After receiving our Indonesian work visas in Timor Leste after 7 trips to the embassy, we sailed into Kupang on the western side of Timor Island. The check in process was easy and took about 4 hours. The best part was the 9 officials that came aboard to check out or vessel and make sure we weren’t smuggling in anything illegal. They were the most welcoming officials in all the countries we’ve visited to date. After spending a few days in Kupang, we left for Rote. We planned for an overnight passage to arrive at the reef cut at the sunrise the following morning. About 2 hours into our journey, we came across a boat drifting in the middle of the ocean with its anchor our, sails ripped to shreds, and looking like no one was aboard. After hailing the other boat on the radio, the 70 year old solo sailor answered and listed a few other problems including his dinghy tow line was wrapped around his prop, making his ability to use his motor impossible. We offered to tow him back to Kupang, repaying the debt forward when we were towed back in Mexico, and he tossed us a line. Bashing back against the swell and current, it took a few mores hours than planned. We got him back to port and helped set his anchor, called the officials, and a local mechanic to come out to his boat and check him into the country and start fixing his boat. Then we restarted our trip to Rote, arriving the following afternoon. We also had a few items to drop off to other cruisers, so we met Brian and had a surf with him the following morning. After chatting about the Waves For Water filters we wanted to distribute, he called his wife that worked for the district chief. Within minutes, we had a demonstration and distribution meeting set up with 7 of the 9 village chiefs. We showed them how to set up the filters, how to back flush them, and how they work. Each village received 2 filters that can filter a million gallons each. They were so appreciative of the filters and expressed their thanks many times. Then we were able to drive out to the other 2 village chiefs to distribute the filters in person. It was a very humbling experience for all of us. We were grateful to all our friends that donated filters for us to pass out. The filters do make a difference. They couldn’t believe that a Bule (white guy) would drink their well water without boiling it. I think that sold them on the effectiveness of the filters. Soon we were sailing our way to Rinca Island in the Komodo National Park. Had the anchorage all to ourselves and saw a dragon while walking along the beach. Experienced some of the best diving and snorkeling in Indonesia. We plan to go back to visit the area again in December before the government closes it down to visitors. Pictures below.