A sailing adventures on a schooner

JAKARTA (JP): A common problem facing adventurers who are dying to explore the remotest, most exotic parts of Indonesia, is the availability of reliable transportation and accommodation.

Many of the outlying corners of Indonesia's over 13,000 islands, especially the eastern territories which boast world- class destinations for divers, trekkers and nature lovers, are yet to be explored.

Mona Lisa offers five to 15-day package tours to islands in Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi, Maluku and Irian Jaya.

The tours offer a balance of leisure activity and exploration. You can take a bus ride to a tribal village, go mountain climbing, diving, snorkeling, jungle trekking or simply relax on a deserted island.

Built in 1996, the wooden Mona Lisa schooner carries up to 12 people. With air-conditioned cabins, modern showers and bathrooms, the schooner is designed to offer "20th century comfort and 19th century grace".

Tour leader Etienne Lheureux says that holidaymakers are free to use onboard equipment such as snorkeling gear, as well as the services of a dive instructor.

The daily cost of the tour is US$145. The next tours are scheduled for Feb. 20 to Feb. 28 to the lesser Sunda islands; March 3 to March 15 to Central Maluku and Irian Jaya; and April 3 to April 14 to South Maluku.