Review Author: siamesesammy, California

Review Date: 25 Sep 2018

Review Body: Due to a mix up by our travel agency booking, my daughter and I arrived at Mikumba Diving and learned we were not on a scheduled liveaboard. Upon sorting out our situation and determining our options, the Mikumba owner, Fred, offered to send us on a 3-day scheduled charter liveaboard. Upon our return, he would book us on two days of dive trips with Mikumba. We took Fred up on his offer, and we are glad we did. We had a great time on the MV Pelangi and loved the diving in Central and South Komodo. A competent dive guide, Eaz, was with us on all dives and pointed out many critters underwater. My daughter saw her first Manta Ray and reef sharks swimming freely. We also saw many turtles, frog fish, and many corals. On board the boat, the meals and snacks were good and filling, coffee, tea and water was available all the time, and beer/soft drinks were available for a reasonable fee. The dorms had AC, the beds were comfortable, and there was adequate hot water in the two upper deck bathrooms when a shower was needed. The boat was equipped with modern safety features and the crew appeared confident in their duties. Between dives, there were plenty of areas to relax in the salon or on the sun deck with a good book or a nap, or just looking at the sea. After diving one night, we went up to the lookout and could see all the islands around. We also got to go to Rinca and see the Komodo dragons. Upon returning to Labaun Bajo, we went on day diving trips to Central and North Komodo sites and could dive up to three dives on the trips. Breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, and water were provided to all. Overall, we had a great time and are glad we got to know the people working with Mikumba Diving. Also, Fred was instrumental in saving our holiday so a big "THANK YOU" goes out to him and his excellent customer service. Based on my experience with Mikumba Diving, I am planning a future trip with the group to Raja Ampat, and we may return next summer for more diving in Komodo.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Nagelfar83, China

Review Date: 02 Oct 2019

Review Body: Going diving with Mikumba diving liveaboard was the best ever spontaneous decision that I have ever made in my life! Directly after securing the last space available on their liveaboard Ratu Pelangi I got to test out their gear. Full body wetsuit, boots, fins, mask and dive computer all included and the quality of the gear was great! The day after we were greeted by the crew and the owner of the company Fredrik for a short brief and then transport to the boat. Now Fredrik doesn’t always go on trips but if your lucky and he joins your trip I promise it will be an unforgettable journey! He is an absolutely amazing guy with a great sense of humour and a kind heart (you’re the best)!! The boat was perfect from the comfy beds to nice clean toilets, hot showers and its amazing sun deck. Oh, and did I mention it has its own popcorn machine where you can make as much popcorn as you like, utterly crazy!! The trips instructor was Matthias an amazing person with a great personality and very talented! He had two students doing their AOW during the trip and I did observer a few his teaching methods and I would say he does a great job! So if you want to do your AOW or other courses I would strongly recommend him. The only thing I can complain about is that the woman in the dive shop could use a little more sunshine in her life. However, I have recently learnt that she is no longer with the company so that is good. In short, I would STRONGLY recommend doing a liveaboard with Mikumba diving!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: keeno233

Review Date: 08 Sep 2019

Review Body: My friend and I booked through Mikumba based on a number of personal references and online reviews. I have been diving all around south east Asia for four years and this was the by far the best diving I’ve ever done. The number of varieties of species was out of control. Everything from all the big stuff you want right down to some amazing muck diving and micro viewing. We even saw a beached whale named Fred who apparently owned the company. The leader of the tour a handsome gentleman from abroad named Matthias was not only an excellent teacher and dive guide but spent a lot of his spare time teaching me all about my Olympus tg5 camera and gave regular tutorials and advice. He even went so far as taking me through maintenance on my strobe and camera and teach me the fundamentals of adobe light room for editing my photos. The boat was yarn and clean. The food was good and plenty of it. We got to stop at komoto national park to hang with the dragons and every dive brought a new adventure. The ac worked great in the cabins and nice hot showers with good diving gear which is a nice change from some of the other adventures I’ve been on. All in all this is a must do experience and you bet you will see me and a crew of friends back for some more great sunsets and diving as we cruise around the most bet spot in Indonesia. Five stars guys and thank you to the amazing local guides for finding me everything I possibly wanted to see. Catch you soon boys!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Curtis J

Review Date: 29 Sep 2018

Review Body: Such a good experience with the people of mikumba, they’re like a little family and they go all out to make you feel a part of it all. From the office to the ocean it’s an experience not to be missed and with some of the best dive sites the world has to offer I’m sure you won’t be disappointed with the diving. The dive guides are super friendly and professional with a very safe and conservative dive style helping those less experienced divers feel comfortable on the boat and in the water. On the boat and running the show is a professional diver named Hugo who is not only a great diver but also an underwater photographer who charges his camera time out to guest who want that special moment captured. Also onboard is a local Indonesian diver named Marcelo who not only jams guitar and sings like a boss but also has an uncanny ability to spot wildlife finding frog fish like there’s no tomorrow and pointing out mantas way before anyone else sees them, I swear he has binoculars built into his mask. Finally Italian Robert, he is an exceptional diver with more deep diving knowledge than you could shake a stick at, great with kids and just all round an awesome funny guy to hang out with. The vibe on the boat is very relaxed with a newly renovated vessel that is pleasing to the eye and a safe gripped sun deck with beanbags and a guitar to play and have a sing along with the other guests. Food is included in the price along with coffee and tea.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Scott Leach

Review Date: 04 Mar 2018

Review Body: Best Diving in the world ... ten day trip, new year 2018 I’ve dived all over the world and this was quite simply my best ever diving experience with such special vibes and atmosphere created with Mikumba it really is somthing special. We completed more than the planned number of dives, each of which were awesome ... I’ve never experienced anything which comes even close! We changed route for safety reasons, which wasn’t a problem. The crew were absolutely fantastic, nothing was too much trouble and any issues were sorted as quickly as possible. A great team, friendly, obliging, professional ... they actually made the trip the very best it could be. On board food and drink was varied and plentiful ... they always asked if anyone needed any more and cooked this if needed. I’m a bit choosy in the food department ... so if I’m happy, most likely other folk will be too. This is not a luxury vessel, as advised on the website ... it’s simply the best diving, on a liveaboard which has good food, fantastic staff and which is very good value for money. So much so, I’ve booked again for next year, I suppose that’s the best endorsement I can give. I look forward to welcoming in the new year 2019 aboard the mikumba ... there was a fantastic atmosphere onboard for the whole trip and I’m sure it will be just as special next time.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Cassandra F

Review Date: 21 Oct 2017

Review Body: I joined Mikumba for a 4 day live aboard trip in Komodo this month and was completely blown away. The diving itself was spectacular and they took us to all the best spots. We had amazing dives, getting to see everything from big grey reef sharks, spotted eagle rays and mantas to smaller things like pygmy seahorses, ghost pipefish and so many nudibranchs, and to top it off we had the dive sites all to ourselves. The trips were organised in a way that gave us just the right amount of time between dives to rest and thanks to chef Gusti and Bodi we were always well fed with awesome tasty meals (even catering for the odd vegetarian onboard) fresh fruit, unlimited coffee, teas, hot chocolate and water. The staff and boat crew were incredible friendly and helpful and made sure everything always ran smoothly for the dives. I felt at home as soon as i stepped onboard and its safe to say I didn't want to leave. The boat itself provided all you needed for the trip, the beds and bathrooms were comfortable and clean and the bean bags on the sundeck were ideal for chilling out between dives and for stargazing at night. All in all, one incredible experience that I will definitely come back to Mikumba Diving to repeat again in the future.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: shl123, UK

Review Date: 25 Feb 2018

Review Body: I’ve dived all over the world and this was quite simply my best ever diving experience! We completed more than the planned number of dives, each of which were awesome ... I’ve never experienced anything which comes even close! We changed route for safety reasons, which wasn’t a problem. The crew were absolutely fantastic, nothing was too much trouble and any issues were sorted as quickly as possible. A great team, friendly, obliging, professional ... they actually made the trip the very best it could be. On board food and drink was varied and plentiful ... they always asked if anyone needed any more and cooked this if needed. I’m a bit choosy in the food department ... so if I’m happy, most likely other folk will be too. This is not a luxury vessel, as advised on the website ... it’s simply the best diving, on a liveaboard which has good food, fantastic staff and which is very good value for money. So much so, I’ve booked again for next year, I suppose that’s the best endorsement I can give. I look forward to welcoming in the new year 2019 aboard the mikumba ... there was a fantastic atmosphere onboard for the whole trip and I’m sure it will be just as special next time.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Go658531

Review Date: 06 May 2019

Review Body: I choosed "Mikumba diving" for my time in Labuan Bajo and I was very glad with this desicion. Unfortunatley I couldn´t see their boat because I was there in April 19 and they were just checking and preparing the boat. Also I was the only guest at this time because some guests canceled their dives. But lucky me that I could go one on one with Taylor, a super nice and funny instructor girl who also invests her energy for saving the ocean! We joined other boats like "iDIve", "MantaRhei" and "Scuba republic". The best boat for me was "MantaRhei". They offer the same and high standard amenities like the boat of Mikumba, but they are more expensive. The price of Mikumba is one of the cheapest in LB, Every company mostly charge 1.8 Mio RP for one day. Mikumba is backpacker-friendly and charge 1.6.Mio. RP. So this was also a reason I choosed them. The dive sites are just beautiful and I enjoyed the boat ride in the morning to go there. The confirmation, equipment fitting and the whole organisation was perfect, Steve and the stuff are friendly and they help you with everything you need. I would definatley choose them again, so hope to see you one day! Take care, E-M

Review rating: 5

Review Author: pantsncakes, Vancouver

Review Date: 21 Aug 2018

Review Body: Booked a liveaboard with Mikumba Diving for Komodo National Park. Fred, the owner, was incredibly helpful and responsive with my questions. Clearly very experienced with diving in the area, he provided a lot of detail and insight to help me book my trip. Unfortunately, due to circumstances out of his control, my trip was cancelled but Fred went out of his way and re-booked me onto another boat. This was in the middle of high season, which made this last minute change challenging, but Fred went totally above and beyond to ensure I had an amazing experience - even if it wasn't aboard his boat. When I visited the diveshop upon my arrival, he had everything organized. He even provided me with free equipment rentals because the new liveaboard charged for theirs. I was completely blown away by the service! The staff were so friendly and knowledgeable, offering advice on where else to go in Flores and even helped to organize transportation to get me out of town quickly. I was sad that I didn't get to dive with Fred and his team but I look forward to booking a trip with them in the future to dive Raja Ampat! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Dipen M, Dubai

Review Date: 13 Oct 2018

Review Body: I spent 5 days diving komodo national park with them on their day trips in Komodo. They have a day trip boat and a liveaboard in Komodo that does short 3-5 night trips exploring some of the best diving in Indonesia. Their dive center in Labuan Bajo is on the main street and it is easy to find. They, perhaps, are the only boat to offer a hot breakfast on day trips!! Lunch was vegetarian friendly. The day trip boat is very comfortable boat with bean bags with armrests! Steve and Fran in the office are very helpful and answer all your questions promptly. Marcello is an excellent guide and after diving, strums the guitar and belts out a few classics to keep guests entertained. Other dive guides Robert and Hugo are also fantastic divers. One improvement i can suggest is to modify the ladder as it can get a bit difficult to get back on the boat (the ladder is a bit vertical). Apart from that, no complaints. I heard that they are building a budget liveaboard in Raja Ampat - need to find out more about it. Very recommended

Review rating: 5

Review Author: karelb808, Norway

Review Date: 26 Oct 2018

Review Body: Me and my wife joined Mikumba Diving on two daytrips out from Labuhanbajo to Komodo National Park. Making the booking via e-mail was fast and smooth. They are well organized, value safety and really go the extra mile so that You had a memorable experience while diving with them. Personally I love theyr eco friendly policy and value theyr efforts to support the local community. Theyr rental equipment was in really good condition and the boat was comfty and squeaky clean. Driving speed 6 to 7 knots, its clearly not a speed boat, but trust me - the ride is really enjoyable! The dive center is run by nice people from Europe, so for those of You, who are a bit suspicious doing business with locals - Micumba is a good place to go! You don't get any better English than from someone from UK I'm most likely diving with them again, when I'm returning to Komodo, but next time around probably doing a liveaboard. Thank You Steve and the whole staff of MD Karel from Norway

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Steve L, Arizona

Review Date: 16 Jul 2018

Review Body: Had a 5 day live abroad dive trip planned with Fred at Mikumba diving in Labuan Bajo within the Komodo National park. Unfortunately a ferry had capsized outside the harbor in Bira Sulawesi where his liveaboard boat was docked. It was a catastrophe where 34 people died. The harbor master closed the harbor due to many factors and no ships were able to leave the harbor. Consequently the dive trip planned from July 9-13 was cancelled. It was unfortunate for all the people who had scheduled the trip but more so for Fred. He was helpful and accommodating regarding scheduling an alternative 4 day trip with another dive shop. He even used the money from our trip with him to be used for the alternative dive trip. There were stipulations on his application that mentioned the need to get travel insurance. Although I was surprised by the cancellation, Fred at Mikumba diving was very helpful in providing an alternative dive trip for us. Steve Lundeen USA

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Joe Sasek

Review Date: 31 May 2017

Review Body: I had an absolute blast diving with Mikumba Diving. Truly a first rate liveaboard operation, with an impeccably professional staff (from boat crew to divemasters/instructors), comfortable accommodations, wonderful food, and mind-blowing diving. I can’t wait to get back on the ship for the Komodo-Raja Ampat crossing! Something to keep in mind though, if you’re looking to be surrounded with luxury and pampered like a princess, this is not the boat for you (there are plenty of liveaboards for you to choose from that already offer this lifestyle). If instead you want to go on a diving trip with some great friends that will treat you like family, all while getting a fantastic deal and an awesome vibe, then Mikumba is the company for you. A laid back and casual group that will still cater to your needs in a professional manner, while not charging you an arm and a leg for the experience. Go with Mikumba Diving…you won’t be disappointed!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jessie-127, UK

Review Date: 28 Feb 2019

Review Body: Our communication beforehand with the owner, Fred, was great. He was really helpful and answered all of our questions. The diving is unbelievably good, with everything from macro to giants. The guides all tried extremely hard to find things us and made sure everyone got to see them. The boat itself was clean, far more comfortable than I anticipated and I slept like a baby. The AC worked well in the room and there’s nice touches of a side to place your things, lamps and sockets in there. Rob, our cruise director, was amazing - he managed to work the schedule so as we didn’t have to do the long crossings in bad weather and also got to enjoy some land based activities as well. Thanks Rob! Another thing I LOVED was the passion that was shown for the environment and the briefings for all divers to be responsible underwater and on the boat too! I will be doing another liveaboard with Mikumba in the future.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tomas A

Review Date: 21 Jul 2018

Review Body: We had the most amazing diving experience with Mikumba, diving in three amazing spots: Makasar Reef, Batu Bolong and Siaba Besar. We were very lucky with the sightings, getting to see 15 mantas on Makasar Reef and the biodiversity in Batu Bolong was stunning. Their dive master Marcelo is a super cool experienced guy, and he was always thinking on our safety first, a very important thing for us since we just recently got our Open Water courses. Their boat has been recently renovated so everything is very new and they have plenty chill out zones to enjoy the views. All of their equipment is brand new, and the crew of the boat was always very helpful to get the gear on/off and help us out for anything. The food on board was also really really good. To sum it up, I would definitely recommend Mikumba Diving for any sort of diving experience in the Labuan Bajo area!!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: yanaika2019, Netherlands

Review Date: 22 Jul 2018

Review Body: Me and a friend came by Mikumba and decided to do three dives with them the next day. What we didn’t know was that the company had just opened, which meant we got brand new gear and a brand new (BEAUTIFUL) boat to chill on. It had everything; delicious donuts, coffee, tea, water, bean bags, a charging point and even a shower with shampoo. Marcello (our dive guide for the day) was really nice and he gave very clear briefings about the dives. We went to three different spots that day and were lucky enough to see like ten turtles, fifteen Manta Rays, a reefshark and many more beautiful fish and coral. We had a great day at the boat and once we came back we enjoyed popcorn and a beer together. Made some new friends and couldn’t have asked for better dives in the Komodo National Park. Would recommend to everyone!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Niklas N

Review Date: 26 Sep 2018

Review Body: First impression of Mikumba was really good! Welcoming staff and a very nice dive center in Labuan Bajo. These guys offers both budget liveaboard in Komodo & day trips. I went on a 1 day scuba diving boat trip in Komodo and had such an amazing day! Despite the early wake up call I was more than happy to get my coffee on the boat on our way into the scenic national park! I was so excited to experience the legendary Komodo diving! First dive was Crystal rock and I’ve never seen that much fish in one dive!! After the dive we had some snacks & fruits before the second dive which was almost as stunning as the first one. Lunch was plentiful and tasty, the staff was happy and helpful and I would definitely recommend Mikumba Diving to anybody that wants to go diving in Komodo, the best diving in Indonesia!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: mantaray76, UK

Review Date: 17 Jul 2018

Review Body: We (3 people, 1 OWD & 2 AOW) dived with Mikumba in July and the whole experience was amazing. Hugo was really helpful in the shop and offered us coffee and fresh popcorn straight from the machine and told us all about the dive sites. Their boat is brand new and has loads of room. Our dive guide Jello was excellent and knows the dive sites really well and showed us lots of cool stuff including sharks and mantas! He has been diving in the national park for years and knows where all the good stuff is. The food on the boat was really tasty and snacks on the way home with cold beer was the perfect way to end the day. We were so impressed we ended up doing two days diving with them. Will definitely be back!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sammy101010, London

Review Date: 17 Jul 2018

Review Body: My husband and I went for a day trip with these guys, from the first moment to the last we had an amazing day. The office staff made us feel so welcome and it felt like the trip was just for us! The boat is huge, spacious, comfortable, clean and brand new. There are 2 toilets on board, with showers too, far exceeding most day boats. The boat crew are really helpful and friendly, and the food was fantastic, and plenty of it. Diving and snorkelling in Komodo is definitely some of the best in the world and their guides know where the special stuff is. I really wouldn’t hesitate to recommend these guys for diving in Komodo and I’m looking forward to joining them for a trip to Raja Ampat next time!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Cyrus K

Review Date: 20 Oct 2019

Review Body: We traveled to Labuan Bajo to dive the Komodo Islands, and Mikumba Diving set us up with everything that we needed – gear, a VERY knowledgeable crew, and an excellent boat to take us to epic reefs. We loved talking with Taylor and Matthias, they are both extremely helpful and made sure that our experience was top-notch. If you're considering diving with Mikumba, don't hesistate. These guys are pros and they can take care of your liveaboard needs very well, from gear to reading currents to knowing exactly where to dive, where not to dive, and feeding you like a champ onboard. If I could give them 10 stars I would. No doubt.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Debrief and complete dive logbooks after dives at Cauldron and Castle Rock.

Itinerary Description: 6:30am: Light breakfast 7am: Briefing and dive at Castle Rock 9am: Breakfast 10:30am: Briefing and dive at Crystal Rock 12:30pm: Lunch 2pm: Briefing and dive at Cauldron 3pm: Cruise back towards Labuan Bajo, relax onboard, complete logbooks