Overview
Majik Yacht is a brand new luxury phinisi, or rather floating boutique hotel, having been expertly built in 2022 in Bira, Sulawesi to the highest standards. Hewn from the finest iron wood and teak, and measuring some 42 meters (138 feet), she has been specially designed to offer adventure-seeking families and friends, nature lovers, and divers of all abilities, captivating and exquisite expeditions around Indonesia’s enchanting paradisiacal islands.
Dreams Come True
Great travelers and navigators around the world, Majik’s owners Elena and Marc, realized their dreams by designing and building a traditional Indonesian boat to live and share their passion for adventure, the ocean, and the underwater magic and bewildering biodiversity beneath its waves.
Exceptional and personalized cruises await – indeed, they will welcome you aboard the yacht themselves – allowing lucky passengers to realize their own dreams of experiencing the beauty of the Indonesian archipelago in luxurious style.
Life On Board
Accommodating up to 8 guests, Majik features fantastic social areas and four sumptuous ensuite cabins, all on the lower deck – the Owners’ cabin with its exclusive swimming platform located at the aft of the yacht, a similar Master cabin at the front but without the private terrace, and two Deluxe mid-ship cabins – so there is ample room and amenities for everyone on board.
Offering the highest level of comfort, and a home away from home at the heart of nature, Majik’s main deck is where the majority of action aboard takes place. It has been stunningly designed to offer near 360-degree views to enjoy the natural environment in all its glory, even when you are “inside” as the living area at the stern, whilst covered, is refreshingly open to the elements, and boasts a bar, triangular seating area, and giant divan-style lounging space.
Still on main deck but stepping outside on deck, underneath her elegant sails, you will find further divan sunbeds, more cozy corners to unwind in, and the natural focal point of the main dining area, where the ship’s talented chef will tantalize your tastebuds with 3 daily gourmet meals and a variety of snacks and refreshments between excursions.
Majik’s sun-soaked top deck lies above the living area, and is the ideal setting to relax, feel the warm sea breeze, and enjoy the incredible volcanic vistas of the Indonesian Archipelago.
Enchanting Adventures
Fueled by delicious breakfasts, enlivening espressos from the on board machine, and perhaps an invigorating early-morning yoga session, your days will be filled with adventure aplenty as the Majik offers a range of activities off the ship, her two tenders carrying guests to secret beaches and wild locations worthy of exploration.
From expert-led shore excursions, beach time, paddleboarding and kayaking, to snorkeling and even scuba diving excursions (including Nitrox for certified enriched-air divers) with experienced dive masters, there is plenty to keep mind and body active. When you return on board, why not treat yourself to a muscle-melting massage, relax with a movie night (the vessel has a projector), or just relax on the sundeck with a refreshing sunset cocktail and fall in love all over again with the ocean view.
At the end of your cruise, the crew will create a beach oasis and barbecue to celebrate an exceptional trip of a lifetime. For those families and groups of friends looking to make their own dreams come true, find their paradise, and create magical memories in Komodo, Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea and beyond, look no further than the majestic Majik Yacht.
Itineraries & Prices
Embarkation
AM & PM: It will be our pleasure to pick you up from your hotel or airport so that you can make the most of the day. Then we will sail west, where you can enjoy the beach, snorkeling, or diving on the islands of Bidadari or Sebayur Kecil. A sense of calm reigns on these islands, but underwater the coral reefs are bubbling with life. To end the day, relax with an aperitif while admiring the beautiful sunset. Night diving is optional.
West Komodo
AM: After a morning dive at stunning Tatawa Besar, we go in search of Manta rays at the world-class dive site Manta Point (known to the locals as Karang Makassar).
PM: After lunch, we will head to one of the highlights of Komodo diving - Batu Bolong, which presents us a chance to see large pelagic species such as Giant Trevally and Barracuda, as well as sharks, and Napoleon Maori Wrasse. Later that afternoon, we set sail for the northwest part of Komodo, for a light trek on the island of Gili Lawa Darat, to witness an amazing Komodo sunset, dipping behind the nearby active volcano of San- geang. For the night dive, we will stay in the bay close to the trekking area, and dive at the site Stranger Things, for a chance to get your first glimpse of macro life in the national park.
Northwest Komodo
AM: Day three is our personal favorite in terms of diving, and all three of the dives normally conducted on this day are what we would consider unforgettable. The morning is spent on both Crystal Rock and Castle Rock, two submerged pinnacles that are home to an abundance of marine life. Teams of hunting Giant and Big-Eye Trevally patrol the blue waters of the reefs, chasing large schools of smaller fish. Eagle Rays glide effortlessly in the currents whilst the reef sharks hunt for their next meal.
PM: The afternoon sees us visit the legendary dive site known as The Cauldron (a.k.a The Shotgun). Famous for its rip-roaring drift dive, it is akin to an underwater rollercoaster that needs to be experienced to be believed, and a ‘bucket list’ dive site for divers from across the world. Hold on until the end of the dive for a big surprise! The night dive will be spent diving on Komodo Bay, depending on mooring conditions.
Southwest Komodo
AM: We wake early in the morning to take in one of Komodo’s world-class golden sunrises, followed by one of its best dive sites, the Golden Passage which is a drift dive that offers outstanding coral reef topography, as well as encounters with schools of Sweetlips and Snappers, White Tip Reef Sharks and the occasional passing Manta Ray.
During breakfast, Majik will anchor up and head south into the centre of the park, where we will endeavour to dive Police Corner if conditions are favourable, one of the less-known sites in central Komodo.
PM: In the afternoon we plan to visit the island of Mauan, where mantas come to visit its cleaning station. Up next is Siaba Besar, a fantastic night dive for the macro photographer, where it is possible to encounter Flamboyant Cuttlefish, Ghost Pipefish, various types of Nudibranchs, as well as the elusive Wunderpus and Blue-Ringed Octopus!
Komodo On Foot
AM: The final dive of your trip will be at Pink Beach, a gorgeous, shallow coral garden with schools of sweetlips and other
colorful reef fish. After the morning’s diving and a hearty breakfast, we head on foot to The Island of Komodo, home to the legendary Komodo Dragons in the park.
PM: Later that afternoon Majik anchors up and sets sail east to Pulau Kalong, where at sunset an epic number of fruit bats leave this island in search of their sustenance on the mainland of Flores. The nighttime sees our crew arrange a fancy BBQ banquet on the top deck as you take in your final Komodo sunset.
Disembarkation
AM: Majik will be anchored up in the morning around 2:00 am in Labuan Bajo, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel. Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 am, during which we have the chance to exchange trip images, and contacts so you can keep in touch with newfound dive buddies while we assist you with transportation to your desired location.
Embarkation
AM: Several of our crew will be on-site to greet you at the arrivals gate, where they will help you to the pre-arranged taxis for the short ride to the harbor to board tenders to the lead vessel. You will be welcomed on board Majik by her crew, offering a cold towel and seasonal beverage. The Cruise Director will give an introduction, a safety briefing, and a small tour of the vessel, and assist with cabin allocation while the vessel departs. The journey to your first destination represents a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the boat layout and enjoy your first taste of the chefs’ talents.
PM: Today is all about the wildlife above the water. Take a guided tour of the newly renovated national park of Rinca, and while your guide will likely spot them long before you, keep your eyes sharp for monkeys, wild pigs, water buffalo, deer, and Komodo Dragons. Enjoy a factual explanation of their history and come to understand how dragons became the apex land predator of the region. Be welcomed back with a refreshing drink as the boat moves to Pulau Kalong (Bat Island), a mangrove island that comes alive at dusk. Take a drink in hand, find a comfortable seat, and enjoy the sunset as thousands of flying foxes take wing overhead. Finally, enjoy a lovely meal as your first day comes to a close.
Tatawa Besar/ Siaba
AM: Tatawa Besar encapsulates several elements of the marine park. The Eastern side of the island is cut out by an inviting beach and in front of that is a shallow reef plateau that makes for amazing snorkelling. Enjoy the warm waters and be swept along by the falling tide, marvelling at the variety, quantity, and colours of both the reef and the fish. For the divers, enjoy dropping off the plateau onto a sloping site filled with soft and hard corals. Look to the depths and into the blue for a chance encounter with black tips, white tips and maybe pelagics.
PM: Across lunch move to a relaxing bay anchorage for the day. Jump and swim from the boat before diving or snorkelling Turtle City. The site is home to many Green Turtles, and they can even be spotted from the surface coming up for air before descending back into the depths. The site itself offers a unique contrast between sandy flats and lush reefs. Enjoy some time on the sand looking for tiger tail seahorses, flatworms or any number of shrimp and crabs. Then make your way to the reef to marvel at the healthy coral and fish life and more than likely a few turtles.
Gili Lawa Laut
AM: The Gili Lawa area hosts some of the most popular dive sites in the Komodo National Park. But the potential for amazing dives goes hand in hand with the potential for strong currents. Enjoy the copious variety of schooling fish at Castle Rock, with Trevally and White Tip reef sharks hunting in the currents, or dive the World-famous site Cauldron, with its iconic narrow passage between two islands. Get launched either snorkeling or diving through “shotgun” and with a bit of luck, marvel at how easily the Manta glides against the current.
PM: Finish the day's adventures with a short hike up Gili Lawa Darat to watch the sunset on the ocean horizon, before being welcomed back on board with a cold towel and Chef’s delicious talents on offer.
Takka Makassar
AM: Today the currents dictate our schedule. Komodo waters owe its abundant marine life to the strong Northerly and Southern currents that run through the park, and today you’re in the center of it. Enjoy a snorkel or dive at Manta Point and hopefully witness the amazing Manta mating train, a beautiful natural spectacle where a train of males follow the female, mimicking her dance-like movements. When the tide is right, snorkel or dive at Batu Bolong (Hole in the Rock), a protruding pinnacle site anyone would find difficult not to enjoy. The thousands of red blennies dance in the swell, backdropped against the colourful shallow soft corals. Divers can drop down deeper to look for resting white tips, hawksbill turtles, and trevally hunting in the blue.
PM: For those looking to take a break from the water, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the Takka Makasar sandbar that rests in the shadow of Komodo Island. Swim in the surrounding waters and earn a tan on the beach before returning to the boat for a cool refreshing drink.
Pink Beach/Pulau Padar
AM: Awake in the calm waters of Teluk Slaweh and venture to Pink Beach, made famous by the sand's pink tinge in the setting sun. The sand owes its colour to a microscopic animal called Foraminifera and its bright red shell. Pink Beach also offers a healthy shallow reef, full of colorful soft corals for snorkelling, and a sloping dive site that offers some interesting opportunities, such as frogfish, spotted sting rays, and potentially mobula rays passing in the blue.
PM: After the afternoon spent relaxing, enjoy a sunset hike to Padar viewpoint. The view looks northwest towards the setting sun overseeing the park. It’s the poster shot of the region and holds national significance also, as it’s printed on Indonesia’s 50,000 money note. Take in the scenery and the spectacle of seeing a white, pink, and black sand beach in a single frame, before descending to be welcomed back to the boat with a refreshing drink and awaiting dinner.
Sabolon/Seraya
AM: Sabolan Kecil (Small Sabolan) boasts a beautiful shallow reef flat that is great for snorkeling with an amazing range of colorful corals, and if your luck is in, possibly Manta Rays on the Northern reef of the Island. If diving is your preference, then drop off the shallow reef to the coral ridge for schooling damsels and snapper, and possibly reef sharks playing in the currents.
PM: Across lunch, we move to Seraya which rests just outside the bounds of Komodo National Park and has several non-diving options for your day of decompression. Enjoy isolated beaches, water sports, snorkeling, or if you’re interested, the opportunity to visit Rangko Cave. Located on the mainland of Flores, the entrance to the cave is a short walk which then descends into a luminescent blue swimming hole. Attend at the right time and watch the sunlight filter through the entrance of the cave and light up the cave’s waters. Round out the day with a celebratory drink on the beach, a view of the sunset, and a beach BBQ to follow. Relax into the night, reminiscing and sharing stories of the truly unique experiences of the days just passed.
Disembarkation
AM: Wake up for your final delicious breakfast on board and if your flight time allows then enjoy the pretty beaches of Angel Island, located just outside Labuan Bajo Harbour. Feel free to swim, kayak, or paddle board before you open sails and hoist anchor towards Labuan Bajo. For your disembarkation the crew will collect your luggage from your rooms and following hugs and goodbyes will escort you to the waiting taxis for your journey to the airport.
Embarkation
AM & PM: It will be our pleasure to pick you up from your hotel or airport so that you can make the most of the day. Then we will sail west, where you can enjoy the beach, snorkeling, or diving on the islands of Bidadari or Sebayur Kecil. A sense of calm reigns on these islands, but underwater the coral reefs are bubbling with life. To end the day, relax with an aperitif while admiring the beautiful sunset. Night diving is optional.
Komodo Strait
AM: Komodo Island lies in the middle of the strait between Sumbawa and the Flores Islands. The sea creeps between the two islands, creating intense currents and coral reefs that will be a pleasure to explore, such as Tatawa Besar, Batu Bolong, and Golden Passage.
PM: At the end of a spectacular day of sailing, we will drop anchor in the sheltered bay of Gili Lawa Island, famous for its magnificent views of the glowing sunset.
Manta Point & Padar
AM: Sailing south, we will stop at Taka Makassar, also known as Manta Point, a coral garden where you can swim or dive with manta rays, sharks, and turtles, to name but a few. You can then have a snack or simply relax on the nearby sandy islet, gazing in wonder at the turquoise waters caressing the shore. From this point, we head to Padar Island to admire its impressive landscape of sharp peaks and pink sandy beaches.
PM: A walk around these places will lead you to breathtaking views.
Horseshoe Bay
AM: A day out in South Rinca, also known as Horseshoe Bay, is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and discover extraordinary wildlife, including monkeys, deer, wild pigs, sea eagles, and, of course, Komodo dragons.
PM: The cooler waters here are home to some world-class dive sites, such as the famous Cannibal Rock.
Gili Lawa Islands
AM: Three world-famous dive sites are gathered here and are hotspots for sharks: Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, and the Cauldron. To the greatest satisfaction of divers. For snorkellers and less adventurous divers, the area also boasts beautiful hard coral reefs surrounded by white sand, where manta rays are an all-but-rare sight.
PM: It will be hard to resist taking a paddle board or kayak to glide over these turquoise waters before enjoying a well-deserved cocktail at sunset.
Banta & Batu Monco
AM: We will sail to Banta Island, just outside the National Park, to explore remote and secret bays with pink and white sandy beaches surrounded by slopes, barren peaks, and wilderness. With not a soul around, you will feel at one with nature.
PM: If time permits, we can sail to Batu Monco in its crystal-clear turquoise waters. Snorkeling is accessible and you can dive in pristine coral reefs surrounded by expanses of white sand.
Rinca Island
AM: In the morning, we head to the ranger station on Rinca Island, where a park ranger will talk to you about the legendary Komodo dragons. You can then refresh yourself with a swim or dive at Wainilu or Pengah Kecil.
PM: Sailing to Kalong Island, we end the day on a magical note, watching thousands of fruit bats (flying foxes) in the light of the setting sun.
Disembarkation
AM: We will return to Labuan Bajo to enjoy a last rich breakfast and check out before noon. After the last photos and goodbyes, our crew will organize the transfer to the hotel or airport. Then it will be time to return home, your head full of unforgettable memories of an extraordinary trip.
Embarkation
AM: Several of our crew will be on-site to greet you at the arrivals gate, where they will help you to the pre-arranged taxis for the short ride to the harbor to board tenders to the lead vessel. You will be welcomed on board Majik by her crew, offering a cold towel and seasonal beverage. The Cruise Director will give an introduction, a safety briefing, and a small tour of the vessel, and assist with cabin allocation while the vessel departs. The journey to your first destination represents a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the boat layout and enjoy your first taste of the chefs’ talents.
PM: Following lunch, the vessel will be close to arriving at your first destination. Pulau Saonek Kecil sits at the entrance to the park and is a great introduction to the potential marine life and scenic encounters you can expect for the rest of your journey. The mild conditions of the site offer a perfect opportunity for a check-dive to acquaint yourself with the boat’s equipment and water conditions in Raja Ampat. Rinse off the salt back on board and enjoy a delicious dinner amongst the ocean breeze as your first day comes to a close.
Mioskon/Cape Kri
AM: Awake in the morning with an enticing day of underwater site locations on the agenda. Following breakfast jump into “Blue Magic”, a sea mound with a submerged plateau at roughly 6m. This site well deserves the name and is home to a tornado of big-eyed trevally, although sometimes you might want them to move aside so you can have a better view of the visiting Oceanic manta. “Mioskon Reef” is also in the area and on a falling tide the current splits on the northern point with various fish species playing in the currents. Don’t be surprised if your guide spends a bit of time checking beneath the plate corals as this might be your first chance to encounter the Wobbegong shark.
PM: Following a delicious lunch to recover some calories, enjoy a dive at the World famous “Cape Kri”. The site was made famous by Dr. Gerald Allen and in his words, “I went back about two years ago and couldn’t believe the positive changes on the site. Most impressionable to me was the fact that the fish had become accustomed to divers. I didn’t even have to look for fish. They found me! The survey was the highest species count I’ve ever tallied on one dive, 374 distinct species in 90 minutes!”
Piaynemo
AM: Awake in Piaynemo among some of the richest marine sites in the central area. The sites were pioneered and named by Max Ammer and there are several on offer. From the enormous “Melissa’s Garden” which regardless of conditions never fails to illicit a “wow” reaction due to its healthy variety of corals and huge selection of schooling residents, to “My Reef”, an entirely submerged site with strong currents and everything that currents entail. Hope for whitetips and trevally hunting in the blue to wobbegong sharks resting on the plateau.
PM: After lunch enjoy the sloping ridges of “Batu Rufus” and the schools of yellow snapper that play at their furthest points. Expect hawksbill turtles grazing in the shallows and an inviting swim-through that opens into your own private shallows full of colorful soft sponge corals for your safety stop. In the late afternoon, venture behind the mountainside veil into the iconic cone-shaped landscape that has become synonymous with Raja Ampat. Take the short walk to a raised viewing platform to take in the scenery in its entirety. Descend in the fading light and be welcome back on board with a refreshing beverage and the smell of dinner to come.
Wayag
AM: Piaynemo was a prelude to the beauty that awaits in Wayag. Needing the early morning light to navigate to the destination, you will travel through the night, crossing the equator to awake at sunrise in a true paradise. Before the temperatures climb too high, you will climb a difficult but relatively short summit to enjoy a truly epic 360-degree view of Wayag in all its glory. After the descent enjoy a refreshing swim on the scenic white sand beach before taking a tender tour through this truly amazing landscape to arrive at a snorkeling site with a small surprise in hand.
PM: Following lunch the options abound, kayak or paddle board to any number of available beaches, simply swim or relax on the beach or if the desire takes you to go for another dive. Due to the geography of the area, the diving is slightly different from what you’ve experienced thus far. All the bays and inlets create an ideal nursery for juvenile marine life, so “Far Away Rock”, “Figure 8” and “Wayag Corner” all have something to offer, and manta is no stranger to the area, perhaps even a manta pup.
Kawe/Wofoh
AM: Following your early morning departure from Wayag you will arrive at Kawe. Today your activities are only a few degree points off the equator and while they’re a geographical novelty, underwater is anything but novel. “Black Rock” and “Eagle Rock” between them offer a variety of topography, from sloping soft coral reefs to tapering pinnacles. Napoleon wrasse, bump head parrot fish, and schooling reef manta are frequent visitors to the sites, and checking the sand flats can reveal large numbers of blue spotted sting rays, garden eels, and the chance for nudes and another macro.
PM: Across lunch, the boat will transit to Wofoh, two isolated islands with inviting beaches backed by palm trees. The site “Black Forrest” offers amazing snorkelling in the shallows, or drops down deeper on the ridge for a chance to witness the black coral, where the site draws its name from. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon paddle boarding or kayaking to the available beaches in the usually calm waters of the area, or prepare for a night dive with amazing potential for critters. Alternatively, simply flick through the day-diving photos with a cocktail in hand and sunset on the horizon.
Yangeffo/Arborek
AM: Circling back to the centre of the park the boat will anchor in Yangeffo. The sites in this area include “Citrus Ridge”, “Mayhem” and “Pretty Shallow”. The sites are well named, and you can expect citrus-coloured soft coral ridges, underwater sea mounds with the potential for strong currents and the fish that come with them, or relaxed shallows with colourful corals and marine life. Schooling barracuda are often in the area, mobula rays cans be seen in the blue, wobbegong sharks can be found with a keen eye, or if time permits search the fan corals for the fabled pygmy sea horses.
PM: During lunch, the boat will move to the small island of Arborek where you will have the opportunity to dive or snorkel with manta. The population is protected here by local rangers and while it is of course not guaranteed it represents a great opportunity to see both oceanic and reef manta. In the afternoon take a relaxing stroll around the small island village for a cultural change before preparing for what is potentially an amazing night dive to see the giant clams and a chance to see the Epaulette Shark, also known as the walking shark.
Sauwandarek/Kali Biru/Mioskon
AM: This morning is the bittersweet opportunity to dive into an amazing site, but likely the last of the trip. The calm waters of Suawandarek offer truly jaw-dropping biomass. Expect large schools of fish and the opportunity to see some elderly green turtles amongst lush coral gardens and a sloping reef. Following the activity the boat will open sails towards one of Raja Ampat's hidden gems, Kali Biru. This translates to Blue River, and following a short tender ride enjoy swimming and jumping in the clear blue waters of this enchanting location.
PM: For the remainder of the day the crew will prepare a relaxing site on the beach. Swim, kayak, or paddle board before taking a cocktail in hand with a view of Majik backdropped by the setting sun and the smell of a BBQ meal filling the air. Swap tales into the night and share your favorite memories from the hundreds of miles of open ocean you just experienced before turning into bed for your final night's sleep.
Disembarkation
AM: Wake up for your final delicious breakfast on board and if your flight time allows, feel free to swim, kayak, or paddle board on the nearby island of Matan, before you open sails and hoist anchor towards Sorong Harbour. For your disembarkation the crew will collect your luggage from your rooms and following hugs and goodbyes will escort you to the waiting taxis for your journey to the airport.
Embarkation
AM: Get picked up in style at your hotel or airport, preferably in the morning. Cruise west and enjoy the beach, snorkeling, or diving on Bidadari or Sebayur Kecil Island. These islands offer a calm environment but boast a lively coral reef for divers and snorkelers.
PM: Enjoy the first gorgeous sunset with a drink on board or at sea on kayaks or paddleboards. Night dive is optional.
Komodo Strait
AM: Komodo Island lies in the middle of the straits between Sumbawa and the Flores Islands. The sea is funneled between the two islands, creating rich currents and coral reefs that we explore, such as Tatawa Besar, Batu Bolong, and Golden Passage.
PM: At the end of a superb day’s sailing, surrounded by colorful fish, we anchor safely in Gili Lawa Island Bay, famous for its views of the glowing sunset.
Manta Point & Padar
AM: Cruising south, we will stop at Taka Makassar aka Manta Point. In this lovely coral garden, you will swim or dive with mantas, sharks, turtles, and many more. The nearby sand atoll with turquoise waters is the perfect spot for lunch and relaxation.
PM: From there we will leave for Padar Island with its dramatic landscape of sharp peaks and pink sand beaches. Those who don’t mind taking a few steps can take a short walk to see tremendous views.
Horseshoe Bay
AM: A day in South Rinca aka Horse Shoe Bay allows you to see an extraordinarily high concentration of wildlife including monkeys, deer, wild pigs, sea eagles, and of course Komodo dragons on the beach.
PM: Some world-class dive sites are in these colder waters, such as the famous Cannibal Rock.
Gili Lawa Islands
AM: This group of two islands has three world-famous dive sites and shark hotspots to enjoy: Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, and the Cauldron. For less adventurous snorkelers or divers, it also has beautiful hard coral reefs surrounded by white sand where manta rays are not a rare sight.
PM: Paddle boarding or kayaking in these turquoise water bays is a must before a well-deserved drink at sunset.
Sanggeang
AM: The Sanggeang active volcano means you can swim in its underwater hot springs and bubbling reef. Sanggean is famous for its extremely colorful soft corals and the contrasts they create with the black volcanic sand.
PM: You can visit the only village on the island, of honey-makers, boat builders, and shepherds who are settled on the shoreline. This is a magnificent island to visit from sunrise to sunset.
Banta, Batu Monco
AM: We will cruise to Banta Island just outside the National Park to explore very remote, well-hidden bays with white and pink sandy beaches surrounded by dry, steep slopes and peaks. You will rarely see another soul there, and only big shoals of fish patrol this island.
PM: Depending on the weather conditions, we can cruise to Batu Monco and its heavenly calm, turquoise water where snorkeling is easy and you can dive on pristine coral reefs surrounded by white sandy slopes.
Rinca Island
AM: In the morning we leave for the ranger station on Rinca Island from where a park ranger will talk to you about the legendary Komodo dragons.
PM: We can then refresh ourselves and swim or dive at Wainilu or Pengah Kecil. For a special moment at sunset, we will cruise to Kalong Island from where thousands of giant fruit bats fly above you in the light of the setting sun.
Disembarkation
AM: We will cruise back to Labuan Bajo for our last delicious breakfast and check-out before noon. After sharing photos and farewells, our crew will arrange your transfer to your hotel or airport, and on your return trip back home, your head will be filled with unforgettable memories of the cruise to Komodo trip of a lifetime.
Embarkation
AM: Several of our crew will be on-site to greet you at the arrivals gate, where they will help you to the pre-arranged taxis for the short ride to the harbor to board tenders to the lead vessel. You will be welcomed on board Majik by her crew, offering a cold towel and seasonal beverage. The Cruise Director will give an introduction, a safety briefing, and a small tour of the vessel, and assist with cabin allocation while the vessel departs. The journey to your first destination represents a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the boat layout and enjoy your first taste of the chefs’ talents.
PM: Following lunch, the vessel will be close to arriving at your first destination. Pulau Saonek Kecil sits at the entrance to the park and is a great introduction to the potential marine life and scenic encounters you can expect for the rest of your journey. The mild conditions of the site offer a perfect opportunity for a check-dive to acquaint yourself with the boat’s equipment and water conditions in Raja Ampat. Rinse off the salt back on board and enjoy a delicious dinner amongst the ocean breeze as your first day comes to a close.
Mioskon/Cape Kri
AM: Awake in the morning with an enticing day of underwater site locations on the agenda. Following breakfast jump into “Blue Magic”, a sea mound with a submerged plateau at roughly 6m. This site well deserves the name and is home to a tornado of big-eyed trevally, although sometimes you might want them to move aside so you can have a better view of the visiting Oceanic manta. “Mioskon Reef” is also in the area and on a falling tide the current splits on the northern point with various fish species playing in the currents. Don’t be surprised if your guide spends a bit of time checking beneath the plate corals as this might be your first chance to encounter the Wobbegong shark.
PM: Following a delicious lunch to recover some calories, enjoy a dive at the World famous “Cape Kri”. The site was made famous by Dr. Gerald Allen and in his words, “I went back about two years ago and couldn’t believe the positive changes on the site. Most impressionable to me was the fact that the fish had become accustomed to divers. I didn’t even have to look for fish. They found me! The survey was the highest species count I’ve ever tallied on one dive, 374 distinct species in 90 minutes!”
Piaynemo
AM: Awake in Piaynemo among some of the richest marine sites in the central area. The sites were pioneered and named by Max Ammer and there are several on offer. From the enormous “Melissa’s Garden” which regardless of conditions never fails to illicit a “wow” reaction due to its healthy variety of corals and huge selection of schooling residents, to “My Reef”, an entirely submerged site with strong currents and everything that currents entail. Hope for whitetips and trevally hunting in the blue to wobbegong sharks resting on the plateau.
PM: After lunch enjoy the sloping ridges of “Batu Rufus” and the schools of yellow snapper that play at their furthest points. Expect hawksbill turtles grazing in the shallows and an inviting swim-through that opens into your own private shallows full of colorful soft sponge corals for your safety stop. In the late afternoon, venture behind the mountainside veil into the iconic cone-shaped landscape that has become synonymous with Raja Ampat. Take the short walk to a raised viewing platform to take in the scenery in its entirety. Descend in the fading light and be welcome back on board with a refreshing beverage and the smell of dinner to come.