July and August are often considered the peak times to sail, but if you are researching the best time to visit Komodo Island, September is arguably the most rewarding season to experience the wild, untouched nature of the region. During this period, you can expand your horizons to explore nearby islands like Sumbawa, granting you a fascinating and unhurried sailing journey through two distinct Indonesian landscapes.
Sailing between these regions at the tail end of the Komodo dry season offers unique conditions that no other month can match. Aboard the Jakaré Liveaboard, we have chosen to celebrate this magical season by opening new departures, giving you an exclusive opportunity to sail with us during this exceptional period. Discover the magic waiting for you this September.
Why September is One of The Best Time to Sailing Between Komodo and Sumbawa?
September is widely considered a “shoulder season” gem. You get all the benefits of the dry season’s pristine weather, but with the added advantage of transitioning out of the chaotic mid-summer rush. It is the perfect window for travelers looking for an optimal balance of world-class diving, vibrant landscapes, and peaceful sailing.
1. The Clearest Waters of The Year
September brings spectacular underwater conditions. Because the dry season has settled the waters, visibility frequently stretches up to 30 meters. This makes it a prime time to dive or snorkel legendary, nutrient-rich sites like Karang Makassar in Komodo or Saleh Bay in Sumbawa.
2. Fewer Crowds, More Serenity
The majority of tourists flock to Komodo during the mid-summer peak of July and August. Because September is near the end of the dry season, tourist numbers drop significantly. This means you will have iconic locations, tranquil bays, and pristine dive sites largely to yourself.
3. Easier Wildlife Viewing
Crystal-clear waters and cloudless skies make spotting wildlife remarkably easy. Whether you are scanning the blue for graceful manta rays and whale sharks, or tracking Komodo dragons through the island brush, the elements are perfectly aligned for unforgettable encounters.
Weather and Sea Conditions in September
The weather forecast for Komodo and Sumbawa and Sumbawa promises brilliant, sunny days practically all month long. As the tail end of the dry season, you can expect warm temperatures, comfortably low humidity, and calm seas, the ultimate trifecta for hiking, island hopping, and open-water activities.
1. Air Temperature
Daytime temperatures are hot and sun-drenched, generally hovering around 30–35°C, before dropping to a beautifully breezy 21–23°C at night.
2. Water Temperature
The ocean remains at a highly pleasant 26–29°C. These conditions are incredibly inviting, ensuring you can enjoy extended diving and snorkeling sessions without a second thought.
Diving and Snorkeling: Wildlife Highlights
If you are wondering about the best time to visit Komodo for diving, September’s unparalleled visibility puts the underwater world on full display. Whether you are strapping on a tank or grabbing a snorkel, this is undeniably the best time to dive Komodo and expect world-class marine encounters:
1. Gentle Giants in Saleh Bay
September aligns perfectly with the Sumbawa whale shark season. A resident Saleh Bay whale shark population is drawn by the abundance of food near local bagan, traditional fishing platforms where anchovies are harvested. For those interested in Sumbawa whale shark diving, getting in the water is a humbling experience. Spotting a Sumbawa Indonesia whale shark in such tranquil conditions is unforgettable.
2. Manta Ray Encounters
Glide alongside majestic Komodo manta rays and eagle rays as they visit the nutrient-rich waters for their morning spa. It is the best time to dive Komodo Island if you want clear, uncrowded views of Komodo Island manta rays at sites like Karang Makassar or Mawan.
3. Explosive Color in North Komodo
Explore thrilling sites like Crystal Rock, Castle Rock, and Shotgun, where you will find dazzling coral life, reef sharks, giant trevally, and massive schools of fish.
4. Macro Photography
Spot unique underwater life and fantastic, tiny creatures perfect for macro photography at sites like Waenilu.
5. Night Diving
Because water temperatures remain comfortably warm, September offers fascinating and highly accessible night diving experiences.
Unforgettable Land Excursions
A truly comprehensive liveaboard experience isn’t just about the ocean; land excursions provide a perfect balance to your days at sea. September’s dry, clear weather makes it the ideal time for:
1. Tracking the Komodo Dragon
Take a guided jungle trek with local rangers at Loh Buaya on Pulau Rinca to spot legendary Komodo dragons, wild boars, deer, and tropical birds.
2. Summiting Gili Lawa Darat
Hike to the top of Gili Lawa Darat for breathtaking panoramic views of the tropical savanna at sunrise or sunset.
3. Wandering the Pink Beach
Sunbathe or wander in peaceful solitude on the blushing sands of Pantai Merah, Komodo’s iconic pink beach.
4. Discovering Jungle Waterfalls
Trek inland on the hidden gem of Pulau Moyo to discover pristine tropical forests and cascading waterfalls.
Sailing Komodo and Sumbawa Sample Itinerary
Crafting a flawless Komodo Sumbawa itinerary means balancing ocean exploration with terrestrial beauty. For many of our guests, this 8-Day / 7-Night route is the best Komodo itinerary cruise available during the shoulder season.
Sumbawa Besar to Komodo (8 Days / 7 Nights)
Day 1: Arrival at Sumbawa Besar & Pulau Moyo
You will be welcomed on board with refreshing drinks and light snacks. After a safety briefing, Jakaré sets sail toward Pulau Moyo. Spend the day snorkeling the turquoise waters or trekking inland to discover the island’s jungle trails and waterfalls.
Day 2: Whale Sharks at Saleh Bay
Begin your morning exploring the calm waters of Saleh Bay. Dive or snorkel around the traditional fishing platforms to observe gentle whale sharks in Sumbawa up close. In the afternoon, relax as the boat glides eastward along the Sumbawa coastline.
Day 3: Kalimaya to Pantai Merah & Pulau Banta
Start with a plunge into Kalimaya’s colorful house reef. Sail westward to Pantai Merah (Pink Beach) to wade in the shallows without the crowds. Drop anchor for the night beneath a starlit sky at the uninhabited volcanic island of Pulau Banta.
Day 4 & 5: Pulau Banta and North Komodo
Explore the crescent bay and golden beaches of Pulau Banta. By afternoon, sail into the wild heart of North Komodo. Divers will hit exhilarating, high-current sites like Crystal Rock and Castle Rock, while others can trek up Gili Lawa Darat for unforgettable views.
Day 6: Central Komodo
Sail south to dive the nutrient-rich waters of Karang Makassar or Mawan alongside manta rays. Experience the towering underwater pinnacle of Batu Bolong, or enjoy gentle snorkeling among dozens of turtles at Tatawa Besar.
Day 7: Komodo Dragons at Pulau Rinca & Pulau Sabolan
Rise with the sun and take the dinghy ashore at Loh Buaya for a ranger-guided jungle trek through Komodo dragon territory. Sail east toward Pulau Sabolan for a final evening featuring golden-hour snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a beach BBQ.
Day 8: Farewell in Labuan Bajo
Jakaré glides gently back into Labuan Bajo at dawn. Enjoy one last swim, a final breakfast on deck, and warm farewells with the crew before disembarking for your morning flight.
Notes: This route operates in both directions, Jakare guests have the ultimate flexibility to start their journey in either Labuan Bajo or Sumbawa.
Join Us in September and Enjoy an Immediate 10% Discount
Because we want to share the magic of the shoulder season with passionate travelers, we are opening the last available cabins on our September itineraries with an exclusive offer. Whether you are traveling as a couple or solo, enjoy a 10% discount on your booking for any reservation confirmed this month.
How to Claim Your Discount
Simply mention the code “SEPTEMBERHAPPINESS” when submitting your direct booking inquiry through our contact form or by email.
Availability aboard Jakare is strictly limited to just 10 guests to preserve our unique level of service, with nearly one crew member per guest. Don’t wait too long to secure your cabin under the September sun.
➡️ View September Departure Dates and Reserve My Cabin
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Komodo Island?
September is the best time to visit Komodo. It is the end of the Komodo dry season, which means you get perfect sunny weather, calm seas, and far fewer crowds than in the busy months of July and August.
2. When is the best time to dive in Komodo?
September is the best time to visit Komodo for diving. The winds calm down, creating crystal-clear water with up to 30 meters of visibility. This makes it the best time to dive into Komodo Island to clearly see coral reefs and large marine life.
3. Where can I see whale sharks in Sumbawa?
You can easily spot a Sumbawa Indonesia whale shark in Saleh Bay. September is peak Sumbawa whale shark season, where these gentle giants gather near traditional fishing boats. It is an amazing spot for Sumbawa whale shark diving and snorkeling.
4. What is the best Komodo itinerary cruise?
The best Komodo itinerary cruise is an 8-day trip that connects Sumbawa and Flores (Labuan Bajo). A complete Komodo Sumbawa itinerary gives you the perfect mix of swimming with whale sharks, hiking islands, and relaxing on pink beaches.
5. Can I see Komodo dragons and manta rays in September?
Yes! September is incredible for wildlife. Komodo dragons are very active and easy to spot after their summer mating season. In the water, you will have clear, uncrowded views of Komodo Island manta rays at popular diving and snorkeling spots.
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