Wellenreng · Indonesia · 12D/11N
Explore the vibrant waters of Komodo National Park on this 12-day liveaboard journey, sailing to the iconic dive sites of both North and South Komodo. This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's diverse underwater landscapes, from the current-swept seamounts attracting pelagic life and schooling fish in the north, to the cooler, nutrient-rich waters further south, renowned for manta rays and unique macro subjects. Expect a dynamic range of diving, accommodating various skill levels with thrilling drifts and sheltered coral gardens alike. The route focuses on maximizing your exposure to the park's renowned biodiversity, including encounters with reef sharks, turtles, and an abundance of reef fish.
Labuan Bajo, Flores
Upon arrival at Labuan Bajo airport, you will be transferred to the harbor to board the vessel. After a welcome briefing and settling into your cabin, the boat begins its journey towards the park's central region for a calm overnight anchorage.
Central Komodo National Park
The day's diving begins in the central park area with check dives at protected sites to get comfortable with the conditions. These initial explorations focus on gentle sloping reefs teeming with invertebrates and colorful reef fish. A subsequent night dive may reveal nocturnal creatures like crustaceans and sleeping turtles.
Dive sites: Sebayur Kecil, Wainilu
North Komodo
The journey continues north to experience Komodo's famous currents. Dives are focused around underwater sea mounts and pinnacles which attract large schools of fish, including giant trevallies and snappers. These nutrient-rich currents often bring sightings of patrolling reef sharks and other pelagics.
Dive sites: Crystal Rock, Castle Rock
Gili Lawa Laut
Explore the dramatic underwater landscapes of the northern passage, known for some of the park's most exhilarating drift dives. Descend along steep walls and channels, using a reef hook to stay put and watch the action unfold. This area is a prime location for encountering eagle rays, schooling fusiliers, and large groupers hunting in the current.
Dive sites: The Cauldron (Shotgun), Batu Bolong, Golden Passage
Karang Makassar, Central Komodo
Today is dedicated to finding majestic manta rays at a renowned cleaning station and feeding ground. Divers drift over a rubble bottom, watching as these gentle giants gracefully circle and feed in the channel. The afternoon dive may focus on a nearby reef known for its healthy coral and turtle population.
Dive sites: Makassar Reef (Manta Point), Siaba Besar
Rinca Island & Padar Island
An early start allows for a land excursion on Rinca Island to see the legendary Komodo dragons with a park ranger. Afterwards, the boat begins its voyage south towards Padar Island. The afternoon includes a stunning hike to Padar's iconic viewpoint for sunset over the tri-colored beaches.
Good to know: Land excursion to see Komodo dragons and sunset hike on Padar Island.
Padar Island
Dive into the dramatic underwater topography surrounding Padar Island, known for its impressive rock formations and swim-throughs. The cooler water in this area supports a different array of life, including vibrant soft corals and unique nudibranchs. The challenging currents here often attract large predators.
Dive sites: Pillarsteen (Pillars of Padar), Three Sisters
Nusa Kode, South Rinca
Venture into the heart of the cool, nutrient-rich southern waters at Nusa Kode. Dives here are a macro photographer's dream, with sites offering a chance to find rare frogfish, ghost pipefish, and a huge diversity of sea slugs. The walls are blanketed in a kaleidoscope of soft corals and orange sea fans.
Dive sites: Cannibal Rock, Yellow Wall of Texas
Good to know: Water temperatures in the south can be significantly cooler, around 20-24°C.
South Komodo
Continue exploring the wild and remote southern end of the park. Dives are typically conducted on steep, colorful walls and in bays known for their unique macro life. These sites offer a feeling of true exploration, with high biodiversity and fewer boats around.
Dive sites: Torpedo Alley, Boulders
Central Komodo
The vessel sails north, returning to the warmer waters of the central park. Today's dives are on vibrant reefs known for their healthy hard coral gardens and resident turtle populations. These more relaxed drift dives are a perfect contrast to the intense southern sites.
Dive sites: Tatawa Besar, Tatawa Kecil
Near Labuan Bajo
Enjoy one or two final morning dives at one of the beautiful central reefs, soaking in the last moments underwater. In the afternoon, the crew will rinse equipment as the boat sails back towards Labuan Bajo, where you'll enjoy a final farewell dinner.
Dive sites: Siaba Kecil
Good to know: Fewer dives are planned to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before flying the next day.
Labuan Bajo, Flores
After a last breakfast onboard, you will bid farewell to the crew. A transfer will be provided to the Labuan Bajo airport for your flight home or to your next destination.