3-Day Snorkeling in Komodo National Park: Phinisi Boat Sailing

Three days sailing to Komodo dragons, manta rays and pink sand

A 3-day sailing trip from Labuan Bajo aboard a traditional phinisi boat to Komodo National Park, where you snorkel at Pink Beach and Manta Point, trek to Padar Island's three-bay viewpoint, and watch Komodo dragons in their natural habitat with a local English-speaking guide and professional photographer. Overnight stays are on the boat. Entrance to Komodo National Park is paid on site.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1: Labuan Bajo to Kalong Island

• Arrive near Kelor Island
• Briefing and transfer to shore
• Hike to hilltop viewpoint
• Swim or snorkel at Kelor Beach
• Visit Manjarite Beach for snorkeling
• Relax and watch sunset at Kalong Island
• Overnight sailing to Padar Island

Day 2: Padar Island to Takka Maksar

• Trek to Padar Island viewpoint
• Guided Komodo dragon trek on Komodo Island
• Relax and snorkel at Pink Beach
• Snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point
• Walk and swim at Takka Maksar sandbank
• Overnight on Phinisi boat

Day 3: Sebayur Island to Labuan Bajo

• Transfer to Sebayur Island
• Snorkel or dive with guide supervision
• Optional light hill walk or viewpoint stop
• Return to boat and sail to Labuan Bajo

The experience

The phinisi boat departs Labuan Bajo and sails toward Kelor Island for your first stop, where a short hike leads to a hilltop viewpoint before you swim or snorkel near the beach. That evening, the boat anchors near Kalong Island, a mangrove habitat where thousands of flying foxes emerge at sunset in large groups: your guide shares insights about the animals while you watch from the deck. After dark, the boat sails overnight toward Padar Island, and many phinisi boats travel together in the same direction, creating a line of lights across the sea. You can relax on deck, enjoy music, or dance under the stars while the crew keeps watch.

Day two centers on Komodo National Park itself. The trek up Padar Island takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on pace, and at the top you see three crescent-shaped beaches in different colors spread across the panorama below. On Komodo Island, a certified park ranger leads you on a safe trekking route to observe the Komodo dragons in their natural environment from a protected distance. Pink Beach comes next. The soft pink sand meets shallow turquoise waters where colorful coral sits just offshore, ideal for snorkeling or simply resting on the beach. Manta Point offers another snorkeling moment where manta rays glide beneath the surface. Your guide prepares the gear and keeps the group together while you watch. The day closes at Takka Maksar, a sandbank surrounded by clear water where you can swim and photograph before the boat continues.

On the final morning, Sebayur Island offers snorkeling or diving in rich underwater areas. Your guide checks current strength and visibility before entry and monitors the group in the water. A light hill walk or viewpoint stop follows before you return to the boat for the sail back to Labuan Bajo. Life jackets, fins and snorkeling equipment are provided. A professional photographer travels with the group to capture moments you'll take home.

What’s included

• Shared transport on the phinisi boat.
• life jackets, fins and snorkeling equipment.
• a local guide who speaks English.
• a professional photographer to capture your moments.
• overnight stays aboard the boat on both nights.
• snorkeling at four separate stops including Pink Beach and Manta Point.
• guided treks on Kelor Island, Padar Island and Sebayur Island.
• a certified park ranger for the Komodo Island trek.

Options for this experience

2 options

Share CabinGuide in English · 09:30Shared cabin for 4 guests, with shared or private bathroom; pickup is included

Private CabinGuide in English · 09:30Private cabin for 2 guests plus an extra bed for 1; pickup is included

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesMonday, Tuesday, Friday and SaturdayDeparts at 09:30Last departure this season: 28 Dec

Book up to4h before

AgesUp to age 90

GroupUp to 14 · max 5 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 9 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 36

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Cari Organizer

Is this one for you?Choose the shared cabin if you're comfortable with a bunkmate and want to keep costs down. Pick the private cabin for your own space during the two nights on the boat. Either way, the three-day length gives you time to trek, snorkel and watch wildlife without rushing, and the overnight sails mean you wake up at the next destination ready to explore.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is the Komodo dragon trek actually like on Komodo Island?

A certified park ranger leads the trek on a safe designated route where you observe the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat from a protected distance. The ranger explains the wildlife and conservation efforts in place, and the trek finishes at a designated viewing point before you return to the boat.

Can I snorkel at multiple stops during the three days?

Yes. You snorkel at Manjarite Beach on day one, Pink Beach on day two where shallow coral reefs hold colorful fish, Manta Point where manta rays swim below, and Sebayur Island on day three. Your guide prepares the equipment, helps with masks and snorkels, and watches the group in the water at each stop.

Where do I sleep on this sailing trip?

You sleep overnight on the phinisi boat itself. The boat anchors after the first day's stops and again after day two. You choose between a shared cabin or a private cabin when you book.

What happens during the overnight sail to Padar Island?

After sunset at Kalong Island, the boat sails throughout the night toward Padar Island. Many phinisi boats travel together in the same direction, creating a beautiful line of lights across the sea. You can relax on deck, enjoy music, sing karaoke, or dance under the stars while the crew ensures a safe and comfortable journey.

Is the Padar Island hike difficult, and how long does it take?

The trek to the hilltop viewpoint takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on your pace. The guide ensures everyone walks safely on the steep paths with several stops for photos and rest. At the top, you see the island's three crescent-shaped bays and dramatic coastal landscape.

What is included in the price, and what do I pay separately?

The price includes shared transport with other guests, life jackets, fins and snorkeling equipment, a local English-speaking guide, and a professional photographer. The entrance ticket to Komodo National Park is paid on site and subject to change.