Circumnavigate Sumatra

By guest blogger Steve Newman

Zegrahm Expeditions will extend its tradition of offering exclusive journeys and unique “circumnavigation” voyages in 2011 when it operates a 'Circumnavigation of Sumatra' in January aboard the Clipper Odyssey.

Sumatra, located in Western Indonesia, is the 6th largest island in the world, and contains a rich diversity of natural and cultural highlights – ideal for Zegrahm’s small-ship, expedition cruising concept.

The maneuverability, comfort, and Zodiac capability of the 110-passenger Odyssey, makes the ship well-suited for a robust exploration of Sumatra. The 18-day itinerary departs January 3, 2011; sailing in a counter-clockwise direction around the island and making numerous landings for visits to remote villages, historic sites, and national parks. The voyage begins and ends in Singapore – an interesting destination itself and convenient for international flights.

This is a first-ever itinerary for Zegrahm, which has been operating innovative, small-ship voyages – and unique land safaris and land tours via sister company Eco-Expeditions – for over 20 years. Circumnavigation voyages, which provide adventurers in-depth exploration, and the sense of achievement of going "full-circle,” have been a hallmark of Zegrahm.

With Sumatra, Zegrahm presents a destination of beautiful tropical rainforests, towering mountains and volcanoes, and a vast array of ethnic peoples – boasting 52 different languages. A wealth of national parks are home to over 200 mammal species, including nine that are endemic to the main island and 14 that are endemic to the Mentawai Islands.

A special highlight of this voyage is the opportunity to view orphaned Sumatran orangutans at Bukit Lawang Orangutan Rehabilitation Station. Birders search for some of the 580 species recorded on the island, such as the blue-masked leafbird, Sumatran drongo and spot-necked bulbul.

In the highlands, the cultures of indigenous peoples have endured for generations. The Batak have a special dress code, religious beliefs and customs, and their dwellings are elaborately decorated. On Nias Island, travellers will witness the traditional practice of stone-jumping, where young boys prove their manhood by jumping over six-foot-high stone megaliths. Participants will also meet the Minangkabau, a matrilineal society that uniquely combines Islamic beliefs with their traditional animist philosophy.

For reservations or more information, please contact Zegrahm and Eco Expeditions on www.zeco.com in the USA and via www.cruiseline.co.uk in the UK.

You can also find out more in person about their voyages at the CRUISE SHOW, which will be held in Birmingham on October 16-17 and in London next March (26-27).

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