The Bali – Komodo Whale Shark Diving Expedition is a long-range diving liveaboard designed for divers who value remote routes, natural encounters, and journeys shaped by sea conditions rather than fixed schedules. Sailing between Bali and Komodo via Sumbawa, the expedition explores volcanic islands, current-swept reefs, and one of Indonesia’s most well-known seasonal whale shark regions.
Over the course of the expedition, divers travel through a wide range of underwater environments. The route connects Bali, Sumbawa, Moyo, Sangeang, and Komodo National Park, combining black-sand volcanic dives, offshore walls, and some of Indonesia’s most fish-rich reefs.
This is not a standard Komodo itinerary. Distances are longer and crossings are part of the experience. Dive planning follows weather, currents, and wildlife behavior. Whale shark encounters in Saleh Bay are a highlight of the route, but sightings depend entirely on natural conditions.
This expedition suits experienced and confident divers who value flexibility, patience, and expedition-style travel.
Key Expedition Information
- Trip type: Long-range diving liveaboard
- Routes & duration:
- Komodo → Bali | 10 days / 9 nights
- Bali → Komodo | 12 days / 11 nights
- Diving level: Advanced Open Water recommended
- Departures: May 2026
- May 5-14: Komodo → Bali – details and booking here
- May 16-27: Bali → Komodo – details and booking here
- Boat info and pictures: Naga Biru Liveaboard
Pricing
| Komodo → Bali Diving Liveaboard | Bali → Komodo Diving Liveaboard |
| May 5–14, 2026 Duration: 10 days / 9 nights Starts from: USD 4.050 per person | May 16–27, 2026 Duration: 12 days / 11 nights Starts from: USD 4.950 per person |
Cabin Options
- Superior Cabin: USD 450 per person per night
- Deluxe Cabin: USD 490 per person per night
- Grand Deluxe Cabin: USD 550 per person per night
- Single Cabin (Hull): USD 655 per person per night
- Single Cabin (Upper Deck): USD 655 per person per night
Bali to Sumbawa: Whale Shark Territory
The expedition includes time in Saleh Bay, on the northern coast of Sumbawa, a region known for seasonal whale shark activity. Early morning encounters may involve snorkeling or diving alongside these gentle giants as they feed near traditional fishing platforms.
Conditions in Saleh Bay are generally calmer than Komodo, offering a contrast to the more energetic sections of the route. The crew conducts all encounters respectfully and follows natural behavior and local guidelines.
Sumbawa, Moyo and Sangeang: Volcanic Landscapes and Offshore Reefs
Beyond Saleh Bay, the route continues through a chain of islands rarely included in standard itineraries. Diving around Sangeang Volcano features black sand slopes, mineral-rich waters, and unusual macro life, sometimes accompanied by volcanic bubbles rising from the seabed.
Moyo Island and surrounding reefs offer wall dives, submerged pinnacles, and opportunities for short land excursions such as waterfall or lake visits when conditions allow.
Komodo National Park: A Powerful Finale
The final section of the expedition focuses on Komodo National Park, covering northern, central, and southern regions depending on conditions. Diving here is dynamic and current-driven, with dense fish life, manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, and thriving coral gardens.
The route may include iconic sites such as Batu Bolong, Crystal Rock, Castle Rock, and Manta Alley, along with sheltered bays known for macro life. A guided walk to observe Komodo dragons may also be part of the experience.
Life on Board Naga Biru
Naga Biru is a traditional Indonesian phinisi built for long-distance voyages and expedition-style diving. The vessel offers comfortable cabins, dedicated dive facilities, and spacious communal areas suited for extended time at sea.
The experienced Indonesian crew is familiar with remote routes and changing sea conditions, providing a steady and well-organized base throughout the expedition.
Check out the full description and pictures of the Naga Biru Liveaboard
This expedition is shaped by nature, not by fixed expectations. Divers who approach the journey with flexibility and curiosity will find it deeply rewarding, offering access to some of Indonesia’s most dynamic and lesser-traveled waters.
What’s Included
- Car transfers to and from the harbor on the first and final day of the cruise, from and to a downtown hotel or airport
- All meals on board, including coffee, tea, drinking water, and post-dive refreshments
- Diving activities as per itinerary
- Experienced dive guides with a maximum guide-to-diver ratio of 1:4
- Snorkeling activities
- Snorkeling equipment, subject to availability and fin size
- Experienced snorkeling guides
- Land excursions as per itinerary
- Nitrox
- Weights and weight belts
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flight tickets
- Hotel accommodation before and after the cruise
- Mandatory travel and dive insurance
- Visas and related fees
- Airport taxes and excess baggage fees
- Airport or hotel transfers outside the scheduled cruise departure and arrival
- Diving equipment
- Government and marine park fees
- Drone permits and related fees
- Dive courses and certifications
- Naga Biru Café items
- Soft drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Crew gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Any other items not listed under “What’s Included”
