Nothing beats the thrill of riding waves few surfers have laid eyes on. Let the other guys go on a tour-Yacht Mahalo II provides accessible adventure.
Launched in 1998 as a purpose built charter boat the 64’ Mahalo II is fully equipped for exploration. Powered by two 650hp Fiat Turbo Diesels this cat has a maximum speed of 22knts and cruises comfortably at 11-13knts. Accommodations are in 2 x 4 man a/c cabins complete with sliding windows and 2 x 2 man a/c cabins below deck. Although the boat can sleep 12 comfortably Mahalo II prefers to take groups of 8-10 guests.
Who said that adventure has to mean roughing it? Amenities include full air-conditioning throughout, cabins with large opening windows, 2 heads, hot & cold water, complete galley, refrigerator, freezer, microwave, conventional oven, barbecue, water maker and ice maker. And if the surf does eventually drop, there are two TV, VCR, CD players (one inside/one outside), plus fishing and diving equipment. Veteran surf traveler and photographer Jeff Divine calls the Mahalo II, "The best surf charter boat I have ever been on.”
The three tenders that accompany Mahalo II top off the experience. The largest is a 19-foot aluminum plate center consol tender with twin 60hp outboards, fish finder and mounted marine VHF radio. This tender is typically utilized for accessing breaks other then the break closest to the current anchorage or fishing excursions. The size, weight and speed of this tender allow the groups to easily and comfortably split up between breaks. The second tender is a 15’ center consol aluminum zodiac with 50hp outboard & mounted marine radio. This tender is typically used for transfers to/from the closest break to anchorage or trips to the beach (occasionally fishing). The third tender is a 9’ inflatable dingy with 15hp motor. This is typically only used if necessary (seldom). The dingy fleet aboard Mahalo II allows groups maximum access to all the breaks in the area and to split groups between surf breaks, or have some passengers fishing or doing island exploration while others are surfing.
Standard charters aboard Mahalo II depart from Kupang in W. Timor and set out for a group of islands approximately 60 miles SW: Roti, Dona, Do’o, Ndao and Nuse. These islands are in a tight group and host a large number of breaks. One of the main breaks “Nemberala” is a long left hander situated close to the center of the standard surf zone. By utilizing the tenders it is possible to surf most of the breaks in the area from any one anchorage. This allows the Mahalo II to act almost like a floating houseboat once “in the zone”. Although the yacht does change anchorage at various times throughout a standard charter it should be noted that it is not necessary to make long ocean crossings during most standard charters. Extended charters can be customized early and late season to access some islands at a further distance.
FISHING!!! - this region provides some of the best game fishing in Indonesia, or possibly in the world. Species of fish include yellow fin tuna, dog tooth tuna, wahoo, Spanish mackerel, traveli and various bill fish. Mahalo II is fully equipped with all game fishing equipment and tackle.
Captain Burns has spent a lifetime navigating the globe in search of perfect surf. Having pioneered areas through Mexico, Central & South America, Fiji, Samoa, and Christmas Island throughout the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, Gary feels he has now discovered the perfect surf charter region. Captain Burns has owned six yachts and logged over 130,000 miles sailing the globe. He has logged every sea mile to get masters 5 captain's certificate, he has also been surfing and chartering the East Nusa Tengarra region for the past ten years obtaining an intimate knowledge of its many breaks. Now in his mid 50's, Gary still charges on his quiver of thrusters. With his wife and daughter, the Burns family specializes in providing a satisfying blend of both high service and high adventure.
If you've ever longed for your own voyage of discovery, then Timor aboard the Mahalo II is your ticket!
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