The pinisi is the traditional wooden sailing ship of South Sulawesi, built by hand and still used across eastern Indonesia, and in Labuan Bajo the design has been adapted for tourism. Deluxe versions have air-conditioned cabins, indoor and outdoor lounges, hot showers on some boats and a crew that cooks and serves meals. This trip takes you on a three-day, two-night loop through Komodo National Park. The route follows the usual pattern, with time at the dragon islands, the Padar viewpoint, Pink Beach and the sunset at Kalong. Because the boat is slower than a speedboat, the days feel relaxed, with more swimming and snorkel time and fewer long rushes between stops.
What sets a deluxe boat apart is the comfort and the attention to safety. Cabins are private, bathrooms are cleaner and the deck has space to spread out. The cost sits between a shared-cabin group trip and a full private charter, and many travelers see it as the best balance for a three-day trip.
Do your homework on the boat. Standards vary widely, and the word deluxe is used loosely. Read recent reviews, ask for photos of the actual cabins and check that life jackets, a first-aid kit and a radio are on board. Ask how many people the boat carries, since a crowded deluxe boat loses much of its appeal.
Packing is simple
Swimwear, light clothes, a hat, sunscreen, a dry bag, a power bank and tablets for seasickness. The boats provide towels and bedding, but bring your own for peace of mind. Because the boat sleeps on the water, a clear forecast and calm seas matter, and operators may adjust the route for conditions.
Practical notes
Ask what is included in the price, such as park fees, kayaks, snorkel gear and drinks, and whether the crew can cater to dietary needs. Cash for tips and port fees is useful. Ask also about the boat sleeping capacity so you know how many other guests will be on board.
What to expect
The experience
A three-day, two-night sailing trip from Labuan Bajo on a deluxe pinisi boat, with cabins, meals and shore stops across the park.
Best time
The dry season, roughly April to November, for calm seas and clear water.
How long
Three days and two nights.
Tips
Check recent reviews and cabin photos, confirm the safety gear, and pack light with a dry bag and tablets for seasickness.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers who want a comfortable liveaboard without paying for a fully private boat.
- Families
- Works for families with older children, with better cabins and bathrooms than basic boats.
- Couples
- A romantic loop through the islands with sunsets on deck and private cabin space.
- Pair with
- A final night at a resort such as Plataran Komodo or Meruorah.
- Time needed
- Three days.
Good questions
What is a pinisi?+
A traditional Indonesian wooden sailing ship from South Sulawesi, now widely used for tourism around Komodo.
Are the cabins private?+
Deluxe boats normally have private cabins, but confirm the arrangement for your booking.
What does deluxe mean?+
It is used loosely, so check recent reviews, cabin photos and safety equipment.
Is it better than a shared-cabin trip?+
It is more comfortable and usually costs more. The route and sights are similar.
What should I pack?+
Swimwear, light clothes, a hat, sunscreen, a dry bag, a power bank and seasickness tablets.
