Looking for a Sumatran surf adventure at well under half the price of a regular surf charter? The Yak Explorer will take you straight to the best breaks in the uncrowded Banyak islands, a little slice of paradise off the western coast of Sumatra. Local skipper Deny has unparalleled knowledge of the islands and surrounding waters and takes great pleasure in showing off its world-class waves, unspoilt coral reefs and deserted island beaches. ​The region is still entirely undeveloped. If you have a sense of adventure and a disregard for luxury comforts, we’d love to welcome you aboard. Indonesia has been a surfer’s mecca for decades, and the crowds prove it. Paddling for a barrel at world-class breaks like G-land or the Mentawai’s can be a hustle at the best of times.

But Indo is vast, and if you have a bit of time, you can still have perfect barrels almost all to yourself. The Banyak Islands is an archipelago of 99 islands. Only seven of these are inhabited and some are tiny enough to hold just a couple of swaying palm trees. A quintessential picture-postcard island paradise, unspoilt by throngs of tourists or commercial development. To the south you’ll find Nias, with its famous Sorake beach break, and further south still the Mentawais. To the north lies the lesser-known island of Simeulue, in itself a magnet for surfers looking to beat the crowds.  When the waves are cranking you’ll be surfing your pick of six world-class breaks, not to mention finding more off the map when the size/swell direction is right. The snorkelling in the Banyaks will blow your mind with clear water and a healthy diversity of fish, turtles and other marine life. Paddle board off the line-up at sunset, or if fishing is your thing, try your hand at local-style fishing or go after the big guys with your own equipment. Cook up a meal on the beach, Robinson Crusoe-style, if you like, or have our guys prepare it for you. At night there are no bars or restaurants. It's Bintangs and going over the day's spoils, or just doing nothing and letting the islands themselves inspire your thoughts.