FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT KOMODO AND DIVING

• WHAT MAKES KOMODO A POPULAR DIVING DESTINATION?

  Komodo offers world-class diving: adrenaline-pumping drifts, colorful coral gardens, manta cleaning stations, and rich biodiversity. It’s suitable for experienced divers seeking current and big-fish action as well as calmer sites for beginners.

• DO I NEED ANY PERMITS FOR DIVING IN KOMODO?

  Yes. Komodo National Park fees and park registration for all divers is mandatory for all divers and non-divers. Lotus Liveaboards arranges this on behalf of guests and adds park fees to your trip due on arrival.

• WHAT ARE THE HIGHLIGHTS TO SEE IN KOMODO?

  Expect manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, schooling fish, pristine coral reefs, and—on land—Komodo dragons. Highlights include Batu Bolong, Manta Point, Castle Rock, Crystal, Cauldron (Shotgun), for diving or snorkeling. Enjoy Rinca (or Padar) for dragons. Pink Beach is an option on longer excursions.

• WHAT IS THE WATER TEMPERATURE LIKE?

  Water ranges between 24–29°C (75–84°F) with waters being warmer in the most popular North and Central sites (3mm wetsuit sufficient). Southern sites can be cooler, so some divers prefer a 5mm wetsuit, although 3mm is standard.

• WHAT IS THE VISIBILITY LIKE UNDERWATER?

  Typically 15–30 meters, although it depends on currents, weather, and site location.

• WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KOMODO?

  Komodo is a year-round destination:
  • April–November (dry season): calm seas, warm waters, and excellent visibility in the north and central park.
  • December–March (wetter): southern manta action, cooler waters, and lush green islands.

• ARE THERE DECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS NEARBY?

  Yes. There is a chamber in Labuan Bajo (LBJ). Dive insurance covering evacuation and treatment is mandatory. Dive insurance is required for diving aboard Blue Lotus LOB. We can assist with obtaining short term DAN Dive Insurance (or Dive Assure) for the duration of your trip if needed.

• WHAT OTHER PLACES ARE WORTH VISITING NEAR KOMODO?

  Flores Island is full of treasures: Padar viewpoint, traditional villages, Kelimutu volcano, and waterfalls. Bali is also a common stop before or after Komodo.

• ARE VACCINATIONS REQUIRED?

  Check your country’s travel advisories. Most travelers only need routine vaccinations.

• WHAT ARE THE HEALTH FACILITIES LIKE?

  Labuan Bajo has a hospital and clinics, though care is very limited compared to big cities. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised. Dive Insurance is mandatory (See above).

• WHAT ARE THE VISA REQUIREMENTS?

  Many nationalities can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival. Always check the latest regulations before travel.

• HOW SAFE IS IT TO TRAVEL IN KOMODO?

  Very safe, especially onboard. On land, use normal travel precautions and respect local customs.

• HOW STRICT IS INDONESIA REGARDING ALCOHOL AND DRESS CODE?

  Alcohol is available in Labuan Bajo and onboard Blue Lotus for a surcharge. Modest dress is recommended in LBJ town, although in Labuan Bajo most locals are used to travelers. Respect all cultural norms and religious rituals when in public and avoid disrespectful comments to anyone. Dress code on boat is Dive Casual. Barefoot and bathing suits, shorts and tees,

• WHAT LANGUAGES ARE SPOKEN?

  Bahasa Indonesia is official. English is widely spoken in LBJ and by most Blue Lotus crew.

• WHAT IS THE TIME ZONE?

  Central Indonesia Time (WITA, UTC+8).