Silolona Sojourns Director Tresno Seery believes today’s charter travellers to Indonesia are different to when his mother started the company 25 years ago, as he explains in a Column for Yacht Style.

Silolona in Indonesia’s pristine North Maluku region

In the world of luxury yacht charters, Silolona Sojourns has long been synonymous with unparalleled adventure, cultural immersion and bespoke itineraries. We are pioneers when it comes to traditional phinisi experiences. Our founder, my mother Patti, needs no introduction thanks to her efforts in putting Indonesia on the map for global travellers.

CHARTER-GUEST EVOLUTION

Now, 25 years on, we’re finding that as the travel landscape evolves, so do the desires of our discerning guests aboard Silolona and its sister vessel, Si Datu Bua. Seeking more than just opulence and relaxation, they crave meaningful connections, transformative experiences and a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit.

One of the most significant trends in recent years is the increasing demand for marine conservation-focused experiences. Guests are no longer content to simply admire the ocean’s beauty; they want to actively contribute to its preservation.

Fakfak in West Papua, Indonesia’s easternmost province

We have always operated as a sustainability-first company, and are proud that our guests are becoming ambassadors of the ocean, just like us. We integrate conservation efforts and learning into our itineraries as much as possible – offering guests the opportunity to participate in coral-reef restoration projects, and learn about marine biodiversity surveys, and we even host educational workshops led by marine biologists onboard.

Additionally, Silolona’s crew, many of whom are from local communities, share their intimate knowledge of the ocean, teaching guests about everything from sustainable fishing practices to the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems.

Hand in hand with respecting each destination, and protecting it for future generations rather than contributing to overtourism, our guests are seeking authentic experiences and encounters. They want to engage with the people who call these islands and villages home, something we excel in thanks to our decades-long personal relationships with local tribes.

Guardian at the Ternate Palace in North Maluku

Local and under-the-skin experiences have always been our North Star, and our crew, hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds, play a pivotal role in facilitating these connections.

Their deep-rooted knowledge and strong relationships enable us to hear about and attend otherwise private ceremonies, visit the home of a family, or join a village event, often at late notice. This also adds an element of surprise and unexpectedness to every trip.

CHOICE DESTINATIONS

While some areas of Indonesia have grown more popular than we could have predicted 25 years ago, our guests are more interested in visiting areas that are untouched by mass tourism, and therefore the most remote and unspoiled. For us, the top priority remains to take a select few guests who will be open to learning about and respecting the destination, rather than contributing to further overtourism.

The late Patti Serry (far right) with BBC presenter Kate Humble and the Sultans of Ternate

Two destinations in Indonesia that have recently captured the imagination of guests are Halmahera in North Maluku and Triton Bay in West Papua. North Maluku is an archipelago of volcanic islands and a hidden gem that boasts pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a rich cultural heritage thanks to the deep historical connections to the Ternate and Tidore sultanates.

Here, guests can explore the historic spice trade routes, visit ancient forts, and dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs.

The region’s isolation has preserved its natural beauty and traditional way of life, offering a rare glimpse into a world that feels untouched by time. We’re particularly well-placed to organise trips to this area given Patti’s relationship with the Sultan of Ternate.

A guest swims with a whale shark in Triton Bay, West Papua

Meanwhile, Triton Bay is known for its stunning limestone karsts, turquoise bays and diverse marine life, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Guests can kayak through mangrove forests, hike to hidden waterfalls, and snorkel alongside whale sharks.

These increased requests for a focus on marine conservation, authentic experiences, and remote locations, mirrors what we’re about at Silolona Sojourns. It also reflects a broader shift in the travel industry towards more meaningful and sustainable experiences, which is certainly a positive thing.

Silolona Sojourns remains committed to delivering adventures that are as transformative as they are luxurious, believing that true luxury is measured in the memories created and the impact left behind.

silolonasojourns.com

TRESNO SEERY

Seery is the owner of Silolona Sojourns, a luxury yacht charter operation that delivers extraordinary off-grid expeditions across Southeast Asia, rooted in education and preservation. Born in Indonesia, he is a certified Naval Architect and Engineer, noted for his innovative approach to boatbuilding and luxury yacht management.