Karimun Jawa, Java

We’ve visited Karimun Jawa twice now, once in each monsoon. It is a delightful little island. The first time we were holed up for nearly a fortnight at the anchorage in the south east. The shaft on the fresh water pump within our generator had snapped so we were unable to run the generator which is necessary for charging batteries and making water. As soon as we were in cell phone range we were onto the legendary Mr Lee in Kota Kinabalu, the Westerbeke dealer. He had our part at the airport that afternoon. It took another 10 days for DHL to get it to us… The anchorage was incredibly calm. One morning the water was so clear that we could see the coral with the forest above reflecting in it. We found some oysters growing on some rocks so did a little harvest and made chowder. Our inflatable flamingo “Flotilla” made her maiden appearance. She caused the local fisherman a bit of confusion with some paddling over to get a better look at her. The second visit was a bit more relaxed, no boat problems and water rations. We hired scooters every other day and explored the coast line. We met another cruising couple from Aus on their boat Angel and had good chats with them. One morning we were visited by all the heads of authority on the island. Harbour Master, Police, Navy & Coast Guard boarded the boat. We were worried when they asked for our CAIT (an obsolete cruising permit), but all was good – they looked over the ship’s papers then gathered for selfies with the Captain. At our favourite beach we met the man who was responsible for cleaning the beach and making free-form tree seating and swings there. He’d spent 2 months picking up garbage and the beach is looking really good now. He invited us to sit with him at the latest bench he was making and helped him determine how high to put the foot rest. Using a hooked machete, a hammer and some nails, and a bloody big smile.

Things to do ashore

* Please note: Have cash on you before arriving at Karimun Jawa. The only ATM we saw in town was master card only. Hiring a scooter is a great way to explore Karimun Jawa’s nooks and crannies. There are many little beaches to find. Most forms of accommodation offer scooter hire. 75K/day. Day tours – visit the outer islands, snorkel, have a beach bbq. Again all accommodation places offer tours. Take as part of a group or charter your own.

Beaches.

Many places to lay down your sarong and soak up the sunshine and sparkling water.

• Sunset Beach
• Anorra Beach Bar
• Blue Beach on the West coast. A little swimming beach which has some cafes nestled amongst the shade. Look for the two storey shack and have ikan bakar and a cold beer here.

We took the dinghy to Menjangan Island. It is a nice beach but nothing too special plus has a 25K landing fee per person.

Bukit Love or Love Hill Is a must do. Queue up for a selfie.

Eat and Drink

There are many places to eat in Karimun Jawa but none of real stand out quality that we found. Amore has a great location and surrounds. The beautiful restaurant building is located in large grounds, waterfront, meals are ok. Rumah Makan Karimun Jawa near the harbour is really nice though, we had breakfast regularly there. 25K each saw us with a large meal of nasi campur – local style buffet. Choose what you want, take the plate to the cashier and he’ll tally up what you’ve put on your plate. Eat and Meet is popular as it’s about the only place in town with Western Food. Pizza and burgers kind of thing of average quality. Sometimes the neighbouring mosque is so loud that you can’t enjoy a conversation here. Each night seafood is on offer at the town square. You choose your fish, haggle over the price and they cook it for you. Choose wisely though. Some fish for sale are undersized or shouldn’t be on offer.

Shopping

There are many little marts about the township. Fresh fruit and veges can be bought along ************* street. There was a market here but it seemed run down/closed when we visited. There is a petrol station by the ferry terminal. Beer can be bought from the Secret Man. He has a small supermarket near the green mosque.

Stay

For the best value for money in town check out Ayr Bungalows. Really nice and comfortable bungalows with private outdoor bathrooms. The hosts Eryl and Marco will look after you.