Savu South Alor
Experience this unique resort in Alor and enjoy pristine and untouched reefs, look out for whales & dolphins as you completely immerse in an unrivaled oceanic world. To ensure and strengthen the protection of this blue garden of Eden SAVU is deeply and actively involved in local marine conservation projects.
Surrounded by sheer natural beauty of white sands, volcanic rock and turquoise waters, SAVU, this barefoot luxury resort in Alor, will become your home-away-from-home. Powered by the sun and self-sufficient through its own permaculture farm and deep wells, it is a place where rugged luxury meets pure nature. Your footprints will be the only traces left behind on our white sandy beach. This stunning dive resort in Alor is miles away from civilization, since the very beginning SAVU South Alor has been fully solar-powered and is almost entirely self-sufficient with its own deep wells and large organic food farm following permaculture principles. Being independent on many levels allows us to combine the “off-the beaten track” feeling with modern comforts and amenities in a sustainable way.
The resort is situated inside the Pantar Strait Marine Protected Area and in viewing distance of the Savu Sea National Park which is home to 21 cetacean species including the rare blue whale, sperm whale and multiple oceanic dolphin species. Observations made from the land base are not a rarity. When the resort’s Swiss cow bell rings, it means that a big blue is just passing SAVU in viewing distance on its migration route – either heading north into the Banda Sea or down south towards Antartica.
Welcome to the beautiful Alor resort. The seven spacious and private rooms are harmoniously embedded in the natural surroundings and generously distributed over the beach and cliff areas of the resort. The rooms all feature natural and traditional design elements and the materials are all sourced locally and even on-site. The five Beach Cottages are located at the swimming beach to the south of the Central Guest Area, while the two Cliff Villas are perched on top of the elevated bluff to the north, both with own private plunge pools. All seven rooms have a panoramic view of the Savu Sea.
Beach Cottage
Relax on your ‘bale’ and listen to the waves crashing softly in the distance, with the beach at your fingertips. Welcome to our Alor dive resort – your stately beach hideaway. Spacious and grand, each of our one-bedroom cottages features a queen-sized bed, a daybed and a desk. There are breathtaking and unimpeded views over the ocean from the bedroom as well as the en-suite bathroom. Outside you will find your own private ‘bale’ with an outdoor shower nestled in your lush tropical garden. Down on the beach two sunbeds with parasols complete the scene. Each cottage in our resort has been carefully situated in harmony with the natural vegetation, ensuring privacy as well as ocean views – ideal for those who love the beach, fine sand and the sound of the waves lapping on the shoreline.
Cliff Villas
Dramatic views. Black volcanic rock peaks rising out of the turquoise water while you quietly watch the sun go down behind the neighboring island. Welcome to our Alor dive resort – your own dreamscape where you will want for nothing.
Perched at the highest point of our resort, each of the Cliff Villas features an exquisitely appointed master bedroom that opens out onto a deck with sunbeds and an upholstered ‘bale’ next to a private plunge pool. It is the perfect vantage point to watch schools of dolphins or whales passing by and to take in the vibrant Indonesian sunsets. Ideal for couples looking for a sense of privacy with the perfect amount of space.
Scuba Diving
Take a glimpse from the surface and then slowly descend into the colourful world of the Savu Sea. Let yourself be transported by the gentle currents alongside steep walls. Totally immerse yourself in this silent world. The speedboats take you to the most pristine and untouched coral reefs of South Alor, which lies in the heart of the Coral Triangle. In small groups you will discover the abundant marine life that ranges from small and most fascinating bottom dwelling creatures to large pelagic fish and marine mammals.
Study the black sand looking for unique critters or dive through overhangs, discover volcanic caves and encounter beautiful panoramas of dense coral, anemone and sponge coverage in vibrant colors. Would a whale or dolphin sighting add the final touch to your dive experience? They might await you above and below the surface!
Snorkel
Hover above the most pristine coral reefs. Listen to the waves crashing onto the rocks. Watch the colorful fish hunting for prey. Immerse yourself in another world. The team will take you out with our luxurious catamaran to the most beautiful shallow coral reefs of South Alor. The experienced snorkel guides will brief you about the marine life and point out colorful reef fish, vibrant corals, nudibranchs, and turtles among others. Before and after your snorkel you can relax on our sundeck or enjoy a refreshing beverage and snack under our roof shade. If we spot a mega-pod of dolphins, our captain will slowly and carefully approach and give you the opportunity to become closely acquainted with them. Snorkeling with our experienced team on our wonderful catamaran is an experience like no other.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
You hear a blow. The catamaran slowly drifts in. You find yourself eye to eye with this majestic creature. It is your first whale encounter. On our comfortable and stable 48ft catamaran we take you out into the Savu Sea on ‘whale patrol’: spotting cetaceans such as blue whales, sperm whales, melon-headed whales, bottle nose or spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Our experienced team is specially trained and knows exactly how to look out for them and once spotted how to approach these fascinating creatures. You may choose to relax on the sun deck or under the shady roof and wait until we call out the first sighting. Following our code of conduct to ensure safety and comfort for the animals as well as ourselves, you might even be able to experience in-water encounters that will definitely leave you with an unforgettable unique adventure. Pods of dolphins can be seen the whole year round while whale sightings are more based on, but not limited to seasonal patterns. Often you can also spot dolphins and whales from your own terrace with the binoculars we provide. Are you still waiting for your first whale encounter? It might be your time at SAVU.
Spa
High above the ground, far away from stress and distraction, our Cliff Spa is an experience not to be missed. Perched above the breaking waves of the Savu Sea, the balmy breeze caresses your skin. It is a place of peace and gentleness. Escape in an extraordinary setting and spoil yourself with a traditional massage or a reflexology treatment at the Cliff Spa.