Komodo is often described as wild, dramatic, and once-in-a-lifetime. But what does it actually feel like to experience it on a shared cruise?
For many first-time nature travelers, the idea of sailing through Komodo National Park on a Komodo liveaboard can feel both exciting and slightly intimidating. Is it comfortable? Is it safe? Will you feel awkward traveling with strangers? Is it worth it compared to a regular Komodo Tour?
To answer that honestly, we’re sharing a real perspective.
Meet Pebri Santika, or, as people usually call her, Ebi — a Bali-based corporate professional who wanted something adventurous yet comfortable. Together with her friend Kekey, she joined a
Shared liveaboard Komodo experience aboard Cordelia Phinisi, booking a shared cruise 3D2N Komodo through Hello Flores.
Spoiler alert? She calls it the best trip of her life. If you’re considering a Komodo boat charter, a Komodo shared cruise booking, or even combining it with a wider Flores tour, here’s what it truly feels like.
First Time on a Shared Liveaboard? Here’s What 3D2N Actually Looks Like
Hi, I’m Ebi!
Before this trip, I had never done a Komodo liveaboard before. I work in a corporate environment, so nature adventure wasn’t really my comfort zone. I wanted something different, but not something extreme
When my friend Kekey and I decided to go to Komodo, we didn’t want to organize everything ourselves. That’s why we chose a Shared liveaboard Komodo instead of arranging a private Komodo boat charter.
Honestly, I was nervous at first.
I kept thinking:
Will it be uncomfortable?
What if we don’t connect with other guests?
Is 3 days on a boat too long?
But the moment we stepped onboard Cordelia Phinisi, that feeling disappeared. We were welcomed with drinks, the crew carried our luggage, and everything was already arranged.
On Cordelia Phinisi, the 3D2N journey is structured yet relaxed. You sail to iconic destinations like:
• Padar Island
• Pink Beach
• Kelor Island
• Komodo Village
• Hidden snorkeling spots
• Kalong Island for sunset bats
The guide adjusts the daily plan depending on weather and sea conditions, which is something many first-timers don’t realize is crucial.
More Than a Boat Trip: The Social Side of a Shared Phinisi Cruise
One thing I didn’t expect was how social and warm the experience would be.
On our sailing, there were couples, solo travelers, friends, and even one big family with grandparents and kids. It was such a mix. I thought maybe it would feel awkward.
But it didn’t.
“We came as strangers,” I told Kekey on the last day, “but we’re going home like friends.”
Cordelia Phinisi has so many shared spaces, the sun deck, dining area, outdoor lounge, and even a karaoke corner. When we sailed between islands (usually one to two hours), we sat together, talked, and shared stories.
After snorkeling near Sebayur, some guests saw manta rays. I missed them.
“They saw five mantas just after I got back into the tender!” I laughed.
We teased each other about it during lunch. That simple moment made everything feel natural.
If you’re the kind of person who enjoys meeting new people, a Shared liveaboard Komodo gives you that opportunity without feeling forced.
Inside a 3D2N Shared Cruise on Cordelia Phinisi
Our shared cruise 3D2N Komodo started around 9 AM from Labuan Bajo harbor.
Day 1 – Snorkeling & Padar Sunset
Our first snorkeling stops were Turtle Point and Manta Point. I saw one turtle, which already made me happy. The water was so clear.
After lunch, we visited Taka Makassar and then hiked Padar Island.
Padar is something I will never forget. The hike is not easy — there are many stairs and viewpoints — but when you reach the top, you see three different colored beaches: white, black, and pink sand.
“I’ve never seen something like this in my life,” I remember saying.
The sunset light made everything golden. Even though it was slightly cloudy, it felt magical.
Day 2 – Dragons & Pink Sand
The next morning, we visited Kampung Komodo.
Walking with rangers and seeing Komodo dragons in real life felt unreal. What I found fascinating was the story about how villagers coexist with them. There’s a legend that says Komodo dragons are part of their ancestral brotherhood.
After trekking, we went to Pink Beach.
Seeing pink sand in person felt surreal. We relaxed, snorkeled, and just enjoyed the moment.
Later, we visited a less famous spot — Penga Island. Underwater, the coral was so close and colorful. I felt amazed.
In the evening, we sailed to Kalong Island to watch thousands of bats flying across the sunset sky. That scene was dramatic and beautiful.
That night was BBQ night. We ate together, sang karaoke, and talked for hours.
“It feels like a small family,” I said quietly that night.
Day 3 – Kelor Island & Saying Goodbye
On the last day, we hiked Kelor Island. There are no stairs — just natural terrain. It’s short but steep. The view from the top? Completely worth it!
The water around the island was crystal clear. Near the shore, we saw baby sharks swimming peacefully.
After brunch, it was time to check out. That moment felt too fast.
“We just got close last night,” I thought. “Why is it already over?”
That’s the strange thing about a Komodo liveaboard — three days feel short, but the memories feel long.
Shared vs Private Cruises in Komodo: What’s the Real
Difference?
When choosing between a shared cruise and a private Komodo boat charter, it comes down to preference.
Shared Cruise
- More budget-friendly
- Social atmosphere
- Ideal for solo travelers and friends
- Fixed itinerary
- Great for first-timers
Private Charter
- Full privacy
- Flexible itinerary
- Ideal for large families or groups
- More exclusive experience
If you’re traveling with a friend like me, or as a couple wanting adventure without high costs, a Shared liveaboard Komodo is often the perfect balance.
Hello Flores offers both options, depending on what you’re looking for.
Who a Shared Cruise on Cordelia Phinisi Is Perfect For
A shared cruise on Cordelia Phinisi is ideal for
- Solo travelers seeking connection
- Couples traveling on a budget
- Friends wanting adventure
- Families open to meeting others
- First-time nature explorers
The boat has different cabin types — Diamond and Sapphire cabins for families, Ruby and Pearl cabins for couples or friends like us, and Crystal cabins for solo travelers.
There’s space for everyone.
Exploring Komodo Beyond the Boat
While our Komodo liveaboard was the highlight, you can also combine it with a broader Flores tour.
Before or after your cruise, you can explore Labuan Bajo and other parts of Flores.
Komodo National Park is just one piece of Flores’ beauty.
What’s Included in a Shared 3D2N Cruise on Cordelia Phinisi
When I made my Komodo shared cruise booking, I paid per person. For 3 days 2 nights, it included:
- A comfortable cabin with private bathroom
- Three meals per day plus snacks
- Snorkeling equipments
- All destinations in the itinerary
- Friendly crew and professional tour guide
- Snorkeling equipments
- Airport/hotel pick ups
- Free flow coffee, tea, and mineral water
- Personal photographer with drone, gopro, mirrorless camera
- Towels & beach towels
- Amenities
Everything was organized, You just need to show up and enjoy.
Is a Shared Cruise Worth It? What Guests Usually Say After 3 Days
For me, the answer is simple: yes.
This was my first real nature adventure, and it exceeded my expectations.
I didn’t have to worry about planning, transportation, or food. Everything was arranged.
If you’re thinking about booking a Komodo Tour, considering a Komodo liveaboard, or comparing options for a Komodo boat charter, a Shared liveaboard Komodo experience like this might be exactly what you’re looking for.
How to Join a Shared Cruise on Cordelia Phinisi
To join a shared cruise on Cordelia Phinisi, contact Hello Flores. The team helped us choose the right cabin and made the process easy. They even held our preferred option for a few days while we confirmed.
If you’re planning your next adventure — maybe this is your sign.
Sometimes, the best trips begin with one simple decision: say yes to Komodo
FAQ
Are there direct flights to Flores from major cities?
Direct international flights to Labuan Bajo are currently available only from Australia, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. Travelers from other countries must first transit through major Indonesian hubs such as Jakarta or Bali before continuing on a domestic flight to Labuan Bajo.
Is assistance provided before arrival in Labuan Bajo?
Pre-departure assistance, including coordination and practical information, is typically available once a booking is confirmed.
Do I need prior liveaboard or sailing experience to join a shared cruise?
No prior liveaboard or sailing experience is required. Shared cruises are designed to be accessible to both first-time guests and experienced travellers.
How physically demanding is a 3D2N shared cruise?
The cruise is generally relaxed, with activities adapted to a comfortable pace. Guests can choose their level of participation depending on energy and interest.
Are shared cruises suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Shared cruises are particularly popular with solo travellers looking for a social yet structured way to explore Komodo.
What should I pack for a 3D2N shared cruise?
Packing is generally light, with a focus on swimwear, casual clothing, sun protection, and personal essentials. Specific guidance is usually provided before departure.
Can I combine the shared cruise with other experiences in Flores or Labuan Bajo?
Yes. Many travellers extend their trip with land-based experiences before or after the cruise, which can be discussed during planning.
