Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before joining a Moana liveaboard trip in Komodo National Park.
Diving
You need at least an Open Water (OWD) certification or equivalent. Advanced Open Water is recommended if you want to access deeper sites, but many of Komodo's best dives are within recreational limits. If you're unsure, just ask — we'll let you know what to expect.
Typically 3 dives per day, including the option for a night dive on select evenings. All dives are guided by our experienced local dive masters who know every site like the back of their hand.
Komodo is world-famous for sites like Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, Manta Alley, and many more. The exact itinerary depends on weather and conditions — our crew chooses the best sites each day so you always get the most rewarding dives possible.
Komodo is known for currents — that's what makes the marine life so rich. Our guides carefully time each dive with the tides. Some sites have moderate to strong currents (drift dives), while others are calm. We always match the site to the group's experience level. Reef hooks are provided free of charge.
Absolutely — and we encourage it if you have your own regulator, BCD, or computer. We provide tanks, weights, and SMBs free of charge. If you need to rent gear, full sets and individual items are available on board at reasonable rates.
Water temperatures in Komodo range from 25 °C to 30 °C (77–86 °F) depending on the season and dive site. A 3 mm wetsuit is usually enough, though some divers prefer 5 mm for deeper or cooler sites in the south. Wetsuits are available for rent on board.
Snorkeling on a Liveaboard
Not at all. Many of our guests are snorkelers only, and they have an incredible time. Komodo's reefs start right at the surface, so snorkelers see mantas, turtles, and vibrant coral gardens just as well as divers — sometimes even better, because of the sunlight.
Our three professional guides lead separate groups for divers and snorkelers. While divers descend, a dedicated guide takes snorkelers to the best spots by speedboat. You'll never be waiting around — snorkel sessions happen at the same time as dive sessions, with their own carefully chosen sites.
Mask, snorkel, boots, and fins — all included and free to use anytime. Just grab your gear and jump in. If you have your own mask or fins and prefer to use those, you're welcome to bring them.
Yes. Our guides have over 12 years of experience in Komodo and choose sites based on current conditions. For beginners, they select calm, sheltered bays with gentle currents. Life jackets and flotation aids are always available. You're in good hands.
Absolutely. You can mix freely — dive on some sessions and snorkel on others. Our guides are flexible and will accommodate your preferences each day. Many guests do exactly this.
The Trip
A maximum of 10 guests, supported by 11 crew members and 3 dedicated dive and snorkel guides. Most liveaboards in Komodo carry 20–30 guests — Moana is deliberately small for a more personal, relaxed experience.
A typical day starts with an early-bird breakfast and coffee, followed by a morning dive or snorkel session. After a warm second breakfast, there's another water activity before lunch. The afternoon brings a third session, free time for relaxation, and often a sunset hike or island walk. Dinner is served under the stars. Everything is flexible — skip a session if you'd rather relax on deck.
Komodo is a year-round destination. April–June and September–November offer the best visibility and calmer seas. December–March brings manta season in the south. Our Cruise Director adapts itineraries daily based on conditions, so you'll always visit the best sites for that time of year.
There is limited mobile signal in some areas of Komodo National Park. We don't provide onboard Wi-Fi — it's a chance to truly disconnect. If you need to stay connected, an Indonesian SIM card with data can work at certain anchorage spots.
Moana sails mostly in sheltered waters between islands, so conditions are usually calm. Most guests don't experience seasickness. If you're sensitive, over-the-counter motion sickness medication taken before departure works well. Our crew is also experienced in choosing calm anchorages.
Boat & Cabins
Moana has 5 cabins: 3 double-bed cabins (for couples) and 2 twin-bed cabins (for solo travelers sharing with same-gender guests). Every cabin has its own private ensuite bathroom with a ceramic toilet, sink, and shower with sun-warmed water.
Solo guests share a twin-bed cabin with another guest of the same gender. If you prefer privacy, you can book a single supplement (249 €/night) for a cabin to yourself. Sharing is the default — the choice is yours.
Yes — full board with drinks. Breakfast (a light early-bird plus a warm second breakfast), lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner are all included. Soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water are unlimited. Our chef prepares Indonesian-inspired cuisine adapted for international tastes.
Yes. Let us know your dietary needs when booking (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies, etc.) and our chef will accommodate you. We're used to catering to a wide range of preferences.
Booking & Getting There
Fly to Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo. Direct flights are available from Bali (DPS), Jakarta (CGK), and several other Indonesian cities. We provide free transfers from the airport or your hotel in Labuan Bajo to Moana — and back again at the end of your trip.
Pack light and casual: swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a light long-sleeve shirt for sun protection, comfortable walking shoes for island treks, and a waterproof bag for electronics. Snorkel equipment is provided; divers should bring their own regulator and BCD (or rent on board). Our Booking & Travel Guide has a full packing list — download it free below.
Yes — dive insurance is included in your trip package. We strongly recommend that all guests additionally arrange their own travel and trip cancellation insurance before departure.
Check available dates on our Trips page, then contact us directly. We'll confirm availability, send you all the details, and guide you through the booking. No pressure — we're happy to answer questions first.
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Booking & Travel Guide
Your go-to resource for a great liveaboard trip — detailed itineraries, onboard amenities, travel tips and packing advice. Start planning the trip of a lifetime!