Explore The Wonders Of Indonesia
Komodo – East of Flores & Alor Exploration 12 nights
Explore from Komodo to Alor through Flores
Our journey takes us through four very different regions of Eastern Indonesia: Komodo, Sumbawa, Flores and Alor. Each has its own character, both above and below the surface, and travelling between them by boat is part of what makes this expedition so enjoyable. From well-known dive sites to quiet stretches of coastline that see relatively few visitors, there is always something new to discover along the way.
We begin in Komodo National Park, where we spend several days exploring some of Indonesia’s finest diving. The reefs here are full of life, with large schools of fish, reef sharks, turtles and, of course, the manta rays that have made Komodo famous among divers. Above water, the islands are just as memorable, with their dry hills, sheltered bays and beautiful beaches. We also go ashore to see the Komodo dragons, a highlight of any visit to the National Park.
Our route also takes us towards eastern Sumbawa, where the reefs around N’Doko and the quieter surrounding islands offer a welcome change of pace. Here, healthy coral gardens, clear water and often deserted beaches make it easy to forget how far we have travelled. Weather permitting, we may enjoy a beach barbecue, with the volcanic silhouette of Sangeang providing a memorable backdrop.
Leaving the Komodo region behind, we follow the northern coast of Flores, where the landscape gradually changes and the pace of the journey becomes a little more relaxed. Volcanic mountains rise behind small coastal villages, and many of the reefs along this stretch receive far fewer visitors than those further west. The diving is wonderfully varied, from colourful coral gardens and steep walls to sheltered bays where some of Indonesia’s more unusual marine creatures can be found. There is also plenty to enjoy between dives, whether it’s a quiet beach, a sunset over the mountains or simply watching the coastline pass by from the deck.
As we continue east, the islands become more remote and the journey takes on a different character. These are the parts of Indonesia where travelling by boat really comes into its own, allowing us to reach places that would otherwise be difficult to visit. Dolphins are sometimes seen along the way, and during certain periods even whales may pass through these waters.
Eventually, we reach Alor, where deep channels, healthy reefs and an interesting variety of marine life provide a lovely final chapter to the expedition. After our last dives, we make our way into Kalebahi Bay, bringing twelve nights of diving and exploration to an end.
From Komodo’s manta rays and legendary dragons to the quiet reefs of Sumbawa, the volcanic coast of Flores and the less-travelled waters of Alor, this is a journey that offers much more than a collection of dive sites. It’s a chance to enjoy Indonesia at a different pace, discover places away from the usual routes and experience the simple pleasure of travelling from island to island aboard Seven Seas.
A Journey Through the Legendary Reefs of Komodo and the Wild Waters of Eastern Flores
Our journey begins in Komodo National Park, with a check dive around Sebayor Island before exploring the beautiful reefs of Batu Monco Bay. Here, colourful coral gardens, submerged seamounts and vibrant outer reefs are home to schooling fish, reef sharks and abundant marine life.
We then head west towards Sangeang Island, an active volcano rising dramatically from the sea off Sumbawa. Its underwater volcanic slopes offer fascinating diving, with dark sand, colourful corals and unusual marine creatures. We also visit a traditional boat-building village, where local craftsmen continue their centuries-old traditions.
Continuing towards N’Doko, off southeastern Sumbawa, we discover secluded beaches, beautiful coastal scenery and sheltered bays ideal for hiking, kayaking and snorkelling with juvenile blacktip reef sharks. Weather permitting, we’ll enjoy sunset cocktails, a beach bonfire and dinner under the stars.
Returning to southern Komodo, we explore Manta Alley, where manta rays frequently gather around cleaning stations and rocky reefs. After a night dive in Komodo Bay, we head ashore for a guided walk to see the famous Komodo dragons, possibly visit a local village, and enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel at Pantai Merah (Pink Beach).
The following days are dedicated to Komodo’s finest diving. In Central Komodo, sites such as Batu Bolong, Tatawa Kecil, Tatawa Besar, Turtle Bay and Seven Seas Secrets offer spectacular corals, turtles, reef sharks and impressive schools of fish. Further north, around Gili Lawa, exciting sites such as Shotgun and Crystal Bommie attract abundant marine life carried by nutrient-rich currents. We conclude our time in Komodo with sunset cocktails on the beach at Pulau Bugis.
Our journey continues along the north coast of Flores, diving around Maumere Bay and Pulau Babi, where colourfulcoral reefs, walls and volcanic underwater formations support diverse marine life. We then head towards the remote volcanic island of Komba, exploring its underwater slopes and reefs, with the possibility of catching fresh fish for sashimi.
Finally, we reach Alor, one of Indonesia’s most fascinating diving regions. Depending on conditions, we may exploreTanjung Munaseli, where schooling hammerhead sharks are occasionally encountered, or the beautiful reefs around Pura Island, renowned for their healthy corals and rich marine biodiversity.
Above water, we visit Takpala Village, home to the indigenous Abui community, to discover their traditional architecture and cultural heritage before concluding our expedition in Alor.
This 12-night expedition combines Komodo’s spectacular diving with the remote islands, volcanic landscapes and cultural traditions of Sumbawa, Flores and Alor. From manta encounters and thriving coral reefs to secluded beaches, traditional villages and the possibility of hammerhead sharks, it’s an extraordinary journey through the diversity of Eastern Indonesia, both above and below the surface
Komodo to Alor, From legendary manta sites and vibrant reefs to remote volcanic islands, pristine coral gardens, and the extraordinary biodiversity of Eastern Indonesia.
Tentative Itinerary
The itinerary may be adjusted at the discretion of the captain and cruise director based on weather conditions, which can sometimes be unpredictable, as well as the group’s overall experience. The goal is to offer the best possible diving and snorkeling sites according to the group’s interests and skill levels.
Day 1 - KOMODO - Sebayor
Our adventure begins in Labuan Bajo, where the Seven Seas crew welcomes you aboard. After settling into your cabin, setting up your diving equipment and enjoying lunch, we head towards Sebayor Island for our first dive.
Sebayor offers an ideal introduction to Komodo’s underwater world, with gently sloping reefs, beautiful hard coral gardens and abundant marine life. Schools of yellow snapper, colourful anthias and damselfish fill the reefs, while green and hawksbill turtles are regular visitors. With a little luck, eagle rays may also cruise past in the blue.
A relaxed start to our expedition through some of Eastern Indonesia’s most remarkable waters.
Day 2 - KOMODO - Batu Monco
We explore the secluded waters of Batu Monco Bay, on the northwestern side of Komodo Island, visiting its northern outer reefs, sheltered inner seamounts and western reef systems.
This relatively remote area offers a wonderful variety of underwater landscapes, from gently sloping coral gardens to rocky formations and deeper reef sections. Healthy hard and soft corals provide shelter for butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, moray eels and numerous smaller reef creatures.
The outer reefs may also attract schooling fish and passing pelagic species, while the sheltered areas offer excellent opportunities for relaxed diving and underwater photography.
Day 3 - KOMODO - Sangeang volcano
Our journey continues towards Sangeang Island, dominated by one of Indonesia’s most impressive active volcanoes. Its volcanic origins have created a fascinating underwater environment, with black sandy slopes, dramatic rock formations and geothermal activity.
At sites such as Hot Rocks, streams of volcanic gas bubbles rise through the seabed, creating an extraordinary underwater landscape. The dark volcanic sand provides a striking contrast to colourful soft corals, sponges and an impressive variety of macro life, including nudibranchs, frogfish, ghost pipefish and other unusual creatures.
Above water, we visit a traditional boat-building village, where local craftsmen continue the centuries-old practice of constructing wooden vessels using techniques passed down through generations.
Day 4 - KOMODO - Sumbawa
We continue towards the remote waters of N’Doko, off southeastern Sumbawa, where secluded beaches, beautiful coastal scenery and crystal-clear waters offer a different side of Indonesia.
This is a day dedicated to exploration and relaxation, with opportunities for coastal hikes, kayaking through sheltered waters and snorkelling along shallow reefs where juvenile blacktip reef sharks can often be observed.
Far from the busier tourist routes, N’Doko offers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of these remote islands.
As the sun begins to set, weather permitting, we’ll gather on the beach for cocktails, a bonfire and a memorable dinner under the stars.
Day 5 – KOMODO - Manta Alley & Komodo Bay
Returning to the southern waters of Komodo National Park, we explore Manta Alley, one of Indonesia’s most celebrated dive sites for encounters with manta rays.
Located near the southern tip of Komodo Island, this dramatic underwater landscape features rocky formations, coral-covered slopes and cleaning stations frequently visited by reef manta rays.
Nutrient-rich waters attract an abundance of marine life, including schooling fusiliers, trevallies, reef sharks and turtles. Mantas may be seen gliding over the reef, visiting cleaning stations or feeding in the currents.
In the evening, we move into the more sheltered waters of Komodo Bay for a night dive, discovering the fascinating nocturnal creatures that emerge after sunset.
Day 6 - KOMODO – Dragons, Pink Beach & Central Komodo
We begin with a guided walk through Komodo National Park, home to the legendary Komodo dragons, the world’s largest living lizards.
Accompanied by local park rangers, we explore their natural habitat, where deer, wild buffalo and various bird species may also be encountered. Depending on timing, there may be an opportunity to visit a local village.
After our walk, we cool off with a swim or snorkel at Pantai Merah (Pink Beach), famous for its distinctive pinkish sand and beautiful shallow coral reefs.
In the afternoon, we return to the underwater world with a dive in Central Komodo, where thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life provide an exciting introduction to the area’s celebrated dive sites.
Day 7 - KOMODO - CENTRAL KOMODO – Legendary Dive Sites
Central Komodo offers some of Indonesia’s most spectacular diving, with an extraordinary concentration of marine life, colourful coral reefs and dramatic underwater topography. The nutrient-rich currents flowing through the park support thriving coral ecosystems, enormous schools of fish and an impressive diversity of marine species.
Depending on tides and currents, we may explore some of the area’s most celebrated dive sites, including Batu Bolong, a spectacular coral-covered pinnacle surrounded by schools of fusiliers, snappers and anthias, with frequent sightings of reef sharks, turtles, Napoleon wrasse and giant trevallies.
Nearby, Tatawa Besar offers beautiful drift diving over vibrant soft coral gardens, while Tatawa Kecil features dramatic rocky formations, swim-throughs and current-swept reefs attracting larger predators.
We may also visit Seven Seas Secrets, one of our signature dive sites, renowned for its exceptional hard coral gardens, pristine white sand and abundant reef life, or Turtle Bay, where green and hawksbill turtles are frequently encountered among colourful corals.
With such a remarkable variety of underwater environments, Central Komodo is undoubtedly one of the highlights of our expedition, offering unforgettable diving experiences for both wide-angle photographers and marine life enthusiasts.
Day 8 - KOMODO - North Komodo
We continue towards Gili Lawa, in northern Komodo National Park, an area renowned for its dramatic underwater scenery, strong currents and extraordinary concentrations of marine life.
Among the possible dive sites are:
The Cauldron (Shotgun): An exhilarating drift dive through a narrow channel between islands, where tidal currents create an exciting underwater experience. Timing is essential, making this one of Komodo’s most memorable dives.
Crystal Bommie: A vibrant submerged reef formation attracting schools of snappers, fusiliers, trevallies and other reef fish. Healthy corals and clear waters make it an excellent location for underwater photography.
Gili Lawa Reefs: A combination of coral gardens, slopes and current-swept reef systems supporting reef sharks, turtles, schooling fish and a rich diversity of marine life.
After a full day of diving, we head to Pulau Bugis, where sunset cocktails on the beach provide a beautiful ending to our time in Komodo.
Day 9 - NORTH FLORES
Leaving Komodo behind, we continue east towards the beautiful 17 Pulau (Seventeen Islands) area, off the northern coast of Flores.
This picturesque collection of small islands, secluded beaches and sheltered waterways offers a wonderful opportunity to explore a quieter and less frequently visited part of Indonesia.
Rather than focusing on diving, we spend our time discovering the islands by kayak and speedboat, navigating between small bays, pristine beaches and scenic coastal passages.
The sheltered waters are ideal for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of this remarkable island landscape.
Day 10 – EAST FLORES – Maumere Bay & Pulau Babi
Our expedition continues along the volcanic northern coastline of Flores towards Maumere Bay and Pulau Babi, an area known for its varied underwater topography and fascinating marine biodiversity.
The reefs around Maumere feature colourful coral gardens, sandy slopes and underwater formations shaped by the region’s volcanic history.
At Pulau Babi, divers can explore impressive walls, steep drop-offs and dramatic underwater fissures associated with the area’s geological activity. Large sea fans, sponges, black corals and colourful soft corals provide habitat for an abundance of marine life.
Moray eels, nudibranchs, fusiliers, butterflyfish and occasional reef sharks may be encountered, offering opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography.
In the afternoon, we begin our journey towards the remote volcanic island of Komba.
Day 11 - KOMBA ISLAND – Remote Volcanic Diving
We arrive at Pulau Komba, a remote volcanic island rising dramatically from the surrounding sea.
The island’s volcanic origins have shaped its underwater landscape, creating steep slopes, rocky formations and reefs that descend into deeper waters.
Diving here offers an opportunity to explore a rarely visited environment, where volcanic rock formations support colourful corals, reef fish and a variety of marine creatures. Depending on conditions, the surrounding waters may also attract larger pelagic species.
Far from established tourist routes, Komba offers a genuine sense of exploration, with the dramatic volcanic landscape providing a memorable backdrop to our dives.
There may also be an opportunity to try some fishing in suitable waters, hopefully bringing fresh fish aboard for sashimi.
Day 12 - ALOR – Munaseli, Pura Island & Takpala Village
Our final diving destination is Alor, renowned for its extraordinary marine biodiversity, dramatic underwater landscapes and powerful currents that bring nutrient-rich waters into the region.
Depending on sea conditions and the group’s diving experience, we may venture towards Tanjung Munaseli, off northern Pantar, where schooling scalloped hammerhead sharks are occasionally encountered.
These deeper, current-exposed waters offer the possibility of remarkable pelagic encounters, although sightings are never guaranteed.
Alternatively, we may explore the beautiful reefs around Pura Island, where healthy hard and soft corals, schooling fish and abundant reef life provide excellent diving in a very different underwater environment.
In the afternoon, we visit Takpala Village, home to the indigenous Abui community. Here, traditional houses built from natural materials surround a central ceremonial area, offering an opportunity to learn about local customs, architecture and cultural heritage.
The visit may include traditional music and the famous Lego-Lego dance, providing a memorable cultural conclusion to our expedition.
Day 13 - KALEBAHI BAY
After breakfast, we disembark in Kalebahi Bay, where our crew assists with transfers to the airport or onward accommodation.
Our 12-night expedition comes to an end after an extraordinary journey from Komodo to Alor, exploring spectacular coral reefs, remote volcanic islands, secluded beaches and traditional communities across Eastern Indonesia.
