Mount Krakatoa Jr...almost (Kalinda - Sumatra, Indonesia)

For an updated version of this post, go here.

June 9^th, 2009 - Today I was to see Mount Krakatoa. Tens of thousands died when this bad boy erupted in 1883. It pretty much obliterated most of once was Krakatoa Island. Once thought dead it came back to life in 1927 and a new cone formed, Anak Krakatoa (Child of Krakatoa). I booked a ‘tour’ at my hotel but since I was the only person I got the small boat. You don't want the small boat.

And I do mean small. It is basically an out-rigger canoe with an engine. Three person capacity at most. They started pushing the boat into the water and I hopped in. We were about 15 feet from shore when we stopped and returned to land. Not sure why but the boat was no good. We had to use another. Maybe it had a leak. I didn’t ask. 

Quite an auspicious beginning. Boat number two was no bigger. While they prepared my yacht I snapped a few pics of some kids in the backyard of their school. Couldn't help but put a smile on my face.

I boarded boat number two and we were off. Ever been in canoe? Ever been in a canoe in the Indian Ocean? There is cause for concern. The boat was about as big a as my leg. Turning around to face the front of the boat was more difficult than it really should be when you find yourself in a boat at sea (That sort of rhymes). My biggest worry was my camera and the potential for water damage. I had it wrapped up well in my bag but this is of little consequence if waves start crashing over the edge.

It was a short trip. After about a half-hour of traveling at Mach 11 the engine began making a noise you don’t want the engine to make. The guide and the captain had a discussion. I picked up on the words ‘bad’ and ‘tomorrow’. That was all I needed to hear. The captain wanted to turn around and I was all for it. The thought of being stranded miles from shore on a hollowed out cigar was not appealing. I was just hoping we would make it back. We did. I was told the engine would be fixed tomorrow. Super. The trip set me back $60. A bit pricey for a boat better suited to a swimming pool but I do get free coffee. I’m going to see this volcano. I was assured the boat is safe. What more do I need? Welcome to Sumatra asshole.

This morning before our failed attempt I drove my hog to the captain’s home and waited for preparations to be made. While I sat in front of a small shop I was treated to what can only be described as Indonesian prom music. It was me, my guide, and three Sumatran’s sipping coffee and listening to the theme music for a high school ‘Enchantment Under the Sea’ dance. A baby chicken perched on my leg. Children stared at me with child-like wonder. The men did the same with my motorcycle. You have to love Indonesia.

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I went for another sunset drive....this time with my camera