Komodo Liveaboard — Complete Guide
Everything you need before booking: seasons, routes (north/central/south), conditions, park fees, what’s included, packing list and safety tips.
Trip Essentials
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Areas
North (Apr–Nov), Central (year-round), South/Padar (Dec–Mar).
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Conditions
20–25°C south; 25–28°C north; visibility 15–30 m; currents vary.
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What’s included (typical)
3–4 dives/day, tanks & weights, meals. Park fees & rental gear extra.
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Level
OW works for protected sites; Advanced advised for current-prone sites.
Planning & Fees
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Getting there
Fly to Labuan Bajo (LBJ), usually via Bali (DPS) or Jakarta (CGK). Arrive ≥1 day early.
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Park fees
Paid on arrival; vary by day/activity. Have cash available.
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Packing
5 mm wetsuit, SMB/reef hook if briefed, computer, sun protection, meds.
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Training
Advanced/Nitrox help for safety & comfort on multi-day diving.
Routes & When To Go
Use this to decide which part of the park matches your dates and experience.
North Komodo
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Season
Apr–Nov (calmer, warmer).
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Style
Reefs, pinnacles, action dives (currents possible).
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Examples
Castle/Crystal Rock, Shotgun (conditions permitting).
Central Komodo
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Season
Year-round.
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Style
Iconic reefs & pinnacles; sites for most levels when conditions allow.
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Examples
Batu Bolong, Siaba, Manta point, Mawan.
South & Padar
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Season
Dec–Mar (cooler, nutrient-rich).
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Style
Mantas, lush soft corals; currents and cooler temps.
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Examples
Manta Alley, Cannibal Rock (conditions permitting).
Safety, Skills & Gear
Komodo has world-class diving and variable currents. Choose sites and boats that match your experience.
Recommended Skills
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Advanced & Nitrox
Strongly recommended for current-prone sites and multi-day diving.
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Drift comfort
Practice SMB deployment; follow briefings & buddy protocols.
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Gas/time planning Nitrox / Air
Respect turn pressure and NDL; use a dive computer.
Packing List
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Exposure
5 mm + hood (south); 3–5 mm (north/central) depending on tolerance.
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Computer & SMB
Reef hook if briefed by the guide; torch for night dives.
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Comfort
Sunscreen, hat, light windbreaker, personal medication.
Komodo Liveaboard — FAQ
Usually via Bali (DPS) or Jakarta (CGK). Plan to arrive at least one day before departure; transfers are easily arranged.
Cabin, meals, snacks, water/tea/coffee, 3–4 dives/day with guide, tanks & weights. National Park fees & personal rental gear paid separately.
Open Water for protected sites; Advanced + drift diving experience recommended for the south and exposed channels.
Ready to compare boats?
We also operate a small-group liveaboard. See specs, cabins and sample itineraries here: