Bajak

Bajak is a 28-metre phinisi operated directly by Scuba Republic for dive expeditions in Komodo National Park. Built from reclaimed ironwood and teak, the vessel carries up to 14 guests and combines a shaded dive deck, open-air social spaces and a relaxed, pirate-inspired character.

Bajak at a glance

Built in 2015, Bajak measures 28 metres long and seven metres wide. A 120 HP Mitsubishi engine powers the vessel, while 600-watt solar panels support quieter periods onboard. The operator publishes a crew of eight and a maximum guest capacity of 14.

The current operator page headline lists four cabins. Its walkthrough refers to one private double cabin and three dorm cabins, while a lower specification block still says three cabins. This listing follows the four-cabin headline and walkthrough configuration but guests should obtain the exact cabin and bed allocation in writing before booking.

Cabins and bathrooms

The Master Cabin provides a double bed, air conditioning and a private bathroom. Current secondary inventory also describes a private balcony. Three shared dorm-style cabins use a mix of single and bunk beds and share two additional bathrooms. Cabin layouts and bed assignments can vary, so shared-room guests should confirm the exact berth before payment.

Air conditioning is provided in the sleeping areas. Hot-water showers are not currently confirmed by the operator and should not be assumed.

Diving setup

Bajak is configured for scuba diving, with a shaded dive deck, assorted rental equipment for up to 14 guests and a 4.5-metre, 40 HP dinghy. Published guiding is capped at four divers per guide. Standard trips include tanks, weights, weight belts and guided diving, while full rental sets, dive computers, 15-litre tanks, private guides and courses cost extra.

Nitrox is not listed as available. The operator publishes three dives per full day, with two dives usually scheduled on the departure and return days. Actual dive counts depend on the itinerary, conditions and operational decisions.

Komodo itineraries

Bajak operates exclusively in Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo. The four-day/three-night Komodo Highlights program publishes up to 12 dives, while the five-day/four-night South Komodo, Padar and Manta Alley route publishes up to 15 dives.

Potential sites include Mawan, Manta Alley, Batu Bolong, Crystal Rock, Castle Rock, the Cauldron and Tatawa Kecil. Land activities can include a Padar viewpoint hike and a guided Komodo dragon visit. Weather, currents, guest experience and park rules determine the final route, and no particular site or wildlife encounter is guaranteed.

Life onboard

Shared areas include an open galley and dining area, a covered lounge, a rooftop with bean bags and sun mattresses and the shaded dive deck. Two stand-up paddleboards are listed, and Starlink Wi-Fi is currently advertised onboard, though offshore connectivity can still vary.

The published package includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner, fresh fruit, drinking water, tea, coffee, towels, linens, an English-speaking cruise director and guided diving. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

Prices and extra fees

The operator currently lists the 4D3N Komodo Highlights trip at USD 780 per person and the 5D4N South Komodo program at USD 975 per person. These rates and Indonesian-rupiah equivalents can change.

Mandatory charges are published separately: the national-park, tourist-tax and water-activities fee is IDR 275,000 per person per day, the dragon-trail ticket and guide fee is IDR 145,000 per person, and the Padar viewpoint ticket and guide fee is IDR 45,000 per person. Confirm the latest amounts, payment timing and any Sunday or holiday variation before travel.

Who Bajak suits

Bajak suits divers who prioritise Komodo diving, small guide groups and a social, characterful vessel over luxury accommodation. Private charters and shared scheduled trips are both advertised. Entry requirements vary by itinerary; current programs generally call for Open Water certification and prior dive experience.

Booking notes

Confirm the exact cabin inventory, bed assignment, bathroom access, hot-water availability, departure date, dive prerequisites, rental needs, park fees, transfers, insurance, cancellation terms and final total in writing. Dive insurance is not included, and appropriate dive and travel cover is strongly recommended.