Crossing to Karimun Jawa: From Struggle to Paradise

After the buzz of Semarang, it was time to continue our adventure towards Karimun Jawa.

We had been warned—the slow boat crossing would not be the most comfortable experience. And indeed, those nearly five hours on the ferry were grueling: cramped seating, barely anything to snack on for breakfast, restless children full of energy, and Anaïs, who quickly fell victim to seasickness. The Java Sea, unpredictable at times, rocked the boat occasionally, adding an extra challenge to the expedition.

Thankfully, as we neared the shores of Karimun Jawa, the magic set in. The deep blue ocean gradually gave way to dazzling turquoise waters, with lush green mountains appearing on the horizon. The breathtaking sight instantly erased the discomfort of the journey. We had finally arrived.

Once on solid ground, the wonder continued. Often called the “Indonesian Maldives,” Karimun Jawa revealed itself in all its stunning beauty. Our ever-attentive driver took us straight to a typical warung for a well-deserved meal before bringing us to our accommodation: The Secret. Perched on a hill overlooking the jungle, this place offered an incredible panoramic view of the island. Our host, Hari, welcomed us warmly with a glass of iced lemon tea, accompanied by his three dogs, whose job was to keep the mischievous local monkeys at bay.

The day wouldn’t have been complete without a spectacular ending. We set out to witness one of the most stunning sunsets we had ever seen, right by the sea. The fiery colors of the sky, the serene water… everyone stood in quiet awe.

That night, we slept under a mosquito net, lulled by the peaceful sounds of the island and excited for what awaited us the next day.

The following morning, after a slow and peaceful wake-up, we rented a scooter to explore the winding mountain roads. Marion and Martin were thrilled, loving the sense of freedom that came with riding through the open landscapes. We stopped at breathtaking beaches, where the kids ran across the white sand, eager to see more.

It was there that we met other travelers—French and Swiss adventurers, also in search of new experiences, though without kids in tow! Our conversations were lively, our stories intertwining in a beautiful moment of shared discovery.

As for me, I took the opportunity to go snorkeling. What an incredible experience! In the crystal-clear waters of Karimun Jawa, I spotted trumpetfish, tiny shrimp, and even a stonefish, perfectly camouflaged on the ocean floor.

Meanwhile, the locals continued to be enchanted by our children. Their faces lit up at the sight of Marion and Martin, their smiles and warm gestures making each encounter special. Their curiosity and kindness make every moment here unique.

The adventure continues...