SeaTrek Cruise: Komodo – Whale Sharks, Corals and Dragons
Tour Introduction
This exceptional small-ship expedition aboard a traditional Indonesian pinisi-style schooner explores the volcanic landscapes, vibrant coral reefs and rich cultural heritage of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Beginning and ending in Komodo National Park, the cruise offers a rare opportunity to swim with whale sharks, snorkel among pristine reefs, and encounter the legendary Komodo dragon in its natural habitat.
Highlights include snorkelling over bubbling volcanic sands, kayaking on a saltwater crater lake, and visiting remote island villages where traditional boat building and textile weaving are still practiced. Guests will enjoy guided forest walks, beach barbecues under starlit skies, and the chance to witness thousands of fruit bats in flight. The itinerary also features a visit to Moyo Island’s waterfall and a performance of the ritual Caci whip dance in Melo Village. With twice-daily snorkelling, expert guides, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere, this cruise offers a rich blend of wildlife, culture and adventure in one of Indonesia’s most spectacular regions.
Full Itinerary
Met on arrival by your SeaTrek Tour Leader, you will transfer to the boat and settle into your cabin before heading out for your first snorkelling session of the voyage. Enjoy a relaxed introduction to the vibrant reefs of Komodo National Park as you begin your journey through this remarkable region.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes Lunch and Dinner.
Go ashore in search of the legendary Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, found only in this remote corner of Indonesia. Later, snorkel over some of Komodo’s finest reefs, including a site frequented by sea turtles, offering the chance to swim alongside these gentle creatures in shallow, coral-rich waters.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Wake off the coast of a pristine uninhabited island, where powdered red coral mixed with white sand creates the striking effect of a “pink beach.” Spend the morning swimming, paddleboarding and snorkelling over the vibrant reef before cruising to nearby Sangeang Island for a unique snorkel among volcanic gas bubbles rising from the sea floor.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Arrive at Satonda, a mystical volcanic island with a sunken saltwater crater lake formed by the eruption of Mt Tambora in 1815. Spend the day swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake, surrounded by forested slopes and steep crater walls in one of the region’s most unusual natural settings.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Today brings the thrilling chance to swim with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea, in the sheltered waters of Saleh Bay. Working in partnership with local fishermen and their traditional fishing platforms, we hope to encounter these magnificent creatures up close—an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Visit the charming village on Moyo Island and take a short forest walk to a beautiful waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, clear water. Surrounded by lush greenery and bird calls, it’s a peaceful and scenic stop before continuing the voyage.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Visit the shores of Sangeang, an active volcanic island where traditional wooden pinisi boats are still built by hand. Stroll through the village to meet local craftsmen, learn about their way of life, and browse handmade textiles before returning to the boat.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
Re-enter Komodo National Park for snorkelling and beachcombing, with the chance to join a coral restoration project and witness thriving reefs first planted in 2015. In the evening, enjoy a SeaTrek beach BBQ under a starlit sky, complete with delicious local dishes and live music from the crew.
Staying at MSV Katharina / MSV Ombak Putih. Includes All Meals.
After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Melo Village to witness the dramatic Caci whip dance, a traditional ritual performed by local strongmen to the rhythm of acoustic instruments. Returning to the boat for lunch, you’ll bid farewell to the crew and fellow travellers before disembarking to continue your onward journey.
Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Tour Accommodation
MSV Katharina
Overview
Run by SeaTrek Sailing Adventures the MSV Katharina is used in a wide variety of cruises around Indonesia, with focuses including birding, the Spice Islands, Komodo Dragons, Whale Sharks, Birds of Paradise and more.
Indonesia comprises around 18,000 islands stretching over 5,000 km, making it the perfect country to explore by ship, and the Katharina and is a lovely base from which to explore the delights that this country has to offer. Sea Trek offers an extensive schedule of cruises, and specialise in expert-led cruises where an on-board specialist helps to enhance your cruise experience by imparting their own wisdom to guests. Private charter options are also available.
Depending on the focus of the cruise and your intentions for your time on board, a typical day can include everything from visiting uninhabited island beaches, trekking through beautiful jungle, meeting local villagers, bird watching, or observing the underwater delights whilst snorkeling.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Capacity
Length
Class
Cabins
6 (2 x double cabins, 2 x twin bunk cabins, 2 x triple cabins with one double and one upper bunk single suitable for children under 12 preferably
Facilities
Two double cabins, two triple cabins (double with single upper bunk, preferably for children under 12), two twin cabins. All cabins have air conditioning, plenty of electrical and USB points, storage space and en-suite bathrooms. There is also a salon and bar, two sun decks and an outdoor dining area. The boat has modern communications and safety technology, as well as being equipped with tenders, kayaks, stand-up-paddle boards and snorkelling gear.
Optional Activities
The boat has snorkeling equipment, kayaks and stand up paddlebaords for guests to enjoy. Activities will vary depending on the theme of the cruise you are joining.
MSV Ombak Putih
Overview
The MSV Ombak Putih is a charmingly authentic 42 metre wooden pinisi ship, originally built in 1995 and first operational in 97. Initially crafted in Kalimantin by the highly-skilled peoples of Borneo and Sulawesi, she is back to former glory following a full interior refit in 2015. Led by Captain Agung and a 14 man crew, excellent service is ensured for the 24 guests on board. The two main decks provide around 400 sqm of living space, including a large salon and several covered and open seating spaces.
Run by SeaTrek Sailing Adventures the MSV Ombak Putih is used in a wide variety of cruises around Indonesia, with focuses including birding, the Spice Islands, Komodo Dragons, Whale Sharks, Birds of Paradise and more. Indonesia comprises around 18,000 islands stretching over 5,000 km, making it the perfect country to explore by ship, and the Katharina and is a lovely base from which to explore the delights that this country has to offer. Sea Trek offers an extensive schedule of cruises, and specialise in expert-led cruises where an on-board specialist helps to enhance your cruise experience by imparting their own wisdom to guests. Private charter options are also available.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Capacity
Length
Class
Cabins
12 (6 x double cabins, 4 x twin bunk cabins, 2 x triple cabins with one double and one upper bunk single suitable for children under 12 preferably).
Facilities
Six double cabins, two triple cabins (double with single upper bunk, preferably for children under 12), four twin bunk cabins. All cabins have air conditioning, plenty of electrical and USB points, storage space and en-suite bathrooms. There is also a salon and bar, and several open and covered lounge ares on the two main decks. The boat has modern communications and safety technology, as well as being equipped with tenders, kayaks, stand-up-paddle boards and snorkelling gear.
Optional Activities
The boat has snorkeling equipment, kayaks and stand up paddlebaords for guests to enjoy. Activities will vary depending on the theme of the cruise you are joining.
Route Map
Departure Dates
Tour Dates
Adult Price
Single Supp
Travel Information
Are International Flights Included?
No. Please contact us for a quote if required.
Best Visited:
April to August
Are you ATOL Registered?
Yes. This means we are legally able to book your international flights in conjunction with your ground arrangements so you can book with us with complete confidence. Read more about our ATOL license here.
Jonathan Morris
Area Specialist
If you have any questions regarding this Tour, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
It was an epic and stunning holiday which we will remember for a very long time. A highlight was seeing the Hornbills, Tarsiers, Bear Cuscus and The Sulawesi Crested Macaque in Tangkoko National Park. As usual your organisation of this trip was excellent.
