Dreaming of West Papua: A SeaTrek Sailing Adventure with My Family

By Katerina Hamsikova

It has been four days since we returned from Indonesia, West Papua, and I am still dreaming about it. Together with my family, we spent ten unforgettable days sailing aboard the beautiful boat Katharina with SeaTrek — a journey that touched us deeply and will stay with us for a lifetime.

We are water people. Usually, when we travel, it is to follow the swell, as my whole family surfs — except me. I prefer freediving. But this trip was different. It was slower, deeper, and far more profound than any adventure we had experienced before.

A Family Journey Across the Waters of West Papua

We sailed through West Papua from Sorong all the way to Kaimana, with several stops in Raja Ampat. Each day brought a thoughtfully prepared programme focused on snorkelling, freediving, connecting with nature and wildlife, and actively giving back through coral and mangrove planting. It was not just about exploring — it was about understanding and protecting.

Seeing this part of the world, both above and below the water, felt like witnessing paradise on Earth. Nature here is still alive, healthy, and beautifully raw. Every dive revealed an overwhelming abundance of reef fish and vibrant coral, so full of life it quite literally took my breath away.

Exploring Together: Reefs, Wildlife, and Giving Back

Watching my family float in awe above the most stunning coral gardens I have ever seen was deeply moving.

What made this experience even more special was SeaTrek’s commitment to conservation. In areas where reefs were damaged, local Indonesian communities were supported through coral restoration projects, and every guest had the opportunity to learn and help replant new coral. The contrast was powerful — first seeing how a healthy reef thrives, and then being invited to help restore damaged areas. We learned so much about reef ecosystems, reef fish, and the delicate balance that sustains life underwater.

An Early-Morning Adventure into the Jungle

Our journey also took us inland, deep into the jungle, to witness the Birds of Paradise. We left the boat at 5 a.m., while the jungle was still completely dark. Sitting in silence without any artificial light was an experience in itself. When vision disappears, the other senses awaken. Sounds multiplied. The forest felt alive in a way that is hard to describe.

Listening to the birdsong felt like a balm for the soul. Vibrations moved through my body, carrying a sense of deep healing. In that moment, I truly felt how alive nature is — and how profoundly we benefit from being immersed in it. As the sun rose, the Birds of Paradise appeared in all their majesty. It was unforgettable.

Sharing the Ocean with Dolphins as a Family

Another highlight of the journey was connecting with dolphins and whale sharks. I had always thought Indonesia was not particularly rich in dolphin life — how wrong I was. While sailing, dolphins appeared frequently, and we encountered two species: Pacific bottlenose dolphins and humpback dolphins.

We had the rare opportunity to swim with Pacific bottlenose dolphins, an experience that instantly reminded me of my dolphin friend back in Ireland. What made this encounter unique was the presence of local fishermen who were sharing small fish with the dolphins — not as a performance, not to capture or control them, but simply sharing space. The dolphins were free to come and go as they pleased. They ate, played, and still chose to approach and connect with us.

That is the truest form of connection with animals — when nothing is forced, and presence is mutual. Our family shared a deeply meaningful experience with them, one that left a lasting impression on all of us.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Family Encounter with Whale Sharks

The absolute highlight of our journey was swimming with whale sharks alongside dolphins. Words hardly do justice to this moment. Encountering these majestic animals together was nothing short of divine. Again, this took place early in the morning with fishermen, in a calm and respectful atmosphere.

Observing the hierarchy in the water was fascinating — the whale shark calmly leading, with dolphins swimming just behind. Everything felt relaxed, balanced, and harmonious. Even then, they chose to come closer, to connect, because we approached them with respect and stillness.

I love witnessing my children experience moments like these. I see the change in them afterward — their hearts fuller, their connection to nature stronger. These experiences plant seeds that will grow into respect, love, and protection for our planet and all living beings. We are truly blessed.

Life on Board: When the Whole Family Is Taken Care Of

Every time we returned to the ship, the crew was waiting for us with fresh smoothies. As a mother, I can honestly say this trip felt like a dream — someone was taking care of me as well. We enjoyed three incredible meals a day, buffet-style, and I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so well on holiday. The food was simply irresistible.

Our rooms were cleaned daily, laundry was done when needed, and every detail was handled with care. It is an extraordinary feeling to be so well looked after.

Raising Ocean-Loving Children Through Experience

This trip was an absolute gift. Being together as a family on a trip, sharing these powerful experiences, strengthened our bond in a way that everyday life rarely allows. These are the moments that shape values, that teach our children to love nature — and when they love it, they will protect it.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone at SeaTrek Sailing Adventures. This was truly a trip of a lifetime, one that allows people to reconnect with nature, with themselves, and with what truly matters.