Daily diving vs liveaboard in Labuan Bajo: which should you choose?

Two ways to dive Komodo

When planning a dive trip to Labuan Bajo, you’ll face one big question:
👉 Should you join daily dive trips or book a liveaboard cruise?

Both options let you explore Komodo’s world-class reefs and see manta rays, sharks, turtles, and macro critters, but the experience can be very different. Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can choose the perfect option for your diving style.

1. Daily diving in Komodo

How it works with Scuba Republic

• Depart from our dive center at Labuan Bajo each morning at 6:30 am.

• We offer 3 fun dives per day at different dive sites in the North or Central area.

• Return to town in the evening for dinner, nightlife, or rest.

Advantages

• A submerged pinnacle attracting big pelagics.

• Expect reef sharks, trevally, tuna, and swirling schools of fusiliers.

• Best enjoyed on a negative entry with good current control.

Considerations

• Limited to dive sites reachable within a day trip (Central or North Komodo only).

• No night dives are conducted on our daily boat.

2. Liveaboard diving in Komodo

How It Works with Scuba Republic

• Stay on board for 4 days and 3 nights or 3 days and 2 nights.

• 3 to 4 dives daily, including night dives on the liveaboard Bajak.

• Explore the entire park with Bajak, from Padar to Cauldron dive site.

Advantages

• Maximum dive time: 20+ dives in one trip.

• Remote access: Visit sites far from Labuan Bajo, like South Komodo and the North.

• Immersive experience: Wake up on the ocean, dive before breakfast, bond with fellow divers.

Considerations

• Higher cost than daily diving (but includes meals, dives, and accommodation).

• Less flexibility, you commit to the full trip duration.

• Best suited for divers who want to focus 100% on diving.
  
  

3. Daily diving vs Liveaboard: side-by-side comparison

4. Which option is right for you?Famous for its orange soft corals.

• Beginners or short holidays: Daily diving offers flexibility and comfort.

• Advanced divers & ocean lovers: Liveaboards unlock the full Komodo experience.

• Photographers: Liveaboards give more time on site and better chances for rare encounters.

• Families or couples with mixed interests: Daily diving allows non-divers to enjoy Flores while you dive.

Choose your Komodo adventure

There’s no wrong choice, both daily diving and liveaboards in Labuan Bajo guarantee unforgettable underwater encounters. The decision depends on your time, budget, and dive goals.

👉 Ready to explore these sites? Book a Daily Dive Trip in Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo or join our Komodo diving liveaboard for the ultimate adventure.

Published on October 15, 2025