Description

Straddling the equator, Borneo is the third largest island in the world and a wildlife wonderland, home to half of all known plant and animal species including some of the rarest and most endangered. It is not one country but shared by the states of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. By far the largest portion of the island is Kalimantan which is part of the island nation of Indonesia, and to the north the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah reside with their tiny neighbour of Brunei. There are distinct differences between the more developed northern states and the larger region of Kalimantan and such differences make our voyage all the more interesting.
In order to get the measure of this extraordinary island with its vast rainforests, endemic wildlife and diverse culture something longer than a few days is required and as with most islands, the best way to explore is by sea. Borneo may be larger than most, but we feel the same rule applies and for this unique small ship adventure we have the perfect vessel. Sailing aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky with just 100 fellow, like-minded travellers, we will be able to use the onboard Zodiacs for some of our explorations enabling us to land in otherwise inaccessible places accompanied by our expert expedition team including naturalists, who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board. We have been fortunate to be able to time our expedition for August, the perfect time for exploring the region with warm sunny days and minimal rainfall resulting in ideal conditions for walking in the rainforest and for wildlife spotting opportunities.
Marvellous experiences are to be had as we explore remote jungle and rainforest on foot or by boat, observe the diverse range of plants, trees and wildlife including the ‘wild man of Borneo’ – the orangutan, snorkel over coral reefs and visit remote offshore islands, returning each evening to the comforts of the MS Island Sky to sail on to our next adventure. If you enjoy immersing yourself in the culture and wildlife you will find our days in Kalimantan endlessly fascinating. By way of contrast the well-run order of the Malaysian States and the riches of Brunei all combine to create an intoxicating mix of cultures rarely found on one island.
Never far from our minds are the writings of Conrad and the adventures of James Brooke and the White Rajahs as we journey around the islands, rivers and jungles of Borneo. The privilege of exploring this remarkable land from a small ship and in the company of knowledgeable speakers, expedition team members and local guides is an opportunity not to be missed. Our voyage will be so much more than a holiday, it promises to be an adventure shared with like-minded travellers.