BEIJING,CHINA - Media OutReach -August 17, 2018 - September is anexciting time for AYANA Hotels asthey launch the first and only 5-star resort on the island of Flores. Alongsidethe spectacular 205 bedroom resort, the group will set sail to the world'slargest specially built Phinisi, AYANALako di'a. 

Ayana Lako di'a

The impressive 54-meter Phinisi hails a new standard in luxury travel. With 9 uber luxurious bedrooms -- includinga master suite with private deck, plus exquisite lounging and dining areas,guests can experience the wonders of the Komodo Islands from 1,100 squaremeters of premium space.

And, if the introduction of AYANA's first phinisi wasn't excitingenough, the group will launch an additional fleet of water vessels. A glassbottom boat (Lako Taka), speedboat (Lako Cama), catamaran, and a bespoke, specially built 2nd phinisi (LakoSa'e) will soon be on the seafaring scene for daily trips and group functions.AYANA will be the pioneer in the crystal waters of Komodo, offering fashionabledive spots and the best seascape experiences while raising awareness to theimportance of protecting our oceans and underwater wildlife.  

AYANA istaking aqua life seriously, and behind the sails you will find the group's newCruise Director, Thomas Demesmaker and Operational Manager, Ricardo Ferreira.AYANA's new duo present a wealth of expert knowledge coupled with on andoff-board practical experience.

Thomas Demesmaker, Cruise Director

Thomas, whose background includes thirteen years in the Maldivesspecializing in operational and cruise director roles for liveaboard vessels, will be at the helm of AYANALako di'a. His love and understanding of the ocean and operations promise tocreate a unique 5-star sailing experience like no other. Thomas' role willinclude being at the heart of all touch-points to ensure a fully personalizedservice that extends from all onboard operations to managing passengers'welfare and comfort, and creating a once-in-a-lifetime guest experiences. Withthe support of his crew, including an onboard chef,guests will have an expert team to present spellbinding dining optionsalongside mesmerizing on-land and aqua activities, plus underwater excursionsto the world's best dive spots.

Thomas has an unparalleled passion for protecting our preciousecosystems, and as such, has been the driving force behind the introduction ofkey eco-friendly practices for the luxury liner and new resort. 

Hailing from Portugal, Ricardo was born close to the ocean and remains zealous about diving and marine life. Hisvast operational experiences propelled him from St. Maarten and Mozambique toleading a dive center, marine biology center, numerous boats, and extensivewater activities on a private island in the Maldives. Ricardo will head theoperations of all daily excursions and water activities including kayaking,SUP, fishing, diving and snorkeling, and the additional leisure boats for theLako di'a fleet at AYANA Komodo Resort,Waecicu Beach.

Launching September 2018, AYANA will be bringing an excitingprogram of 'stay and set sail' opportunities for AYANA's global travelcommunity. Due to the exclusivity aboard AYANA Lako di'a and the resort'sadditional fleet of water vessels, guests are invited to pre-book their2018/2019 reservation to ensure availability of on land and aqua activities oftheir choice. Guests may choose from day-tripping adventures as well as one,two and three night voyages to explore prodigious landmarks such as the UNESCOWorld Heritage site, Komodo National Park. The Park comprises of Komodo Island,Rinca, and Padar, plus 26 smaller islands. This global conservation priorityarea protects unparalleled terrestrial and marine ecosystems including thefamous Komodo Dragon -- the world's largest species of lizard, which cannot befound anywhere else on earth.

To find out more about the opening of AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach and AYANA Lako di'a follow @ayanakomodoor visit ayanakomodo.com

*Cruising is subject to weatherconditions.

Introducing AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach

Opening 15 September 2018, AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach will be the only five-star resort on exquisite Labuan Bajo, Flores Island, easily reached via a scenic one-hour flight from Bali. With Komodo National Park, a UNESCO heritage site renowned for stunning marine diversity and native Komodo dragons, surrounding the resort to provide an unparalleled natural playground, the resort will be appointed with 13 suites and 192 premium guest rooms, as well as AYANA Lako di'a, a 9-bedroom traditional Phinisi sailing yacht, 6 international restaurants, a private pier, and 3 swimming pools.