Komodo Islands – Wild Dragons and Snorkel Heaven

The whole snorkel trip was such a dream from the fellow travelers, the crew, the accommodations, the excellent snorkeling ….. I could go on and on.  We are over the moon about our whole trip.  Joan L.

We can’t thank you enough for everything you did for us with all the travel arrangements. We can’t get over the quality and value of the places you recommended. Absolutely fantastic. The coral health was excellent and diversity of marine life in Komodo was exceptional. Carol M.

Highlights:
-Experience Komodo National Park; awarded ‘New 7 Wonder of Nature’ status.
-See the famed Komodo Dragons in their natural habitat
-Snorkel in the Coral Triangle; an area that boasts the world’s highest marine biodiversity.
-Enjoy a  range of habitats from shallow coral gardens to fantastic coral encrusted walls.
-Meet creatures great and small, from the smallest nudibranch to majestic mantas.

My last Snorkel Expedition in Komodo was in August 2014. Our group was wowed by the stunning scenery and diversity of marine life and of course seeing the Komodo dragons was a highlight. I’m very excited to return to Komodo and hope you can join me.

The Marine park offers an incredible variety of snorkel opportunities.  One day may be a leisurely snorkel that features  the rarest creatures in the macro range, and the next day we may drift with manta rays and large schools of fish.  There are over 1,000 species of fish in these waters, 260 species of reef corals, 70 different sponges, 17 species of whales and dolphins and two species of sea turtles.

Since 1991 the Komodo National Park is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is located in the region of the Lesser Sunda Islands (Nusa Tenggara). The Park includes the three larger islands, Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, and numerous smaller islands, with a total area of 1817 square km. Originally the park was established as a sanctuary for the Komodo dragons. The protection now covers all flora and fauna above and below the sea.

ITINERARY

Arrive Bali on May 21st. You will be met and transferred to our group hotel on the beach.

May 22nd.  We will fly as a group to Maumere where we board the Pindito and our live-aboard adventure begins! Over the next 11 days we will snorkel to our heart’s content and explore this nutrient-rich wonderland.

May 23-June 2
Our day to day itinerary will be based on  current conditions to make sure we are in the best place at the best time.  Most days will feature at least two long snorkel excursions exploring the reefs.  There will also be beach walks and a guided hike during our time at Komodo National Park.

June 2. Our adventure ends in Bali  9:00am on June 2nd. You are available to fly home this afternoon or continue your travels. I can assist with any extensions you might be interested in.

This is YOUR trip, you can focus on your passion whether it be photography, in-depth swimming and snorkeling, speaking Indonesian with the friendly crew or connecting with your fellow passengers. Our adventure-filled days will end watching the sun set and looking forward to what the next day will bring.

During our 11 days we will be traveling through and exploring  the following areas:
Maumere is an amazing and diverse area. We may encounter pipefish, seahorses, frogfish, scorpion fish,  countless colorful nudibranchs, as well as barracuda and batfish.

Tatawa Besar & Gili Lawa, Laut.  These small islands are located to the north of Rinca.  They are ideal for a relaxing drift snorkels. We will explore slopes covered with beautiful yellow and orange soft coral and myriads of fish life. With a bit of luck, Mantas can be seen here.

Rinca & Komodo. Enjoy the beauty of the Horseshoe Bay. The “Yellow Wall of Texas” and “Cannibal Rock” are world famous sites. These reefs offer many colorful soft corals and feather stars in a small space. Every millimeter is overgrown and invigorated, many hours could be spent here appreciating the coral, at times there are so many fish you can hardly see the reef. I love when that happens!

In this area we see the Komodo dragons.  The Komodo dragon lives exclusively in Indonesia and has its maximum length of 3 meters and weighs more than 70kg. It is the largest living lizard.

Accompanied by a park ranger, we will  tour through the National Park. Not only the dragons can be observed at close range, but also macaque monkeys, wild boar, deer and water buffalos.  From a hilltop, we’ll have a fantastic view over the valleys and the large bay.

On the way back toward Bali we’ll  pass by the active volcano Sangeang. If conditions allow we’ll snorkel at the hot underwater springs. These send up gas bubbles from the black sand forming a magnificent contrast to the huge black corals and sea fans. If you look closely here you find pygmy seahorses in big numbers on the sea fans. Other places around the island, such as Masuk Sungai, Bohon Mera and Tanjung Barat offer fascinating snorkels. Soft and hard corals are fighting for the best places, countless nudibranchs, pipefish, frogfish, seahorses and cuttlefish may be seen here.

The ship makes final stops at Moyo and Satonda islands on the way back to Bali. These are both sweet spots with beautiful calm water and vibrant reefs teeming with sea life.  It’s a lovely way to end a fabulous adventure.

OUR YACHT
This unique expedition takes place on the highly regarded, comfortable Pindito live-aboard yacht.

The Pindito has been operating in Indonesia over 20 years. Owner Edi Frommenwiler pioneered
many of the routes now frequented throughout the islands. The crew is unmatched for its knowledge and experience in these Indonesian waters. Our itinerary will be flexible allowing us to take advantage of the best conditions.
Between snorkels we’ll enjoy sharing our days experiences and meals in the comfortable lounge.

The Pindito holds up to 16 people in 8 cabins with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms.

What to expect:

• This is a snorkel-intensive program. You should be a proficient swimmer/snorkeler able to snorkel unassisted. A typical day features 3-5 hours of snorkel time.
• Be prepared for steep stairs on the live-aboard and ladders on and off the dinghy/zodiac.
• Snorkel sessions are guided by the helpful and experienced crew provided by the Pindito.
• Evenings are free to enjoy the sunset, a leisurely dinner and the company of your fellow passengers.

Price based on double occupancy is $5750.00 per person.
This departure is sold out. Please contact Wendy@snorkelingetc.com to waitlist. Cancellations can happen!

Price Includes:

-Transfers to/from airports and hotels.
-Pre-cruise hotel stay in Bali on May 21st.
-Flight to Maumere on May 22nd.
– $80.00 Harbor Fee
-11 night accommodation in a double or twin bed cabin with en-suite shower bath, toilet and AC
-Full board including all drinks on board the Pindito (excluding wine)
-Multilingual guides on board
-All offered snorkel and land excursions

Price Excludes:

-Round trip international  airfare
-Nationalpark fee for Komodo approx. US$ 120.00, payable on board
-Airport taxes for domestic flights and departure fees, payable at the airport
-Tips for the crew
-Travel Insurance
-Items of a personal nature

This expedition can be combined with the Alor Snorkel Adventure May 7-19, 2017 and  would be an spectacular combination of experiences.
and/or…..
You can also combine Komodo with Wakatobi eco resort June 4-12, 2017

I look forward to traveling with you.
In the spirit of adventure,

 

 

 

 

Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com
831 254-5001