Lovina, which is situated approximately 10 kilo meters west of Singaraja, in Buleleng, north Bali became on of The Bali stopover for the yachts participating on the Sail Indonesia 2011 ( the Darwin from Singapore yachting rally) was at lovely Chief of Buleleng Regency Tourism office, Drs. Putu Tastra Wijaya MM. said that “ We are happy that the yachts have come to Lovina and hope they and their family and friends come back to North Bali and enjoy our spectacular nature and beautiful scenery.” He also said that supporting Sail Indonesia 2011 is an investment in the future and hope that it encourages more visitors to the region giving it a much needed economic boost and help creating the employment for young people. The local authorities really turn on the hospitality for the visiting yachties with welcome ceremonies, local tours, cooking classes, handicraft exhibitions and cultural displays. Over 75 yachts were safely anchored in the tranquil water of the Bali sea in an ideal setting of light wind, Calm Ocean, and mountain backdrop to inspire.
The consensus amongst yachties at the farewell dinner was that Lovina is a great place. The women skippers and crew members were especially delighted with the shopping. It was one of the firs chances since leaving Darwin to go bargain hunting. Clothes were very popular, as were the cooking classes and of course stocking up on the fresh fruit and vegetable galore from Singaraja market. One English couple were hanging out for some French cheese. Skipper Peter Benzinger from sv Peregrina said that after being at sea for a few months it was great to go into the hills around Lovina and see the volcanoes, lush green rice padis and wholesome food being grown and sold. He was also impressed with the respect of the people still have for ancestors, temples, traditional song and dance. And the enthusiasm by all to keep the tradition alive. Every where the went they got the call “Hallo Mister” and made to feel very welcome. He promised that all yachties had taken many photos of Lovina and would post them on the personal blogs, face book ect to what wonderful place Lovina is.
Singaraja is the preferred choice for yachties sailing through Indonesia as it lies directly on the favored in Indonesia cruising paths and is a fabulous place to visit and rest up. The local government has ideas to make Lovina an even better place to visit for yachties. Plans are afoot to build a modern marina that can handle up to 100 yachts or other vessels at one time. Some had said it could be built at Lovina while others lobby for Singaraja and link it with the old city to provide onshore support. Singaraja has been a destination for yachties for centuries and having been there and spoken to a lot of people has the potential to be a major modern sailing destination for years to come.
reference : Bali Advertiser
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