Nikoi Island, Riau Islands - Indonesia
Nikoi is a 15 hectare private island 8km off the east coast of Bintan, Indonesia. Located less than 85km from Singapore, traveling time from Tanah Merah ferry terminal is approximately two and a half hours.
Long regarded as one of the most stunning islands on this relatively unspoilt coast, Nikoi is fortunate to have remained in pristine condition. It is ringed with white sandy beaches and coral reefs of spectacular colour and diversity and a coastline studded with magnificent white granite boulders that seemingly defy gravity. Rising to a height of 30m, the island also boasts a rain forest where colossal trees, including native Banyan trees, provide a sanctuary to a diverse population of local birds.
The beach houses utilise a unique double layered roof design to promote natural ventilation. This cooling system is enhanced by the use of overhead fans and the siting of each beach house just metres from the beach. Ocean breezes and the unique cooling effect of the land mass provide a working example of “nature’s air-con”.
A spectacular pool has been built in amongst the granite boulders on the north-eastern side of the island and provides a destination within a destination. Set high above the sea it overlooks one of the prettiest beaches on Nikoi and provides uninterrupted views over the South China Sea. There is also an adjacent wading pool for young children and a bar.
Activities available to guests includes serious relaxation, swimming, sailing, snorkeling, diving, massage, nature discovery and island hopping. In addition, we are able to offer special “theme” weeks to cater for mid-week guests and corporate groups. These programs can provide an intensive introduction to activities such as Yoga, Fitness, Nature Discovery, Photography, Team building, Cooking, Sculpture and Painting, using professional instructors from Singapore and beyond.
From Singapore
Overall journey time from Singapore’s Tanah Merah ferry terminal to Nikoi island is approximately two and a half hours.
Ferry from Singapore to
Bintan Resorts One Hour
Taxi across Bintan from
ferry terminal to jetty One Hour
Launch from jetty to Nikoi Half Hour
Regular high speed catamaran ferries operate between Singapore and Bintan Resorts (Bandar Bentan Telani). The service takes less than 1 hour and operates at least five times every day. Ferry bookings can be made online: www.brf.com.sg or by email reservations@brf.com.sg. The Tanah Merah ferry terminal in Singapore is 10 minutes from Changi International aiport or 30 minutes from the city centre.
Our main launch is a custom built 48ft boat, powered by 4 x 175 hp engines which can comfortably seat 30+ passengers and make the journey to Nikoi in less than 15 minutes. It will meet designated ferries from Singapore. Additional charges will apply if guests catch non-designated ferries and a slower boat may be used. In addition we have several other boats that will handle rougher seas if necessary. All of our boats have been built by local boat builders and specifically designed for the local conditions. The crew are well experienced and all of the boats are equipped with life vests, VHF radio and navigation equipment. The boat journey is approximately 10km and both Bintan Island and Nikoi Island are in view for the whole journey.
From Jakarta
There are daily flights from Jakarta to Bintan on Sriwijaya Air, Lion Air and Batavia Air. From the airport on Bintan it is a half hour car journey to Kawal and then a half hour boat trip to Nikoi.
Activities
Water Sports
Swimming/ snorkeling/ fishing/ kayaking/ windsurfing/ stand-up paddle boarding and sailing (we have 3 Lasers and 2 Nacras (a 5m catamaran)). All equipment is provided free of charge, except for the Nacras and advanced level windsurfing boards. There are tremendous opportunities to snorkel from the various beaches that surround the island. With prior arrangement experienced divers can explore both wrecks and outer reefs. Charges apply for the use of the diving equipment. We do not have a resident dive master but we can arrange one to come over from Singapore. The best time of year for snorkeling and diving is from March to November. We have a spectacular freshwater pool with an adjacent paddling pool for younger children.
Adventure
Rock climbing/mountain biking/ trekking/diving (reefs & wrecks) There are some exciting trails for walkers or mountain bikers to explore on Bintan and neighbouring islands.
Nature Based
There are plenty of opportunities to explore the island’s flora and fauna. At low tide the rock pools around the reef make a fascinating area to explore for both adults and children. Our staff will be happy to help you identify what you see.
Beach volleyball, Boule, Capture the Flag etc
A range of games is available upon request. For more active guests, members of staff are always keen for a friendly game.
Children
Children of all ages have a great time on Nikoi although the range of activities and the general layout of Nikoi is better suited for children over the age of 4. With smooth granite boulders to climb, jungle vines to swing on, white sandy beaches to comb, and stunning reefs to snorkel there is something for everyone. Pirate treasure hunts, local craft workshops, fishing, rockpool discovery. Our staff are always on hand to help entertain or help keep an eye on your children. There is even a dress up box filled with pirate and mermaid costumes.
Source: nikoi.com
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photos by novian (skyscrapercity.com)
