Borneo, a giant, rugged island in Southeast Asia’s Malay Archipelago, is shared by the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, Indonesian Kalimantan and the tiny nation of Brunei. It’s known for its beaches and ancient, biodiverse rainforest, home to wildlife including orangutans and clouded leopards. Forming three-quarters of the world’s third largest island, Kalimantan is the Indonesian part of Borneo. Divided into four regions, East, West, South and Central, discover some of richest biodiversity in the world in its vast jungles and rainforests filled with long, winding rivers and fascinating wildlife.
Want to explore wonderful Borneo in a way that has not been explored before? Well then, do the things that you like and embark on an adventure with Secret Cruises in three different Kalimantan Rivers aboard a choice of vessels operated by WOW Borneo. Begin your journey by glimpsing at the stilted and floating houses in the capital of Central Kalimantan, Palangkaraya. Canoe through shimmering black water lakes. Meander down rivers to look for proboscis monkeys, hornbills, Brahmini kites, kingfishers, and other bird species. Get up close and personal to orangutans, and witness an orangutan rehabilitation programme centre. Spot wild orangutans, macaques, proboscis monkeys, birds, sun bears, wild boars, clouded leopards, spotted cats, pythons, gibbons, porcupines, Sambar deer, and other wildlife at Tanjung Puting National Park. Soak in the breathtaking mountain views and waterfalls at Bukit Baka-Bukit Raya National Park. Trek on trails or go diving around the world-renowned Derawan Archipelago. Pass through riverside villages to see spectacular historic longhouses, and meet the indigenous Dayak people to learn about their customs and culture. Attend a traditional music and dance performance.
Here’s sharing with you the fleet of three vessels that offers options for the Jungle cruises in Borneo:
1. The Spirit of Kalimantan
The Spirit of Kalimantan is a traditional Kalimantan barge with three cabins available for private charter.
Aboard the Spirit of Kalimantan. Capacity for 8 passengers maximum, in private charter.
3 luxury air-conditioned cabins (one Master and two double), two shared bathrooms, a sitting area and an open deck with steamer chairs.
All activities while cruising with Spirit of Kalimantan offer a balance between wildlife, flora and fauna and the fascinating Dayak culture.
2. Ruhui Rahayu
The sister vessel to the Spirit of Kalimantan, Ruhui Rahayu offers a perfect getaway for couples looking for a romantic escape, or a family wanting to experience the wonders of remote Borneo.
Showcasing a “back to nature” feel, this rustic, simply designed 22-metre long boat can accommodate two adults and up to three children.
Available only for private charters, with all guests quarters located on one level, its folding bedroom doors open up directly onto the front deck.
3. Rahai’i Pangun
The Rahai’i Pangun is traditional Kalimantan river boat known as a bis air, which has been converted into the beautiful boat she is today. The design and specifications were implemented by teams of Indonesian master boat designers and engineers, using local craftsmen.
Sister vessel of Spirit of Kalimantan and Ruhui Rahayu, this one offers join-in cruises. The upper deck is large and comfortable – it is used for all meals and as a place to enjoy the passing scenery from the sofas or deck chairs.
Secret Cruises define a new way to explore Asia. By working with local Dayak people, the cruises offer an intimate encounter with Kalimantan’s forests, wildlife (including an orangutan rehabilitation sanctuary), black water lake systems and traditional villages.
Complete conditions and schedules for all cruises are available https://www.secret-retreats.com/cruises