In the surf charter world, it just doesn’t get any better than the Ratu Motu. Built in 1999, the boat and its core crew members have been cruising the entire Indo-Pacific side of the Indonesian archipelago since practically the beginning of surf exploration in the region. They pride themselves on their ability to deliver unique surfing, diving, stand-up paddle and ocean kayaking experiences in a part of the world that remains a natural wonder, entirely untouched by tourism. Discerning surf travelers know when you want a 5-star, luxury charter experience in West Papua or West Sumatra, home to some of the most remote, highest quality spots in Indonesia, in the water and out the Ratu Motu is the boat you want to be on.

Formerly known as the Indies Trader IV, surf fans will recognize the 34-meter (112ft.) luxury yacht from its supporting role in the iconic surf video Young Guns 2. With its on board helicopter and various other water craft at the ready, it served as the ultimate water born base camp for a full stable of Quiksilver surf stars including 11-time world champion Kelly Slater, Dane Reynolds, Julian Wilson, Fred Pattachia, Jeremy Flores, Clay Marzo, Ry Craike, Alain Riou and Troy Brooks as they ripped apart ridiculously perfect surf on a 12-day trip through the Mentawai islands.

As far as surfing is concerned, the main goal of the Captain and his First Mate are to make sure guests see as few other people, surfers or otherwise as possible while aboard. There are literally hundreds of super consistent set-ups on offer ranging from deep, hollow, double-overhead barrels to long, easy-to-surf, head-high walls, and even small, sheltered beach breaks, perfect for beginners and kids.

The vast majority of your trip, the only ones in the water will be you and your friends.

Even if you do cross paths with other boats from time to time, you’re guaranteed to get plenty of great waves. There’s also a full array of pristine beaches, world-class spots to dive, snorkel and fish on live coral reefs teeming with multi-colored marine life, and places to take adventurous tin boat, kayak or stand-up paddle tours up hidden river mouths in search of exotic, tropical flora and fauna that will provide surfing and non-surfing guests alike with memories of a trip of a lifetime.

 

With a total of 15 cabins, the Ratu Motu has room to host up to 18 guests in complete comfort. There are 2 Platinum State Rooms with queen size beds, 2 Gold State Rooms and 4 Silver Cabins with double beds, and 1 Bronze cabin with 2 bunk beds that all come with en-suite bathrooms, and with the exception of the Bronze cabin are also equipped with phone service, Apple TV and a DVD player. All the cabins are air-conditioned and include twice-daily house keeping and complimentary laundry service. The 4 State Rooms are fully Wifi equipped and all common areas on the boat offer high-speed broadband and Wifi as well.

Apart from the luxurious cabins, guests appreciate taking in the astounding tropical scenery while relaxing in the spacious indoor open plan dining area and salon lounge, having a drink at the fully stocked outdoor bar on the shaded observation deck, or while working on their tan laying out on a comfortable daybed on the sun lounge or in between dips in the ocean and jumping off of the swim platform at the rear of the boat.

The dining aboard the Ratu Motu is as memorable as the surfing and the scenery. Not only is each meal a culinary delight, the entire menu is designed to be extra-healthy and is prepared with utmost care using only the freshest produce available. The very talented and creative chef takes pride in offering an array of unique dishes and tastes. The guest concierge also ensures that any special dietary needs, and requests for particular beverages, special dishes or entirely customized menus are fulfilled before departure. The customary barbecue on the sparkling white sands of a tropical island is a memorable moment on any luxury surf charter, but with the Ratu Motu crew it becomes a once in a lifetime dining experience with all dishes and drinks prepared under the watchful eyes of the guests.

Other perks include global roaming mobile service, complimentary dive and snorkeling equipment, SUPs and ocean kayaks. Upon request for an extra fee The Perfect Wave’s surf concierges along with the Ratu Motu staff can organize for a full-time photographer and/or videographer to record your adventures, an on-board masseuse to work the knots out after long days in the ocean, one or more jet skis, and even a helicopter for special sightseeing trips over the deserted tropical islands and coral reefs.