Moana Cruising

Moana Cruising is a 30-meter traditional Phinisi schooner built in 2003–2004 from teak and ironwood, accommodating up to 10 guests across 5 en-suite cabins. A Komodo National Park specialist operating since 2004 and positioned equally for diving, snorkeling, and cruising, the vessel runs 5 to 8-night itineraries exclusively within the park, with three dedicated dive and snorkel guides supporting mixed groups. Nitrox not available. For the 2026/2027 season, rates start from USD $487 per person per day.

Moana has operated continuously in Komodo since 2004 — more than two decades based permanently in the national park — run by owners Stefan and Tanja Campo with a crew of 11 for a maximum of 10 guests: eight boat and hospitality crew plus three dedicated dive and snorkel guides. This staffing ratio is a deliberate choice: rather than treating non-divers as an afterthought, Moana runs separate snorkel groups with their own dedicated guide and speedboat while divers are underwater, so snorkelers get a proper session rather than waiting on the surface. The boat is also notably beginner-friendly — Open Water certification alone is sufficient to join, with no minimum logged dives required, though night dives and stronger-current sites are reserved for more experienced divers. Most trips run to a 6-day, 5-night format with 14 to 16 dives, though up to 4 dives a day are offered on full days depending on route, weather, and group experience.

Five ensuite cabins accommodate up to 10 guests — three double cabins and two twin cabins, all below deck with individual air conditioning, a fan, and en-suite bathroom. Solo travelers normally share a twin cabin with a same-gender guest, with single occupancy available for a surcharge subject to availability. The upper deck houses an air-conditioned lounge salon with a library, a dedicated space for photo and video work, and charging stations, alongside a bow chill-out area where some guests choose to sleep under the stars. A large communal dining table on the main deck serves full board — an early light breakfast, a second warm breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner, with fresh juice, smoothies, and snacks available throughout the day.

Pricing is split between a diving rate and a lower snorkeling and cruising rate, since the trip, boat, cabin, and meals are otherwise identical between the two. Snorkeling guests can add individual dives during the trip if they choose, and under the operator's "Fair Play" policy, they never end up paying more than the standard diving-guest rate plus any equipment rental, however many dives they add.

Diving covers more than 50 named sites across Komodo National Park, chosen daily according to conditions rather than a fixed rotation, and includes well-known sites such as Manta Point, Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Crystal Rock alongside quieter alternatives. Full rental equipment is available onboard; nitrox is not offered. Beyond the water, itineraries include Komodo dragon treks on Rinca or Komodo Island, beach stops, small hikes to viewpoints, and stand-up paddleboarding. Private charter is available from €4,895 per night for exclusive use of the vessel.