How to Book a Komodo Boat Tour in 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
Everything you need to know to secure your Komodo National Park entry permit (1,000‑visitor daily quota), choose the right boat from Labuan Bajo, and plan a smooth trip.

Why the 2026 Visitor Quota Changes How You Book
From 2026, Komodo National Park enforces a daily visitor quota of 1,000 people. That quota is split into sessions across the day, and each visitor needs a valid entry permit tied to a specific date and session. Because of this, booking the park permit first and then the boat is now the recommended sequence for both day trips and liveaboard tours with Phinisi boats in Labuan Bajo.
Choose the Right Boat for Your Trip
Common options from Labuan Bajo:
- Day‑trip speedboat — best for cruise ship passengers and short visits (Padar, Komodo, Pink Beach).
- Multi‑day liveaboard / Phinisi — ideal for relaxed itineraries, diving, and private charters.
- Private charter — for groups, weddings, corporate travel, and luxury travellers.
Tip: State clearly on your booking page if the park entry permit is included (“quota slot included”). That reduces confusion and increases conversions.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Pick your travel date & session. Confirm the arrival date in Labuan Bajo and choose an early, mid, or late session.
- Secure the Komodo National Park entry permit. The permit (via the park’s official/authorized system) reserves a slot in the 1,000‑visitor quota for the chosen date and session — include full visitor details (name + passport/ID).
- Book your boat charter. After the permit is secured, confirm the boat (speedboat or phinisi), pickup time, and the exact itinerary.
- Send confirmation & pre‑trip instructions. Provide the permit reference, pickup location/time, packing list, and contingency instructions for weather or schedule changes.
What to Include on Your Booking Page
To help convert visitors on your website, include these elements on your Komodo boat tour product pages:
- Clear note that park permit / quota slot is required and whether it’s included.
- Session time (e.g., Session 1: 05:00–08:30, Session 2: 09:00–12:00, Session 3: 13:00–16:00) — sample timings only, confirm at booking.
- Exact inclusions: transfers, ranger guide, meals, snorkel gear, park fees.
- Cancellation policy and what happens if the quota is full or weather forces changes.
- Special section for cruise ship passengers — require ship arrival time, tender schedule, and permission to disembark.
Preparing Your Guests — Pre-Trip Checklist
- Digital copy of passport/ID for park permit registration.
- Comfortable hiking shoes for Padar (if included).
- Sun protection, light layers, waterproof bag, and personal medicines.
- Motion sickness remedies if they’re prone to seasickness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do I need to book the park permit separately?
- No — the permit must be secured for your party before arrival. Reputable operators (like us) will handle the permit as part of the booking. See our detailed policy on the park quota: Komodo National Park Visitor Quota Policy.
- What if the quota is full on my preferred date?
- Choose an alternate date or session. We recommend booking well in advance for high season and cruise arrival dates.
- Are permits required for multi‑day liveaboards?
- Yes — the quota is applied per day, so each day inside park zones needs a permit. We handle these permits when you book a liveaboard with us.
- Can cruise ship passengers join day trips?
- Yes, but your shore‑excursion must match your ship’s disembarkation window and the park session. Provide your ship's ETA/ETD at booking.
Why Book Through a Local Operator
Booking locally (especially an operator based in Labuan Bajo) gives you these advantages:
- Faster coordination with the park authority and SiORA permit system.
- Knowledge of local tides, session timing, and best windows for Padar and Komodo visits.
- Handling of cruise‑specific logistics and contingency plans.
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