Sailing Flores to Lombok 5 days 4 Nights All Inclusive Trip

Exploring the Flores to Lombok Sailing Adventure: An Honest Look at a 5-Day Trip

Taking a sailing trip from Flores to Lombok promises an experience filled with stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and a taste of island life. This all-inclusive five-day voyage offers opportunities to snorkel with manta rays, track the last of the Komodo dragons, and relax on secluded beaches. While the trip is marketed as a luxurious adventure, it’s important to weigh what’s included against some of the mixed reviews from past travelers.

One aspect we really appreciate is the chance to explore iconic sites like Komodo National Park, Pink Beach, and Saleh Bay, all with the comfort of a crew that aims to make your trip seamless. However, potential travelers should be aware that some reviews mention issues with customer service and food options, which might impact the overall experience.

This trip is best suited for travelers who prioritize wildlife encounters, scenic views, and snorkeling over luxury or a highly personalized experience. If you’re eager to tick off many of Indonesia’s top marine and island sights, this tour could be a good fit — just keep your expectations balanced.

Key Points

• Highlights include wildlife encounters like the Komodo dragons and whale sharks, plus snorkeling at manta points and coral beaches.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring some sense of intimacy and shared adventure.
• Included amenities like meals, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and transfers add value, especially considering the overall price.
• Reviews point out that while the crew is helpful and the scenery is breathtaking, customer support during issues may leave something to be desired.
• Timing and logistics are generally well-organized, with stops at key islands and scenic spots, but be prepared for some long travel and trekking.
• Cost-benefit depends on your priorities — wildlife, scenery, and snorkeling are top-tier, but food and customer service might vary.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Flores to Lombok Sailing Trip

Starting Point: Labuan Bajo and Padar Island

The adventure kicks off in Labuan Bajo, a bustling gateway town known for its vibrant markets and lively atmosphere. From here, the boat departs, heading straight for Padar Island, famed for its rugged, jagged peaks and sweeping views. The first stop offers a brief one-hour visit, with free admission, giving you a quick taste of the island’s dramatic landscape.

Overnight on board, you’ll be treated to a sunrise trek the following morning. The Padar Island trek is a highlight — hikers often praise the stunning vistas from the sunrise point, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs after traveling. The included 3-hour trek is moderate but requires decent footwear and a reasonable fitness level. Past reviews note the helpful guides, who are familiar with the terrain and eager to share local insights.

Komodo National Park: Dragons and Manta Rays

The next day is packed with some of the trip’s most famous stops. The crew takes you to Pink Beach, one of the few beaches with naturally pink-colored sand, and an excellent spot for snorkeling. The shallow waters here are home to diverse coral formations, and many travelers have enjoyed the chance to explore vibrant underwater life.

Then, it’s a visit to Komodo Island itself — the last habitat of the legendary Komodo dragon. The guided tours here are often praised for their knowledgeable guides who can tell you about the dragons’ behavior, habitat, and conservation issues. Some reviews mention that the experience with the dragons is unforgettable, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.

Later, snorkelers head to Manta Point in hopes of spotting manta rays. Several travelers have described snorkeling here as a highlight, with some even swimming alongside manta rays, which is a surreal experience. Of course, sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the chance to see these graceful creatures adds a special touch to the trip.

Sumbawa: Beaches and Coral Reefs

The third day involves sailing to Sumbawa, where the boat anchors at Savana Beach and Coral Beach. Travelers can relax on the pristine sands, swim, or snorkel among lively coral reefs. Reviews note that these beaches are excellent for downtime, with calm waters and scenic surroundings. The free admission to these beaches means you can enjoy some beach leisure without extra costs.

Saleh Bay and Whaleshark Encounters

Day four introduces the potential for whale shark sightings at Teluk Saleh, a rare and extraordinary encounter if luck is on your side. The tour includes snorkeling with whale sharks, which is one of the main highlights cited in positive reviews. One reviewer described this as a “great boat experience,” appreciating the crew’s responsiveness and their efforts to make the whale shark encounters memorable.

Later, there’s a trek to Kenawa Island‘s summit, offering panoramic vistas and stunning sunset or sunrise views depending on your timing. The island’s underwater scenery is also explored through snorkeling, with some reviews expressing satisfaction with the variety of underwater life seen here.

Final Day: Kenawa Island and Disembarkation

The last morning allows for a relaxed exploration of Kenawa Island’s landscape before heading back to Lombok’s Kayangan Harbor. The disembarkation around 09:00 am marks the end of the trip, with travelers leaving with a collection of unforgettable sights and experiences.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This all-inclusive package covers most essentials:

• Transfers from your hotel
• Meals (4 breakfasts, 4 dinners, 3 lunches)
• Snorkeling gear
• Entrance fees for Komodo National Park and Satonda
• Mineral water, local coffee, tea, and seasonal fruits & snacks
• A tour guide/cruise director to help navigate the trip

However, it’s important to note what’s not included:

• Alcoholic beverages are extra, which means you’ll need to bring your own or purchase on board.
• While meals are included, some reviews indicate that the food options might not always satisfy every palate, so bring some snacks if you’re picky or have dietary restrictions.

The Price: Is $800 Worth It?

At $800 per person, this trip is priced to appeal to those seeking a guided, all-inclusive experience covering major sights and wildlife encounters. When you add up the inclusion of transportation, meals, entrance fees, and snorkeling gear, the value is reasonable for a 5-day adventure. Still, reviews suggest that the overall experience can vary depending on customer support and food quality.

Authentic Experiences and Real Concerns from Past Travelers

One of the most consistent themes in reviews is the helpfulness of the crew and guides. Several reviews commend the guides’ knowledge and responsiveness, especially when it comes to wildlife sightings or snorkeling instructions. For example, the crew is praised for their helpfulness and friendly attitude, making the experience more enjoyable despite some logistical hiccups.

Conversely, some travelers reported poor customer service and feeling disappointed with the management or food options. One reviewer explicitly mentions that the trip “ruined a trip of a lifetime” due to customer support issues. This suggests that if you’re someone who values personalized service and high-quality meals, you might find these aspects lacking.

The long hours of sailing and physical activity — including trekking and snorkeling — are suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. The itinerary involves several stops with walking or trekking, sometimes in hot weather, so be prepared accordingly.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This sailing adventure is ideal for adventurous travelers who love wildlife, snorkeling, and islands with dramatic scenery. If your priority is seeing Komodo dragons, manta rays, and whale sharks in their natural environment, this trip offers a good chance.

However, if you’re sensitive to food quality or customer service issues, or prefer a more luxurious or personalized cruise, you might consider other options. It’s also best for those comfortable with group travel and long sailing days, as well as those with a moderate fitness level.

Final Thoughts

This Flores to Lombok sailing trip offers an authentic mix of wildlife, scenic vistas, and underwater adventures. For many travelers, the highlights like snorkeling with manta rays, walking among Komodo dragons, and spotting whale sharks are truly unforgettable. The inclusion of meals, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees adds value, making it accessible for those on a modest budget.

However, the experience can vary depending on expectations around customer service and food quality. Some reviews reveal frustrations, so it’s wise to go in with an open mind and some flexibility. If you’re seeking a well-organized, wildlife-focused adventure that captures the essence of Indonesia’s islands, this trip will likely check many boxes.

For those comfortable with group travel and long days at sea, and who prioritize wildlife and scenery over luxury, this tour offers a memorable journey. Just be prepared for some variability in service and be sure to bring snacks or extra comfort items if you’re particular about meals.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfer, simplifying logistics and ensuring you start your adventure smoothly.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and swimming suits. Trekking shoes are recommended for island hikes, and don’t forget your camera for those epic views.

How many people will be on the boat?
The trip accommodates up to 50 travelers, which is a decent size for group activities but still small enough for some shared experiences.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days, along with snacks and beverages like local coffee and tea.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
There’s a good chance to see manta rays, whale sharks, and Komodo dragons, although sightings of the latter depend on luck and timing.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many travelers cite snorkeling with manta rays and whale sharks, as well as the chance to walk among Komodo dragons, as the most memorable parts.

To sum it up, this sailing trip from Flores to Lombok is a solid choice for those craving adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic island stops. While it offers great value with its inclusive package, be mindful of the mixed reviews regarding customer service and food. For travelers seeking authentic experiences in Indonesia’s iconic islands, this tour delivers on many fronts — just aim to keep expectations balanced and your spirit ready for some unforgettable island exploration.