Review Author: Russell Pinks

Review Date: 12 Sep 2024

Review Body: I’m not sure where to start with the review..! We’ve spent 2 weeks in Indonesia and this boat cruise was the highlight of it all. All of the staff are absolutely incredible to say the least. Roi the tour guide was the most amazing person to do this tour with, he had the best local knowledge, making sure we missed the crowds at all of the best places, he was so personable and without him, the cruise would not be the same. Bayo the photographer/videographer was such a nice person, he is such a talented person with his camera, his diving skills and felt like a friend whilst on the trip. The captain and his team were really friendly and we wouldn’t change them for the world. The kitchen staff cooked up the most beautiful breakfasts, lunches and dinners, seriously world class food, you wouldn’t believe that a 5-star meal could be cooked in the middle of the ocean! We are struggling to find words to explain how good this experience was for us, we made friends for life on this trip. Honestly, if you’re reading this, don’t hesitate to book this trip, it might be the best thing you ever do, it certainly was for us and we haven’t even explained the different experiences yet! The team made us feel so lucky, we seen Dolphins, Sea Cows, turtles, spotted eagle rays, gorgeous fish and beautiful corals whilst snorkelling. We had the most beautiful sunrise trek with our Navilla family. We managed to see 5 Komodo dragons when we visited Komodo Island. The pink beach was outstanding, again Roi made sure we got there at sunset and there was nobody else there!! We sat together as a family to watch the bats migrate from Bat Island and Roi made us laugh. We watched the stars at night and seen many shooting stars, we could even see the Milky Way with the naked eye. We went to a tiny little sand island with crystal clear waters and we had it to ourselves, Bayo got some insane footage on his drone and shared them with us immediately. Once we left this island on the boat, we looked back and seen many boats arriving, again giving credit to the team and how they looked after us. If you want to know more then Seek Sophie should give our contact details to you and we would be more than happy to explain it again as we would love to brag about how touching this cruise was for us. Currently we have limited photos to share as most of these were taken on my digital camera which has yet to be processed and also Bayo will soon share all photos and videos he took on a Google drive but I have added the few that I took on my phone.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Lisa

Review Date: 06 Jul 2026

Review Body: Book this trip, don’t hesitate!!! Wow - we can’t recommend it highly enough. Everything was perfect. Communication before, during and after the trip was excellent. The crew were fantastic, professional, friendly and great fun. Our guide Roy was absolutely amazing, we were so lucky to have him - he made the trip so much fun. As other reviews have said - the team work really hard to make sure you see all the sights at the best time. Roy altered the itinerary slightly to ensure we arrived at each location before lots of other tourists arrived. We still visited every location but managed to do so at much quieter times, even having all of Pink Beach to ourselves. We were dubious about whether the trip would live up to expectations - but it far surpassed them. We swam with turtles at every stop, swam with 3 huge manta rays, saw sharks and just about every type of fish possible. We saw Komodo dragons despite it being mating season (harder to see). The food was brilliant, the rooms clean and comfortable. The shower pressure was great and there was endless hot water. All the snorkelling gear was provided, and we were welcomed back after each excursion with drinks and a cold towel. The booking includes a photographer (including GoPro and drone footage), all of which were sent to us the same day as leaving the boat - Billy captured some incredible moments. We were very lucky to share the trip with 10 other tourists that were amazing company, we really enjoyed the social aspect of the trip. If you’re not as lucky with your fellow guests, the boat is big enough that there are numerous places to lounge that you don’t have to all sit together at any point. There are plenty of shops in Labuan Bajo to buy alcohol to take on board, and there’s a full size fridge to keep your drinks cool. Snacks, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and meals were all included. Please do support this local company - if you’re lucky you might have Roy as your guide, he was outstanding!! It was also my birthday during the trip, and the crew made it a special day - even bringing out a dessert with candles and singing happy birthday! Thank you Navila Crew for a very special trip. We hope to return one day.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Wendy & Simon

Review Date: 17 Sep 2025

Review Body: There are many tour companies that say they offer a similar cruise but we did our research, found Seeking Sophie and decided to take a chance... and we're so happywe did! We were actually in Lombok and could have gone from there but after reading that Seeking Sophie cancelled their cruises from Lombok because they didn't agree with the unethical feeding of the whale sharks to encourage them to the tourists boats we knew these were the best company to travel with. We took our flight to Lubuan and were collected from our hotel for the cruise by East Indonesia Trip. We were met at the port by Roy our guide, who arranged for our luggage to be taken ahead. When all guests arrived, he guided us through the chaos of the port and onto the beautiful Navila! What a gorgeous boat, with a large fantastic comfy social area, perfect for everyone to get to know each other! The activities spaced out with plenty of relaxing and sociable time in between. The snorkeling was wonderful, we saw turtles, black tip reef sharks and mantas. The Trip to Komodo incredible, we were lucky to see 3 large dragons and 2 babies. And the sunset view of 1000s of bats in flight was something we won't forget. The crew were the best, everyone was so friendly and helpful. Roy our guide was so professional and was always there with information and a smile. Billy the photographer took some epic photos and drone footage. The chefs were incredible, we were astounded how they made 5☆ food in a tiny galley, but they did. Johnny who took us out on the small boat to various places, was everyone's favourite... thank you Johnny😂 We were so fortunate to have such wonderful other guests with us, we came from all over the world and were a mix of ages but these people and the crew became our little Navila family and they all made this trip so special. This cruise is without doubt the absolute highlight of our month stay in Indonesia. We have so many treasured memories and think it was worth every penny. Do not hesitate to book your cruise with East Indonesia Trip through Seeking Sophie, you won't regret it!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Huda N

Review Date: 28 Sep 2025

Review Body: It was a completely impromptu weekend trip, but it turned out to be one of my favourites. Loved everything from the gorgeous Navila boat with plenty of *shaded* lounging areas, the friendly and helpful crew, the delicious food, and the awesome guide Roy and amazing photographer Bayoe. Bear in mind that it’s still a boat so the rooms and en-suite bathrooms are tight. So pack light! The boat itself is well stocked with towels, shampoo, soap, coffee, tea and snacks so you’re taken care of in that regard. I especially appreciated how Roy planned the itinerary to make sure we avoided the crowds - the difference was night and day! We saw so many fish, Komodo dragons, deers, bats, mantas, baby sharks, turtles and even dolphins! Also lucked out with a clear sky full of stars and the Milky Way. 🤩 Snorkelling was great bc there was always the little boat with someone looking out for us esp if we ventured too far from the group. I felt so safe and looked after even underwater that I took my lifejacket off and swam in deep water for the first time! I also got super lucky with amazing fellow guests from all over the world 🤍 even though I came solo and everyone else came as a couple, there wasn’t a single moment where I felt awkward or lonely. Had the time of my life 🥹 they even opened up the sails on the last day so we could get awesome drone shots of the phinisi all dressed up 😭❤️‍🔥 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Maddalena and Anna

Review Date: 28 Sep 2025

Review Body: This trip was absolutely perfect from start to finish. The boat itself is very beautiful, spacious, comfortable – the perfect place to relax between activities. The food on board was incredible and truly a highlight of the trip. We were spoiled with breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner, coffee, and everything was fresh, delicious, and abundant. The group was wonderful, the rooms were spacious and comfortable, the bathroom was clean with hot water (a real luxury!), and everything was well thought out. Towels and snorkeling equipment were provided, which made everything easy and stress-free. The tours were planned perfectly – not too packed – so there was always time to relax, have fun, and just enjoy the experience without rushing. The crew was simply fantastic. Special thanks to Bayo and Dedy, who are incredible tour guides. They went out of their way all the time to make sure we experienced everything, and thanks to them we truly did. We saw manta rays – many of them! – as well as turtles, and we swam in the most beautiful snorkeling spots. Being locals, they knew exactly where to take us for the best experiences. The photographer was also amazing, capturing memories beautifully. Everything about this trip was perfect. We really enjoyed our experience, and for the first time ever, I truly have no complaints – just gratitude for such an unforgettable journey!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Steph & Luke

Review Date: 30 Mar 2025

Review Body: We absolutely loved this experience! The whole thing was amazing. We booked mostly for the dragons but if I’m honest that wasn’t even the best part. We did everything - went snorkelling, saw incredible marine life (turtles AND manta rays, and small sharks), hiked up hills, played on the beach, saw storms and saw hundreds of bats leave the mangroves. There is a full kitchen on board with cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner provided. They said to bring snacks but we didn’t and were never hungry. There’s no alcohol on board so bring that. Roi our guide was excellent. I cannot praise him enough. He was friendly, knowledgeable, experienced and funny. What we appreciated was how he crafted the trip to give us the best experience - that meant doing things in a different order to beat the crowds and not just ticking boxes to say you saw something. There was even Bayu, a photographer/videographer who was with us the whole trip. He took photos of the whole trip - this was lovely as it was our honeymoon, so we’ve got some professional shots to remember it by. I would highly recommend this experience. The boat was clean and is well maintained. There is plenty of space to relax and you don’t feel like you’re on top of each other. Very well organised and communication was great. Thanks for making our trip so special!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Franzi

Review Date: 22 Sep 2025

Review Body: What an incredible experience! The boat’s outdoor space was absolutely beautiful, and everything we could possibly need was provided—from delicious (also vegetarian) meals and snacks throughout the day to snorkeling gear, a kayak, and a SUP. The crew went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable at all times. Our guide, Roi, was fantastic—friendly, attentive, and always making sure we avoided the big crowds so our small group could truly enjoy each spot. Another highlight was Bayu, the photographer. His passion and experience were clear in every shot. Not only did he document the trip beautifully, but he also found time for some amazing photo sessions with his underwater camera and drone. This was without a doubt the highlight of our trip to Indonesia so far. I also really appreciated how respectful the crew was toward the environment and wildlife, which made the whole experience even more meaningful. Before the trip I was a little concerned about the noise the motor makes from other reviews. I can absolutely confirm that it is impossible to sleep while the motor is running. However, the motor was only running during the day, so no issues here.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Caroline and Emily

Review Date: 22 Dec 2024

Review Body: We loved it all! It was a unique and mind-blowing experience. Friendly and very helpful crew, they were kind and attentive. All of them made sure we had everything we wanted. The guide Roi was excellent! He arranged it so we had the best experience, the locations were not too crowded or busy. The tour itself was fantastic. We swam with manta rays, turtles, and incredible array of tropical fish on the most beautiful reefs. Beautiful beaches, short treks which weren’t too challenging. Amazing sights, sounds and smells. Stunning views everywhere. The Komodo dragons were unique, in a natural setting. The boat was clean and the food was amazing, kudos to the chef. Delicious meals every time. The other people on the tour were lovely. It was not crowded on the boat, and we had space to hang out and enjoy the scenery in the beautiful Komodo national park. Clear blue waters, amazing weather. Thoroughly recommend the Navila liveaboard boat trip. Thank you to everyone for making this a once in a lifetime experience.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jackie

Review Date: 29 Jun 2025

Review Body: We had a wonderful time on the Navila for a 3D/2N trip to Komodo national park. Our guide - Roy - was fantastic, changing the order of the trip to beat the crowds. We enjoyed seeing the Komodo dragons and we were lucky with the snorkelling trips (with Roy and Bayu’s help) - seeing manta rays, baby sharks, turtles and many fish. We loved the various viewpoints for sunrise and sunset and spending time on the stunning pink beach. The trip’s photographer (Bayu) was incredible taking professional photos/videos for us. The food was delicious and plentiful. The captain and other crew members kept us safe and looked after us well. It was a relatively small boat with only 12 guests. While the cabins were small, the boat had a lot of common areas. This meant that the trip was very sociable with the 12 of us becoming very close by the end of the trip. I do not hesitate to recommend this trip, especially with Roy and Bayu in charge.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Andie & Rahul

Review Date: 13 Jun 2023

Review Body: We had such an amazing time aboard the Navilla! The accommodations were clean and comfortable. The cook Wahyu, and his assistant Rasyid, went above and beyond to make sure everyone's dietary needs were met - not to mention the food was absolutely delicious. We loved the adventures tour guide Roi took us on. It was clear he really cared about making the experience special for us, as he tried to take us to the least busy locations. Everything was beautifully captured by photographer Bayoo, meaning we could focus on enjoying the moment instead of taking pictures. Plus, he is incredibly talented, incorporating drone and underwater shots. A final special thank you to the rest of the crew who were unbelievably kind and responsive to guests - Dino (captain), Jay (engineer), Sam (dingy operator), and Anjas (steward). 10/10 would recommend!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Olga

Review Date: 01 Oct 2025

Review Body: The cruise was just fantastic!!!!!!! What a highlight. It exceeded our expectations. Everything was perfect from start to finish. The boat was impecable, in very good condition and super clean. The crew was the kindest and so helpful, we always felt safe on board. Our guide (Roy) was the best, speaking perfect English and always sociable and wanting to hangout. We were very impressed by the quality of his work, also taking care we always avoided crowds. The food was incredible, everything delicious all the time, and the crew made sure that we were never hungry offering snacks and amazing food. Our room was impecable too, with great attention to detail. All excursions were great, really not a single thing to complain about. We are ao grateful we could enjoy this experience in Navila and would 100% recommend it ✨✨

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Debbie

Review Date: 19 Oct 2025

Review Body: The crew was kind and great. They made sure you got an amazing experience. Every single meal was delicious and they would make sure that they followed your diet options or allergies. Roy the tourguide was amazing and did everything he could to give you an wonderful experience and to let you see everything. Billy was with us all the time and was making sure everything was on camera (i'm really excited about the drone shots!). The captain, the staff that walked around and made sure everything was clean and dry, Johnny, they were all wonderfull. The cabins were fine and there was a possibility to let them clean. The excursions and snorkeling trips are really beautifull and Roy changed the plan so we wouldn't be with so many tourists at a place. I would definitely recommend this amazing trip! Thanks to everyone.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Anna

Review Date: 19 Apr 2026

Review Body: The boat was fantastic, the crew was truly in a class of their own, and the food exceeded expectations. The crew works behind the scenes to make everything feel completely seamless, which really adds to the overall experience. It was an incredible trip, and I would definitely recommend it. I would recommend to being enough cash for the fees to the national park. We didnt catch this before leaving, and therefore didnt have enough cash to buy from locals. Just a tip! Overall, I would absolutely do this again. Loved everything!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Shaun & Grace

Review Date: 09 Apr 2026

Review Body: We had the best 3 days on the Navila. The crew were incredible, especially our tour guide and photographer Ryan & Billy. They took us to all the best spots with trying to avoid the crowd and we saw lots of manta rays, turtles and Komodo dragons. The food on board was amazing and the boat was beautiful with lots of space to relax other than your cabin. There was lots of shaded areas so you could either chill out under the shade or get some sun if you wanted. Would highly recommend!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: E Arisarwindha

Review Date: 10 Oct 2024

Review Body: Just do it! Fantastic memories to last a lifetime. Our guide Roy is knowledgable, caring, constantly looking out for us in and out of the water ( we have 9 and 12 yos snorkelers), up the hills, on the boat. All the good reviews on him are true. 5 star Chef, fresh food all the time. Photo/videographer Bayoe is phenomenal, see his work! Cabin is small, as to be expected, but decks are huge, clean. The highlight was other people we met on the trip and the crews. Thank You Navila team!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Marcus

Review Date: 21 Sep 2025

Review Body: Absolutely fantastic few days, so happy we booked with these guys after seeing many other boats on the water. This one is super clean, the staff cannot do enough. The food was wayyyy better than expected, compliments to the chef. But Roy and Pong made the trip, fantastic host and the quality of the the photographer is second to none, he captured some amazing moments. To the boat owner - they deserve a payrise for the quality service they provide!!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jem & Lu

Review Date: 15 Dec 2024

Review Body: Cannot recommend this enough was an awesome experience made even better by Roy, Billy and the full crew. Had such awesome time where our every need and want from the trip was met and more. Chef You also was amazing at accomodating our vegan diet all our meals were incredible and never missed a beat Will never forget this trip, felt like a full safari at parts, as we saw bats, turtles, manta rays and of course the dragons

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Hannah

Review Date: 11 Sep 2025

Review Body: We had a fantastic trip with the team on Navila. The whole crew were brilliant, especially Roy (tour leader) and billy (photographer). The activities and route were well planned out, we didn’t have the best weather, Roy and the captain adjusted the itinerary to make the most of the trip. The food was incredible with a 3 course meal on the second night. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the trip, thanks again team navila!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Yoni & Jordy

Review Date: 05 Jul 2026

Review Body: Wauw this tour was incredible!! Our guide Roy was funny, helpful & he made some great choices in the planning so we could avoid crowded places! Also the staff was very friendly and kind. Food & accomodation were very good. We even had our private photographer Billy who made amazing photo’s & video’s. Thanks a lot! We ended our tour with heartache because the group and staff was the best we could wish for. Thank you!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Vincent Johnson

Review Date: 15 Jun 2026

Review Body: This was an exceptional trip, which exceeded all expectations. It was so professionally run and the tour guide Roy and photographer Billy really were jewels. The boat was lovely and so comfortable. Activities were really interesting and snorkelling was a kaleidoscope of colours. The chefs were brilliant and the food was really tasty and well presented. Thoroughly recommend the boat Navila !

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Snorkeling & Beach Fun

Itinerary Description: 09.00 - 09.30 am: We will pick you up at Komodo Airport/Hotel in Labuan Bajo Sebayur or Siaba Island - for snorkeling to see corals and small fishes Long pink beach Island - Snorkeling and Sunbathing (Itineraries are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control)

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Today you will see the dragons and you will see the super instagrammable Padar Island!

Itinerary Description: Padar Island - trek to see the Sunrise Komodo Dragon - trekking to see Komodo Dragons Taka Makasar - relaxing beach time Manta Point - Snorkeling to see Manta Rays Kalong Island - to catch the sunset and watch of bats fly from their cave (Itineraries are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control)

Itinerary Day 3

Itinerary Summary: Snorkelling at Manjarite & short trek on Kelor Island

Itinerary Description: Morning: Snorkel at in Manjarite Island Late Morning: trekking to the top of Kelor island 12.00 pm: Back to Labuan Bajo Harbour (Itineraries are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control)