Cruising through Komodo National Park on a phinisi yacht is one of those trips people talk about for years. Warm water, wild islands, early-morning hikes, manta encounters, quiet nights on deck. To enjoy it fully, you need to pack with intention. Guests can choose between two yachts: Samara I, the shared-voyage option, and Samara II, the private charter. Both sail the
same waters, but the onboard experience feels different, so packing needs shift a little. Save or print this guide before you go. It will make prep a lot easier.
Both sail the same waters, but the onboard experience feels different, so packing needs shift a little. Save or print this guide before you go. It will make prep a lot easier.
Samara I vs Samara II: What’s the Difference?
Here’s the thing: these two yachts offer two styles of travel. Same destination, different vibe.
Samara I – Shared Cruise Experience
Samara I is a 27-meter phinisi built for groups of up to 12 guests. People book it for the social atmosphere. It’s good for solo travellers, couples, and small groups who enjoy meeting others on board. The itinerary is set. Meals are shared. Cabins are shared or semi-shared. Because you’re living closely with fellow travellers, small comfort items matter. Earplugs. Your own toiletries. A book or two for quiet moments on deck. Simple things that make shared travel smoother.
Samara II – Private Charter Experience
Samara II is a 23-meter yacht made for private groups of up to 10 guests. Families book it. Friend groups book it. Honeymooners book it. The itinerary is flexible. The pace is up to you. You’ll have more room and more privacy, so you might want to bring items that make the yacht feel like home. A speaker. Favorite snacks. Small personal comforts. The crew handles meals and activities, so you’re mainly packing for your own routines and tastes.
Both yachts provide crew service, meals, snorkeling gear, and all the basics for a Komodo Liveaboard. The rest comes down to how you like to travel and who you’re travelling with.
Packing Essentials for Any Komodo Liveaboard Trip
Now let’s break down the fundamentals. These apply to every Samara I Yacht Charter, Samara II Liveaboard, Komodo boat charter, or private yacht charter in the region.
Documents & Admin
Bring the essentials and keep them in a waterproof pouch:
• Passport with at least six months validity
• Dive certification card and logbook
• Travel or dive insurance details
• Flight information
• Cash in Indonesian Rupiah for park fees, tips, snacks, and small souvenirs
• Emergency contacts
Keep everything easy to reach. You’ll move between boats, islands, and tenders, so simplicity helps.
Clothing & Footwear
Komodo is hot, bright, and humid. The goal is comfort.
Pack:
• Swimwear (at least two to four sets)
• Lightweight tops and shorts
• A breathable long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
• A light jacket or hoodie for breezy evenings
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap
• Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers for Padar and other island treks
• Flip-flops or sandals for the boat
• A simple outfit for sunset dinners
Quick-dry fabrics are your friend. You’ll be in and out of the water all day.
Health & Toiletries
Most yachts provide basic amenities, but bring what you personally rely on.
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• After-sun or aloe
• Prescription medication
• Painkillers, band-aids, blister plasters
• Motion sickness tablets (just in case)
• Insect repellent for island visits
• Hand sanitiser
• Earplugs (extra helpful on Samara I)
• Your usual toiletries and skincare
The sun and saltwater can be intense, so hydration and skin care really matter here.
Snorkelling & Diving Gear: What’s Provided and What to Bring
Both Samara yachts provide basic snorkelling gear: mask, snorkel, fins, and life jackets. Everything works fine, but if you’re sensitive about fit, bring your own mask and snorkel.
Consider bringing:
• Rash guard or a light wetsuit if you get cold easily
• Underwater camera or GoPro
• Dive certification card if you plan to dive
• A waterproof pouch for your phone
Note: scuba diving may need to be arranged in advance, depending on your route.
Island Exploration Add-Ons
This is where Komodo shines. The islands are rugged, photogenic, and worth exploring on foot.
Here’s what helps:
• Hiking shoes with proper grip
• A small daypack for treks
• A sarong or light scarf for sun or modesty
• A reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses
• A camera with a zoom lens for wildlife and landscapes
• A small dry bag for beach landings
Simple items that make long days outdoors more comfortable.
Best Time to Visit Komodo National Park
Komodo is open year-round, but seasons shape the experience. Let’s break it down.
Dry season: April to November
• April to June: green landscapes, calm water
• July to August: peak season, busy but beautiful
• September to November: warm water, good diving, fewer crowds
Rainy season: December to March
Expect some showers and more dramatic skies. Some travellers actually prefer this season because the islands feel softer and less crowded.
Final Notes and Prep Tips
A few small adjustments can make the trip much smoother:
• Use soft luggage instead of a hard suitcase
• Bring reusable items to cut down on waste
• Download music, movies, or books offline
• Pack lighter than you think you should
Samara I gives you a shared, social way to explore Komodo Liveaboard routes. Samara II gives you privacy and flexibility on a private yacht charter. Both offer incredible access to the islands, reefs, and wildlife.
Packing well helps you focus on the experience instead of what you forgot to bring.
