Our Luxury Phinisi Fleet

Every vessel in our collection has been personally inspected and selected based on our rigorous criteria for safety, comfort, and service excellence. We partner only with owners and crews who share our commitment to delivering an exceptional charter experience. Our fleet represents the finest examples of the modern Flores phinisi, blending traditional Bugis craftsmanship with contemporary luxury and state-of-the-art marine technology.

Signature Itineraries

While every Flores phinisi charter is fully bespoke, our signature itineraries serve as a starting point for crafting your perfect voyage. They are designed to showcase the very best of the Komodo National Park, balancing iconic encounters with moments of serene seclusion. Your route will be tailored to your preferences, the season, and the sea conditions, ensuring an optimal experience.

3 Days / 2 Nights: Komodo Explorer

An efficient yet immersive journey into the heart of the park. Day one involves a check-out dive or snorkel at Sebayur Island before cruising to the tranquil anchorage of Kalong to witness thousands of flying foxes at sunset. Day two is dedicated to the icons: an early morning trek on Rinca Island to safely encounter Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, followed by the breathtaking panoramic hike on Padar Island. The afternoon is spent relaxing and snorkelling at the world-famous Pink Beach before an evening beach barbecue. Your final day includes a drift snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point (weather permitting) before returning to Labuan Bajo.

4 Days / 3 Nights: Diving & Discovery Adventure

This itinerary is crafted for certified divers seeking to experience Komodo’s legendary underwater biodiversity. Beyond the highlights of the Explorer route, this voyage ventures further to the park’s premier dive sites. You will explore the vibrant coral walls of Batu Bolong, a pinnacle teeming with fish life, and the exhilarating currents of Castle Rock, known for its pelagic sightings including sharks and giant trevally. Surface intervals are spent exploring hidden coves, kayaking through mangrove forests, or simply relaxing on the sundeck as the dramatic volcanic landscapes drift by. This extended duration allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration.

What’s Included & Excluded

We believe in transparent pricing and clear communication. Your private charter quote will be all-inclusive as detailed below, with any potential extra costs outlined from the start. There are no hidden charges.

Meet the Crew & Our Safety Commitment

The soul of any Flores phinisi experience is its crew. We work with seasoned Indonesian mariners, many of whom are from the seafaring communities of Sulawesi and Flores, where this boat-building tradition originates. Your captain possesses an intimate knowledge of Komodo’s challenging currents and hidden anchorages. Your private chef is adept at crafting exquisite international and Indonesian cuisine from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while your dive guides are PADI-certified professionals dedicated to revealing the underwater wonders of the park safely.

Your safety is our paramount concern. Every vessel we represent adheres to strict international maritime safety standards, exceeding local requirements. This includes SOLAS-grade life rafts, life jackets, firefighting equipment, and modern navigation and communication systems. The crew undergoes regular and rigorous training in first aid, emergency response, and fire safety protocols. Our operational standards ensure that from the moment you step aboard, you are in the most capable and professional hands.

Guest Testimonials & Reviews

“The service was impeccable from start to finish. The crew anticipated our every need without being intrusive. Waking up in a new, stunning bay each morning was magical. The hike on Padar Island, orchestrated by the crew for sunrise, was a highlight we will never forget. A truly first-class operation.”

– Eleanor and James Vance, London, UK

“We chartered the Nusantara Explorer for a family diving trip, and it exceeded all expectations. The divemaster was exceptional, guiding us through the most incredible sites like Batu Bolong with supreme confidence and expertise. The food was also a revelation—far better than many high-end restaurants. A perfect family adventure.”

– The Chen Family, Singapore

Detailed Pricing & Availability

Chartering a private Flores phinisi is an exclusive experience, and pricing reflects the vessel, the number of guests, the length of the voyage, and the season. Rates are typically quoted per night for the entire vessel on an all-inclusive basis as outlined above.

High season generally runs from April to November, coinciding with the dry season and optimal sea conditions. The green season, from December to March, offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors, though routes may be adjusted for weather. To receive a detailed, no-obligation proposal tailored to your specific dates and requirements, please contact our charter specialists or consult our provisional availability calendar.

FAQ about chartering a phinisi in Flores

What is the best time of year to visit Komodo?

The prime season is during the dry months, from April to November, offering calm seas and clear skies. This period is ideal for diving, snorkelling, and trekking. The shoulder months of April-May and September-October often provide the best balance of excellent weather and fewer crowds. The green season (December-March) can bring rain but also results in stunningly lush landscapes and is still very viable for a charter, with itineraries adapted to weather patterns.

How do we get to Labuan Bajo, Flores?

Labuan Bajo is served by Komodo Airport (LBJ). There are multiple daily flights from major Indonesian hubs, primarily Denpasar, Bali (DPS) and Jakarta (CGK). The flight from Bali is approximately one hour. We recommend arriving in Labuan Bajo at least one day prior to your charter’s departure to acclimatise and avoid any potential travel delays. Our team can assist with recommendations for local accommodation and transfers.

Is a phinisi charter suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. A private phinisi charter is a wonderful adventure for families. The crew is experienced in catering to children, and activities can be tailored to all ages, from gentle snorkelling in protected bays to kayaking and beachcombing. Safety is paramount, and life jackets are available in all sizes. We can discuss specific child-friendly meal options and activities when planning your itinerary to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience for everyone.

Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?

Yes. Our chefs are highly skilled and can cater to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific allergies. We ask that you inform us of all dietary restrictions and preferences well in advance of your charter. This allows our team to provision the vessel accordingly and design a menu that is both safe and delicious for every member of your group.

What is the Komodo National Park fee and is it included?

The Komodo National Park fee is a mandatory charge levied by the government to support conservation efforts. It is a combination of entrance, snorkelling, diving, and ranger fees. The total cost is typically between $100 and $150 USD per person for a standard 3-4 day trip. This fee is not included in the charter price and will be itemised separately on your invoice for full transparency.

What kind of marine life can we expect to see?

Komodo is a global hotspot for marine biodiversity. While snorkelling or diving, you can expect to see vast coral gardens, sea turtles, and countless species of reef fish. The area is famous for its large pelagics, and encounters with majestic manta rays are very common at specific cleaning stations. Reef sharks, eagle rays, and occasionally dolphins are also sighted. The sheer abundance and variety of marine life is staggering.

Is there Wi-Fi or internet access on board?

Connectivity at sea is limited. Most vessels are equipped with a satellite phone for emergency communications. Some may have a basic satellite internet system, but it is often slow, unreliable, and intended for essential use only. We encourage guests to embrace the opportunity to disconnect. You will find good cellular reception near Labuan Bajo and some larger islands, but for most of the voyage, you will be delightfully offline.

What should I pack for a Flores phinisi trip?

Pack light, casual clothing. You will spend most of your time in swimwear, shorts, and t-shirts. Include a long-sleeved shirt and trousers for sun protection and cooler evenings. Bring sturdy walking shoes or trainers for trekking on Padar and Rinca. Essential items include a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and any personal medications. A light waterproof jacket is also advisable, especially during the shoulder seasons.

What is the typical crew-to-guest ratio?

Luxury phinisi charters are known for their high level of personalised service. The crew-to-guest ratio is typically close to 1:1, or even higher. For a vessel accommodating 10-12 guests, a crew of 10-14 is standard. This includes the captain, cruise director, engineers, chef, stewards, and dive guides, ensuring that every aspect of your voyage is managed seamlessly and professionally, allowing you to relax completely.

What defines a phinisi vessel?

A phinisi is a traditional two-masted Indonesian sailing vessel. Originating from the Bugis and Makassarese people of South Sulawesi, these ships were historically used for cargo and trade throughout the archipelago. Today, the traditional design has been adapted for luxury liveaboard charters, built by hand from ironwood and teak. A modern Flores phinisi combines this rich maritime heritage with the comforts of a luxury yacht, including private ensuite cabins, air-conditioning, and gourmet galleys.