardinalfish, adding to the uniqueness of the experience.
Togean Islands (Tomini Gulf, Central Sulawesi)
These remote islands are home to green turtles, and occasionally, leatherbacks during seasonal migration. Best spots include:
- Una Una Volcano
- Bomba Atoll
- Reef systems near Malenge
Togean Islands are also key nesting grounds, so nighttime beach walks may reveal turtle tracks or hatchlings.
World Boating Day – May 24th
Celebrating the Sea and Traditional Seamanship
World Boating Day is about reconnecting people with the sea—through sailing, craftsmanship, exploration, and marine heritage. It celebrates boating as a lifestyle, a profession, and a path to understanding the rhythms of nature.
At Jakare, this day aligns perfectly with our love for the Indonesian phinisi, the traditional handcrafted sailing vessel that carries us from island to island.
A Tribute to Indonesian seafarers
Our journeys are guided by the expertise of our Indonesian crew, many of whom belong to the Bugis seafaring culture of Sulawesi. Their connection to the sea is deep and enduring, and their quiet wisdom and warm hospitality are at the heart of every Jakare experience.
Sailing to fall in love with the ocean – Let’s celebrate World Boating Day
On May 24, we celebrate all forms of sailing: the joy of the sea, human-sized adventure, connection with nature, and the passing down of seafaring wisdom.
At Jakare Liveaboard, we deeply believe that sailing is one of the best ways to fall in love with the ocean.
To sail is to move with the rhythm of the waves, to live by sun and wind, to wake up each day to a new face of the sea.
And it’s often by falling in love – by watching a turtle drift beneath the boat or hearing dolphins at the bow – that something shifts in us: a desire to protect this fragile world.
“People protect what they love, and they love what they know.”
Sir David Attenborough, Ocean: The Final Frontier
In his latest film Ocean, David Attenborough reminds us of this essential truth: real experiences lead to real care.
We don’t protect an abstract concept. We protect what we’ve seen, felt… and loved.
Sailing consciously – The sea is both a gift and a responsibility
Jakare is committed to reducing our environmental impact and inspiring conscious travel:
Solar panels and battery systems to limit generator use
Zero single-use plastics on board
Waste sorting and education for crew and guests
Low-consumption engine, limited AC in cabins, naturally ventilated shared spaces
Collaboration with NGOs like The SEA People, who protect reefs and vulnerable species in Raja Ampat
A Double Celebration of the Ocean
By honoring World Turtle Day and World Boating Day, we’re celebrating what lies at the heart of Jaakaré:
A deep love for the sea – for its life, its culture, its mystery. Maybe this is the perfect week to start dreaming about your next responsible cruise in Indonesia.
Maybe a curious turtle will meet your gazxe…
Maybe you’ll (re)discover the simple joy of a sunrise at sea, carried by wood and wind.
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