Duration
7 days
Cabins left
2 / 8
Capacity
10 divers
Operator
Adelaar-Cruises
Included
Mandatory surcharges
Optional extras
Certification
OWD or equivalent
Min. dives
60 logged
Check-in
08:00–08:30
Check-out
09:00–10:00
A Rare Passage Through Wild Indonesia Adelaar’s Komodo Extended & Whale Shark expedition traces the untamed coastline of Sumbawa before reaching the far frontiers of the UNESCO-protected Komodo National Park. Over eight carefully crafted days, you will encounter the extraordinary biodiversity that places Indonesia among the world’s most celebrated underwater realms. From volcanic ridgelines plunging into cobalt seas to the stark, sculptural islands guarded by the legendary Komodo dragon, each destination reveals a different facet of this remote archipelago. This voyage is designed for experienced divers and well-traveled explorers seeking both intensity and elegance — dramatic walls, current-swept pinnacles, macro-rich black sand slopes, manta encounters, whale sharks, hidden waterfalls, volcanic lakes, and rare terrestrial wildlife. A journey defined by contrast, depth, and refinement.
Departure into the Archipelago As dawn breaks over Bali, your expedition begins at Serangan Harbor. Following a private transfer from the airport or your hotel, you are welcomed aboard Adelaar. Our crew greets you with a refreshing drink and an elegant presentation of tropical fruits at peak ripeness — a first taste of the journey ahead. While formalities are completed, your luggage is discreetly delivered to your cabin and the crew introduces themselves. A comprehensive safety and diving briefing follows — thorough, unhurried, and essential. Precision and preparation define the experience onboard. As Adelaar sets sail, Bali gradually fades into the horizon. Mount Agung, sacred in Balinese cosmology, stands watch over our departure. With favorable seas, pods of dolphins may accompany us as we head eastward through the night.
Coral Gardens & Hidden Waterfalls We awaken off the untouched island of Moyo. Three daytime dives introduce you to Indonesia’s vibrant tropical reefs. Expansive coral gardens shelter colorful reef fish, including clownfish nestled in their anemones. Reef sharks, turtles, and rays are frequent visitors, while attentive eyes may discover moray eels, sea snakes, nudibranchs, frogfish, and leaf fish among the reef structures. As twilight settles, we prepare for the first night dive — Sumbawa’s coastline revealing its exceptional macro life in a different light. For Snorkelers & Non-Divers Approximately one nautical mile offshore lies a remarkable coral sandbank. At low tide, it emerges as a delicate, natural platform composed of countless coral fragments — a striking testament to the surrounding marine richness. Even at high tide, warm, shallow waters invite exploration. Along its edge, a thriving reef provides excellent snorkeling. On Moyo Island, a short scenic walk — or a bicycle ride borrowed from local villagers — leads to a secluded waterfall hidden within lush forest. Those feeling adventurous may swing into the freshwater pool below in classic Tarzan style. Later in the day, we step ashore on Satonda Island to visit its extraordinary inland saltwater lake, formed by ancient volcanic activity — a rare geological phenomenon.
In the Presence of Giants Deep within Sumbawa lies Teluk Saleh, a vast bay that shelters one of the ocean’s most humbling encounters: the whale shark. Drawn to local fishing platforms, these gentle giants gather with surprising regularity. We dedicate the morning to two extended sessions of diving and/or snorkeling. There is no need for depth — from the surface or just below, observe their immense silhouettes moving with quiet grace as they filter plankton-rich waters. Strict conservation guidelines are respected at all times: no contact, measured approach, minimal disturbance. Yet whale sharks are often curious, and unexpected proximity can create unforgettable eye-level moments. In the afternoon, we explore the northern reaches of the bay for a third dive, focusing on benthic life, with the possibility of pelagic passersby.
Where Fire Meets the Sea Sangeang Island rises dramatically from the sea — an active volcanic complex crowned by twin peaks reaching 1,949 and 1,795 meters. Below the surface, volcanic sands create a striking underwater palette. Black slopes are adorned with vividly colored soft corals and macro life thrives in this mineral-rich environment. Schools of reef fish animate the blue water beyond. Certain sites reveal the rare “champagne dive” phenomenon — warm volcanic gases escaping through the seabed, forming streams of shimmering bubbles. Hovering above them, you can feel the subtle warmth rising from beneath. For Snorkelers & Non-Divers These volcanic vents often occur in shallow areas, sometimes visible even while snorkeling. Conditions permitting, we land on Sangeang’s shores. A short walk leads to a small village perched on the volcano’s edge, where skilled boat builders continue a proud maritime tradition in one of Indonesia’s most dramatic settings. By evening, Adelaar quietly repositions toward Komodo.
Legendary Waters We wake near Gili Lawa Darat and Gili Lawa Laut — icons of northern Komodo. Here lie some of the park’s most celebrated dive sites: Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, Shotgun, and Golden Passage. Current-swept channels pulse with life. Submerged pinnacles attract reef sharks, giant trevallies, eagle rays, and dense schooling fish. The topography is bold, the marine life dynamic, the energy unmistakable. Protected bays between the Gili Lawa islands provide exceptional night diving opportunities. For Snorkelers Extensive reefs, thriving coral formations, and white-sand beaches define the day. In calm seas, paddleboarding above pristine coral gardens offers a uniquely serene perspective.
Dragons & Tidal Realms We begin ashore on Komodo Island at first light. Guided by park rangers, we explore the savannah landscape in search of the iconic Komodo dragon — formidable, ancient, and entirely captivating. After breakfast, we return to the water. Central Komodo is shaped by powerful tidal exchanges. Site selection is deliberate and conditions-driven. From turtle-rich reefs to exhilarating drift dives and charismatic seamounts alive with action, diversity defines the day. One morning dive, one afternoon dive, and a final night immersion complete the experience. If conditions favor the south, we may explore Pink Beach’s coral slopes or the remote Teluk Loh Serah, known for rare and unusual marine life.
Mantas & Iconic Landscapes Open to the Indian Ocean, southern Komodo benefits from nutrient-rich upwellings that attract manta rays in remarkable numbers. At Manta Alley, a renowned cleaning station, we dedicate time to observing these graceful giants as they circle and glide with effortless precision. Following our final dive near southern Padar Island, we go ashore for a late-afternoon ascent to its celebrated viewpoint. The panorama — sculpted bays, crescent beaches, dramatic ridgelines — is so emblematic it appears on Indonesia’s 50,000 rupiah note. Two beaches await exploration (one tide-dependent), and on the main island, deer roam freely across the landscape. As evening approaches, Adelaar cruises toward Labuan Bajo. Near Kalong Island, thousands of flying foxes rise at sunset, crossing the sky in silent procession — a powerful conclusion to the voyage.
After a final breakfast onboard, it is time to disembark. A journey through wild Indonesia concludes — though its impressions linger. We thank you for choosing Adelaar and look forward to welcoming you back for another exceptional expedition. (Itinerary may vary depending on weather and sea conditions)
Price per person
€3,563
All taxes included
Full charter from €32,103
Select cabin
No payment charged until confirmed.
