Komodo 6D5N Liveaboard Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Planning a liveaboard trip can feel like standing at the edge of something exciting — flights to check, bags to pack, park fees to understand, arrival times to get right.

So we’ve put together this Komodo 6D5N liveaboard guide to make everything simple before you step aboard KLM Eliya with Scuba Junkie Liveaboards.

Think of this as your calm, clear walkthrough — from the moment you book, to the moment you cross the street for a celebratory ice cream at the end.

Booking Your Trip: The First Step Toward Komodo

Most guests reach out to us by email (liveaboards@scubajunkie.com), through social media, or via the contact form on our website. From there, our team walks you through availability, cabin options, and next steps.

To secure your space, a 50% non-refundable deposit confirms your booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days before departure. If your booking is made within 61 days of the trip, full payment is required at reservation. All details are clearly outlined in our official Terms & Conditions .

We always recommend comprehensive travel insurance — and dive insurance is compulsory due to the remote nature of diving in Komodo.

Once that’s done, the adventure starts to feel very real.

Getting to Labuan Bajo

Your journey will bring you to Komodo International Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo.

There are now direct flights from:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Bali
• Jakarta
• Singapore

From Bali, the flight is around one hour — short, scenic, and often the moment it really sinks in that you’re headed somewhere special.

We recommend arriving the day before embarkation if possible. It gives you time to settle in, adjust, and avoid any stress if flights are delayed.

Embarkation Day: When It All Begins

On Day 1, we meet at our office in Labuan Bajo between 08:00 and 08:30am. There’s always a buzz in the air — new faces, excited conversations, gear being double-checked.

At 09:00am, we walk together to the harbour and step aboard KLM Eliya. A welcome drink is served, cabins are shown, and our Cruise Director guides you through safety procedures and the plan for the week ahead.

Then, just like that, you’re on your way.

The first day typically includes two afternoon dives and a sunset or night dive. Sometimes, depending on conditions and planning, it may include two dives and a visit to Rinca Island to see the Komodo dragons. The exact flow is explained once onboard — flexibility is part of the magic.

Komodo 6D5N liveaboard guide: Days 2 to 5

By the second morning, you’re already in rhythm.

You’ll wake around 6:00am to light snacks, tea, and coffee before your first dive. There’s something special about slipping into the water as the day begins — Komodo often feels at its most alive in the early morning.

The days flow gently:

Dive.
Breakfast.
Dive.
Lunch.
Rest.
Dive.
Sunset or night dive.
Dinner under the stars.

Up to 20 dives across the trip, all guided, with full equipment rental included (excluding dive computer). Meals, tea, coffee, drinking water, towels, toiletries — everything is taken care of so you can focus fully on the experience.

And it’s not only about diving.

Exploring Komodo Above the Water

Komodo National Park is just as dramatic above the surface.

During the trip, depending on where we are diving and the conditions at the time, we may visit:

• Gili Lawa for sweeping island views
• Padar Island for its iconic ridge walk
• Rinca Island to encounter Komodo dragons with park rangers
• Pink Beach when conditions are calm
• Fruit bats at sunset

These excursions are never forced into a rigid schedule. We choose them based on tides, weather, and what will create the best overall experience for everyone onboard.

Marine Park Fees & Practical Details

There is a daily national park fee for activities within the park, payable in cash (IDR).

For foreign nationals:

• Divers: 275,000 IDR per day
• Snorkellers: 250,000 IDR per day

For Indonesian citizens (KTP holders):

• 75,000 IDR (Mon–Sat)
• 100,000 IDR (Sun & public holidays)

Fees are subject to change.

Cash is also useful for:

• Crew gratuities
• Land excursion permits
• Personal purchases

There are plenty of ATMs in Labuan Bajo before boarding.

What to Pack (Without Overpacking)

Komodo is tropical, but evenings can feel cool after multiple dives.

Bring:

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• A light rain jacket (especially January–February)
• A warm layer for evenings
• Proof of certification
• Dive insurance documentation
• Any prescription medication

Reusable water bottles are encouraged — each cabin has one onboard that you can keep as a souvenir.

SMBs are advisable but not required. Reef hooks are not required.

Wetsuits are available onboard.

Disembarkation Day: A Soft Landing Back to Reality

On Day 6, there’s one final early morning dive (or two morning dives if the Dragon Tour happened earlier). After breakfast and lunch, KLM Eliya returns to harbour around 14:30.

Back at the office, our team assists with remaining payments and arranges taxis to your hotel or the airport.

Because of the 18-hour no-fly rule after diving, we strongly recommend flying the following day.

And this is where we always suggest something simple.

Cross the street.

Treat yourself to a well-earned ice cream at Maison Belmont.

Sit down. Take a breath. Let it sink in.

The dives, the dragons, the sunsets, the early mornings — it all settles into memory right there.

Where to Eat in Labuan Bajo After Your Trip

If you’re staying an extra night, Labuan Bajo is relaxed and easy to explore.

Some guest favourites include:

• Sea Esta – lively restaurant and sunset bar
• Banana – great atmosphere and creative dishes
• The waterfront food street – casual, local, and full of flavour

Whether you choose something vibrant or simple, it’s a lovely way to ease back into land life.

Final Thoughts

We hope this Komodo 6D5N liveaboard guide makes planning your trip feel smooth and straightforward.

Komodo is powerful, unpredictable, and unforgettable. Once you’re onboard KLM Eliya, the logistics fade away and the experience takes over.

We’ll handle the details.

You just show up ready for the adventure.