Glide across the mirror-still waters of Lake Sentani by private boat to Asei Island, where indigenous Sentani artists paint ancestral motifs onto pounded bark — a living art form found nowhere else on Earth.
What to expect
A private speedboat whisks you across Papua's largest lake, ringed by cloud-draped mountains, to the tiny island of Asei. You are welcomed into open-air studios where clan elders stretch, pound, and paint figures of crocodiles, birds of paradise, and ancestor spirits onto bark cloth. Your guide translates the stories behind each design as you watch — and participate if you wish. The boat ride back at golden hour, with the Cycloops Mountains reflected in the lake, is worth the journey alone.
Good to know
Lake Sentani is roughly 35 km from the port — allow 45 minutes each way by vehicle then 10 minutes by boat. Pre-book the private boat to guarantee departure time. Allow at least 4–5 hours total; well within a typical all-aboard window. Purchased bark paintings can be rolled and carried as hand luggage.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Jayapura — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.