When visiting Indonesia, the 3-day Komodo Tour from Labuan Bajo is a must-do experience. A Komodo boat trip that blends adventure, comfort, and jaw-dropping scenery, the 3-day 2-night Neptune Cruise from Labuan Bajo is the perfect way to explore the Komodo National Park. For three days, you will experience a pleasant group of people, sleeping on the boat, excellent cuisine, snorkeling, swimming, sunsets, breathtaking vistas, and, of course, seeing the Komodo dragons. This Komodo Island Tour offers the best of both worlds with a spacious, modern liveaboard, a top-notch crew, and a route packed with highlights. Enjoy wild island treks and underwater wonders without giving up a hot shower or a comfy bed.
We recently sailed aboard the Neptune Liveaboard, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of our Indonesia trip. We took this tour with Komodo Touristic and would certainly recommend it! The 3-day Komodo excursion from Labuan Bajo is described in detail below and what to expect if you’re considering jumping aboard this weekend adventure.
Can You Do a Komodo Boat Trip From Labuan Bajo?
Absolutely. In fact, Labuan Bajo is the most popular starting point for exploring Komodo National Park. You can do anything from a quick one-day journey to a full multi-day Komodo Island Tour like the one we did. With 7 stylish cabins, ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and even private balconies, it’s definitely not your average backpacker boat. This three-day trip allows you to slow down and enjoy the experience. You can sleep on the boat under the stars, snorkel at world-class reefs, and visit amazing islands—all without rushing.
Which Tour Operator Should You Choose?
We went with Komodo Touristic, and we’d absolutely recommend them. We wanted a more special experience than just sleeping on a deck, but without spending a lot on full-blown luxury. Neptune Cruise hit the sweet spot. From start to finish, everything was smooth—the crew was friendly, the food was good, and there was a chill group vibe on the boat. Our guide was incredibly helpful and made sure everyone felt safe and included.
There are, of course, lots of tour operators in Labuan Bajo. Komodo Touristic hit the sweet spot for us. It wasn’t too basic. It wasn’t too bougie. It was just a solid, affordable adventure. Each cabin has air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a balcony. Yes, a balcony on a boat! Plus, the top deck is set up with lounge chairs for sunbathing or stargazing. We even had a minibar and an indoor entertainment lounge. It felt like a boutique hotel at sea.
What Does the 3-Day Komodo Tour Include?
What’s Included in the Trip?
Here’s what you get with the 3D2N Neptune Cruise:
- Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or airport in Labuan Bajo
- All meals and snacks on board
- Drinking water, tea, and coffee
- Snorkeling gear and life jackets
- Entrance to all islands (national park fees not included)
- A professional local guide
- Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite bathroom and private balcony
- Friendly crew and onboard chef
3 Days of Magic in Komodo
Day 1: Labuan Bajo → Sebayur → Manta Point → Taka Makassar
The adventure begins around 10:00 AM with departure from Labuan Bajo harbor. After a short briefing, we boarded Neptune and set sail toward our first stop: Sebayur Island. The beginning of our trip was like something out of a dream: warm turquoise water, colorful corals, and an easy snorkel spot that offered the perfect opportunity to clear our heads after the travel dust.
Next, we headed to Manta Point, where we were lucky enough to spot two manta rays gliding through the water. Snorkeling alongside them was surreal, like floating next to angels underwater.
Then came Taka Makassar, a dreamy white sandbar in the middle of the ocean. We strolled the beach, flew the drone, and soaked up every second. That night, we anchored near Padar Island, where the real adventure began the next day.
Day 2: Padar → Pink Beach → Rinca Island → Kalong Island
We woke up early to hike up Padar Island, and wow, what a view! The path winds through rugged hills to a panoramic viewpoint that showcases three crescent-shaped beaches in different colors. Trust us: bring good shoes and your camera.
Next was Long Pink Beach, where the sand is actually pink. We snorkeled just off the shore and saw schools of bright fish, soft corals, and even a turtle. It’s like nature’s own aquarium.
In the afternoon, we landed on Rinca Island, where Komodo dragons roam freely. Our park ranger guided us through dry savannah trails where we saw several dragons lounging in the shade. They are massive, prehistoric-looking, and strangely majestic (but don’t get too close!).
As the sun began to set, we anchored at Kalong Island, where thousands of fruit bats take flight every evening. Watching them swirl into the crimson sky from the top deck with a cold drink in hand was the perfect end to the day.
Day 3: Manjarite → Kelor → Return to Labuan Bajo
Our final day started with snorkeling at Manjarite Island, one of the clearest waters we’ve ever seen. The coral was so colorful and full of life, it felt like a living kaleidoscope.
We wrapped up the trip at Kelor Island, a tiny gem with a steep hill that offers panoramic views. One last hike, one last swim, one last moment to take it all in.
We returned to Labuan Bajo around 11:00 AM, salty-haired and smiling.
How Far in Advance Should You Book the Komodo Tour?
Most groups are fully booked one to two weeks in advance. If you want to do the Komodo Tour, you’ll need to arrange your vacation a little ahead of time. During peak season (June to September), this can extend to two to three weeks for some organizations.
Packing List for Komodo Tour
Most organizations still allow you to access your backpacks during the tour. These will not be dumped in the hold, as happened during the mission to the Philippines, for example. However, because space on the boat is limited and you don’t want to toss everything away, it can be helpful to organize your belongings ahead of time and stack them on top. You don’t need much, but here’s what we found useful:
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
- Flip-flops and hiking shoes
- Reef-safe sunscreen and aftersun
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Light, breathable clothes
- Hoodie or light jacket for breezy nights
- GoPro or underwater camera
- Power bank and waterproof phone case
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks and small change (for tips and park fees)
- Passport photo (required for boat clearance)
- Small backpack or dry bag
Pro Tip: Bring IDR 300K–500K in cash for national park entry and crew tips.
Final Thoughts: Is the 3-Day Komodo Trip With Neptune Worth It?
Yes, one hundred percent.
Sailing with Neptune Cruise was like being on a floating boutique hotel, with nature doing all the decorating. We got to snorkel with manta rays, hike otherworldly landscapes, and chill with Komodo dragons, all while enjoying incredible food and warm hospitality. This tour gave us the perfect balance of relaxation, wildlife, adventure, and community. We saw some of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, met amazing people, and made memories that will stick with us forever.
So, if you’re in Labuan Bajo for the weekend and wondering what to do, this is it! Book the cruise, pack light, and prepare for three magical days.
