If you planned to see Komodo dragons on May 29, change your schedule.
The waters around Komodo Island, Padar Island, and other popular spots in Komodo National Park will be off-limits to tourist boats next Thursday due to forecast waves reaching up to 2.1 meters.
Only one destination remains open: Rinca Island, home to the same ancient reptiles but reached via a different route.
“For now, this applies only to May 29,” said Stephanus Risdiyanto, head of the Class III Labuan Bajo Harbormaster and Port Authority (KSOP), on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Why the Restriction?
The decision is based on maritime weather forecasts from the BMKG’s Tenau Kupang Maritime Station. Waves in the southern Sape Strait and the waters surrounding Komodo National Park are expected to reach 2.1 meters — a height that can be dangerous for the wooden phinisi boats and speedboats commonly used by tourists.
“Boat approval permits for tourism activities will only be issued for Rinca Island,” Stephanus said. “Tourist activities in the waters of Komodo National Park and the southern Sape Strait should be avoided.”
The warning is not a recommendation. It is an order.
What Boats Must Do
The harbormaster’s office has issued a formal notice to all vessel captains.
They are required to:
- Ensure their boats are seaworthy
- Independently monitor weather forecasts during the voyage
- Take necessary action in emergencies
- Conduct safety briefings before departure
- Avoid sailing at night
- Stay away from dangerous areas
- Inform other vessels of weather hazards
- Seek shelter if conditions worsen
- Coordinate with the harbormaster and search and rescue (Basarnas) if weather deteriorates further
“The harbormaster has the authority to delay boat approval permits at any time if weather forecasts are deemed unsafe for sailing,” Stephanus said.
What This Means for Travelers
Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Indonesia’s most visited destinations. Tourists fly from around the world to Labuan Bajo, board a boat, and spend a day or more trekking to see the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
But the park’s waters are also notoriously unpredictable. High waves, strong currents, and sudden storms are common during certain seasons. Small boats — even those with experienced captains — can be overwhelmed.
The May 29 restriction is a single day. But it serves as a reminder that nature, not tour operators, sets the schedule.
For travelers planning trips to Labuan Bajo, the lesson is simple: build buffer days into your itinerary. A dragon sighting scheduled for May 29 may need to become a dragon sighting on May 30.
And if the waves do not cooperate, Rinca Island will still be waiting.
The dragons will not mind the delay.
