14-day journey, including 10 days of sea kayaking in the heart of the Komodo Archipelago
An expedition among volcanic islands and turquoise lagoons
Set out on a unique sea kayaking adventure through the Komodo Archipelago. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archipelago is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, crystal-clear waters and spectacular volcanic landscapes. Designed for nature and adventure enthusiasts, this expedition offers an immersive journey far from the beaten track in one of the planet’s best-preserved regions.
Far beyond its famous dragons, Komodo holds remarkable natural treasures. Led by an English-speaking, French state-certified sea kayak guide and an experienced local guide, you will paddle between 20 and 25 kilometres per day through turquoise lagoons, along wild coastlines and into coves accessible only by kayak.
A traditional Indonesian phinisi accompanies the entire expedition and becomes our floating base camp. It allows us to reach the most remote islands and return each evening to the crew, a freshly prepared meal and the comfort needed for the next day’s adventure.
Expedition at a glance
Indonesia · Komodo Archipelago
Guaranteed departure
Guaranteed departure
- Duration
- 14 days
- Kayaking days
- 10 days
- Accommodation
- 9 nights aboard a phinisi · 2 nights in a 4★ hotel
- Technical level
- Level 2 — Intermediate
- Daily paddling
- 4 to 5 hours · approximately 20 to 25 km
- Group size
- 6 to 8 participants
- 2027 price
- €3,850 per person
Distances and the programme are indicative. Stages are adapted each day to the currents, tides, weather and pace of the group.
Komodo in motion
Experience the expedition in 1 minute 19 seconds: sea kayaking, volcanic islands, life aboard and tropical waters.
Why this expedition is unique
- Komodo dragons: observe these iconic animals in their natural habitat during walks led by the national park rangers.
- Exceptional marine biodiversity: coral reefs, sea turtles, tropical fish and opportunities to encounter manta rays.
- Spectacular volcanic landscapes: hills, cliffs and beaches of white, pink or black sand.
- A genuine small-group journey: only 6 to 8 participants, with a traditional Indonesian phinisi as our mobile base camp.
- An adaptable adventure: the support boat makes it possible to rest for part or all of a stage whenever necessary.
The adventure begins in Labuan Bajo
The journey begins in Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the Komodo Archipelago. During the first few days, we explore Kelor and Pungu, surrounded by some of Indonesia’s richest coral reefs. Coral gardens, tropical fish and the sea turtles we may encounter mark the beginning of our immersion.
Rinca: an encounter with the Komodo dragons
Continuing south, we reach Rinca Island, often less visited than its famous neighbour but just as fascinating. Rinca is home to Komodo dragons, giant monitor lizards that can reach three metres in length. A ranger-led walk gives us the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
Padar: iconic landscapes and multicoloured beaches
Padar is one of the jewels of the archipelago. By kayak, we discover its bays and beaches of black, white and pink sand. A hike to the summit offers one of Indonesia’s most celebrated panoramas, where volcanic hills plunge into deep blue water.
An underwater paradise
Komodo’s waters offer remarkable snorkelling sites. At Manta Point, conditions may allow us to swim alongside manta rays. Tatawa Besar reveals colourful corals, while Siaba Besar, known as “Turtle City”, is particularly good for spotting sea turtles. Every session naturally depends on the conditions and the presence of wildlife.
Want to know more?
The complete Road Book explains the journey, itinerary, required level, boat and flight arrangements in detail.
Itinerary and sea kayaking
Daily stages average 20 to 25 km, generally 4 to 5 hours of paddling, in addition to breaks, snorkelling and time ashore. The pace is adapted to the group, the tides and the weather conditions.
The support boat remains nearby. If you are tired or would like to rest, you can stay aboard for part or all of a stage and rejoin the group farther along the route.
Single and tandem kayaks, in composite or polyethylene, are available. They are robust and stable, and are selected according to paddler size, experience and the conditions along the route.
Detailed expedition itinerary
Indicative programme, adapted to the tides, currents, weather, wildlife encountered and pace of the group.
- Day 1 — Departure for Indonesia
Flight to Labuan Bajo via Jakarta or Bali. - Day 2 — Arrival in Labuan Bajo
Discover this port town on the island of Flores, prepare for the expedition and spend the night in a hotel. - Day 3 — Kelor Island → Pungu Island
Board the phinisi, then enjoy the first paddling and snorkelling session around Kelor. We continue towards Pungu and its mangroves for our first night at anchor. - Day 4 — Strawberry Rock → Rinca Village → Pulau Koabe
Paddle to Strawberry Rock, snorkel, then discover Rinca Village before reaching the anchorage near Pulau Koabe.
- Day 5 — Pulau Koabe → Toroboya → northern Rinca
Explore secluded beaches and hidden coves, with kayaking and snorkelling throughout the day. Spend the night in a sheltered bay. - Day 6 — Towards Padar Island
A long day of sea kayaking towards Padar and its multicoloured bays. Spend the night at anchor near the island. - Day 7 — Around Padar and panoramic hike
Explore the island by kayak, then hike to the summit to admire the white, pink and black-sand beaches. - Day 8 — Komodo and its marine life
After a boat transfer towards Komodo, we explore the waters around the island by kayak. Spend the night near Pulau Lasa. - Day 9 — Komodo dragons → Pink Beach → Loh Sebita
Morning walk with the rangers to observe the dragons, followed by Pink Beach and snorkelling, then continue by kayak towards Loh Sebita.
- Day 10 — Northern Komodo → Pulau Gili
Sea kayaking through the bays of northern Komodo, followed by a night at anchor near Pulau Gili. - Day 11 — Manta Point → Tatawa Besar → Pulau Sebayor
Wildlife watching and snorkelling at Manta Point, depending on conditions and the presence of manta rays, lunch near Tatawa Besar, then kayak to Pulau Sebayor Besar. - Day 12 — Sebayor Besar → Kanawa → Labuan Bajo
A final morning of sea kayaking around Sebayor Besar, snorkelling near Kanawa, then return by boat to Labuan Bajo and spend the night in a hotel. - Days 13 and 14 — Return journey
Transfer to Labuan Bajo Airport and return flights via Bali or Jakarta.
Dates, price & booking
Guaranteed departure
Guaranteed departure
Other dates: private departures can be arranged on request, subject to the availability of the boat and team.
The price includes: transfers in Labuan Bajo, including journeys between the airport and hotel; 2 nights in a 4★ hotel in a double room with breakfast; 9 nights aboard a traditional Indonesian phinisi; guiding by an English-speaking, French state-certified sea kayak guide and a local guide; kayaks, snorkelling gear and safety equipment; full board and drinking water during the voyage.
Not included: international and domestic flights; meals before and after the liveaboard section; additional drinks, tips and personal expenses; travel, assistance and repatriation insurance; visas; any charges applied by your bank; optional single room at the hotel and carbon paddle on request.
Payment terms: 35% deposit at booking and balance 45 days before departure. Payment by bank transfer or card.
Guest reviews — Komodo Sea Kayak Trip
Aboard our traditional Indonesian phinisi
The spacious, well-equipped phinisi is suited to local conditions and an island-to-island expedition through the archipelago. Operated by a professional crew, it accompanies the kayaks, reaches each anchorage and provides a comfortable base between days of exploration.
Crew & services
The team comprises a captain and four crew members, an Indonesian kayak guide and an English-speaking, French state-certified sea kayak guide. Together they look after navigation, safety, activities and daily life aboard.
Cabin comfort
The boat can accommodate up to 14 passengers and has four shared cabins: two 4-berth cabins and two 3-berth cabins. With our group limited to 6 to 8 participants, each cabin is shared by only two or three travellers.
Facilities & common areas
Four shared bathrooms are located across the main and upper decks. A reserve of approximately 5,000 litres of fresh water is available for showers and everyday use.
The boat has a dining area and a relaxation space on the aft deck. 220–230 V sockets are available in the cabins and dining area for charging electronic devices.
Meals & picnics
The chef and crew prepare food combining local and international flavours each day. Lunchboxes can be arranged for kayaking days and picnics ashore. Dietary requirements can be accommodated when advised at the time of booking.
Drinking water & environmental commitment
To reduce single-use plastic, each participant receives a reusable bottle which can be refilled from the drinking-water dispensers available aboard.
In the evening, the boat provides a welcoming place to relax, share a meal and look back on the day’s highlights before the next stage.
FAQ — Komodo sea kayaking expedition
Who is this trip for?
Profile: active adults and teenagers aged 16 or over when accompanied, who enjoy the sea and outdoor activities.
Level 2 — Intermediate: you do not need to be an expert sea kayaker. Good physical fitness and the motivation to paddle for several hours each day are essential. Daily technical briefings and close guidance are provided.
Distances & pace
Approximately 20 to 25 km per day, generally 4 to 5 hours of paddling, excluding breaks, snorkelling and walks. The pace is adapted to the group, the tides and the weather conditions.
What if I get tired?
A support boat accompanies the expedition: you can rest aboard for part or all of a stage if necessary.
Kayaks & equipment
- Kayaks: single and tandem models, in composite or polyethylene.
- Equipment provided: paddles, PFDs, spraydecks according to conditions and preferences, and group safety equipment.
- Comfort option: 4-piece carbon paddle available on request and subject to availability.
- Snorkelling: masks, snorkels and fins are available aboard; you may also bring your own equipment.
Group size & guiding
- Group: 6 to 8 participants.
- Guides: one English-speaking guide and one local guide from Komodo Kayaking.
- Boat & crew: approximately six people, including the captain, crew, local guide and cook.
The boat & cabins
- Type: traditional Indonesian phinisi adapted for expedition use.
- Cabins: four shared cabins, including two 4-berth and two 3-berth cabins. With our group limited to 6 to 8 participants, each cabin is shared by only two or three travellers.
- Bathrooms: four shared bathrooms across the main and upper decks.
- Fresh water: a reserve of approximately 5,000 litres for showers and everyday use.
- Electricity: 220–230 V type C/F sockets in the cabins and dining area.
- Bed linen & towels: bed linen is provided; a personal towel is recommended for the beach and snorkelling.
Meals & drinking water
Full board aboard, with local and international cuisine. Lunchboxes can be prepared for picnics ashore.
Drinking water: 20-litre dispensers are freely available, together with reusable bottles to reduce plastic. Dietary requirements can be accommodated when advised at the time of booking.
Weather & season
At the beginning of the dry season, particularly in May, the sea is often calmer, visibility for snorkelling is generally excellent and the landscapes are still green.
In Komodo, winds and currents can change quickly: the programme remains adaptable to preserve safety and the quality of the experience.
Currents & tides
Komodo lies between the Indian Ocean to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the north, creating sometimes powerful tidal currents in certain channels. Paddling is planned around the tides, with a daily briefing and adapted timing. The guides teach you how to read the water and paddle safely.
Safety
Daily briefings, VHF radio, first-aid kit, communication equipment, an evacuation plan and a support boat are all part of the safety system. Walks to observe the dragons are led by the national park rangers. PFDs must be worn while paddling.
Health & prevention
Consult your doctor for advice regarding malaria and vaccinations. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, long-sleeved rashguards, a wide-brimmed hat and a small personal medical kit with your usual medication.
Visa & passport
Your passport must generally be valid for at least six months on the date of entry, and a return ticket may be requested. Many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival or an electronic visa, while others must apply in advance. As formalities can change, we send a reminder with up-to-date information approximately three months before departure.
Money & payments in Indonesia
The currency is the Indonesian rupiah. ATMs are available in Labuan Bajo, with withdrawal limits. Card payments are sometimes accepted in town but remain unlikely on the islands. Bring cash for expenses before and after the expedition.
Mobile network & communication
Mobile coverage is available in Labuan Bajo but patchy around the islands. A local SIM card can be useful, and the guide may occasionally share a connection. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed aboard.
Flights & arrival in Labuan Bajo
The gateway airport is Labuan Bajo (LBJ), generally reached via Bali (DPS) or Jakarta (CGK). Domestic flight schedules can change; whenever possible, choose a morning flight to allow some margin in the event of a change or cancellation.
Baggage allowances on domestic flights vary and must be checked when booking.
Nights in Labuan Bajo
Two nights in a 4★ hotel are included in a double room: one night before boarding to recover from the journey and one night after returning from the boat. A single room can be requested for a supplement and subject to availability.
What is included & not included?
Included:
- guiding by an English-speaking guide and a local guide;
- support boat and crew;
- 9 nights aboard a phinisi and 2 nights in a 4★ hotel in Labuan Bajo;
- full board and drinking water during the voyage;
- kayaking and snorkelling equipment;
- transfers between the airport and hotel in Labuan Bajo.
Not included:
- international and domestic flights;
- additional drinks, tips and personal expenses;
- travel, assistance and repatriation insurance, visa and any charges applied by your bank;
- optional single room at the hotel and carbon paddle.
Travel insurance & payment
Travel insurance including assistance and repatriation is strongly recommended. Also check the cover provided by your bank card if you use it to pay for your flights.
Deposit: 35% at booking. Balance: 45 days before departure. Payment by bank transfer or card.
Environment & ethics
We limit single-use plastic as much as possible through reusable bottles and water dispensers. Use reef-safe sunscreen, do not touch the coral or animals, and respect the distances indicated by the guides. Waste is sorted and brought back when necessary.
Photos & drones
You may take photos and film while respecting people and wildlife. Drones are subject to a paid permit and strict national park regulations; applications must be made in advance.