Last Updated on October 20, 2024 by Dawn Head
If you are interested in sailing to Komodo in Indonesia, this experience all begins in Komodo National Park; home to the unique and rare Komodo dragon.
The park boasts of:
- Three islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar
- Another twenty six smaller islands
- Coastal stretch of Western Flores
- Converging waters of the beautiful Straits of Sape connecting the Flores Sea to the Sumba Strait. It separates the islands of Sumbawa and Komodo.
Komodo National Park is a world heritage site as declared by UNESCO and the park has also been selected to join the new seven wonders of the world.
Komodo Island is surrounded by waters with rich marine biodiversity due to its location in the Coral Triangle.
The island boasts of beautiful panoramic views of sandy beaches, crystal blue seas, breathtaking corals and rain forests as well.
Once you set sail in Komodo prepare for the experience of a lifetime exploring Komodo itself and more than ten surrounding islands.
Itinerary for Sailing around Komodo
Komodo National Park avails exiting activities for people who enjoy adventure and appreciate nature. There are many interesting activities for those who wish to navigate the surrounding waters of the park.
Visit the Flying Foxes’ Island (Kalong Rinca)
On request the captain of the ship can stop in Kalong Rinca. Kalong Rinca is a small, beautiful island nestled in Komodo National Park with a stretch of mangrove where the bats reside.
Kalong Rinca is a popular spot for observing flying foxes, a type of bat, especially at sunset. The exact timing of the sunset flight will vary depending on the season and weather. Check with local guides or your tour operator for information so you can time it correctly.
The name of the Island is derived locally; Kalong which means bat. The best time to catch a glimpse of the bats fly out for hunting is just before sunset.
It is indeed a breathtaking scene, another thing to watch is the velvet soft-toned sky. This island is a favorite for tourists.
Cruise on a luxury yacht
There are luxury yachts that set sail around the waters of the park. Depending on your price point and the length of the tour, some will have amenities such as a large open Jacuzzis and swimming deck, beautiful sky lounges and water sporting such as jet skis.
Once you set sail on the yacht you can catch magnificent views of the island as you wine and dine. It could also be a nice spa treatment on deck or an encounter of the manta rays.
Watch the sunset from Gili Lawa Darat Bay
The bay of Gili Lawa Darat is unknown to many, it is an island located north east of the Komodo National Park. The bay’s calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling and diving, in addition to enjoying the sunset.
Travelers who set sail for the bay, will have the liberty of exploring the expansive savanna that takes different colors upon each season.
Gili Lawa Darat has a protected bay area where you can watch dusk closing in as you take a sunset trek. The adjacent waters are very calm and are a favorite for tourists who take delight in scuba diving.
Mangrove exploration
The entire coast of Komodo National Park as well as all other small islands in the area is bubbling with mangrove. The mangrove make for an interesting ecosystem because of the life they affect both on land and at sea.
It is why tourists take such a keen interest on this ecosystem. Rinca Island just close to Komodo but smaller in size is where you are likely to explore mangrove better. To get to the island, you ride in small boat and access the bay.
It is also possible to meander in the mangrove but no swimming whatsoever, as the adjacent waters are engulfed by crocodiles.
While Rinca Island is a popular spot for mangrove exploration, other islands within the park also offer opportunities for mangrove tours. It’s important to check with your tour operator for specific recommendations based on your interests and time constraints.
See Komodo Dragons
Komodo dragons are mammoth beasts exclusive to the Komodo Island in Indonesia. The creatures have come under threat of late due to being smuggled and sold.
It is for this reason that park fees have risen their fees. While the park entrance fee has increased, it’s important to note that this fee typically covers the services of a ranger guide who will accompany you on your trek to ensure your safety and provide informative commentary.
Sailing to Komodo National Park
Be sure to consult with a local tour operator to get more information on pricing, scheduling, and the best time to visit each location.