South China Sea outlook - November update
by Noonsite 1 Dec 06:16 GMT
South China Sea © noonsite.com
Indonesia: Bali is one of Indonesia's most well-known islands and a designated port of entry for yachts who want to explore the archipelago of more than 15,000 islands. Noonsite's regional sub-editor Lynda Lim recently visited the island as part of a land-based visit to the country and met with several agents and officials to discuss some of the current issues facing cruising sailors.
Unfortunately, Bali has gained a reputation as being less than welcoming to sailors, with limited services and facilities and crowded harbours and anchorages. However, Lynda found that while there are issues which other Indonesian islands also face - including rubbish and overzealous officials - there are some positives to be aware of. "There is good provisioning here and medical facilities are easy to access and reasonably inexpensive. There is a new marina planned for Benoa Harbour which will include haulout and repair facilities and the developers are planning several more marinas on other islands in the near future."
Overall, the message was one of welcome for visiting sailors, but the authorities urge cruisers to make sure they understand the rules and regulations, prepare all the relevant documentation and if there is any uncertainty- please ask for help! Indonesia's new President is keen to encourage the marine tourism industry as he believes the country has huge potential. Whether that desire will come to fruition remains to be seen.
Indonesian Rally: After leaving Vanuatu on their slow circumnavigation adventure (now into their sixth year), regular Noonsite contributors Maria and Allen Wadsworth joined a rally to take them through Indonesia. While the rally provided valuable logistical support and cultural experiences, it was not without its challenges. Maria and Allen have sent Noonsite two reports, the first covering details of their route through Indonesia from Debut (Kei Islands) to Batam (Riau Islands) and the second report covering the positives and negatives of joining a rally.
Philippines: An unusually high frequency of typhoons and storms have hit the Philippines during late October and early November, causing catastrophic damage and deaths in many areas due to flooding from heavy rainfall, along with severe winds and storm surges along coastal areas. Read the news
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