Indonesia’s Anambas Islands
The Anambas Islands in Indonesia are emerging as a yachting destination, known for reefs, clear waters and easier vessel clearance.
The Anambas Islands archipelago in Indonesia is receiving increased attention as a cruising destination, supported by infrastructure upgrades, more efficient yacht clearance procedures and favorable reports from visiting vessels.
The Anambas Islands, a group of more than 200 small islands in the South China Sea, have historically been viewed as remote and underexplored. Now, they are becoming more frequently visited by cruising yachts due to their geographical isolation, natural features and improved accessibility.
The islands face the open ocean and feature views of surrounding waters and green islands interspersed with lagoons. Reefs are present throughout the area, hosting a variety of coral species and marine life. On land, the islands are covered in jungle vegetation and offer local culinary and cultural experiences. Although located roughly 150 miles from Singapore, the Anambas group has remained relatively unpublicized.
“Those with a penchant for exploring new seas and lands will find a cruising paradise,” says Captain Thomas Taatjes, director & GM of Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia. He notes that changes in regulations are encouraging more yacht arrivals and that immigration clearance procedures mirror those available elsewhere in Indonesia. Taatjes recommends trips to several islands in the archipelago, including Pulau Bawah, Pulau Ritan, Pulau Airabu and Durai.
“The biggest island (and a very pleasant town) where all formalities take place on arrival is Terempa on Sintan Island. It is a deep anchorage near a long road built on piles. It is the best place to resupply and also serves as the spot to welcome guests flying in to join the yacht at the airport on Pulau Matak Island, less than 10 miles away; or anchor close by if more convenient. The East side of both Pulau Sintan and Pulau Matak offer an incredible choice of anchorages. Many reefs border the Anambas Islands and provide well-protected anchorages but because of narrow passages to enter these lagoons, navigation can be tricky.”
The main islands in the Anambas group include Siantan, Jemaja, Matak, Mubur and Kiabu. Letung, located on Jemaja, and Tarempa, the capital on Siantan, are the most populous settlements. The islands are inhabited by descendants of the Orang Bugis, historically known as skilled seafarers. Interaction with local communities and visits to small fishing villages are common, with seafood often available locally. Anchorages with clear water are scattered throughout the area.
The Anambas Archipelago is increasingly being identified for its marine eco-tourism potential and as a nature-focused holiday destination. Attractions include high seawater clarity, extensive coral reefs and forested islands, some of which remain largely unexplored.
Part of Indonesia’s Riau Islands Province, the Anambas group lies between Singapore and Borneo and forms part of Indonesia’s northern maritime boundary. The waters around the islands support a variety of fish species, including tuna, mackerel, giant trevally, grouper and billfish.
“It’s possible to cruise among the Anambas Islands any time of the year, however, the season of SW monsoon (April to September) offers drier conditions and a calmer sea,” explains Captain Thomas. He adds that while the region’s reefs and marine environment are noteworthy, navigation can be hazardous due to outdated or inaccurate charts, and he advises consulting satellite imagery and experienced operators.
Although remote in perception, the Anambas Islands are increasingly accessible for yachts.