Komodo 2D1N Private Yacht Adventure for Ten: Ultimate Island Hopping Experience 🏝️

Given that the trip was planned just a week in advance, we decided to forgo the standard 3D2N boat trip departing on Friday, as advertised on Sweet Potato (a popular social media platform), and instead opted for a 2D1N trip starting on Saturday. This shorter trip only skips 1-2 snorkeling spots but is more comfortable for those who are prone to seasickness. For larger groups, I highly recommend this type of private charter.

[Preparation Before Departure]
🏢 Selecting a Travel Agency
We began our search for a boat charter just a week before the trip, which felt a bit rushed, especially for a group. I strongly suggest browsing Instagram for Komodo trips, where you can find local travel agencies with over ten thousand followers.

These agencies typically list their WhatsApp contact, making it easy to get in touch. Alternatively, you can use Google Maps to find local travel agencies. We reached out to several agencies and finally settled on one that responded promptly, was friendly, and actively helped us find a suitable boat within our budget.

We also verified the agency’s credentials on TripAdvisor, where we found positive reviews.

🚢 Selecting a Boat
The travel agency provided a list of boats they represent. Each boat has its own name and comes with a detailed PDF document outlining room types, facilities, itinerary, and what the price includes. We discovered that the same boat can be represented by multiple agents, and booking through a local travel agency is generally about 40% cheaper than using Fliggy (a travel booking platform).

Here’s a quick anecdote: the local boat agent quoted us 10,000 RMB for the boat we liked, while Fliggy quoted 14,000 RMB. Therefore, I highly recommend that capable friends contact the local travel agency directly via WhatsApp to book the boat.

We ultimately booked a boat named Kapal Gajah Putih, a relatively new vessel featuring 2 master cabins, 2 standard cabins, and 2 windowless cabins. The advantage of this boat is that all rooms come with en-suite bathrooms, and there’s a long table on the deck for dining and relaxation. The boat is staffed with 6 crew members.

The total cost for the private charter was 20,000 RMB, which included three meals, a local guide, and a photographer, though entrance fees were not included. I strongly recommend choosing a package that includes drone photography, as many scenic spots look stunning when captured from above.

💰 Deposit Payment
To secure the boat, you need to pay 50% of the total fee as a deposit. After comparing various payment options, we chose the WISE app, which offers the lowest transaction fees. You can top up your WISE account using a DBS card, and the transfer is usually credited within 1-2 working days. The remaining balance is paid upon arrival in Komodo.

⛰️ Itinerary Sharing
Embark on a thrilling adventure with a fixed yet exciting itinerary that promises unforgettable experiences. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

**Day 1:**
– **Kelor Island (Hiking Adventure):** Start your journey with a hike through the lush, verdant trails of Kelor Island. Enjoy panoramic views and the fresh ocean breeze.
– **Manjarite Island (Snorkeling Paradise):** Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Manjarite Island for an up-close encounter with vibrant marine life.

Snorkel through colorful coral reefs and swim alongside tropical fish.
– **Kalong Island (Bat Sunset Spectacle):** End your day with a mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Watch as thousands of bats take flight at sunset, creating a breathtaking display against the twilight sky.

**Day 2:**
– **Padar Island (Sunrise Hike, Entrance Fee Required):** Wake up early to catch a stunning sunrise from the summit of Padar Island. The panoramic view of the island’s bays and surrounding sea is a sight to behold. Please note that an entrance fee is required for this experience.
– **Pink Beach (Snorkeling Delight):** Explore the unique and enchanting Pink Beach, known for its pink sand and pristine waters.

Snorkel in the shallow, clear waters and discover a world teeming with marine wonders.
– **Komodo Island (Home of the Komodo Dragons):** Conclude your trip with a visit to Komodo Island, the natural habitat of the legendary Komodo dragons. Witness these magnificent creatures in their native environment and learn about their fascinating behaviors and conservation efforts.