3-Days Sailing Komodo Island,Padar & Manta Point departure every Friday

Imagine cruising through crystal-clear waters, spotting wild Komodo dragons up close, and soaking in breathtaking sunsets—all in just three days. That’s the promise of this popular sailing trip from Labuan Bajo, and based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s an experience that offers genuine adventure and natural beauty.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic wildlife encounters, particularly with Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. The beautiful stops like Padar Island and Pink Beach give travelers picture-perfect moments to treasure. We also appreciate the value for money—a price of $311 per person covers food, accommodation, guides, and activities, making it a well-rounded deal.

However, the trip does involve significant physical activity, especially trekking on Padar Island and swimming at Manta Point, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. If you’re craving a genuine, small-group adventure that combines wildlife, scenic landscapes, and culture, this sailing trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife experience with Komodo dragons in their natural environment
• Stunning scenic stops like Padar and Pink Beach with excellent photo opportunities
• Value-packed with all meals, guided tours, snorkeling gear, and accommodation included
• Small group atmosphere ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Physical activity required—trekking, swimming, and hiking are part of the adventure
• Weather-dependent itinerary means flexibility and potential schedule changes

An Overview of the Komodo Sailing Experience

This 3-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and relaxing beach time, all aboard a comfortable but basic boat. The experience is designed for travelers who want a taste of nature’s raw beauty in a manageable, organized format.

The trip departs every Friday from Labuan Bajo, a small but lively town on Flores Island, known as the gateway to Komodo National Park. The tour is priced at $311 per person, which includes most essentials—meals, accommodations, and guides—making it a practical choice for budget-conscious explorers who don’t want to compromise on the adventure.

What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on local guides and naturalist expertise. Reviewers repeatedly praised the guides for their knowledge about the wildlife, especially the Komodo dragons, and their helpfulness throughout the journey. One guest called the crew “tireless,” highlighting the effort put into making sure everyone has a memorable experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience Each Day

Day 1: Kelor Island, Manjarite Beach, and Kalong Island

Your adventure kicks off with a boat ride from Labuan Bajo and a visit to Kelor Island. Climbing to the top of Kelor offers a rewarding view, perfect for snapping some memorable photos. The climb is accessible and not overly strenuous, but it does require some stamina—adding to the sense of achievement once at the summit.

Next, you’ll head to Manjarite Beach for snorkeling. The clear waters and vibrant marine life make this an inviting stop, especially if you love underwater scenery. The review from a guest notes that the snorkeling gear provided made this activity easy and enjoyable.

In the evening, you’ll visit Kalong Island to watch the sunset among thousands of flying foxes. The sight of bats fluttering at dusk is an unforgettable spectacle, though it’s an experience that’s not included in the basic price—so be prepared for a small extra fee if you want to join.

Day 2: Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island, and Manta Point

Day 2 is the highlight for many: Padar Island. The hike to the top takes approximately 40-60 minutes and is best suited for those with decent fitness levels. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the islands’ iconic pink sands, lush green hills, and turquoise waters. Several travelers, including one who described themselves as needing “a healthy stamina,” found the climb very doable and worth every effort.

After the trek, you’ll relax at Pink Beach, famous for its striking pink-hued sands and excellent snorkeling. The shallow waters are teeming with marine life, creating a perfect setting for underwater photography and swimming.

The next stop is Komodo Island, where the main attraction is spotting Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. The guide’s insight into dragon behavior adds depth to what might otherwise be just a wildlife sighting, making it a truly immersive experience.

Later, snorkeling at Manta Point offers a chance to see these gentle giants glide through the water. Participants need to be comfortable swimmers, as this activity takes place in open ocean conditions. One reviewer appreciated how the snorkeling set and guidance made the experience accessible and enjoyable.

The day concludes at Taka Makassar Island, where white sandy beaches beckon for relaxation or casual exploration.

Day 3: Kanawa Island or Siaba Island

The final day starts with breakfast and a cruise to either Kanawa Island or Siaba Island—depending on the schedule. This stop provides an opportunity to snorkel or just unwind on the beach, soaking up the last of the island vibes.

After lunch, the boat heads back to Labuan Bajo, arriving around 13:00. The trip ends with transfers to your hotel or airport, just in time for your onward journey.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers a comprehensive package, covering most essentials. Included are pick-up/drop-off services within Labuan Bajo, snorkeling gear, guides, and meals—two breakfasts, two dinners, and three lunches—which reviewers frequently praised for being tasty and satisfying.

The comfort shared cabins with AC provide a decent resting place, with bunk beds suitable for 4-6 travelers. While the boat isn’t luxurious, it’s clean and functional, with facilities like sun decks, toilets, and safety equipment.

Extras like conservation fees for Komodo Island (~Rp750,000) are paid on-site, and tips are not included, so pack accordingly if you wish to tip the crew for their efforts.

Not Included:

• Flights to and from Labuan Bajo
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Optional excursions like Kalong Island sunset (not included in the base price)

The Real-World Experience: What Travelers Say

Two reviews highlight what makes this trip so appealing. One guest, Richard, mentioned, “Initially due to delays I was dubious but that changed quickly as the wonderful crew worked tirelessly to provide great food and a succession of amazing experiences.” This underscores the importance of flexibility and the crew’s dedication.

Celinabebot shared, “The boat is basic but very decent and clean, the local food was amazing, and the crew were helpful & friendly.” The emphasis on authentic, home-cooked meals and helpful guides shows that comfort isn’t sacrificed for adventure.

Many travelers appreciate the small group size—12 to 20 people—which fosters camaraderie and allows for personalized attention, even if some logistical aspects like the schedule can shift due to weather.

Practical Considerations & Tips for Travelers

• Physical fitness is important, especially for the Padar Island hike and snorkeling at Manta Point.
• The tour departs only on Fridays, so plan to arrive in Labuan Bajo at least one night prior.
• Weather can influence the schedule—activities may be moved or canceled if conditions aren’t safe.
• The conservation fee must be paid on-site, so bring cash in Indonesian rupiah.
• The shared cabins mean you’ll be bunking with fellow travelers—perfect for socializing but not ideal if you prefer privacy.
• No vegetarian or special menu requests are available, so plan meals accordingly.
• The tour is suited for ages 10 to 55, so families with younger children or older travelers should consider their fitness levels.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This sailing trip offers a fantastic way to see some of Indonesia’s most iconic sights in a short timeframe. Its focus on wildlife—particularly the chance to observe Komodo dragons in their natural habitat—makes it ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The value for money is attractive when you consider the included meals, accommodation, guides, and activities. The small group setting ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience, which many travelers will appreciate.

While the basic boat amenities and physical activity requirements mean it’s not suited for luxury travelers or those seeking a very relaxed pace, it provides a genuine, hands-on adventure that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Overall, if you’re eager for a blend of wildlife, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences on a well-organized schedule, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off services are offered within Labuan Bajo city or the Komodo airport area.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
Snorkeling sets (mask & snorkel) are provided, but it’s good to bring your own if you have preferences. Also, bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a towel for comfort.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years and the maximum is 55 years. The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Can I request vegetarian meals?
No, vegetarian menus or special requests are not available on this tour.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in shared cabins with air conditioning, bunk beds suitable for 4-6 travelers. The cabins are basic but clean and functional.

How is the weather?
The itinerary depends heavily on weather conditions. Activities may be altered or canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size fosters socializing, making it perfect for solo explorers looking to meet like-minded adventurers.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 10 days in advance. The tour departs only on Fridays, so plan your arrival in Labuan Bajo accordingly.

Can I extend my stay in Labuan Bajo?
Yes, since the tour ends early afternoon on Sunday, it’s recommended to stay overnight in Labuan Bajo to explore more or catch your flight comfortably.

This sailing trip around Komodo offers a rich mix of wildlife, scenic highlights, and cultural authenticity, making it a standout choice for those wanting an active yet rewarding adventure.