After a sea day crossing the Timor Sea we have arrived in Yamdena, the largest island in the Tanimbar Islands of Indonesia. Saumlaki, the largest town is on the southern tip of the island.

We went to shore on our Xplorers. A colourful wharf.

Off to Tumbur. A village some 30 mins away where we were greeted by the chief and a dancing group. He gave a speech and an offering of rice wine and betel. The women wore headdresses with birds of paradise.

Children greeted us from the local school.

We wandered the streets, interacted with the children, a little boy called Jan, super smart adopted me !

We saw local carvers and weavers of the intricate ikat at work.

They rely on fishing, agriculture and farming and occasional visits from cruising boats. They could not have been more welcoming.