Embarking on a liveaboard in Komodo is a breathtaking way to experience everything the has to offer.
With pristine coral reefs, exhilarating drift dives, and pelagics such as manta rays, white tips, and giant trevally, it’s easy to understand why Komodo National Park is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world.
However, due to the geography and remote location of Komodo, a liveaboard is one of the best ways to experience everything Komodo has to offer, all from the comfort of a yacht.
There are so many different companies that offer trips to Komodo’s waters, that it can be tricky to determine what the best Komodo liveaboard is for you.
As a liveaboard cruise director working on a liveaboard in Komodo, I’ve learned everything there is to know about picking your dream Komodo liveaboard.
I’ve narrowed down the option for you to choose from to just five options, as well as stating what dive sites and types of divers each is best for.
During the selection process, I focused on important factors such as:
- Vessel amenities and comfort for a relaxing stay
- Dive deck facilities and equipment for optimal diving experiences
- Itinerary variety and flexibility to explore the best dive sites
- Experienced dive guides and crew for personalized service
- Safety measures and emergency protocols
- Customer reviews and recommendations
- And much more!
Below, I’ll review each liveaboard in detail, and then jump into an overview of all the dive sites and routes Komodo has to offer, followed by answering frequently asked questions surrounding the national park.
Without further ado, let’s get right into the best liveaboards in Komodo!
Table of Contents
At OtterAquatics, our ultimate goal is to help you book your dream liveaboard. We’ve assembled a team of PADI, SSI, and Molchanovs instructors, as well as liveaboard cruise directors to research all available options.
How We Pick
In order to create our best liveaboard lists, the OtterAquatics team starts off by researching the liveaboard landscape for a particular region of world, listing out all of the highest-rated choices.
Unfortunately it’s not possible to go on every single liveaboard, but we go on the ones we can.
Next, we identify 3-5 liveaboards per region that are distinct best choices for different scenarios. For example, on a list, we may suggest budget options, luxury options, or a liveaboard that exclusively hits a certain dive site.
How We Review
The OtterAquatics team reviews the liveaboards on our lists by researching information on liveaboard booking websites, review websites, and our social media communities of divers.
We also contact each liveaboard mentioned on our lists ensuring the information is accurate.
Our Team of Writers
Want to learn more about who our writers are? Head over to the OtterAquatics About Page.
At OtterAquatics, our ultimate goal is to help you book your dream liveaboard. We’ve assembled a team of PADI, SSI, and Molchanovs instructors, as well as liveaboard cruise directors to research all available options.
How We Pick
In order to create our best liveaboard lists, the OtterAquatics team starts off by researching the liveaboard landscape for a particular region of world, listing out all of the highest-rated choices.
Unfortunately it’s not possible to go on every single liveaboard, but we go on the ones we can.
Next, we identify 3-5 liveaboards per region that are distinct best choices for different scenarios. For example, on a list, we may suggest budget options, luxury options, or a liveaboard that exclusively hits a certain dive site.
How We Review
The OtterAquatics team reviews the liveaboards on our lists by researching information on liveaboard booking websites, review websites, and our social media communities of divers.
We also contact each liveaboard mentioned on our lists ensuring the information is accurate.
Our Team of Writers
Want to learn more about who our writers are? Head over to the OtterAquatics About Page.
Why Do A Liveaboard In Komodo National Park?
You might be thinking, “Can’t I just dive Komodo on a day trip?” and you can. But trust us, a liveaboard in Komodo is well worth the extra expense for the ease of it and what you can see.
There are a few reasons why Komodo National Park is approximately 1.5 hours from Labuan Bajo. This is the starting point for most liveaboard trips and sailboats, heading out into the park. On a liveaboard, you do not need to travel back and forth every day, and with strong currents that often arise it is easy to get picked up.
Some liveaboards have up to four or even five dives a day depending on which liveaboard you choose. This means you get more diving for your money and can do night dives and morning dives which you would not be able to do on a day trip.
Beat The Crowds
You’re already in the water long before the day trip boats arrive with hundreds of divers. During high season, this can really make a difference. This lets you see more wildlife as many divers just scare away some wildlife, even if they don’t mean to. It is also safer as fewer boats mean less chance of an accident happening.
Dive At Night In Komodo National Park
A liveaboard is the only way to experience the magic of diving in Komodo via a night dive. This could mean a dusk or dawn dive. Early morning dives are quite special as you usually get in the water when it is dark and the sunrises as you are getting out of the water.
Even with pretty stable water temperatures year round the water can drop a bit at night and after multiple dives, make sure to have a warm wetsuit and extra layers.
Reach More Dive Sites
It is a huge area that and some sites are just too far from Labuan Bajo to be accessed on a day trip. A liveaboard is the only way to get to all the different dive sites. Liveaboards often have one or two zodiacs to get the even harder to reach sites. While you are sleeping the boat can travel to your next destination and when you arise you are already there.
Dive Sites At The Optimal Time
As with all dive sites, diving in Komodo is dictated by the currents and tides which are detected by the dry season and rainy season. Certain sites can only be dived on a specific tide. These currents can change rapidly and they can get going extremely fast so you want to have the option to change locations for your enjoyment and safety.
A liveaboard can be much more flexible to hit all the best sites at exactly the right time and your dive guide/ dive master to show you all the sites safely. Whereas a day boat may have to skip these sites as its time schedule is more fixed.
A Komodo Liveaboard Is Easily Accessible
A liveaboard in Komodo is a much more affordable option to Raja Ampat and some of the world’s other top diving spots. While other places will be quite pricey Komodo is affordable in comparison and still is one of the most sought-after diving destinations in the world.
This goes for the cost of the liveaboard itself, getting there and getting around Indonesia. With several short flights a day from Denpasar, Bali direct to Labuan Bajo on Flores island, it is quick and relatively cheap to access. Indonesia is also very cheap by western standards and you can live comfortably on as little as $40 USD a day.
Best Liveaboards In Komodo
Whether you’re on a super tight budget or looking to treat yourself to some luxury cruising, there’s a Komodo liveaboard for you.
Sokarja
- Delicious food
- Great value for money
- Highly attentive & friendly crew
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Comfortable communal areas
- No Wi-Fi
- Small cabins
If you’re on the hunt for an affordable Komodo liveaboard that doesn’t skimp on stunning diving experiences, look no further than Sokaraja. This traditional phinisi boat is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore the Indonesian waters without breaking the bank.
Accommodations on Sokaraja are cozy and comfortable, with options for both shared and private cabins. Choose from a single bunk in a spacious 6-bed dorm, complete with individual lights and power sockets, or opt for one of the 2 private double-bed cabins. While the bathrooms are shared, with two toilets and three freshwater showers for all guests, rest assured that all rooms are equipped with air conditioners for a comfortable stay. Plus, the partly covered deck provides a relaxing space to unwind, and you can even take a dip in the jacuzzi to cool off after a day of diving.
One of the highlights of Sokaraja is the delicious Indonesian cuisine that is freshly prepared and served buffet style in the open-air dining area, offering stunning views of the dramatic Indonesian landscape. The top deck provides ample sunny and shady spots, perfect for lounging in-between dives or stargazing in the evening.
Aside from its affordability, Sokaraja also stands out for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. The boat operates in areas where conservation efforts are prioritized, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers who want to support responsible tourism practices.
With 4 or 7-day trips, Sokaraja offers an intimate and value-packed experience for those looking to cruise Komodo on a budget. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning underwater world of Komodo National Park with Sokaraja, where affordability meets adventure and sustainability.
Liveaboard Specs:
- Max number of Guests/ Divers: 10 guests/ divers
- Number of Dives: Up to 4 dives per day
- Number of cabins: 5 cabins
- Trip Length: 4 to 7 nights
- Wifi: No
- Nitrox: Available for an additional fee Drinks: Complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
- Onshore Excursions: Visits to Komodo National Park and other nearby islands,
- Route/ Itinerary: Generally includes diving in Komodo National Park, including the famous Manta Alley, Cannibal Rock, and other popular dive sites.
- Camera Station: Yes, there is a camera station with charging stations and rinse tanks.
- Port: Labuan Bajo, Flores
Moana
- Luxury at an affordable price
- Exceptionally comfortable cabins
- Delicious freshly prepared & locally sourced food
- Beautiful designed & spacious interiors
- Non-diving activities
- Nitrox not available
The Moana liveaboard is a traditional Indonesian sailing vessel that offers modern conveniences, safety features, and the comforts that every diver looks for in a liveaboard. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Komodo National Park both above and below the surface.
The Moana offers five spacious cabins, with three doubles and two twins, each equipped with private hot-water bathrooms, individually controlled air-conditioning, and plenty of storage space. If you prefer to sleep under the stars, crew members will happily provide you with mattresses and blankets to create the ultimate liveaboard experience.
The Moana’s chefs pride themselves on sourcing and preparing the freshest cuisine for guests. With organic produce from the foothills of Labuan Bajo, fresh fish from the local market, and fine-quality meat flown in from Bali, you’ll enjoy delicious meals that are perfectly suited for your diving escapades.
The Moana also provides plenty of non-diving adventures to keep you entertained during your stay. You can choose from kayaking, snorkeling, and land trips to explore the beautiful surroundings. There are 50 different dive sites to choose from, and the Moana has areas suitable for every level of diving experience, from open water to professional divers.
The Moana liveaboard is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Komodo National Park. With a knowledgeable and experienced crew, delicious cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an experienced diver or simply looking for a unique and exciting adventure, the Moana liveaboard Indonesia is the perfect choice.
Liveaboard Specs:
- Max number of Guests/ Divers: 10 guests/ divers
- Number of Dives: Up to 4 dives per day
- Number of cabins: 5 cabins
- Trip Length: 7 to 10 nights
- Wifi: Yes, free onboard wifi
- Nitrox: Available for an additional fee
- Drinks: Complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
- Port: Labuan Bajo, Flores
- Onshore Excursions: Visits to Komodo National Park and other nearby islands
- Route/ Itinerary: The itinerary varies depending on the length of the trip
- Camera Station: Yes
Indo Aggressor
- Comfortable & spacious
- Excellent food & service
- Highly professional crew
- No WiFi
The Indo Aggressor Liveaboard is a luxury diving vessel offering a world-class dive experience for divers exploring Indonesia. Coming in at over 120 ft (37 meters), the Indo Aggressor was designed for comfort and convenience. There is at least 14 crew so it is almost a 1-to-1 ratio and they can help you with anything you may need.
This ship has eight air-conditioned staterooms, with private bathrooms, flat-screen TV, and lots of storage space. The spacious cabins provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere to unwind after a day of diving.
The dining area is a comfortable area to enjoy delicious meals inside or you can go out on the sundeck in the shade and enoy the views. The cuisine on the Indo Aggressor combines Western and Indonesian dishes, with a focus on the use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
The diving on the Indo Aggressor is exceptional, with access to some of the best diving sites in Indonesia and the world. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art diving equipment, which includes Nitrox, and features a spacious dive deck with space for all your gear and camera equipment. The seasoned crew is experienced and knowledgeable, providing guests with a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
This liveaboard is an excellent choice for divers who want to experience the best of Indonesia’s underwater world. The comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and exceptional diving are a must-try for diving enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience.
Liveaboard Specs:
- Max number of Guests/ Divers: 16 guests/ divers
- Number of Dives: Up to 4 dives per day
- Number of cabins: 10 cabins
- Trip Length: 7, 10, or 11 nights
- Wifi: Yes, free onboard wifi
- Nitrox: Available for an additional fee
- Drinks: Complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
- Port: Sorong, West Papua
- Onshore Excursions: Visits to Raja Ampat and other nearby islands
- Route/ Itinerary: The itinerary varies depending on the length of the trip, but generally includes diving in Raja Ampat, including the famous Misool area, as well as other popular dive sites in the region.
- Camera Station: Yes
Adelaar
- Unrivaled facilities & hospitality
- Fine dining
- Elegantly designed & spacious cabins
- Small groups
- Highly attentive staff
- Quite pricey
The Adelaar Liveaboard is a luxurious vessel that offers exceptional diving and snorkeling experiences in Indonesia. The boat is equipped with four double staterooms, each with a private balcony and en-suite bathroom.
The 10-person staff is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. The Balinese chef onboard prepares local specialties and global cuisine for you to indulge in, while you relax on plush couches or chairs in the opulent lounge area. The Adelaar also offers an extensive wine list with many choices from around the world, as well as local beers on tap.
The crew of the Adelaar Liveaboard is highly trained and professional, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable time during your trip. You will feel like royalty from the moment you step aboard. The diving and snorkeling opportunities are exceptional, without the crowds that often come with other popular diving destinations. You can explore each site at your own pace and enjoy the stunning views from above and below the water. You could even catch a glimpse of some whales during your dives.
The Adelaar Liveaboard is an unforgettable boat that offers both luxury and adventure. Whether you are a seasoned diver or just looking to explore the natural beauty of Indonesia, this is an excellent choice for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Liveaboard Specs:
- Max number of Guests/ Divers: 8 guests/ divers
- Number of Dives: Up to 4 dives per day
- Number of cabins: 4 cabins
- Trip Length: 10 or 11 nights
- Wifi: Yes, free onboard wifi
- Nitrox: Available for an additional fee
- Drinks: Complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
- Port: Sorong, West Papua
- Onshore Excursions: Raja Ampat and other nearby islands
- Route/ Itinerary: Usually includes diving in Raja Ampat, including the famous Misool area.
- Camera Station: Yes
Blue Manta
- Largest cabins of all the Komodo liveaboards
- Dedicated camera room
- Incredibly comfortable & spacious
- Onboard spa
- Pay for WiFi available
- Expensive
- Bigger groups
The Blue Manta, is a purpose-built luxury dive ship that offers the ultimate diving adventure. With 14 spacious cabins, modern amenities, and personalized customer service. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a truly exceptional liveaboard experience.
You can chill out in the air-conditioned lounge, enjoy a drink at the bar, and take advantage of the dedicated camera room to look at your photos fro that day’s dives. The cabins are designed to ensure maximum comfort and privacy, making it easy to unwind after a day of diving.
The crew will take you to some of the most stunning locations in Indonesia, where you can explore underwater landscapes. The diving equipment is top-of-the-line, and the experienced diving instructors and guides will make sure that you are safe and enjoy yourself.
The gourmet dining options are also a highlight of the experience. With three chefs on board and five mouth-watering meals per day, you’ll never go hungry. The chefs use fresh ingredients and innovative techniques to create a variety of delicious dishes, and snacks are available 24/7.
The Blue Manta liveaboard is the ultimate choice for anyone seeking diving adventures in Indonesia. With its spacious cabins, modern amenities, unparalleled diving experience, gourmet dining options, and personalized customer service, the Blue Manta offers a truly exceptional liveaboard experience that is sure to exceed your expectations.
Liveaboard Specs:
- Max number of Guests/ Divers: 22 guests/ 18 divers
- Number of Dives: Up to 4 dives per day
- Number of cabins: 14 cabins (12 Deluxe and 2 Master)
- Trip Length: 5 to 14 nights
- Wifi: Yes, free of charge (but connection may be limited in some remote areas)
- Nitrox: Available for an additional fee
- Drinks: Complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
- Port: Depends on the itinerary
- Onshore Excursions: Visits to national parks, villages
- Route/ Itinerary: Varies depending on the length of the trip and the season.
- Camera Station: Yes, there is a dedicated camera room.
When Is The Best Time For A Liveaboard In Komodo?
Liveaboard trips in Komodo National Park run all year round. There are two main seasons though, wet seasons and dry seasons. But no matter the time of the year each offers the opportunity to visit different areas of the park:
DRY SEASON IN KOMODO: APRIL TO OCTOBER
During the dry season, liveaboards will visit the north of Komodo National Park, famous for strong currents and passing pelagics like Eagle rays and whale sharks. Over the wet season, this area is exposed to strong wind and waves making it unsuitable for liveaboard trips, well you could go, but it would not be enjoyable.
July and August are considered peak seasons in Komodo, offering the best weather. But, it will be the most people and the prices and the number of liveaboards will also peak during these months.
WET SEASON IN KOMODO: NOVEMBER TO MARCH
Liveaboard trips will head to the south of Komodo National Park during the rainy season. The southern sites are particularly famous for their wide array of macro critters like pygmy seahorses, and nudibranchs.
Opposite to the north, this area is best visited between November and March when the seas are calm and visibility is at its finest. The only downside is that the weather can be unpredictable during these months but the park is much less crowded. Plus you can find some amazing deals on liveaboards.
The wet season also coincides with the manta season which is a big draw for most people. Just make sure to bring your seasick medication for manta point. The best time for you to plan a liveaboard in Komodo really depends on what you want to see and your budget.
If you’re a keen macro critter lover, then you may prefer a trip down south during the wet season. You will also get to see large school of jacks and napoleon wrasse as well.
If it’s the excitement of Komodo’s currents that you’re craving then plan a trip that heads up to the northern sites between May and September.
February is generally considered the worst time to visit as rough sea conditions often mean that many sites are inaccessible, so don’t go during that month. This is also the time that many liveaboards head to other areas of Indonesia or are in dry dock for their annual service.
If you’re a keen macro lover, then you may prefer a trip down south during the wet season.
If it’s the excitement of Komodo’s currents that you’re craving then plan a trip that heads up to the northern sites between May and September.
February is generally considered the worst time to visit as rough sea conditions often mean that many sites are inaccessible, so don’t go during that month. This is also the time that many liveaboards head to other areas of Indonesia or are in dry dock for their annual service.
Frequently Asked Questions
The currents that make diving in Komodo so incredible can also be challenging for new divers.
Therefore the majority of liveaboards in Komodo require you to have at least advanced open water certification. Some will also ask for a minimum number of logged dives (on average 50 logged dives are required).
There are liveaboard options for more novice divers, such as the Moana, who accept open water divers. Some boats will offer the opportunity to complete your Advanced certification onboard.
All liveaboards in Komodo will include the essentials; your diving, accommodation onboard, food, drinking water, tea, and coffee, etc. Alcohol will be available, often at an extra charge.
But there are some other additional costs to consider when planning your liveaboard trip:
DIVE GEAR
A few liveaboards will include diving gear in the price, but most will offer you the opportunity to rent the full kit or individual items, such as a dive computer, at a daily rate. If you’re a scuba diving junkie, you can save yourself a lot of money long term by investing in your own dive equipment.
NITROX
Some liveaboards will offer Nitrox for an additional cost. Diving with
enriched air is extremely beneficial for those multiple dives per day during a liveaboard trip. Check out our guide to Enriched Air Nitrox to find out why.
MARINE PARK FEES
There are daily fees for entering and diving in the Komodo National Park which is rarely included in the liveaboard price. For diving these are:
275,000 IDR per person per day 375,000 IDR per person per day on Sundays and national holidays. I would say it is about 100USD normally and some boats will just charge that amount even if the fee would be less if you paid it yourself.
The majority of liveaboards visiting Komodo National Park will start and finish in Labuan Bajo, East Flores. Find out more about getting to and staying in Labuan Bajo in our Komodo location guide.
Some liveaboard trips will offer the opportunity to visit the untouched dive sites along the coast of Sumbawa, including Moyo and Satonda islands, before heading into Komodo National Park. These trips will depart from either Bali, the Gilis or Lombok.
Whether you only have 3 days to spare or have set aside 2 weeks to really enjoy everything Komodo has to offer, there’s a trip to suit your time frame. With most boats offering 3 or 4-day trips, 6 or 7 days trips, and extended voyages across 12 or 14 days.
Dive. Eat. Relax. Dive. Eat. Relax. Dive. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. Sounds perfect to us!
After a little more insight than that?
So, the daily schedule on most liveaboards will run a little like this…
You’ll wake up already at your first dive site. There’ll be some light refreshments before you jump in for the first dive of the day. Upon surfacing, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast and some time to relax before dive 2.
After dive 2, it’s lunch followed by more relaxing ahead of dive 3.
If there’s an opportunity for a night dive, there’ll be snacks to keep the hunger at bay until dinner.
And if you have some energy left, it’s time to reminisce with your fellow divers on all the awesome creatures you encountered that day.
It’s a hard life on a Komodo liveaboard.
Of course, we’re here for the diving.
But there’s no denying that Komodo National park is just mesmerizing above land as it is below the surface.
The majority of liveaboards will offer you the opportunity to visit the dragons, hike to the famous viewpoint on Padar Island and witness the flying foxes at sunset.
Don’t worry, these are not at the expense of diving and will be scheduled to ensure you get the most bottom time possible.
As well as your swimwear, sunscreen and normal holiday essentials there are a few other items you’ll want to bring on your Komodo liveaboard:
UNDERWATER CAMERA
You will definitely want a scuba diving camera to capture all
those once in a lifetime encounters! If you don’t have photographic proof, did you even really see it?
DIVE COMPUTER
Dive computers are essential for tracking your depth and no stop times during multiple diving days to ensure you stay within your limits. As mentioned above, you can rent these but it’s much better to have your own dive computer that you are familiar with.
REEF HOOK
If you’re a more experienced diver then you may want to consider a reef hook. The currents can be challenging in Komodo, with a reef hook you can hook in and enjoy the view without drifting off the reef.
DIVE INSURANCE
Dive insurance is extremely important to have. Although there is access to good medical care in Indonesia, Komodo is still relatively remote so it’s better to be prepared.
For peace of mind during your liveaboard, we recommend investing in dive insurance to ensure you’re covered in case of any diving emergencies.
Some liveaboards offer reduced rates for non-divers accompanying divers on trips.
For the non-divers, there are some seriously impressive snorkeling opportunities, and of course, plenty of time to disconnect from the stress of life on land.
If you have a non-diver accompanying you, it’s best to look for liveaboards that offer a combination of activities in Komodo National park including snorkeling, trekking, and diving.
Conclusion
A liveaboard in Komodo is an unforgettable experience. And one you’ll no doubt want to repeat!
You’ve now got all the information you need to embark on your Komodo liveaboard adventure.
It’s time to get packing!
