Soe Besar Vanrei Cruise: Luxury 3D2N Komodo Sailing Experience
Soe Besar Vanrei Cruise is a luxury phinisi boat offering liveaboard sailing trips in Komodo National Park. It is designed for travelers who want to explore Komodo’s islands in comfort, without giving up access to the main highlights of the region.
The cruise operates regular 3 Days 2 Nights (3D2N) shared trips as well as private charter options. The route focuses on well-known islands, snorkeling spots, and viewpoints around Labuan Bajo. This makes it suitable for first-time visitors as well as travelers who want a structured, hassle-free Komodo experience.
The boat combines traditional Indonesian ship design with modern comfort features. Instead of moving between hotels and boats, guests stay on board for the whole trip, which makes the itinerary more efficient and less tiring.
Boat Facilities and Comfort
Soe Besar Vanrei is built in the traditional phinisi style, using strong wooden construction with modern interior upgrades. The layout is planned to give guests both social and private spaces.
Main areas on the boat include:
- Upper sun deck with lounge chairs
- Shaded outdoor seating area
- Indoor lounge and dining room
- Wide walking decks for easy movement
- Designated smoking area
Comfort features on board:
- Full air conditioning in cabins
- Private bathrooms with hot and cold water
- Freshwater showers
- Clean towels and basic toiletries
- Snack and drink station with free tea, coffee, and drinking water
The indoor dining area is set up to be practical and comfortable, so meals can be served safely even when the sea is slightly rough.
Safety equipment includes:
- Life jackets for all guests
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kits
- Emergency communication radio
The crew is trained to follow standard marine safety procedures and is familiar with the Komodo sailing area.
Cabin Types and Sleeping Arrangements
Soe Besar Vanrei offers several cabin categories to suit different travel styles, from private luxury rooms to shared options for budget-conscious travelers.
Master Suite – Upper Deck
This is the largest cabin on board. It includes:
This cabin is suitable for couples or small families who prefer more space.
Master Cabin – Main Deck
Features of this cabin:
This is designed for guests who want privacy and comfort without needing extra space.
Deluxe Cabins – Upper Deck
These cabins include:
They are ideal for couples or travel partners who want a balance between comfort and price.
Superior Cabins – Lower Deck
These cabins are more compact and include:
They are quiet and suited for guests who mainly use the room for resting.
Shared Cabin – Lower Deck
This cabin is designed for open-trip guests and includes:
It is suitable for solo travelers or small groups who want a lower price option.
All cabins are cleaned regularly, and fresh towels are provided during the trip.
3 Days 2 Nights Komodo Itinerary
Day 1: Labuan Bajo – Kelor Island – Manjarite – Kalong Island
The itinerary is designed to cover the main highlights of Komodo National Park in a short time.
Guests board the boat at Labuan Bajo Harbor and receive a short safety briefing.
Stops on this day:
- Kelor Island: Short hike to a hilltop viewpoint
- Manjarite: Snorkeling in clear, calm waters
- Kalong Island: Sunset viewing with flying foxes
Dinner is served on board. The boat anchors near the island for overnight stay.
Day 2: Padar Island – Komodo Island – Pink Beach – Taka Makassar
This is the most active day of the trip.
Early morning stop:
- Padar Island: Sunrise hike to the main viewpoint
Midday activities:
- Komodo Island: Guided walk with local rangers to observe Komodo dragons
- Pink Beach: Swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling
Afternoon:
- Taka Makassar: Sandbank visit for short walks and photosThe boat anchors in a calm area and guests stay overnight.
The boat anchors in a calm area and guests stay overnight.
Day 3: Manta Point – Sebayur Island – Labuan Bajo
Final day activities:
- Manta Point: Optional snorkeling if conditions are safe
- Sebayur Island: Snorkeling and shallow reef exploration
After lunch, the boat returns to Labuan Bajo, usually arriving around late morning to midday.
The itinerary may change slightly depending on weather and sea conditions.
Pricing and Package Details
Prices vary depending on season and cabin type.
Estimated price ranges:
- Shared (open trip): from approximately IDR 3,850,000 per person
- Private charter: from approximately IDR 65,000,000 to IDR 115,000,000 per trip
Included in the package:
- Accommodation on board
- Three main meals per day plus snacks
- Drinking water, tea, and coffee
- Snorkeling equipment
Not included:
- Komodo National Park entrance fees
- Flights to and from Labuan Bajo
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Children under 2 years old may travel free of charge depending on cabin availability.
Meals and Dining Experience
Meals are prepared fresh on board by the ship’s cook.
Food style includes:
- Indonesian dishes such as fried rice, grilled fish, vegetables, and soups
- Simple international food such as eggs, toast, and pasta
Meals are served in the dining area or outside on deck when weather conditions are good.
Guests with vegetarian or special dietary needs can be accommodated if the crew is informed in advance.
Activities During the Cruise
This cruise focuses on structured outdoor activities supported by the crew.
Main activities:
- Snorkeling at coral reef sites
- Short island hikes
- Swimming and beach visits
- Wildlife observation (Komodo dragons and manta rays when conditions allow)
- Relaxing on the deck between stops
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the crew assists guests who are new to using it.
Crew, Service, and Cleanliness
The crew includes:
- A licensed captain
- Navigation officers
- A tour leader
- A chef
- Service and deck staff
The crew handles navigation, guest safety, food preparation, cabin cleaning, and activity coordination.
Cabins and shared spaces are cleaned daily. Bedding and towels are replaced as needed during the trip.
Practical Tips Before Booking
- Book in advance during peak months (April to October)
- Bring cash in Indonesian Rupiah for park entrance fees
- Pack light clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
- Bring a dry bag for electronics
- Expect limited mobile signal and no Wi-Fi
- Be prepared for small itinerary changes due to weather
Who This Cruise Is For
Soe Besar Vanrei Cruise is suitable for:
- Couples
- Families with older children
- Small groups
- Solo travelers joining open trips
- Travelers who prefer organized, all-in-one travel arrangements
It is less suitable for travelers who prefer independent travel or luxury hotel stays instead of boat accommodation.
Conclusion
Soe Besar Vanrei Cruise offers a structured and comfortable way to explore Komodo National Park. It combines transport, accommodation, meals, and activities in one organized package, reducing the need for separate planning.
The boat visits the main highlights of the area, including Padar Island, Komodo Island, Pink Beach, and key snorkeling spots. With practical facilities, experienced crew, and clear itineraries, it is a strong option for travelers who want a smooth and efficient Komodo sailing experience without unnecessary complexity.
If this cruise sounds like your kind of trip, it’s worth checking availability early. Cabins are limited, and the good ones usually go first.
