KOMODO AND ALOR • JUNE 5-16, 2024

Ready for the hype about Komodo and Alor? Well, it goes a little something like this: “Komodo” as it is commonly called (and its neighboring islands that constitute the Komodo National Park) is home to over 1,000 manta rays, many of Indo’s healthiest (aka fishiest) reefs, and a mind-numbing number of bizarre macro critters (the kind that divers totally geek out over). Yet, it is a certain terrestrial species that attracts visitors from all over the globe. Forget about sea snakes and tree frogs because here lives the largest living reptile on Earth, the Komodo Dragon. Da na na na. Within the national park there are 3,200 human residents and roughly 3,500 Komodo Dragons. Whoa! Not rocket science — more mini Godzillas roaming around than local people!

And while Komodo gets much of the fanfare for being a prime dive haven, wander east down the same island chain and another special destination can be found — Alor. Alor is the name pinned to the regency, the entire archipelago, as well as the main island of the archipelago. It is the quiet, less publicized corner of Indo (quiet is a good thing). Alor too has pristine reefs, large fish populations, and plenty of nanoscopic subjects, but without the crowds. Indonesia’s official tourism bureau website boasts “Although not yet as popular as Raja Ampat or neighboring Komodo Island, the waters around the (Alor) archipelago offer equally fascinating spectacles – if not better.” This is where liveaboards venture to have exclusive use of dive sites. Correction, this is where liveaboards venture to have exclusive use of entire islands. No joke.

Speaking of liveaboards, Seasick’s boat of choice for the 11-day (375 mile) journey is the Gaia Love (many Seasick guests are familiar with her). Actually, to call it a “boat” is disrespectful. The Gaia Love is more like a yacht. Robes, slippers and aroma therapy lamps are provided. C’mon! The Gaia Love is the most amenity-appointed, luxurious, and service-oriented ship Seasick has ever chartered. Imagine a floating 5-star hotel. For every guest there is one crew member. 20 guests. 20 crew. Now that’s some good livin’.

So, who is ready to look into the eyes of the largest living lizard on Earth?

KOMODO

Located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, Komodo is one of the islands that form the Komodo National Park (Rinca and Padar are the other two main islands). As previously mentioned, the Komodo National Park is famous for the Komodo dragon, the most colossal lizard on Earth. The area is often referred to as the Jurassic Park of Indonesia or the Land of Dragons. However, the area offers much more than simply 10' carnivorous predatory reptiles. The park has a unique array of terrain, consisting of a mountainous hillside, tropical rain forests, grass-woodland savannah, and pristine white sandy beaches that harbor rich marine biodiversity. The marine environment in the Komodo National Park is one of the world’s richest in flora and fauna (and is still relatively undiscovered). Komodo is a land of contrasts: from warm waters and tropical species to cooler currents with temperate ocean life. It is no surprise that Komodo has been named one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in the World since 2011. Covering a total area of roughly 850 square miles, the region is identified as a global conservation priority area, comprising unparalleled terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Country: Indonesia • Continent: Asia • Province: East Nusa Tenggara • Island Chain: Lesser Sundra • Regency: West Manggarai Regency • Total Islands: 29 • Primary Islands: Rinca, Padar, and Komodo • Size: 850 (ish) sq. mi • Peak Diving Season: May to September • Time: UTC+8 • Primary Religion: Muslim • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah ($1 = 14,000 IRD) • Electricity: 240V • Population: ≈3,200 (2022)

ALOR

Alor (aka Kepulauan Alor) is made up of two major islands and several lesser islets. It is the largest island in the Alor Archipelago, one of the 92 officially listed outlying islands of Indonesia, and part of the eastern Lesser Sunda Islands that lie between Flores and the Savu sea.

The archipelago's infrastructure is weak as subsistence agriculture is mainly practiced. The inhabitants speak languages that belong to the Austronesian and Alor-Pantar families. Many of the Papuan languages of Alor are endangered and are no longer being actively acquired by children. Some languages have fewer than 1000 speakers remaining. So, what does this all mean?

It means the Seasick group is gonna be out in the Indonesian boondocks!

Country: Indonesia • Continent: Asia • Province: East Nusa Tenggara • Island Chain: Lesser Sundra • Regency: Alor Regency • Total Islands: 20 • Primary Islands: Alor, Pantar and Pura • Size: 1,131 sq. mi • Peak Diving Season: March to October • Time: UTC+8 • Primary Religion: Christian • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah ($1 = 14,000 IRD) • Electricity: 240V • Archipelago Population: ≈211,800 (2020)

KOMODO + ALOR WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Due to its proximity to the equator (8 degrees aka 600 miles south), both Komodo and Alor enjoy a tropical climate with warm and humid days year-round. The islands (and the archipelago that separates them) have two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is May - September which also defines the Komodo liveaboard ‘season’. Hence, many dive enthusiasts consider this the best time of year to visit (why else would an entire fleet migrate to the National Park). In June, the region is typically dry with mild humidity. The month is peak for tourists (dive sites may be busy) but Alor remains quiet.

June Averages - High Temp: 89°F • Low Temp: 71°F • Sea Water Temp: 82°F • Daylight Hours: 11.7 • Sunshine Hours: 8.5 • Rainy Days: 5 • Precipitation Totals: 1 in

GAIA LOVE

The Gaia Love is a modern 132' steel vessel built in Batam, Indonesia. Designed with a modern contemporary look and an emphasis for diving in luxury, she accommodates up to 22 guests in 11 spacious cabins. Each cabin is approximately 215 sq. ft., has individual air-conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. All upper deck cabins feature private outdoor balconies.

Gaia Love has a total of four decks (lower, main, upper and top/sundeck). A lounge, restaurant and camera room are located on the main deck. The lounge features an entertainment center, bar and all the facilities to make one’s stay most comfortable. Photographers and videographers will appreciate the large well-appointed camera room, complete with ample storage and multiple stations.

At the rear of the vessel is a large dive deck that can accommodate up to 28 divers, providing plenty of space to move around. The dive deck boasts 11 large rinse tanks of various sizes for camera rigs. The boat deck is adjacent to the dive deck and houses two 18' diving skiffs for direct and easy access. The top deck features a bar for evening gatherings and relaxation under the stars. Prefer to dine outdoors? This is the perfect area. Sufficient shelter is available on the top deck as well as areas for those who wish to soak up some sun.

Gaia Love has a very well-equipped wheelhouse, from up-to-date navigation equipment to advanced communication systems, life rafts, life vests, EPIRB, fire protection and firefighting systems.

Type: Motor Yacht (M/Y) • Year Built: 2016 • Length: 132' (40m) • Beam: 33' (10m) • Decks: 4 • Cruising Speed: 10 knots • Passengers: 20 • Crew-to-Guest Ratio: 1:1 • Massages: Available • Internet: Available

CABINS

GAIA LOVE TECH SPECS

KOMODO DIVING

Ever been to a destination where all dives sorta look the same? Sandy slopes for seven days in a row? Or sheer walls for 20+ consecutive dives (wall dives are awesome but not for a week straight). Don’t fret because Komodo’s underwater terrain presents many contrasts: sheer cliff walls, pinnacles, sandy flat bottoms, underwater plateaus, slopes, caves, swim-throughs, and channels – all with differing colors, sizes and types of both hard and soft corals. And when it comes to marine life, there is big, there is small, there is everything in between.

Komodo is generally divided into the three areas: North, Central, and South. The North has clear warm water, potentially very strong currents (based on dive site and moon phase), and impressive underwater terrain. The area attracts large animals such as sharks, rays, turtles, and sea snakes. The Central part of the National Park offers a wide variety of diving options – a little bit of this and a little bit of that (the assortment is sure to satisfy). And finally, there is the South. This area is dominated by cooler waters with lower visibility. Why bother? The lower vis is basically a nutrient-rich food source for filters feeders. Filter feeders such as mantas. And not just one or two devilfish, rather some of the largest manta ray aggregations in the world.

The months of May - June and September - October are widely considered in the scuba community to have the absolute best diving conditions in the Komodo National Park.

Depth 15'-130' • Visibility: 20'-100' • Currents: Light - Strong • Skill Level: Intermediate - Advanced • Water Temp: 73°F-82°F • Dive Sites: 50+

ALOR DIVING

Alor is part of the string of islands of Lesser Sunda (Google Map it). Diving the eastern waters of Lesser Sunda can be characterized by continuous marine life surprises (diving here is like a box of chocolates). Possibilities include a wealth of tiny creatures, larger fish species, and marine mammals. The Seasick route will cover the islands of eastern Flores, Adunara, Solor, Lembata (Kawula), Pantar, Alor, Pura Reta and Ternate. Along the way expect stunning sunrises, magical sunsets, and maybe even witness the fireworks of one of the country’s most active volcanoes (maybe scratch that last part).

Fascinating note: the Indonesian government has recently agreed to protect this area in order to secure a safe route for migrating cetaceans (that means whales, porpoises, and dolphins) as they pass through the straits to their feeding grounds in the deep waters of the Banda Sea. No promises but the surrounding areas of Alor provide a habitat for all of the following: beaked whale, blue whale, Bryde’s whale, common bottlenose dolphin, Cuvier’s beaked whale, dugong, dwarf sperm whale, false killer whale, Fraser’s dolphin, humpback whale, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, melon-headed whale, orca, pantropical spotted dolphin, pygmy blue whale, pygmy killer whale, pygmy sperm whale, Risso’s dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, short-finned pilot whale, sperm whale, and spinner dolphin.

O-M-G!

Sorry to digress. Guests will also have the opportunity to see some of the most spectacular and untouched coral reefs in Indonesia along with the chance to witness unique behaviors of the many rare and wonderful critters to be found around the Pantar Strait. Divers can expect to see Rhinopias (lacey scorpionfish), pygmy seahorses, and an endless array of bizarre macro subjects.

Depth 15'-130' • Visibility: 20'-100' • Currents: Light - Strong • Skill Level: Intermediate - Advanced • Water Temp: 80°F-85°F • Dive Sites: 40+

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Dive sites visited are subject to weather conditions and local seasonal knowledge. Final route taken is at the absolute discretion of the captain and cruise director.

Port and National Marine Park Fees of $420 per person and Fuel Surcharge of $220 per person must be paid to Seasick Productions by March 1, 2024.
These fees will be forwarded to the Gaia Love prior to arrival

FLIGHTS + TRANSIT HOTELS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF SEPTEMBER 20, 2023

LOS ANGELES - DENPASAR, BALI
DEPARTING: SUNDAY, JUNE 2 • RETURNING: MONDAY, JUNE 17
ESTIMATED COST: $1,695

DENPASAR, BALI - KUPANG
DEPARTING: TUESDAY, JUNE 4
ESTIMATED COST: $105

KUPANG - MAUMERE
DEPARTING: TUESDAY, JUNE 4
ESTIMATED COST: $80

LABUAN BAJO - DENPASAR, BALI
DEPARTING: SUNDAY, JUNE 16
ESTIMATED COST: $85

GARUDA INDONESIA LUGGAGE

Checked Baggage on Domestic Services: includes 1 piece at 20 kg (44lbs) • Cabin Baggage on Domestic Services: includes 1 piece at 7 kg (15lbs)

Sports Equipment At No Extra Charge: passengers traveling to/from all GA destinations may carry maximum of one of the following Special baggage (per passenger) accepted conditionally as checked baggage in addition to the free baggage allowance (subject to space availability): up to 23kg (50lbs) of other sporting equipment including: Surfboards, Wind, Wave, Kite & Body boards, Para-sails, Para-gliders, Golf bag including balls & 1 pair of shoes, SCUBA tank (Empty) and other diving equipment, Snow/Water Ski equipment comprising 1 pair skis or snowboard, poles, boots or 1 pair water skis. Garuda Indonesia reserves the right to change their Sports Equipment policy at any time.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN BALI

Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport
Inbound: Check In Monday, June 3 • Check Out Tuesday, June 4 (requires additional hotel night in Maumere on Tuesday, June 4)
Outbound: Check In Sunday, June 16 • Check Out Monday, June 17

Room types: Superior (≈$100), Executive (≈$105), and Junior Suite (≈$135)

Room reservations should include breakfast for two guests. Airport transfers are not necessary

RECOMMENDED HOTEL IN MAUMERE

Capa Resort Maumere*
Inbound: Check In Tuesday, June 4 • Check Out Wednesday, June 5

Room types: Deluxe (≈$55), Grand Deluxe (≈$60), Junior Suite (≈$120) and Presidential Suite (≈$150)

Room reservations should include breakfast for two guests. Airport transfers are not included in room rates but Seasick will reserve for all guests
* Book directly at reservation@capamaumere.com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $3,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $1,000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.