3D2N Sailing Komodo Living on Board Fiday to Sunday (Labuan Bajo)

Traveling to Indonesia and eager to explore the famous Komodo National Park? A liveaboard trip can be one of the most immersive ways to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 3-day, 2-night sailing adventure offers island hopping, snorkeling, and encounters with Komodo dragons—all while cruising on a traditional phinisi boat.

While it’s clear this tour receives high marks from most travelers, there are a few things to consider before booking. From the friendly guides and delicious onboard meals to the stunning scenery, you’ll get a taste of what makes this trip special—and where it might fall short.

Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience that combines adventure with comfort, this tour suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and vibrant marine life. If you’re okay with a group setting and are prepared for some early mornings, it could be your perfect escape.

Key Points

• Authentic island-hopping experience on a traditional phinisi boat
• Highlights include Komodo dragons, manta rays, pink beaches, and stunning sunsets
• All meals and snorkeling gear included, with options to upgrade or add private cabins
• Pick-up and drop-off at your Labuan Bajo hotel or airport for convenience
• Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious food, though some mention boat conditions and limited private options
• Best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed adventure and marine activities

The Experience in Detail

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is priced at $275 per person, offering good value considering what’s packed into these three days. The package includes meals, hot drinks, juice, water, transfers, and snorkeling gear, but note that entrance fees to Komodo National Park are not included—these are payable separately, with local travelers eligible for a discounted rate.

The tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly group vibe without feeling crowded. Boarding is from Labuan Bajo, where you’ll be picked up directly from your hotel or airport, making the start seamless.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1 kicks off around 9:30 am with a hotel or airport pickup, followed by a boat departure at 10 am. Your first stop is Kelor Island, where a trek offers panoramic views—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Around noon, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch aboard the boat before heading to see Komodo dragons on a short trek in the afternoon.

As the sun sets, you’ll visit Kalong Island to watch flying foxes at sunset—an experience that many find mesmerizing. Dinner is served onboard around 7 pm, with some free time afterward to relax and chat about the day.

Day 2 starts early with a wake-up call at 4:30 am for Padar Island—a popular spot for sunrise views. After ascending the rugged terrain, you’ll enjoy breakfast, then head to Pink Beach (Long Beach) for a swim among its unique sands. Later, snorkelers can explore Gusung Island and Taka Makassar, known for vibrant marine life.

The afternoon is dedicated to snorkeling with manta rays at Manta Point—an absolute highlight for marine enthusiasts. The day wraps with dinner and free time onboard.

Day 3 begins with another early wake-up at 4:30 am, this time at Kanawa Island for sunrise views. After breakfast, a final snorkeling session at the island allows you to enjoy colorful fish and corals. By late morning, you’ll return to Labuan Bajo harbor for disembarkation around noon.

The Vessel and Comfort

Travelers have shared mixed experiences regarding the boat. The standard shared cabin with AC is comfortable for most, and the all-inclusive meals are often praised as tasty and fresh. The crew supplies snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and towels, making the on-water experience convenient.

However, reviews have noted some discrepancies with boat images and conditions. One guest mentioned that the boat they boarded was different from the one pictured, and some felt the facilities could be improved. Still, many travelers find the boat comfortable enough for the trip’s duration and appreciate the overall atmosphere.

Guides, Food, and Marine Encounters

Guides like Nana Apri and others are consistently highlighted for their knowledge and friendliness. They help with wildlife spotting and making sure everyone is safe and comfortable during snorkeling. From reviews, you’ll find that local guides are a real asset, often going out of their way to enhance the experience.

Food on board is generally described as delicious and plentiful. Reviewers mentioned that the chef did a great job, even during busy days when many young travelers wanted more food. Expect seven meals during your trip, with plenty of fresh ingredients and tropical drinks.

Snorkeling is a major feature, and reviewers loved the chance to see manta rays, colorful fish, and corals. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, life jackets, and even drone/DSLR photo options adds value, especially for those wanting to document the trip.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Authentic sailing experience on a traditional Indonesian phinisi boat
• Varied itinerary with iconic stops like Pink Beach, Padar Island, and Komodo Dragon sightings
• Excellent guides and crew, many of whom are praised for their helpfulness
• Fresh, tasty meals served daily, often with special attention to dietary preferences
• Stunning scenery—sunsets, pink sands, and mountain vistas

Cons:

• Boat conditions may not match photos, and some travelers mention outdated facilities
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly
• Limited private options—most cabins are shared unless you upgrade
• Early mornings and long days are part of the adventure, which might not suit everyone

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who love wildlife, marine life, and outdoor adventure. It’s also a good pick if you’re comfortable on boats and enjoy meeting fellow travelers in a relaxed setting. Those looking for a cost-effective way to see key highlights of Komodo without sacrificing the experience will find this tour offers solid value.

However, if you prefer more privacy or upscale facilities, you might want to explore private upgrades or different cruise options. It’s also worth considering your stamina for early mornings and active days—this trip demands a bit of physical effort but rewards you with unforgettable sights.

Final Thoughts

This 3D2N sailing adventure offers a genuine taste of Komodo’s wild beauty, combining island visits, snorkeling with manta rays, and the chance to spot the legendary dragons. While some travelers have noted boat conditions could be improved, the overall experience, especially the guided wildlife encounters and delicious meals, tends to be highly valued.

It’s best suited for travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back adventure that balances nature, marine activities, and cultural encounters. If you’re prepared for early mornings and a group setting, this trip could be one of your most memorable Indonesia experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel or airport included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or the airport in Labuan Bajo, making the start of your trip easy and stress-free.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers all meals, snorkeling equipment, water, hot drinks, juice, towels, and transfer to and from the harbor. Entrance fees to Komodo National Park are separate.

Can I upgrade to a private cabin?
Yes, upgrades to a private cabin are available; contact the tour provider via email for details.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a balanced atmosphere of camaraderie and privacy.

Are snorkeling gear and activities suitable for beginners?
Most reviews suggest that snorkeling equipment is provided and the guides help with safety, making it suitable for beginners who are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a waterproof camera, and any personal essentials. Remember, early mornings are chilly, so layers are advisable.

In summary, this Komodo liveaboard tour offers a wonderful way to experience Indonesia’s famed national park on a traditional boat. With great guides, tasty food, and world-class sights, it’s a trip that balances adventure with comfort—perfect for those eager to see the dragons, snorkel with manta rays, and soak in unforgettable sunsets.