This island-studded marine sanctuary beckons for adventurous yachting experiences.

Looking out from the deck of Alila Purnama as it sails through Komodo National Park. — Looking out from the deck of *Alila Purnama* as it sails through Komodo National Park. (Courtesy of *Alila Purnama*)

Encompassing some 1,800 square kilometers off the western coast of Flores Island, Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s most popular cruising destinations, famed as much for its underwater attractions as for the legendary dragons that stalk its largest islands. During the region’s dry season from May to November, the port town of Labuan Bajo on mainland Flores is the base for a veritable fleet of wooden yachts styled after Indonesia’s traditional phinisi-rigged sailing vessels, many handbuilt by Sulawesi shipwrights. And with AirAsia’s recent launch of a nonstop flight between Kuala Lumpur and Labuan Bajo, accessing this once-remote corner of Indonesia has never been easier. For those looking to check a Komodo cruise off their bucket list, here are four boats that sail these waters in style.

*Left to right:* Inside the saloon of *Vela*; the ship sailing past one of Komodo’s many islands. (Courtesy of *Vela*)

VELA

Launched in 2022 by the team behind boutique Bali resort Nirjhara, this sleek luxury sailing yacht can accommodate a dozen guests for multi-night charters. As with the other vessels on this list, Vela comes equipped with top-notch diving facilities, as well as a masseuse, yoga instructor, and lots of water toys. Six cabins appointed with sustainably sourced custom teak furniture and fabrics from Hermès and Dedar ensure the utmost in onboard comfort.
sailvela.com

A bird’s-eye view of Rascal in the waters of Komodo National Park. — A bird’s-eye view of *Rascal* in the waters of Komodo National Park. (Courtesy of Rascal Voyages)

RASCAL

The flagship of Rascal Voyages dispenses with the twin masts typical of phinisi rigs, leaving more deck space for communal dining and sunbathing. Hosting up to 10 passengers on both private charters and cabin cruises, Rascal blends traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with a laid-back Hamptons-chic style and amenities designed for adventure-fueled fun.
rascalvoyages.com

Inside the Sriwijaya Master Suite aboard Alila Purnama. — Inside the Sriwijaya Master Suite aboard *Alila Purnama*. (Courtesy of Alila Purnama)

ALILA PURNAMA

Alila may be known for its eco-luxe hotels and resorts, but the Indonesian-born, Hyatt-owned brand doesn’t stop at terrestrial offerings. The 46-meter-long Alila Purnama has been dividing its time between Komodo National Park and the eastern archipelago of Raja Ampat for more than a decade, making for a smooth operation that runs the gamut from gourmet meals and spa treatments to a well-oiled concierge service. Individual cabins can be booked throughout most of the sailing season.
alilahotels.com/purnama

Samsara Samudra guests can look forward to alfresco meals using the catch of the day. — *Samsara Samudra* guests can look forward to alfresco meals using the catch of the day. (Courtesy of *Samsara Samudra*)

SAMSARA SAMUDRA

This private charter vessel from Bali’s Samsara Collection shares a similar modern Indonesian elegance with its all-villa sister resort in Ubud. Six cabins dressed in wood and cream tones with sea-green accents—the top-deck master suite features an egg-shaped bathtub—are matched by all the niceties you’d expect from a high-end phinisi-style yacht. Plus, there’s a 16-member crew on hand to help craft bespoke adventures on land and at sea.
samsarasamudra.com

This article originally appeared in the June/July 2025 print issue of DestinAsian magazine (“Komodo Calling”). Buy a single issue or subscribe here.

Explore Indonesia’s Komodo National Park aboard a Phinisi

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