From Labuan Bajo to Komodo: What Really Happens Before the Boat Leaves the Harbor

Most travellers think the adventure begins the moment the Phinisi casts off — but a surprising amount of work happens on shore beforehand. The hour (or two) before departure in Labuan Bajo is a carefully choreographed routine of check-ins, loadings, safety checks, and coordination with port authorities. This behind-the-scenes preparation is what makes your open trip komodo smooth, safe, and punctual. Here’s a practical, step-by-step look at what really happens before the boat leaves the harbor. Join our most populer komodo tour packages, open trip komodo 3d2n with Phinisi boat in Labuan Bajo.

1. Guest Check-In & Final Paperwork

Before anyone boards, the operator usually runs a short but essential check-in process at a meeting point or the dock:

• Verify bookings & ID: passports and reservation names are checked to confirm passengers.
• Collect outstanding payments: final balances, park fees, or optional extras are settled (cash or transfer depending on company policy).
• Safety briefing notice: time & place for lifejacket and safety briefings may be reiterated.

2. Luggage & Supply Loading

While guests gather, the crew loads the boat. This is a precise task — not just tossing bags aboard:

• Stowage planning: heavy and wet items go low and forward; personal bags are placed where bunk access and balance are optimal.
• Food & water: fresh groceries, drinking water jugs, and provisions are loaded (often bought that morning at the local market).
• Equipment: snorkels, tanks (for dive boats), safety gear, and spare fuel or engine parts are secured.

3. Port Administration & Park Permits

Komodo National Park and local authorities require paperwork and fees. The operator (or a crew member) usually:

• Registers the passenger manifest with port authorities.
• Pays and collects National Park entrance fees or ranger fees (sometimes handled at the desk or pre-paid online).
• Checks the boat’s permits and safety certificates — a legal requirement for commercial trips.

4. Crew Final Preparations

Back on the Phinisi, crew and captain perform final checks to make sure everything is sea-ready:

• Engine & fuel checks: gauges, oil, and spare fuel are inspected.
• Lifejackets & safety kit: lifejackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and first-aid kits are confirmed onboard and accessible.
• Dinghy readiness: the small tender/speedboat used for shore transfers is fueled and fitted with ropes and ladders.
• Weight & balance review: captain confirms load distribution so the boat handles well at sea.

5. Guest Orientation & Safety Briefing

Shortly before departure you’ll get the practical brief every guest needs:

• How to board and disembark safely (especially transfers to dinghies).
• Where lifejackets, toilets, and emergency exits are located.
• Daily routine overview: wake-up times, meal schedule, and planned islands.
• Park rules: not feeding wildlife, staying with the ranger on Komodo/Rinca, and coral protection.

6. Last-Minute Guest Requests & Load Adjustments

Operators handle a few final guest needs before leaving:

• Requests for cabin changes or upgrades (if available).
• Special dietary notes passed to the cook.
• Minor load adjustments to improve weight distribution after all passengers board.

7. Engine Start & the Harbor Exit Routine

With paperwork done, supplies stowed, guests briefed, and crew ready, the captain initiates the departure routine:

1. Crew confirm moorings are clear and dinghies are secured.
2. Engines start and systems are monitored for a short run test.
3. The captain announces departure; lines are cast off and the Phinisi eases out of the harbor.

Why This Pre-Departure Work Matters

All these steps — though invisible to many travellers — reduce risk, avoid delays, and protect the fragile marine environment. A well-prepared departure means you’ll spend less time sorting out logistics and more time enjoying Komodo National Park.

Quick Pre-Departure Checklist for Guests

Final Notes & Tips

If you want to speed things up: complete payments and submit passport copies ahead of time, arrive early, and follow your operator’s pre-departure checklist. Operators that communicate these steps clearly usually deliver smoother, more relaxed departures — and happier guests.

Ready to experience a smooth departure? Check our Open Trip Komodo 3D2N or Private Phinisi Sailing pages for detailed boarding instructions and pre-departure guidance.