Top Liveaboards in Komodo
Highlights ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 Star Rating
Traditional Indonesian sailing boat
Wifi Available (Starlink 5G)
Diving Liveaboard (Nitrox Available)
Marine Biologist (Cruise Director)
PADI courses and DSD Available
Komodo National Park isn’t just home to the legendary Komodo dragons; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, natural beauty, and diverse marine life. From trekking through rugged landscapes to spot the iconic dragons in their natural habitat to diving into the crystal-clear waters that surround these mythical islands, Komodo is truly one of the world’s last frontiers. With over 1,000 species of fish and 260 types of coral, Komodo is a haven for divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers alike.
Diving in Komodo with Anne Bonny
Liveaboards in Komodo have become a highly sought-after choice for divers visiting Indonesia, and for good reason. Aboard the Anne Bonny, adventurous divers can embark on dive cruises that take them to some of the most extraordinary dive sites in the region.
All your per-cabin trips follow the 5-nights Diving Itinerary. However, due to a small size of the group (avarage 6-8 guests), we can easlily adjust the itinerary to follow needs or both, divers and non-diving guests. For the charter bookings, we ae happy to adjust the program.
We also offer Open Water certification onboard for charters only.
1. Batu Bolong: Batu Balong, often referred to as “current city,” is a must-see destination on any Komodo liveaboard itinerary. The corals here are vibrant, healthy, and teeming with fish life, including reef sharks, creating an exhilarating diving experience.
2. Manta Alley: Within Komodo National Park, Manta Alley and Manta Point offer divers the exhilarating chance to swim with large schools of manta rays, often numbering in the double digits. These encounters are unforgettable and shouldn’t be missed!
3. Castle Rock: A submerged seamount teeming with life, from pelagic species like sharks and trevallies to dense schools of fish
4. Rinca Island: A trip to Rinca Island provides the opportunity to see Komodo dragons basking on the beach, but that’s not all this location has to offer. While visibility may be slightly lower here, the rich variety of corals, nudibranchs, and critters makes it a prime spot for macro photographers.
5. Bima: Many liveaboard itineraries also include several dives in Bima, a muck diving paradise where divers can encounter an array of unique marine life, such as nudibranchs and blue-ringed octopuses.
This sample itinerary is for our scheduled per-cabin 5-night trip in Komodo and for diving charters. It might be subject to change due to weather conditions.
Day 1 | Embarcation | 2 Dives
- Our crew will welcome you aboard Anne Bonny.
- We set off in the direction of Sebayur, to do a check dive near Sebayur Kecil.
- We enjoy our first night dive close to the same island.
Day 2 | Batu Bolong | 4 Dives
- Dive at a World Class Dive site – Batu Bolong (Hollow Rock) in the North of the Komodo Strait.
- Colourful drift dive at Tatawa Besar, a site famous for its orange soft corals.
- Karang Makassar for our third dive, also known as Manta Point. It is the best site to see manta rays in large numbers (up to 20 or 30 if you’re lucky).
- We will do our last night dive for the day in the same area.
Day 3 | Siaba Kecil and Siaba Besar | 3 Dives
- On the Southern part of Batu Bolong, one of the most amazing dive sites of the Komodo archipelago.
- We will then enjoy a drift dive running through amazing canyons, that lies 15 to 30 meter deep at Siaba Kecil.
- Our third dive will be at Siaba Besar, a lovely Coral Garden, and a magical underwater playground.
- We will end that great diving day with a night dive in the same location.
Day 4 | Gili Lawa Island |4 Dives, Tekking
- Early morning we move North to Gilli Lawa where we have 2 great dives planned for you: Cauldron and the Golden Passage are 2 action-packed drift dives in channels between two islands, and very good sites to experience Komodo’s famous currents.
- The 3rd dive for the day will be at Coral Garden, a nice relaxing dive amongst some of Komodos’ healthiest coral gardens and great for spotting turtles and critters.
- We trek up to the famous Gilli Lawa viewpoint in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the magnificent landscape.
- Night dive is offered in the area.
Day 5 | Rinca Island | 2 Dives, Komodo Dragons, Flying Foxes & BBQ dinner
- We dive at the world-class dive sites of Crystal and Castle rock: a profusion of marine life with over 1000 fish species and 300 different corals.
- While enjoying lunch, we navigate south onto Rinca Island to enjoy a “Dragon Walk” to see the last representative of the Jurassic Park on earth, the infamous Komodo Lizard.
- At sunset, we set sail again to the Flying fox island, where every evening, around 6 pm, thousands of fruit bats return to the main island of Rinca.
- After watching their flight, we enjoy our last BBQ dinner.
Day 6 | Disembarcation
After breakfast and the last exchange of photos and memories, the crew and Calico Jack will say our fondest farewell and transport you either to your hotel or airport.
Komodo’s waters are influenced by the unique geography of the park and the Flores Sea, leading to varying current patterns. The most common types of currents you may encounter while diving include:
- Inward Currents: These currents flow into the bay and are typically calmer, providing excellent conditions for beginners to explore the vibrant reefs.
- Outward Currents: These are stronger currents that flow out to sea. Experienced divers often seek these currents, as they attract a wealth of marine life, such as mantas and large pelagic species.
- Tidal Currents: The tides in Komodo are significant, with areas experiencing strong tidal flows. Understanding the timing of these tides can help divers plan their dives accordingly, ensuring they are submerged during peak visibility and marine activity.
Tips for Diving in Currents
- Know Your Dive Site: Before descending, familiarize yourself with the specific current patterns of your chosen dive site. Sites like Manta Point and Taka Makassar are known for their currents, so be prepared.
- Dive with a Guide: Experienced dive guides are essential for navigating currents. They will understand the local conditions and help you make the most of your dive experience.
- Stay Calm and Conserve Energy: If you find yourself in a strong current, remain calm and use techniques like “hovering” by tucking your knees to your chest and using your arms sparingly to conserve energy.
- Use Your Gear Wisely: A good wetsuit and well-fitted fins can help you maneuver through currents more efficiently. Additionally, ensure your equipment is in good condition to avoid complications underwater.
Komodo’s currents can be both challenging and rewarding, offering unique opportunities to experience some of the best diving in the world. By understanding the currents and diving with safety in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the rich marine environment that Komodo National Park has to offer.
Leisure Activities in Komodo
The Komodo area is made up of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a stunning volcanic chain in Southeast Indonesia. Known for its infamous inhabitant, the Komodo Dragon, this area has been steeped in legend throughout the 20th century. Anne Bonny dive tours include land excursions, giving guests the opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
The area of the Nationa Park is not too large, allowing us to explore it in few days and mix-and-mach activities on the go.
Komodo National Park is not just about diving. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained both on land and at sea.
In fact, a non-diving cruise can be even more exciting than diving, if you prefer tracking, kayaking and exploring hidden beaches.
The landscape of Komodo allows long hikes, and hundreds of small lagoons with crystal clear waters welcome explorers. Here are some non-diving activities in Komodo.
Trekking to See Komodo Dragons:
One of the most popular activities in Komodo is trekking to see the famous Komodo dragons. These giant lizards can be found on Komodo and Rinca islands. Guided treks are available, offering a chance to see these prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat.
Beach Excursions:
Komodo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Indonesia, including the famous Pink Beach, known for its unique pink-hued sand. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the shorelines.
Snorkeling and Kayaking:
For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, Komodo offers excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities. The clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make for an unforgettable snorkeling experience, while kayaking allows you to explore hidden coves and mangroves.
Cultural Experiences:
Visit local villages to learn about the traditional way of life in this remote part of Indonesia. Engage with the local community, witness traditional weaving, and discover the cultural heritage of the region.
This sample itinerary is for charter bookings only. It can be modified based on guest’s preferences. We can add a few dives, more adventurous kayaking, or more relaxing beach hangouts.
We also collaborate with yoga and freediveing instructors to make the adventure unique and memorable!
Day 1 | Embarcation
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We set off to a stunning white sand beach on Hataming Island.
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We spend the afternoon snorkelling and kayaking and enjoy cocktails and refreshments at sunset beach.
Day 2 | Beach Activities
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That morning, we set sail to Tatawa Besar and Siaba Kecil to enjoy some great snorkelling amongst gorgeous coral gardens home to large schools of fish and turtles and might even meet the Manta rays during our adventure.
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In the afternoon, we explore some of the islands and pristine beaches in the area.
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We will have plenty of time for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Day 3 | Trekking to the Viewpoint
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We snorkel through a narrow channel at Gili Lawa towards a coral garden covered with some of Komodo’s most beautiful hard and soft corals.
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In the afternoon, we will kayak and paddleboard to some of the Park’s most spectacular beaches.
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In the afternoon, we will hike to the top of Gili Darat to enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 4 | Snorkelling with Manta Ray
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That morning we make our way to Makassar Reef, a famous Manta cleaning station where we can snorkel amongst a large number of Manta Rays.
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After lunch, we will make short navigation south to Pink beach. Here we will enjoy a relaxed afternoon snorkeling, kayaking, and chilling on the beach.
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We will spend a delightful evening under the stars.
Day 5 | Komodo Dragons and BBQ dinner
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After breakfast, we slowly make our way north to the Rinca Ranger Station. We will enjoy a “Dragon walk” to see the last representative of the Jurassic Park on earth, the infamous Komodo dragon. Here you will be led on a 1-hour trek by an experienced local guide and learn all there is to know about the Dragons and other wildlife in the area.
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At sunset, we set sail again to the Flying fox island, where every evening, around 6 pm, thousands of fruit bats return to the main island of Rinca.
- After watching their flight, we enjoy our last BBQ dinner.
Day 6 | Disembarcation
After breakfast and the last exchange of photos and memories, the crew and Anne Bonny will say our fondest farewell and transport you either to your hotel or airport.
Your trip will start and finish at Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. For your domestic flights, we suggest choosing Garuda Indonesia, but other carriers are acceptable as well. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Our driver will pick you up from the airport or the hotel on the first day of the cruise. The hotel pick-up is usually between 9 and 9:30 am. We will drop you off at the airport or the hotel on the last day of the cruise. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer.
Calico Jack will leave from the harbour around noon. All guests are required to be on board before 10 am. For the remote areas, we advise arriving one day in advance to avoid being late for the cruise and get some rest after the long travel.
Our last dive will be at 12 p.m. on the day before last. We will arrive at the harbour in the late light of the day before the last. The departure from the boat is planned for after breakfast (around 11 a.m.). Yet, if you need to take an early morning flight, we can drop you off any morning. However, for the early departures, please mind that you will need to skip the last dive at noon of the previous day.
Health & Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa for Indonesia and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. Most travellers can obtain a visa on arrival, but you can also apply for an e-visa online to streamline the process. This visa is valid for 30 days and costs 500.000 IDR (EUR 33).
Packing Essentials: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the vibrant marine environment. We provide towels and amenities. However, if you have particular product preferences, please grab your own. Komodo National Park is located in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, and getting there is part of the adventure. The nearest airport is in Labuan Bajo, Flores, which is accessible by domestic flights from major Indonesian cities like Bali (Denpasar) and Jakarta.
Steps to Get to Komodo:
- Fly to Labuan Bajo: Daily flights are available from Bali and Jakarta, with a flight time of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the departure city.
- Transfer to Komodo: From Labuan Bajo, you can reach Komodo National Park by boat. Our liveaboard, Calico Jack, will pick you up directly from the port, and the adventure begins immediately as you sail towards the park.
Visa and Entry Requirements:
International visitors will need a valid visa to enter Indonesia. A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival at most Indonesian airports, including Denpasar and Jakarta.
Reliable Travel Agent
Vifa Holidays Indonesia has supported international travel agents and local boat and resort operators for over 19 years. They ensure that you enjoy a hassle-free travel experience in one of the world’s most diverse and captivating diving destinations.
Vifa Holiday Indonesia provides a wide range of services designed to cater to all travel needs:
- Travel Planning
- Domestic and International Flight Bookings
- Airport Assistance
- Accommodation Arrangements
- Transportation Services
- Tours and Excursions
Please contact Vifa’s team for enquiries on your best flight route by emailing travel@vifaholidayindonesia.com or visiting their website, www.vifaholidayindonesia.com.
WhatsApp: Theo +62 812 4262 7110
Understanding Komodo’s Climate
Komodo National Park enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the climate is crucial for planning your trip, as it can affect both the visibility and the accessibility of certain activities.
Dry Season (April to November):
The dry season is the best time to visit Komodo, with warm temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F). During these months, the seas are calm, visibility underwater is excellent, and conditions are ideal for trekking and beach activities. This is also the best time to see Komodo dragons, as they are more active during the dry season.
Wet Season (December to March):
The wet season brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly from January to February. While diving is still possible, the visibility may be reduced, and some outdoor activities could be limited. However, the landscape becomes lush and green, offering a different but equally beautiful perspective of Komodo.
Best Time to Visit:
For the best overall experience, plan your visit between April and November. This period offers the most favorable conditions for diving, snorkeling, and exploring the islands both above and below the water.
Exploring Komodo
A Diverse and Thrilling Landscape
Komodo National Park's landscape is as varied as it is breathtaking. From the arid savannahs and rugged hills where the Komodo dragons roam to the vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with life, theres something here for every explorer. The early stories of fire-breathing dragons sparked international interest, leading a Dutch expedition to capture specimens for examination. Read More
Komodo Schedule
About Anne Bonny
Welcome aboard Anne Bonny Liveaboard, a traditional Indonesian Phinisi schooner offering boutique, luxury diving expeditions through the heart of Indonesia’s Coral Triangle. Our beautifully crafted 23-meter vessel, built by expert Italian boat builders, blends the timeless traditions of Indonesian shipbuilding with modern comforts. Ideal for smaller groups or families seeking private and refined adventures in Indonesia’s remote waters.
The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 6 adults and 4 children across three spacious cabins, all featuring en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. The perfect occupancy is three couples with or without kids. Another great arrangement is up to 9 guests who don’t mind sharing a cabin (triple occupancy).
- 1 Master Cabin: Spacious and ideal for families, featuring a large double bed and two bunk beds
- 2 Double Cabins: Luxurious cabins with large double beds, each equipped with an additional bunk bed, perfect for small groups or families.
- Air Conditioned Cabins
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Non Smoking Rooms
- King-size beds
- Bunk beds
- Daily Housekeeping
- Power Socket Adapters
- Hairdryers
Anne Bonny is tailored for comfort at the sea. Spacious and cosy cabins, two large sofas, open-air dining, perfect beach set up, fully equipped kitchen, projector and sound system – all of these ideas were born from many years of adventures and our desire to have a home at the sea.
At the same time, Anne Bonny has everything needed for diving and other water activities like freediving, kayaking or wakeboarding.
- Custom-built for comfortable adventures
- Sun Deck and Observation Deck
- Outdoor Dining
- Bar
- BBQ Area
- Board Games
- Books & movie library
- Outside Showers & Separate rinse for u/w camera
- Separate Zodiac/Dhoni
- Camera Station
- Kayaks
- Wakeboard
Anne Bonny was created for comfortable adventures with friends and family. The vessel has two large, cosy sofas and plenty of space for hangouts.
Most of our cruises are available for charter only. However, sometimes we open dates for per-cabin bookings. We don’t offer Anne Bonny per-person bookings because we believe that our guests prioritise their comfort above budget accommodation.
Par-cabin cruise follows our diving program with easy to bland non-diving activities. Our charter cruises are entirely customizable, and we work closely with our clients to create the best experience for their holidays.
- Available for Charter and Per-cabin
- Available for retreats
- Customisable Itinerary
- Customisable Menu’s
- Land Excursions
- Beach set up
- Free Internet Wi-Fi (Starlink)
- Audio & Video Entertainment
- Laundry Service
- Diving and Snorkelling
- Length: 30 meters (98 feet)
- Beam: 6.5 meters (21 feet)
- Cruising Speed: 7 knots (top speed of 9 knots)
- Engines: Yanmar 250 hp
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 9 guests (ideal for 6 adults and 3-4 children)
- Cabins: 3 spacious cabins (1 Master Cabin, 2 Double Cabins), each equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and charging stations.
- Water Capacity: 3500 liters with a freshwater maker producing 150 liters/hour.
- Crew: 8 members, including 2 dive guides and 1 cruise director.
- Diving Gear: 20 dive tanks, Nitrox, 2 Bauer compressors, wet suits, and dive computers available on board.
- 2 x Life raft: cap. 20 + pax
- Life jacket(s): 20
- Life ring buoy(s) x 5
- Fire extinguishers x 12
- EPIRB
- Flares
- Oxygen tanks
- First Aid medical supplies
- Satellite phone
Highlights
Highlights
Anne Bonny Deck
Anne Bonny Deck
ANNE BONNY MOVIE NIGHT
Ensuite
Anne Bonny Liveaboard bathroom
Anne Bonny Beck 2
Anne Bonny Beck 2
The Crew
Anne Bonny Crew
Master Cabin
Master Cabin
Double Cabins
Double Cabins
Double cabin #2
Double cabin #2
Double Cabin #1
Double Cabin #1
Ensuite
Anne Bonny Liveaboard / ensuite bathrooms
Ensuite
Ensuite
Book Your Komodo Liveaboard Adventure
Don’t miss the chance to explore one of the world’s most stunning marine environments. Contact Calico Jack Charters today to book your liveaboard adventure.
