The Amanikan is far from a pedestrian island-hopping jaunt. A 32-metre cruiser with an ironwood hull painted black to resemble a pirate ship, with teak decks sanded smooth, it's spacious yet intimate, with two levels of cabins, a dining and lounging area, as well as several sun decks.
Waking up in the queen-size bed to rattan-woven walls, a generous-sized shower and brass fixtures, it's easy to think you're in a luxury villa, but a wander out on deck is a quick wake-up call. For much of Amanikan's multi-day itinerary, the backdrop is an endless stretch of water the truest shade of turquoise and small uninhabited islands marked with wild goat trails, mangroves and the odd volcano.
The private-charter Amanikan offers an extraordinary journey in Indonesia, dubbed the Komodo Expedition. Up to three couples can cruise the centre of the Indonesian archipelago, through the expanse of Komodo National Park. The UNESCO World Heritage Site envelopes the waters of western Flores and 30 rugged volcanic islands - including Komodo Island, home to the rare Komodo dragon.
While the Komodo Expedition includes two nights at Aman's luxury tented resort on Moyo Island, Amanwana, the private-charter boat doesn't feel like a simple add-on. It's a rare opportunity to explore pristine parts of Indonesia with upscale amenities.
Our journey takes us east from Labuan Bajo to Rinca Island, along the north coast of Sumbawa to Satonda Island, and then onto Moyo Island. With the Flores Sea meeting the Indian Ocean here, the differing temperatures create an unusual platform 0for marine life (there are about 1,000 species of marine fish alone).
For a city dweller, the daily scenes are surreal. On day three, we hike around Rinca Island, spotting half a dozen Komodo dragons flicking their long tongues as they lounge in the sun. The large lizard-like creatures are as wary of us as we are of them. On the trek itself, there are many more Komodo dragons as well as their prey, slow-moving filthy water buffalo.