Itinerary
Timor-Leste
Rotational captains Anthony Daebritz and Wes Bartho of Galileo plan a culture-rich itinerary around this South East Asian republic.
The 55.7m Galileo is for charter via iyc.com
THE ITINERARY
Dili Harbour
Meet Galileo in Dili harbour and step on board for a welcome drink of locally produced coffee. Enjoy lunch on the aft deck as the yacht moves out to the bay for water activities in the afternoon. Sunset drinks will be set up beach-style below Cristo Rei, a 27-metre-tall statue of Jesus, before a 96-nautical-mile night passage southwest to Oecusse.
Lifau Village
Following a relaxed breakfast on board, head to shore and take a scenic morning walk through Lifau village. The walk will lead you to a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the entire colonial town.
Witness the traditional art of Timorese weaving at Feto Fitun Fronteira, the women’s tais weaving group, and engage with local artisans. In the evening, indulge in sunset cocktails on board Galileo and unwind with a screening of Timor-set movie Balibo out on deck.
Ataúro Island
After an overnight cruise 107 nautical miles northeast to Ataúro Island, enjoy a light breakfast before a morning dive expedition over the Ataúro reefs with colourful corals, sponges and fans. See reef and whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. You may even spot the elusive dugongs that reside here.
In the afternoon, Galileo will anchor in the vicinity of Adara, where you can relax on deck and bask in the serene surroundings.
Travel with a guide to the sacred caves of Ili Kere Kere to witness the ancient cave paintings and magnificent views
Caibada Beach
Start your day with a refreshing morning swim at Caibada Beach, after Galileo has relocated 54 nautical miles east. Head to shore to visit the colonial Portuguese town of Baucau for a traditional welcome by Timorese veterans and village leaders.
In the afternoon, embark on a dive excursion to explore the underwater wonders of the region. Upon your return the crew will have set up cocktails on the beach, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Com and Jaco Island
Today’s excursion involves the remote coastline between the provincial town of Com and Jaco Island, with its pristine beaches, hidden coves and dramatic landscapes.
Galileo will cruise along this stretch, stopping off for snorkelling opportunities and at idyllic spots for a swim in the crystalline waters. Try your hand at deep-sea or light tackle fishing before the yacht drops anchor at a secluded beach for a barbecue.
Pousada Tutuala
In the early morning, head to shore to visit the village of Tutuala. A car will whisk you to Pousada Tutuala, a unique hotel within the stone walls of an old Portuguese fortress. Travel with a guide to the sacred caves of Ili Kere Kere to witness the ancient cave paintings and magnificent views.
In the afternoon, return to Galileo and cruise to Jaco Island, an unspoiled paradise of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take some time to swim, snorkel or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
Cristo Rei
Following an overnight cruise back to Dili, hike through the lush surroundings to the Cristo Rei for a glimpse of Galileo in the bay below. Lunch is served at Pro-Ema restaurant, an incredible training restaurant for young women who have been victims of violence.
Return to the yacht for a ceremonial farewell from Timorese musicians before the crew see you off to the airport.
Galileo is for charter via iyc.com
First published in the July 2024 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.