The Cheng Ho is a long-standing fixture in the Indonesian diving cruise scene. At a length of 35 metres, she is a substantial vessel made from ironwood in traditional Phinisi style, operating Komodo liveaboard trips in and out of Labuan Bajo. The operator knows these waters better than most and they can showcase all the best that the region has to offer.
The Cheng Ho liveaboard stands as a monumental platform for scuba divers hunting for the richest underwater ecosystems that Indonesia has to offer. This traditional 35-metre Phinisi schooner is a seasoned veteran in the region, operating for more of the year in and out of Labuan Bajo, and is expertly positioned to access Komodo National Park's most dynamic dive sites. The operator’s deep familiarity with these waters ensures every guest is taken to the best locations the area boasts.
The Cheng Ho's significant size is immediately noticeable, providing generous space for a maximum of 26 guests. Accommodation is comfortable and varied, with options including 6 double, 6 twin, and 2 single bed cabins, all of which are equipped with well-appointed, private en-suite bathrooms. The Cheng Ho liveaboard excels in providing extensive leisure and relaxation facilities beyond the diving. Below deck, there is a roomy saloon and dining area, complemented by a dedicated cinema room for immersive entertainment. Standard features include a TV, DVD player, board games, a reading library, and facilities for photo and video editing.
For open-air enjoyment, the upper deck is a highlight, featuring an outdoor lounge complete with a Jacuzzi and lazy beds, perfect for watching the sunset or relaxing after a day of diving. For those inclined toward surface adventures, Cheng Ho provides sea kayaks and even a banana boat.
Diving operations are conducted from 2 aluminium speedboats, guaranteeing swift and safe transport to and from the dive sites. Safety is paramount on the Cheng Ho liveaboard, and complimentary ENOS lost diver tracking is included for all divers, providing an essential safeguard in Komodo's currents. Furthermore, certified divers can take advantage of available nitrox, a valuable asset for maximising bottom time.
In conclusion, a trip on the Cheng Ho is a blend of serious, expertly guided diving and comfortable, entertaining liveaboard life. The large, traditional schooner provides a luxurious and stable base, complete with exceptional amenities, making the Cheng Ho liveaboard an excellent choice for exploring Indonesia's remarkable diving in Komodo and Raja Ampat.
Banda Sea & Ambon
Trip highlights: hammerhead sharks, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Ambon Bay, Nusa Laut, Banda Islands: Suanggi Island, Lava Flow, Batu Kapal, Banda Neira Harbour. Visit to a Spice Island, trekking to Gunung Api.
Day 1
The call of the historic Spice Islands and the deep Banda Sea beckons the moment you step aboard the magnificent Cheng Ho liveaboard at Ambon port. After meeting the professional crew, you will receive a full orientation and safety briefing. A check dive is typically conducted in Ambon Bay in the afternoon, followed by dinner as the vessel sets sail.
Core Days
This specialised diving safari explores the historical allure and extreme marine contrasts of the Banda Sea, blending dramatic blue water diving with Ambon's unique macro grounds. The traditional Phinisi Cheng Ho is a steadfast vessel, ideally suited for navigating these distant, legendary routes.
We begin by immersing ourselves in the heart of the Moluccas, the legendary Banda Islands. The geology here is dramatic, with the ocean floor dropping steeply into clear water. Dive sites like Batu Kapal and the sheer walls around Pulau Ai and Run promise exhilarating vertical dives in the deep blue. A signature experience is diving the thriving hard corals of Lava Flow, a powerful sight that demonstrates the reef's astonishing recovery following the 1988 eruption of the Gunung Api volcano.
The tour balances underwater exploration with significant topside visits. We explore the historic Banda Neira Harbour, one of the original Spice islands, and guests have the option to trek the volcanic slopes of Gunung Api for spectacular views. The remote nature of the Banda Sea, particularly around Suanggi Island, means high potential for schooling pelagics; the professional dive guides aboard the Cheng Ho are highly experienced in maximising these encounters. The stability of the Cheng Ho ensures comfort throughout this long-distance traverse.
The expedition culminates with dedicated dives near Ambon. We visit pristine outer reefs like Nusa Laut and the unique formations of Molana before focusing on world-class muck diving in Ambon Bay. Here, the diving contrasts dramatically, becoming a paradise for critter hunting, with the Ambon scorpionfish being a key target. The excellent dive deck facilities on the Cheng Ho are perfectly suited for macro photography, completing a truly comprehensive Indonesian diving tour.
Final Day
Guests enjoy a farewell breakfast before disembarking at Ambon port.
Komodo Adventure
Trip highlights: non diving activities
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, very popular, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: from Komodo: Kelor, Kalong, Padar, Pantai Merah, Manjerite, Gili Lawa, Kanawa, Karang Makassar. Hiking, Komodo dragon trek, snorkelling.
Day 1
Embarkation takes place at Labuan Bajo port. As you step aboard the impressive two-masted wooden Phinisi, the Cheng Ho liveaboard, you will be welcomed by the professional crew. Following a full orientation and lunch, the vessel sets sail for Kelor Island, where the afternoon allows for relaxation, hiking to the viewpoint, or a first snorkel. The evening culminates in a sunset cruise to Kalong Island to witness the majestic spectacle of thousands of fruit bats leaving their mangrove roost, followed by dinner.
Core Days
This special 'Komodo Adventure' trip with Cheng Ho balances active land excursions with superb freediving and snorkelling across the Komodo National Park, providing guests with a comprehensive view of this remarkable area. One of the undisputed highlights is the trek on Padar Island, where a rewarding hike leads to the iconic panoramic viewpoint overlooking the 3 contrasting turquoise bays.
Another must-do activity is the Komodo dragon trek, typically conducted on Komodo or Rinca Island near Kalong, where you are escorted by park rangers for a close-up, humbling encounter with the world’s largest lizard in its natural habitat. We also visit Pantai Merah, or Pink Beach, where the unusual sands provide an exotic backdrop for swimming and snorkelling directly onto thriving shallow coral ecosystems.
The underwater exploration concentrates on the central and northern areas of the park, known for diverse and exciting habitats. Snorkellers will visit the famous Karang Makassar (Manta Point), a shallow, current-swept area renowned for regular sightings of majestic manta rays feeding and cleaning. The adventure continues topside with more hill trekking at Gili Lawa and enjoying the beautiful white sands and exceptionally clear water around Kanawa Island and the protected bay of Manjerite, completing the unique tour that perfectly marries topside adventure with underwater discovery. The Cheng Ho liveaboard provides the ideal base for this exploration.
Final Day
The Cheng Ho arrives at Labuan Bajo port early in the morning. Enjoy a final breakfast before disembarkation.
Komodo National Park
Trip highlights: shark action, dolphins, manta rays, dugongs/manatees, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics, non diving activities
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, very popular, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Sebayor, Komodo: South Rinca - Cannibal Rock, Torpedo Wall, Yellow Wall; Manta Alleyy, Pink Beach, Batu Bolong, Tatawa, Siaba, Castle Rock, Gili Lawa, Crystal Rock, Shotgun. Komodo dragon land visit.
Day 1
The gateway to Komodo's powerful currents and iconic marine life opens to you the moment you step onto the deck of the magnificent Cheng Ho liveaboard at Labuan Bajo port. Once settled in, you will be briefed by the professional crew and complete an introductory check dive near Pulau Sebayor. Dinner will be served as the sun sets over the islands.
Core Days
This immersive Komodo National Park diving safari spans the entire length of the park to showcase both its dynamic currents and unique micro-habitats. The Cheng Ho provides an experienced home for accessing these diverse and often challenging environments.
The northern sector provides electrifying dives at famous, current-swept pinnacles. At Castle Rock, Crystal Rock, and Shotgun, you will witness massive congregations of schooling fish-life. These sites are magnets for large pelagic action, attracting giant trevally, barracuda, and cruising reef sharks. Further exploration encompasses the dynamic reefs of Tatawa and the hard coral slopes around Gili Lawa, excellent for observing turtles and other cruising life. The Cheng Ho also ensures land-based adventure is included, featuring the Komodo dragon land visit, escorted by park rangers, and a memorable stop at the famous Pink Beach for snorkelling and surface relaxation.
Pushing south, the voyage encounters cooler, nutrient-rich water. South Rinca dive sites such as Cannibal Rock, Torpedo Wall, and Yellow Wall are globally renowned for exceptional critter hunting. Here, amidst the dense, cold-water soft corals, divers will search for unique macro subjects like frogfish, ghost pipefish, and the elusive blue-ringed octopus. We also target Manta Alley, a key aggregation area where seasonal manta rays feed and visit cleaning stations. The dedication of the Cheng Ho guides is instrumental in navigating the complex thermoclines and currents unique to this region. Classic dive sites like Batu Bolong, a vibrant submerged rock, and the protected Siaba bay, known for its turtle populations, complete the diving roster.
Following two final morning dives, the Cheng Ho returns to Labuan Bajo port.
Final Day
Guests enjoy breakfast before disembarkation.
Komodo National Park North (7 Days / 6 Nights - 20 Dives)
Trip highlights: shark action, dolphins, manta rays, dugongs/manatees, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics, non diving activities
Diving environment: advanced divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, very popular, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Sabolan, Komodo: Gili Lawa Laut, Gili Lawa Darat, Sangeang, Gili Banta, Tora Longkoy, Padar, Lohoksera, Tatawa Besar, Tatawa Kecil, Pantai Merah. Komodo island for dragon land visit.
Day 1
The legendary Komodo National Park, a realm of powerful currents and iconic marine life, opens to you the moment you step onto the deck of the magnificent Cheng Ho liveaboard at Labuan Bajo port. Once settled in, you will be briefed by the professional crew and complete an introductory check dive near Sabolan Island. Dinner will be served as the sun sets over the islands.
Core Days
This focused itinerary allows divers to experience the electrifying pinnacles and stunning coral gardens of Komodo National Park's northern sector. The traditional Phinisi Cheng Ho provides the stability and comfort necessary for a dedicated exploration of this high-energy region.
Diving in the north is defined by nutrient-rich water flow, leading to colossal aggregations of fish. We target signature sites around Gili Lawa Laut and Gili Lawa Darat, known for their dramatic submerged topography and immense schools of pelagic life. Further north, we venture to the dive sites around Sangeang, an active volcanic island famous for its black sand slopes and the unique macro subjects they harbour, alongside the remote reefs of Gili Banta. We also explore high-current zones like Tora Longkoy and the more relaxed, protected reefs like Lohok Sera. The guides on the Cheng Ho are experts in reading the local conditions, ensuring maximum dive time in these dynamic areas.
The iconic landscape of Komodo is an essential part of the experience. We visit Padar Island, where a short but rewarding trek leads to the famous viewpoint overlooking the three coloured beaches. This topside adventure is perfectly complemented by a mandatory Komodo dragon land visit on Komodo Island, conducted under the supervision of park rangers. Additionally, we make a stop at Pantai Merah, or Pink Beach, offering fantastic snorkelling and swimming over its healthy, shallow coral gardens.
Exploration continues around the central dive sites of Tatawa Besar and Tatawa Kecil, which feature large coral slopes and frequent sightings of turtles, reef sharks, and diverse reef fish. This focused northern safari, powered by the professional team aboard the Cheng Ho liveaboard, guarantees an intense and unforgettable Komodo diving experience.
Following 2 final morning dives, the Cheng Ho returns to Labuan Bajo port.
Day 7
Guests enjoy breakfast before disembarkation and afterwards be transferred to the airport.
Raja Ampat National Park Central
Trip highlights: shark action, manta rays, turtles, great macro life/ marine diversity, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, caverns, drift diving, healthy reefs, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Raja Ampat: Black Rock, Penemu, Yanggefo, Arborek, Manta Sandy, Mioskon, Dampier Strait: Mansuar, Kri Island. Search for the Red Bird of Paradise at Sawingkrai Village on Gam.
Day 1
Raja Ampat's vibrant central region awaits. Your diving expedition begins the moment you step onto the deck of the magnificent Cheng Ho liveaboard at Sorong port. Once settled in, you will be introduced to the crew and fellow guests. Following lunch, a check dive is conducted in a nearby bay, allowing you to fine-tune your gear before dinner and the first night at sea.
Core Days
This focused tour is designed for divers keen on exploring the ecological heart of Raja Ampat: the Dampier Strait and its surrounding islands. The traditional Phinisi Cheng Ho provides the ideal base for navigating this area, globally celebrated for the highest recorded marine biodiversity.
The Dampier Strait is a powerhouse of ocean life, drawing immense schools of fish to current-swept dive sites like Mansuar and Kri Island. These reefs are renowned for large schools of pelagic fish, including barracuda, snapper, and patrolling reef sharks, providing exciting wide-angle diving. The magnificent Cheng Ho liveaboard ensures multiple visits to these high-energy spots.
A key highlight is Manta Sandy, a shallow site where majestic reef manta rays reliably gather over the seabed for cleaning and feeding. We also explore iconic pinnacles and reefs such as Black Rock and Mioskon, famous for their stunning soft coral coverage and a phenomenal range of fish life, including the endemic wobbegong shark. Further exploration includes the thriving reefs of Melissa's Garden and the unique jetties of Arborek, which provide excellent habitat for macro subjects like pygmy seahorses and ghost pipefish.
Topside activity is an essential feature of this trip. The Cheng Ho dedicates time for a rewarding trek up Penemu Island to the famous viewpoint overlooking the picturesque karst formations. Additionally, guests participate in a cultural visit to Sawingkrai Village on Gam Island to search for the spectacular red bird of paradise, ensuring the safari provides a comprehensive view of Raja Ampat's unique environment both above and below the surface.
After a final pair of morning dives, the Cheng Ho returns to Sorong port.
Final Day
Guests enjoy a final continental breakfast before disembarkation.
[Information is best estimate in ideal circumstances and subject to changes beyond our control. The itinerary is a guide only and may be adapted to best suit the weather, tides, currents, availability and other prevailing events. Price is for the cruise, not for an exact number of dives].
The operational rhythm of the Cheng Ho liveaboard is centred on supporting divers, embracing the 'dive-eat-sleep' principle for all cruises throughout Indonesia. The extensive diving routine is typically structured around 3 day dives plus a night dive option, and is framed by 4 substantial daily meals : pre-breakfast, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Catering begins with lunch on the check-in day.
To sustain energy for multiple submersions, the daily routine ensures divers are well-fed. A light pre-breakfast is available before the first dive, followed by a more comprehensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks are continuously offered between dives. These complementary offerings include muffins, cake, toast, and fresh fruit, alongside unlimited tea and coffee.
Dining takes place buffet-style in either the air-conditioned saloon or the open-air dining area. The menu is intentionally varied, focusing on international and local specialities, with deck barbecues being a common theme. Since the menus are not fixed, Cheng Ho's guests can anticipate a rotating selection of satisfying meals. Expect a range of dishes that blend familiar international comfort food with authentic local specialities, ensuring fresh variety throughout the safari. For example, main dishes often include freshly grilled seafood and traditional Indonesian curries.
For added refreshment, soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits are available for purchase. The crew is adept at catering to specific dietary needs, including vegetarian and halal options, provided you submit your requirements prior to boarding the Cheng Ho liveaboard.
