Expedition overview
Join us on a 10-day adventure into the heart of Indonesia's Komodo National Park, home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. This expedition takes you through the northern and central dive sites, where you’ll experience vibrant coral reefs, fascinating macro critters, and the majestic presence of larger species like reef sharks, manta rays, and schools of jacks. Beyond the ocean, our journey includes a visit to Rinca Island, where you’ll have the chance to see the legendary Komodo dragons in the wild—a true highlight of the trip.
Led by Matthew Kaplan, this expedition balances adventure with conservation and education, offering a unique opportunity to refine your underwater filming and storytelling skills while contributing to marine preservation efforts. Our dive sites will be chosen based on the best conditions each day, ensuring you experience the very best of Komodo's underwater beauty. A portion of expedition revenue will be donated directly to our ocean non-profit partners:
Total package: $3,495 USD
Note: $500 USD deposit to book a spot, fully refundable 60 days prior to the trip.
Includes:
- All dives.
- Accomodation
- 11 days of diving.
- Meals, snacks & drinks.
- Filming, editing and storytelling masterclass by Matthew David Kaplan
- Your footage will be featured on Oceans Nation's Instagram community, reaching an audience of more than 2.8 million followers
- Volunteering activities.
Does not Include:
- Flights
- Airport transfers (we'll help you coordinate)
- Gear rental
- Gratuity for crew (12-15% recommended)
12 days / 11 nights.
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
On our expedition in Bali and Nusa Penida, we’ll encounter a variety of marine life. At Menjangan Island, we can expect colorful coral, turtles, and a multitude of fish. In Tulamben, the USS Liberty wreck hosts large jacks and trevally.
While diving in Nusa Penida, we’ll have the chance to see manta rays at Manta Point. Although mola mola (sunfish) won’t be around this season, we might also spot reef sharks, nudibranchs, and even dolphins. Each dive presents a unique opportunity to explore the incredible underwater world together!
Trip Program
Day 1: Arrival in Labuan Bajo
Your adventure begins in the quaint port town of Labuan Bajo, located on the western tip of Flores. Upon arrival, you’ll meet the group and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, enjoying a local meal, or relaxing at the hotel. In the evening, we’ll gather for an introduction and go over the expedition plans.
Day 2: Transfer to Scuba Junkie Komodo Resort
After breakfast, we’ll set off on a scenic boat ride to Scuba Junkie Komodo Resort, your home base for the next seven days of diving. Upon arrival, we’ll take a quick tour of the resort and then settle in. Use the rest of the day to prepare your dive gear, relax, or take in the surroundings.
Days 3–9: Diving in Komodo National Park
Over the next seven days, we’ll dive deep into the wonders of Komodo National Park, experiencing world-class dive sites. Each day will offer two or three dives, including options for night dives that reveal the park’s nocturnal marine life. Our dives will take us to iconic spots like Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Siaba Besar, along with some hidden gems known for their vibrant ecosystems.
Expect encounters with larger pelagic species such as manta rays, reef sharks, and schools of jacks, while macro lovers will be thrilled by sightings of pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and other fascinating critters. The varied underwater landscapes range from coral walls and drift channels to calm coral gardens, ensuring each dive is an exciting new adventure.
Night Dives.
Night dives are a highlight of the trip, where you’ll encounter nocturnal marine life under the cover of darkness. From glowing bioluminescent plankton to octopuses and hunting squid, night diving in Komodo is an unforgettable experience.
Day Trip to Rinca Island.
Midway through the expedition, we’ll take a break from diving and head to Rinca Island, home to the legendary Komodo dragons. This guided trek offers the chance to observe these ancient reptiles in the wild, alongside other wildlife like water buffalo and wild boars. The land excursion provides a fascinating contrast to your underwater adventures, offering a well-rounded experience of Komodo’s unique natural environment.
Matthew David Kaplan
- @Discovery ocean contributor
- Only One ambassador
- Ocean Culture Life Storyteller
- 20+ years of diving across 6 continents
- IG @matthewunderwater / www.matthewunderwater.com
Accommodation
Scuba Junkie Komodo Dive Resort
Located on the edge of Komodo National Park, Scuba Junkie Komodo Beach Resort offers an ideal setting for divers. The resort offers breathtaking views and easy access to world-class dive sites. Enjoy Balinese-inspired rooms, an oceanfront restaurant, and sunsets over Komodo Island, making it the perfect retreat after a full day of diving.
FAQs
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.