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Tag Archives: Komodo Island

Yacht Charter | Indonesia To Close Komodo Island

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Photograph of two Komodo dragons on top of a hillside overlooking a waterway. The dragons are next to each other, as if they are hugging.

Komodo Dragons

THE SUMMARY

News headlines from 2019 are in.  The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) administration has plans.  Importantly, they intend to close Komodo National Park.   They plan to stop visitors for one year.  This is to stop people from stealing their famous dragons.  The government specifically needs to curb the illegal poaching of dragons.  They also want to increase the local population of Komodo dragons and deer.  Deer is the primary food source for the dragons.

BUT WAIT — ISLAND ONLY!

It should be noted, the headlines got it wrong.  Specifically, only the island of Komodo will close;  NOT the entire National Park.

PARK DETAILS

Komodo National Park is 20 plus islands.  Komodo Island is one of three major islands in the park.   Above all, the closure does not affect any dive sites.  Lastly, no yacht charter anchorages affected, either.

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

In fact,

“Most Komodo dragon sightseeing tours are conducted on the smaller Rinca Island, not on Komodo Island,” states 1-800 Yacht Charters President, Jana Sheeder.

“Our Komodo yacht charter captains and local guides prefer to anchor off the shoreline of Rinca island.  It is an excellent place to enjoy watersports.  Furthermore, you can also take a tender ashore to see the dragons in their natural environment. What an incredible experience!”

THE BOTTOM LINE

Q:  Should I cancel or postpone my luxury yacht vacation and avoid Komodo National Park? 

A:  NO.  The park remains open.  The local economy absolutely needs your support.  The dragons await your visit!

THE PARK

Komodo National Park is located in the archipelago of Indonesia.  Clearly, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It features three major islands.  Specifically, Komodo, Rinca, and Padar.  It also includes dozens of tiny islands. These span over 1,800 kilometers across land and sea.  Last but not least, the area is without peer.  Both its environmental significance and its appeal as a yachting destination are unequaled.

 

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE DESCRIPTION

Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago. It is between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. In addition, composed of three major islands (Rinca, Komodo, and Padar) and numerous smaller ones. Each of volcanic origin.  It is at the juncture of two continental plates.  This national park constitutes the “shatter belt” within the Wallacea Biogeographical Region, between the Australian and Sunda ecosystems. The property is a global conservation priority area. It comprises unparalleled terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Also, it covers a total area of 219,322 ha.  The dry climate triggers specific evolutionary adaptation. That is, within the terrestrial flora that range from open grass-woodland savanna. Further, to tropical deciduous (monsoon) forest and quasi cloud forest. The rugged hillsides and dry vegetation highly contrast with the sandy beaches and the blue coral-rich waters.

WILDLIFE IN THE PARK

Wildlife flourishes here.  Many species thrive both on the islands and in the surrounding seas.  Many yachts for hire in Komodo carry snorkel gear.  Nevertheless, some boats offer scuba for certified divers.  First, the reefs offer refuge for sea turtles and fish. Second, they also attract whales and dolphins. Third, they attract dugongs (manatees).

THE DRAGONS

There is an incredible creature here.  It is the Komodo lizard.  This creature exists nowhere else on the planet.  Varanus komodoensis is the largest living species of lizard.  Komodos grow to an average length of 2 to 3 meters.   Even so, they look fierce.  First, their impressive appearance, and second, their aggressive nature leads to their common nickname. It is, Komodo “Dragons.”

 

HOW MANY DRAGONS EXIST?

Approximately 5700 dragons inhabit the park.  The majority make their home specifically on Komodo island.  An increase in poaching and smuggling of dragons from Komodo island forces the government to take drastic action.  These dragons command upwards of $35,000 each on the black market.  Authorities now step in to protect the dragons. These creatures are ‘vulnerable’  on the Red List of Threatened Species.

 

SAVING THE DRAGONS

Starting in January 2020, tourists may not visit Komodo Island.  Authorities use this time to thwart the poachers.  They also do it to relieve pressure on the local environment.  The goal is to allow the local dragon population to increase. This time is also to increase the island’s deer population.  These deer are the primary food source for the dragons.  Officials will conduct studies to determine the exact effects of tourism on the island and the park. Tourist activities such as Komodo watching, diving, and snorkeling will be closely monitored throughout the park.

 

HOW MANY PEOPLE VISIT THE PARK?

Data from the Indonesian Environment and Forestry Ministry reports.  Particularly over 10,000 people visit Komodo National Park monthly.  Ninety-five (95) percent of them being foreigners.  Unfortunately, only 130 people monitor the park.

 

3 AMAZING FACTS ABOUT KOMODO DRAGONS 

1.  Komodos are excellent swimmers.  They often swim from island to island in search of food. (No worries. Humans are not specifically on their menu.)

2. Unlike other species, Komodos can consume 80 percent of their body weight in one sitting. They are without a doubt, amazing creatures.

3.  These lizards demonstrate play behavior.  The National Zoo in Washington, D.C comments.  Dragons, “…clearly demonstrated play-like behavior with objects.” They continue, “[they] even [play] with humans (tug-of-war)…”  No thanks, we’ll obviously just observe them from afar!!!

 

YACHT RENTAL – KOMODO AND INDONESIA

Many motor yachts, for example, 50m Perini Navi yacht EXUMA, pass through Indonesia.  Most popular vessels here are large, roomy sailboats.  One specific is 65-meter LAMINA.

COMMON SUPERYACHT ITINERARIES

There are 2 common routes for a full Superyacht Experience in Indonesia.  For example, East Nusa Tenggara Expedition, which includes Bali, Komodo, Flores, and Sumba. In addition, Maluku Expedition. For instance, Maumere, Alor, Banda Sea, and Ambon.

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER

In conclusion, learn more about suggested itineraries.  Finally, also learn the best seasons to charter. Contact the 1-800 Yacht Charters professionals at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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