Sailing Avanti · video

What this video covers

Gerard and Jacqueline, crew of the sailing yacht Avanti, travel from Medan to Bukit Lawang, Sumatra, for a multi-day jungle trek to observe wild orangutans.0:24 The journey involves a four-hour drive through palm oil plantations followed by a two-day hike through dense forest terrain.0:32 The pair packs minimal gear, including mosquito repellent and clothing, while preparing to sleep on makeshift bedding in communal jungle camps.2:55 During the trek, they encounter five orangutans, including a semi-wild mother and her offspring, and observe a black siam ape.6:20 The guide explains that researchers estimate orangutan populations by counting their nests via satellite imagery, as the animals build new nests three to four times daily.7:42 The excursion concludes with a river descent back to Bukit Lawang using inflatable tubes, locally referred to as a jungle taxi.12:28 The crew plans to return to their vessel to prepare for an upcoming Indian Ocean crossing.16:25

More from Sailing Avanti

CIRCUMNAVIGATED - WE DID IT EP136Jan 2025WILD COAST sailing EP135Jan 2025Sailing from Richards Bay to Durban in December EP134Jan 2025Trying to leave Richardsbay EP133Dec 2024

From Sailing Avanti — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.