Guide to the best Komodo Island Liveaboards

Any diver searching for breathtaking underwater experiences won’t be disappointed by the best liveaboards in Komodo. The region ranks amongst the top-tier scuba diving destinations, alongside iconic spots like Truk Lagoon and the Philippines, offering a mesmerizing aquatic world. 

Komodo is famous for its national park and the resident Komodo dragons. However, more people are flocking to its shores to experience the magnificent underwater life surrounding the Komodo islands. Exploring this region by liveaboard guarantees a seamless exploration of various dive sites. Some of the top liveaboards in the area include Gaia Love and Nusantara.

There are several outstanding liveaboards in Komodo. However, not all offer the same advantages. In this post, we’ll explore the options with the best itineraries for Komodo liveaboards. 

Overview of the Best Liveaboards in Komodo

1. Best luxury liveaboard in Komodo: Gaia Love
2. Best for solo divers: Nusantara
3. Best for a personalized and warm experience: Ecopro Duyung Baru
4. Best Komodo liveaboard for Unique Expedition-Style Adventures: Adelaar
5. Best budget liveaboard in Komodo: Akomo Isseki

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Why Komodo Is Great for Liveaboard Diving

You’ve probably heard about the epic scuba diving adventures in the Great Barrier Reef, but do you know Komodo offers a similar experience? Komodo is legendary for the various reasons we explore below.

Rich Biodiversity & Marine Life

Looking at Komodo from the surface, you might already be blown away by its lush rolling landscapes and gentle, clear waters. But once you sink underwater, you’ll be blown away by a new world full of life and color. 

Imagine light-filled coral gardens bursting with color and rays or turtles cruising by as you absorb the breathtaking surroundings. With the various species of sharks, rays, turtles, and 250 different corals in Komodo, you won’t be short of discoveries.

So how does Komodo have such stunning biodiversity? Well, it’s all courtesy of its location in the Asia Pacific Coral Triangle and its unique ecological features.

The strong current spurs life into the region. As a result, Komodo’s waters are a hospitable zone for spectacular coral reefs and aquatic life of all shapes and sizes.  

Komodo National Park alone is home to over 1,000 different types of tropical fish, 260 species of coral, and endangered animals like dugongs.

Exceptional Dive Sites

Liveaboard diving in Komodo offers divers a diverse and uncrowded experience despite the region’s popularity. You’ll also have the advantage of exploring numerous dive sites.

Some notable sites include Manta Alley and Manta Point in Komodo National Park. There, you can dive with double-digit numbers of manta rays. 

Rinca Island is also one not to miss. It provides a chance to observe Komodo dragons on the breach. Macro photographers will also find this spot delightful because of its excellent conditions and abundance of corals, nudibranchs, and various critters.

A visit to Batu Balong, also known as the current city, blows divers away because of its healthy, colorful corals on the reef. 

Comfort & Connections

Whether liveaboard diving in Cairns or Komodo, there’s no doubt you’ll be undisturbed by crowds and walk away with numerous connections. Komodo liveaboards provide a convenient and all-inclusive experience, with some offering three or more meals, along with coffee, tea, and snacks included.

Boats typically offer multiple lounge areas, both indoor and outdoor. Therefore, you’ll have plenty of room to relax between dives. 

Also, a liveaboard environment is conducive to making new friends and dive buddies and gaining inspiration for future adventures. As a result, during surface intervals, you can unwind and connect with fellow divers.

Photography Hotspot

With more than 1000 species of fish and around 250 species of corals, Komodo is a photographer’s paradise. With a wide-angle lens, you can capture stunning shots and videos of coral reefs covered by anthias and schooling fish. A macro lens can capture spectacular skeleton shrimps, ghost pipefish, and sea slugs.

Caters to Different Diving Experience Levels

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, you can explore the underwater haven of Komodo. Of course, some dive sites like Batu Bolong have strong currents, so advanced diving skills and experience are required. However, other dive sites like Tatawa Besar have calmer waters, making it suitable for intermediate and beginner divers. 

Most Komodo liveaboards accommodate divers of different experience levels. However, if you’re a beginner, consider the required experience level and suitable dive sites when booking a liveaboard.

Also, communicate your diving experience and certification level to the operator. If you’re a beginner, ask whether they can accommodate your experience level beforehand. 

The Best Liveaboards in Komodo

1.  Gaia Love

Our Expert Opinion: Best Luxury Liveaboard in Komodo

Anyone searching for year-round luxury dive trips in Indonesia won’t be disappointed by the Gaia Loveliveaboard’s offerings. Featuring 11 spacious cabins with private en-suite bathrooms and ample storage space averaging 20 sqm in size, comfort and seclusion are guaranteed. This stunning luxury liveaboard offers flexible itineraries and excursions to Komodo’s premier dive sites.

What You Need to Know

The Gaia Love liveaboard is a 40m vessel with a contemporary design, dubbed among the best liveaboards in Komodo. It accommodates 22 guests in 11 spacious cabins. Its upper deck cabins offer the best view in the house thanks to the large picture windows and private balconies.

With four decks, this liveaboard includes spaces like an indoor salon and dining area, a partially covered sun deck, and an al-fresco bar. It also has an expansive dive deck at the rear accommodating up to 28 divers. Therefore, there’s ample space for everyone to gear up. 

The Gaia Love includes 11 rinse tanks of various sizes for camera gear and dive equipment. It also has two 5.5m skiffs for convenient dive site drop-off and pick-up.

This vessel offers the best itineraries for Komodo liveaboards. You can explore various dive destinations at the Komodo National Park with the professional and experienced dive crew by your side.

Features

• Budget: From $435/day
• Maximum Trip Length: 12 Days / 11 Nights   
• Nitrox: Yes
• Cabins: 11
• Maximum capacity: 22 guests
• Rental Gear: No

What We Like

• Offers flexible itineraries for different preferences and schedules
• Luxury amenities and spacious cabins with private en-suite bathrooms
• Individually controlled AC in cabins

What We Don’t Like

• Pricier than other liveaboards because of luxury accommodation and amenities

2.  Nusantara

Our Expert Opinion: Best for Solo Divers

Since the Nusantara liveaboard offers hostel-style sleeping arrangements, it’s most suitable for solo divers. Get to know other divers and hear about their thrilling diving adventures, and when you need privacy, draw your cubicle’s curtains. The vessel also offers an outdoor sleeping area for stargazing and enjoying the cool night breezes.

What You Need to Know

The Nusantara Liveaboard was renovated in 2021, boasting a classic design. It provides a simple and easy dive adventure with a capacity for up to 12 passengers. 

Eight passengers can sleep indoors in one dorm cabin and use privacy curtains, fans, and power sockets. Four additional mattresses are set up on the deck for sleeping under the stars. And there are two shared bathrooms on board.

Aboard the Nusantara, divers can embark on a one-of-a-kind diving experience in the renowned Komodo National Park, exploring well-known sites such as:

• Manta Point
• Batu Bolong
• Wainilu 

There are trips of varying durations, ranging from 2-4 nights. And you can anticipate 9 to 15 dives per trip.

The vessel has a spacious dive deck for gearing up and entering the water seamlessly. Furthermore, it boasts a large sun deck with bean bag chairs, enabling you to relax between dives or appreciate the scenic surroundings. 

Features

• Budget: From $165/day
• Maximum Trip Length: 5 days / 4 nights

• Nitrox: No
• Cabins: 1
• Maximum capacity: 12 guests
• Rental Gear: No

What We Like

• Budget-friendly liveaboard experience
• Large sun deck with bean bag chairs
• Culinary excellence with a blend of Indonesian and international flavors

What We Don’t Like

• Single cabin that sleeps eight people doesn’t offer much privacy
• No AC in cabins or internet
• No nitrox aboard

3.  Ecopro Duyung Baru

Our Expert Opinion: Best for a Personalized and Warm Experience

The Ecopro Duyung Baru is one of the best liveaboards in Komodo that offers a warm diving experience to boot. Only accommodating up to 6 guests, this vessel ensures guests receive personalized attention and a more private experience. You can tailor the itineraries based on your interests and preferences, exploring renowned dive sites in Komodo National Park.

What You Need to Know

This 27 m liveaboard has three cabins, accommodating a maximum of six guests. Each cabin is stylishly decorated and features air-conditioning and a private en-suite bathroom.

Expect ample space on the dive deck for gear storage and kitting up. And fresh Indonesian-themed meals with hints of Western flavors are prepared throughout the day.

With experienced dive guides there to guide guests, you’ll be treated to various underwater wonders of the region. This includes encounters with sharks, manta rays, and other captivating marine life in Komodo National Park’s waters.

Features

• Budget: From $264/day
• Maximum Trip Length: 8 days / 7 nights

• Nitrox: Yes
• Cabins: 3
• Maximum capacity: 6 guests
• Rental Gear: Yes

What We Like

• Cabins are airconditioned and have a private en-suite bathroom
• Personalized and private trips due to accommodating a maximum of 6 guests
• Offers access to fantastic dive sites such as South Sulawesi and Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for large groups or those seeking a social atmosphere
• Adelaar 

Our Expert Opinion: Best Komodo Liveaboard for Unique Expedition-Style Adventures

Embarking on a diving adventure from the Adelaar offers a remarkable experience. The boat is among the best liveaboards in Komodo, providing unique expedition-style adventures. Expect to explore relatively unexplored areas like Sumbawa and the park’s northwestern waters. Plus, you’ll visit all the classic sites around Komodo National Park. 

What You Need to Know

The Adelaar is a 39m Dutch Schooner apt for exploring the spectacular Komodo National Park. Its interior has high ceilings, a lavish salon and dining room, and rick teak paneling.

Diving deeper into the vessel, you’ll find a beautiful master suite and three superb staterooms. Each cabin has individually controlled air conditioning, en-suite marble bathrooms, and flat-screen televisions.

Expect comfortable seating with stunning views when sitting on the upper and lower decks. You’ll also be treated to an attentive ten-member crew that meets every guest’s needs.

Furthermore, the Adelaar has trained chefs on board to prepare an exquisite gourmet Indonesian and Western cuisine menu. This is complemented by a fully stocked bar offering cold drinks, local beers, imported wines, and liquor.

Features

• Budget: From $430/day
• Maximum Trip Length: 11 Days / 10 Nights

• Nitrox: Yes
• Cabins: 4
• Maximum capacity: 8 guests
• Rental Gear: Yes

What We Like

• Offers four stunning air-conditioned staterooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Instead of buffet meals, food is well-prepared and presented by two cooks
• Free Wi-Fi is available when there is a signal
• Additional entertainment is provided by the ship’s video and audio streaming system, with access to more than 3,000 movies
• Caters for dietary requirements

What We Don’t Like

• Higher price point than other liveaboards in Komodo
• Akomo Isseki

Our Expert Opinion: Best Budget Liveaboard in Komodo

If you’re looking for a liveaboard that won’t break your bank, the Akomo Isseki is your best bet. It offers epic experiences for thrill-seekers and homebodies alike. Aboard, enjoy a closed saloon for social gatherings and a partially covered sun deck with a seating area. There’s also a chef onboard who prepares a wide selection of Western and Indonesian food. 

What You Need to Know

This traditional hand-crafted Phinisi crewed by South Sulawesi Bugis sailors offers a well-balanced blend of tradition and comfort. She is made entirely from tropical hardwoods, ironwood, and teak. And the hull glistens with its natural material, complemented by the stunning white underside. 

With four naturally vented cabins, the Akomo Isseki accommodates up to eight guests. Each spacious cabin has comfortable new beds, fresh linens, and towels. And there’s a wardrobe, computer desk, portholes, and a fan.

She also features a communal dining area and a partially covered sun deck. These serve as social spaces for guests to enjoy freshly cooked Indonesian and Western meals, treats, and beach BBQs.

Some dive highlights include encountering manta rays at Karang Makassar in Komodo and witnessing the iconic dragons at Komodo Island. Besides diving, the Akomo Isseki offers other engaging activities like kayaking and island visits.

Features

• Budget: From $145/day
• Maximum Trip Length: 11-day/10-night trip

• Nitrox: No
• Cabins: 4
• Maximum capacity: 8 guests
• Rental Gear: Yes

What We Like

• Budget-friendly liveaboard experiences
• Enlightening itineraries through the heart of Komodo National Park
• Spectacular dive sites such as Batu Bolong and Mawan in Komodo National Park
• Environmentally conscious design – all electrical systems run from solar panels

What We Don’t Like

• Due to environmentally friendly policies, you won’t be able to charge your devices around the clock
• Lack of luxury amenities, with warmer nights due to the absence of air conditioning

Things To Consider When Booking a Komodo Liveaboard

Before booking your liveaboard in Komodo, take note of the following factors to guide your decision.

Season

The seasons in Komodo will dictate whether your liveaboard experience is epic. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the best season for liveaboards in Komodo when deciding which boat or cruise to choose.

April to November is the dry season in Komodo, while November to February is the rainy season. In April, in particular, the rainy season has just ended. Therefore, expect vibrant oceanic action and underwater conditions.

Furthermore, the sea temperatures are coldest in July and August. Also, the waters are the most nutrient-rich during those months.

Diving in Komodo is excellent year-round. However, specific times of year are considered prime because liveaboards are most active.

The best season for liveaboards in Komodo is hands down from April to August. You can still book a liveaboard from November to February. Still, the conditions might not be ideal for diving since it’s rainy season.

Budget

Liveaboards in Komodo can range from $140 to $500 per day. Therefore, it’s best to determine how much you’re willing to spend and use that to guide your search.

The best liveaboards in Komodo cater to different budgets. As a result, if you’re working with a tight budget, you can opt for a vessel like the Nusantara, which offers excellent value for money. 

If you’d like additional amenities like air conditioning and internet, be prepared to pay extra. Also, there may be additional charges for gear rentals and drinks that you should consider when searching for a Komodo liveaboard.

Duration

How many days do you want to spend on a Komodo liveaboard? You can find liveaboards that are as short as three days and two nights and others up to 11 days and 10 nights.

Of course, the longer the duration, the more costly the liveaboard will be. As a result, this decision should tie in with your itinerary and budget.

Diving Experience Level

Different dive areas of Komodo require different levels of experience. Therefore, it may be harder to dive in some places than others. 

For instance, Batu Bolong and the Cauldron are known to have strong currents, requiring more diving experience. However, areas like Sebayur Kecil are more beginner-friendly thanks to their gentle waters.

Although Komodo liveaboards explore different dive sites suitable for various experience levels, an Open Water diving certification is recommended. This will enable you to complete all dives and maximize your Komodo liveaboard experience.

When choosing a liveaboard, consider the dive sites on the itinerary and your experience level. Here’s a guide to the different sites and the conditions you can expect:

• Manta Point & Manta Alley: Suitable for all levels of divers.
• Batu Bolong: This pinnacle dive site has strong currents and suits advanced and experienced divers.
• Crystal Rock: This dive site suits experienced divers due to its strong currents.
• Tatawa Kecil: A gentle dive site with clear water, so beginners can easily explore it when the current is mild.
• Castle Rock: A massive underwater apex with strong currents suitable for experienced divers.
• Siaba Kecil: Intermediate and experienced divers would thrive in this area since it has strong currents.
• Tatawa Besar: Although it’s not a deep dive, this area’s current may be strong.
• Sebayur Kecil: A great dive site for beginners due to its calm waters.

Type of Liveaboard

As you consider the best liveaboards in Komodo, you’ll come across various types. You can opt for a budget liveaboard with shared living arrangements, which is typically between $110 – $140 per person per day. Or join a regular group tour.

Alternatively, there are luxurious cruises with private cabins, which you can expect to pay over $400 daily. You can also choose to charter a boat with a group of friends. That would give you the most freedom over the itinerary and make for a more private experience.

Ultimately, your choice of liveaboard depends on your budget and availability.

What to Bring for a Liveaboard Trip in Komodo

Knowing what to bring for a liveaboard trip in Komodo will ensure a comfortable and exciting trip. Here are the essentials:

• Your passport (which should have at least six months validity)
• Comfortable clothing, t-shirts, shorts, and swimwear
• A jacket or jumper for chilly flights and evenings on board
• Toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, razors and shave oil
• Your diving gear (if you don’t plan to rent), including a wetsuit, fins, mask, and regulator
• Spare parts, such as camera o-rings and a regulator
• A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun
• A power adapter, charger, power bank, and personal entertainment such as a tablet or Kindle
• Cash for tipping at the end of the trip

Final Thoughts on Liveaboard Diving in Komodo

Diving in Komodo is a life-changing experience for many divers. There is plenty to see, from rich, dense, and varied coral reefs to incredible marine life like manta rays. 

One of the best ways to explore the area is by liveaboard. This allows you to explore various sites spread over vast distances within a few days. And if you opt for the best liveaboards in Komodo, like Akomo Isseki and Gaia Love, you’ll be in the hands of experts who’ll ensure you have an epic time.

If you plan to dive in Komodo, staying nearby in Bali or Jakarta is best. From there, you can take a direct flight into Labuan Bajo, which should cost you under $50 one way. Your liveaboard will arrange a pick-up, or you’ll have to do it yourself to begin your underwater adventure.