Safety Guide for a 4D3N Komodo Island Sailing Trip

Everything you need to know before sailing from Lombok.

Sailing from Lombok to Komodo for four days and three nights is one of the most unforgettable adventures in Indonesia. You’ll cross open seas, explore remote islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and meet the legendary Komodo Dragons in their natural habitat.

But because this journey involves long hours on the boat, varied sea conditions, and close encounters with wildlife, it’s important to understand the basics of safety before you set sail.

This chapter gives you a complete safety overview—written for first-timers, families, couples, and backpackers—so you can enjoy the trip with confidence.

1. Understanding the Lombok–Komodo Route

This route crosses several major sections of the Flores Sea and Sumbawa waters. Conditions may vary depending on the season.

Good to know:

• Calmest months: April – November
• Slightly stronger waves: December – March
• Some crossings happen at night
• All stops are safe as long as you follow your guide’s instructions

Experienced captains will always choose the safest route depending on wind and currents.

2. Choosing the Right Boat (Safety Starts Here)

The type of boat you choose deeply affects how safe—and how comfortable—your sailing experience will be.

A safe Komodo boat must have:

• Life jackets for every passenger
• Emergency life raft or lifeboat
• Ring buoy (rescue float)
• Fire extinguishers
• Complete first aid kit
• Radio communication & navigation system (GPS)
• A trained, experienced crew

All Sail Komodo boats are equipped with full safety equipment and are operated by experienced crews.

3. Pre-Departure Safety Briefing

Before leaving the harbor, you should always receive a proper safety briefing.

This should include:

• Location of life jackets
• How to use a life vest
• What to do if waves get higher
• Evacuation routes
• Safe ways to get on/off the boat
• A quick explanation of the day’s activities
• Which areas of the boat require extra caution

A good briefing prepares everyone and helps prevent accidents.

4. Safe Snorkeling Practices

Snorkeling is one of the highlights of the Komodo trip—Manjarite, Pink Beach, Kelor, and more.

Follow these safety tips:

• Wear a life vest if you're not confident in the water
• Don’t snorkel too far from the boat
• Always use the buddy system
• Follow the guide’s instructions regarding current direction
• Never touch corals or marine animals
• If you encounter a strong current, stay calm and swim sideways—not against it

Some spots have changing currents, so always listen to your guide.

5. Komodo Dragon Safety Rules

Komodo Dragons are majestic but wild animals. They look slow, but they can move fast and unpredictably.

Essential rules:

• Always stay close to the ranger
• Keep a minimum distance of 3–5 meters
• Avoid crouching too low when taking photos
• Do not wear bright red clothing
• Women on their period must notify the ranger
• Never run—Komodos may chase moving objects
• Stick to the official trekking path

Rangers are trained to manage unexpected behavior, so follow them at all times.

6. Staying Safe on the Boat Deck

A liveaboard boat moves with the sea, so staying aware is important—even during calm days.

Tips to stay safe:

• Hold the rail when going up or down stairs
• Avoid standing at the edge of the deck during big waves
• Be careful on wet floors after snorkeling
• Wear non-slip sandals
• Don’t jump from the boat unless the crew allows it
• Keep electronics inside a dry bag
• Make sure cabin doors are not blocked by luggage

Most minor accidents happen because travelers get too relaxed on deck.

7. Night Sailing Safety

Some parts of the journey may be done at night, especially long crossings.

How to stay safe:

• Avoid staying alone on the front deck
• Use a headlamp when moving around
• Be extra careful near the stairs
• Don’t distract the crew during navigation
• Keep cabin windows closed to prevent sea spray

Sail Komodo has dedicated crew members on night watch for safety.

8. What to Do in Emergency Situations

Emergencies are extremely rare, but knowing what to do is important.

If:

• Waves get bigger → sit down, wear a life jacket, listen to the captain
• Someone falls overboard → shout “MAN OVERBOARD” and throw the ring buoy
• Someone gets injured → alert the crew immediately
• Weather changes suddenly → the captain may adjust the route for safety

Remember: a flexible itinerary is normal and prioritizing safety is always the right choice.

9. Staying Healthy & Hydrated During the Trip

With sun, sea, and activities all day, your body needs extra care.

Tips:

• Drink 2–3 liters of water every day
• Apply sunscreen every 2 hours
• Get enough rest at night
• Bring seasickness pills if needed
• Don’t snorkel right after a heavy meal

A healthy body = a fun and memorable sailing experience.

Final Thoughts: Safe Travel Leads to Better Travel

Komodo National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. With the right operator, an experienced crew, and proper safety knowledge, your 4D3N sailing trip from Lombok will be not only unforgettable—but also safe and comfortable.