Adelaar Exclusive Liveaboard
Adelaar Exclusive Liveaboard
5
Scuba & SnorkellingNature & Wildlife ToursGondola CruisesStand Up PaddleboardingKayaking & Canoeing
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Full view
About
Adelaar has been sailing the Indonesian Archipelago since 1994. Visitors from all around the globe join our intimate trips to experience the spectacular sites and landscapes of Eastern Indonesia. With more than 25 years of experience, we are confident that we offer only the best of the world's richest marine ecosystem. We will take you to the Komodo National Park, the Alor Archipelago, the Forgotten Islands, and the Banda Sea. Several times a year, you will get the chance to meet our beloved manta rays and whale sharks aboard our marine conservation special cruises. Our guests are accommodated in 4 luxurious en-suite staterooms with the look and feel of a private yacht. Our 5-star facilities, gourmet dining and service, experienced crew, and dive guides make for an incredible journey. Welcome on board!
Serangan, Indonesia
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Adelaar Exclusive Liveaboard
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
70 reviews
Excellent
63
Very good
6
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1
AaronDrummer
Charleston, SC4 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
What an incredible trip! I spend 10 days on their Banda Sea itinerary, and if you are looking for an intimate live-aboard diving experience, The Adelaar does not disappoint in any aspect. The crew was absolutely wonderful to talk, interact, and work with, and they made you feel right at home aboard the ship. The cruise directors and dive team (Reto, Lorine, and Nick) did a fantastic job of putting together and guiding diverse and beautiful dives across the region. I was less experienced than some of the more seasoned divers board, but their patience and experience allowed me to easily tackle more challenging dives with ease. The rooms aboard the ship were beautiful and cozy. I had a shared room and there was plenty of space to comfortably store gear and move about. The meals were freshly prepared and always fantastic; enjoying an evening Bintang while the sun sets across the water does not disappoint.
I highly recommend the Adelaar, for your next live-aboard trip, and wold not hesitate to return to try a new itinerary. Thank you all again for such a great trip!
I highly recommend the Adelaar, for your next live-aboard trip, and wold not hesitate to return to try a new itinerary. Thank you all again for such a great trip!
Written 2 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this wonderful review of your 10-day diving cruise in the Banda Sea with Adelaar Liveaboard. We are thrilled to hear that your experience with us was nothing short of incredible! It's heartwarming to know that our crew made you feel at home and that you enjoyed interacting with them. Our team, including Reto, Lorine, and Nick, takes great pride in crafting and guiding diverse dives, and it's fantastic to hear that they could accommodate your experience level, making challenging dives accessible and enjoyable for you. We're also delighted that you found the accommodations comfortable and spacious, and that the meals, freshly prepared with care, added to the enjoyment of your trip. It sounds like those sunset Bintang moments were quite special!
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we can’t wait to welcome you back aboard for another adventure. If you have any particular itinerary in mind or wish to explore a different region, please don't hesitate to let us know. We're always excited to help our guests discover new underwater wonders.
Thanks again for choosing Adelaar Liveaboard, Aaron. We look forward to your next voyage with us!
Written 6 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
michel5194
France14 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
A fantastic diving cruise , certainly the best ever we did. Adelaar is a very secured , modern and confortable boat offering all commodities you need. The crew is permanently smiling , at your disposal , having in mind to make your life the best possible. Food is diverse and very good. Diving desk and camera room are well equiped and offer a large space for everyone. Thanks a lot to Reto and Lorine who managed very professionaly this trip. The great experience they have in diving and Indonesia as well has been a great added value for us. Thank you so much to all Adelaar crew members who contributed to make our dream real ...
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Michel, we sincerely appreciate your excellent review of your recent cruise from Labuanbajo to Maumere aboard Adelaar. Thank you for taking the time to share your remarkable experience.
We're delighted to learn that your journey surpassed your expectations. Adelaar's commitment to safety, modern amenities, and attentive crew members resonated with you. We are particularly grateful for your kind words about our diverse cuisine and well-equipped diving facilities.
Reto, Lorine, and the entire Adelaar team take pride in creating unforgettable moments for our guests, and it's heartening to know we made your dream a reality.
Thank you for choosing Adelaar for your diving adventure. We look forward to welcoming you and Evelyne back for more extraordinary experiences in the future.
Written 12 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisa M
Phoenix, AZ13 contributions
Mar 2024 • Business
I own Dive N Ride Adventures and chartered the Adelaar to retrace a scuba trip I took in the 1990s in Indonesia. At that time, there were no reliable GPSes to mark sites, and we played a lot of our site selection by the whim of the wind and the sea. I had a small-scale map of the trip, estimating where my dive sites were.
On this 10-day trip, we visited Komodo National Park and the area around Selayar to dive. The things we saw were very diverse—from Pygmy Seahorses to Whale Sharks! The sites were not a disappointment at all; they exceeded my expectations.
The boat was quite comfortable. There were several things that I would change if I were the owner, but they did not really impede my clients' enjoyment of the trip. The boat even seems quite stable when heavy seas are experienced.
The crew and the cruise managers were OUTSTANDING! They met my expectations and more. They were attentive and very concerned for our safety and our enjoyment. I left the trip feeling that I was leaving my family.
All in all, it was a fabulous experience. I hope to be able to charter the ship again!
On this 10-day trip, we visited Komodo National Park and the area around Selayar to dive. The things we saw were very diverse—from Pygmy Seahorses to Whale Sharks! The sites were not a disappointment at all; they exceeded my expectations.
The boat was quite comfortable. There were several things that I would change if I were the owner, but they did not really impede my clients' enjoyment of the trip. The boat even seems quite stable when heavy seas are experienced.
The crew and the cruise managers were OUTSTANDING! They met my expectations and more. They were attentive and very concerned for our safety and our enjoyment. I left the trip feeling that I was leaving my family.
All in all, it was a fabulous experience. I hope to be able to charter the ship again!
Written 20 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HTravels
Paris, France14 contributions
Jul 2024 • Solo
I am sad to say I cannot recommend this liveaboard and having spent a fortune going I cannot begin to tell you how much I still regret going months later. Firstly, the boat is extremely uncomfortable and as an avid sailor that says a lot. My room and bed were vibrating constantly because it was over the engine which they leave on all the time for the air conditioning. Every morning the smell of petrol filled the room. Although I paid a single supplement, a free upgrade was given to a couple who were in a smaller room and so it was not possible for me to change rooms. It was extremely difficult to sleep which made the trip feel a little like a prison. But by far the worst part was the lack of diving professionalism. They gave an itinerary in the booking which I knew was subject to change but I later discovered was just a lie (the guide said that they never dive the indicated southern sites at that time of year-so why include them at all?). The briefings were the worst I have ever had and with a big difference in dive levels we were very unprepared for the currents in Komodo. They should have had plan B's and instead we were often running out of air due to "surprises". At one point a guide seemed to be narking on a dive and was swimming randomly in a strange direction. We managed to catch him to bring him back but it did not feel safe. They also promote themselves as "eco" and somehow up with conservation but that was also a lie. The whale shark stop we did was just a big tourist bait stop and was very sad. I don't know if there are better liveaboard guides out there but I know for a fact there are less expensive luxury boats with more comfort. There were 3 others I was looking at that I wish I had booked so badly. Many had more divers but seeing the boats around Komodo I could just tell they were more professional and often wish I could jump across. Finally I asked for a refund of the single supplement as a gesture of goodwill because they were not full, gave a free upgrade to a couple and I had had such a hard time sleeping. Not only did they refuse but they were incredibly rude, ignored me at points, called me a liar (until I showed them our messages in writing) and were generally awful. They know nothing of hospitality or even just being gracious and are clearly struggling as a result. I recommend avoiding this liveaboard.
Written 25 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Henley,
Thank you for your detailed feedback. We’re truly sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet your expectations.
We’re pleased to hear you appreciated the exceptional service of our Indonesian crew, who work tirelessly to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
However, we’d like to address your concerns:
1. Cabin Vibrations
Vibrations from the generator are normal on a steel-hulled vessel like Adelaar. No engine is located beneath the cabins, and this is consistent across all rooms. When you raised this with our crew, they offered to move you to another cabin, but you chose to remain in your room.
2. Single Supplement and Room Upgrades
You raised concerns about a free upgrade given to another couple. While this didn’t affect your booking or cabin, we understand it may have influenced your perception of fairness. After the trip, you requested a refund of your single supplement. As the booking was honored as agreed, we were unable to accommodate this request. We believe this decision may have contributed to your dissatisfaction, but we stand by our policies, which are applied fairly to all guests.
3. Diving and Itinerary Adjustments
Komodo’s strong currents are a natural feature of this world-renowned dive destination. Our experienced dive guides conducted thorough current checks and adjusted the itinerary as needed for safety. Southern sites like Manta Alley were still included, despite seasonal challenges.
4. Whale Shark Encounter
Saleh Bay can vary in atmosphere, with some days being quieter than others. Unfortunately, this is beyond our control.
While we regret your trip didn’t align with your expectations, we feel it’s important to note that other guests on the same cruise rated their experience highly.
We hope readers will understand that we strive to provide excellent service to all guests, even when we cannot meet specific refund requests.
Written 12 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rhianne J
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • Couples
I cannot rate the Adelaar highly enough! our Komodo’s trip was beyond our expectations.
The ship is exquisite and the cabins are very well appointed, with more storage than I have ever experienced on a liveaboard.
Every single member of the crew, go above and beyond, to provide the premium experience
Their knowledge of the dive sites, currents and tides, along with reinforcing the ‘no hook, no gloves’ rules of Komodo National Park was truely impressive, and I certainly learned a lot. Despite being on a schedule, the crew went out of their way to flex, and to make our experience perfect. 2nd snorkel with the Whale sharks after breakfast - no problem. We would love to dive ‘shotgun’ again - no problem. My partner is heavier on air…bigger tank - no problem.
The food was delicious,fresh and varied, and plentiful. I cannot begin to imagine how they provision for an 11 day trip, and provide that standard of catering. Our amazing steward Wayau catered to our every need.
The whole trip was seamless. Rock Star diving!
The ship is exquisite and the cabins are very well appointed, with more storage than I have ever experienced on a liveaboard.
Every single member of the crew, go above and beyond, to provide the premium experience
Their knowledge of the dive sites, currents and tides, along with reinforcing the ‘no hook, no gloves’ rules of Komodo National Park was truely impressive, and I certainly learned a lot. Despite being on a schedule, the crew went out of their way to flex, and to make our experience perfect. 2nd snorkel with the Whale sharks after breakfast - no problem. We would love to dive ‘shotgun’ again - no problem. My partner is heavier on air…bigger tank - no problem.
The food was delicious,fresh and varied, and plentiful. I cannot begin to imagine how they provision for an 11 day trip, and provide that standard of catering. Our amazing steward Wayau catered to our every need.
The whole trip was seamless. Rock Star diving!
Written 17 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Rhianne,
Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re overjoyed to hear that your Komodo cruise with us not only met but exceeded your expectations. It sounds like you had a truly unforgettable experience, and we’re thrilled that every aspect of the trip—from the beautifully appointed cabins to the flexibility of the crew—made such a positive impression.
Our team takes great pride in providing a personalized, premium experience, and it’s wonderful to hear that their knowledge of the dive sites and attention to every detail enhanced your journey. We’re especially glad you enjoyed those special moments, like the second snorkel with the whale sharks and diving “shotgun” again. These are the memories we love creating for our guests!
We couldn’t agree more—our chef and crew work magic behind the scenes to make sure every meal is fresh and delicious, no matter how long the trip. We’re delighted Wayau and the rest of the crew made you feel so well cared for.
Thank you again for choosing Adelaar.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your partner back for more "Rock Star" diving adventures!
Written 22 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Aussiejack1
Vancouver, Canada141 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
If you are looking for an amazing diving trip / liveaboard, in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, this is the place for you!
The ship with its rich history was amazing and completely updated and comfortable. The master suite is spacious and has all the amenities one needs.
The food is a combination of Indonesian and Western cuisine. They catered to my gluten free husband very well. The breakfasts are made to order nad delicious. The homemade desserts were excellent.
But what made the trip truly exceptional was the dive staff, Julien and Thalia. They were very professional and familiar with the area. Julien gave us the run down on the boat and we did our enhanced air (Nitrox) course with him. Thalia is an exceptional young lady, her dive skills and assistance as Dive Master are excellent. Her mastery of the Indonesian language is impressive. The crew assisting with the dive equipment very also very good. I highly recommend this livaboard, in the most beautiful part of the world!
The ship with its rich history was amazing and completely updated and comfortable. The master suite is spacious and has all the amenities one needs.
The food is a combination of Indonesian and Western cuisine. They catered to my gluten free husband very well. The breakfasts are made to order nad delicious. The homemade desserts were excellent.
But what made the trip truly exceptional was the dive staff, Julien and Thalia. They were very professional and familiar with the area. Julien gave us the run down on the boat and we did our enhanced air (Nitrox) course with him. Thalia is an exceptional young lady, her dive skills and assistance as Dive Master are excellent. Her mastery of the Indonesian language is impressive. The crew assisting with the dive equipment very also very good. I highly recommend this livaboard, in the most beautiful part of the world!
Written 20 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Jacklin and Dean,
Thank you so much for sharing such a heartfelt and detailed review of your experience aboard Adelaar. It was an absolute pleasure to have you join us in Raja Ampat, and we’re thrilled to hear that your journey was as memorable as the stunning reefs and waters you explored.
We’re delighted that the ship’s charm, comfort, and history resonated with you – it’s a vessel we hold dear, and knowing it felt like a home at sea to you means a great deal to us. The master suite truly is a special space, and it’s wonderful to hear it met your expectations.
Catering to dietary needs is something we take seriously, so we’re happy your husband felt well looked after. Our chefs will be pleased to know their efforts – from breakfasts to those homemade desserts – brought joy to your table.
A special thank you for highlighting Julien and Thalia. They are indeed incredible at what they do, and it’s fantastic to know their knowledge, professionalism, and passion for the ocean enhanced your experience. We’ll make sure your kind words reach them – it will no doubt bring a smile to their faces.
Your recommendation means the world to us. Raja Ampat is truly a magical place, and it was a privilege to share it with you. If your travels ever lead you back to these waters, we would love to welcome you aboard again. Until then, we wish you both smooth seas and many more adventures.
Written 7 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
InuYasha1203
Asia43 contributions
Oct 2024 • Family
We’re board this for Maumere to Ambon passing thru Banda Sea for 10 days. From the booking process up to our departure. I cant praise them enough as the best customer services and experiences, and beyond my ecxpectations. The boat is beautiful and the food is delicious, they make sure we have full belly everyday. On diving, the cruise director and his assistant, make sure our dive site is beautiful and safety is number one. If you look for best liveaboard experience in Indonesia, this is the boat you looking for.
Written 8 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear InuYasha1203
Thank you for sharing such a glowing review of your Maumere to Ambon journey with us! We're beyond delighted to hear that every step of your experience, from the booking process to your departure, exceeded your expectations. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our team’s efforts left such a positive impression on you.
It sounds like you fully embraced the Adelaar spirit – from indulging in our delicious meals to enjoying the beauty of the dive sites, all while feeling safe and well cared for. Safety and guest satisfaction are always our top priorities, so we’re thrilled that our dive team made your underwater adventures both exciting and secure.
Your kind words about the service, the food, and the vessel itself mean a lot to us, and we're honored to be considered the best liveaboard experience in Indonesia by someone with such high standards.
We hope to welcome you back onboard for another unforgettable journey through these magical waters!
Written 21 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Edward S
158 contributions
Oct 2024 • Friends
This is not a typical liveaboard. First of all, a floating piece of history first built in 1902.. this vessel has touched my people's lives. The owners love this vessel and it shows in every detail. The cabins are fantastic. As these are a maximum of 8 dive speakers for itself. In 20 years of diving I have not come across such a magic experience. I could go into extensive details about everything but I think you should just experience it for yourself.
Written 21 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Edward,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful review! It’s always a pleasure to hear such positive feedback, especially from a seasoned diver like yourself. We're thrilled that the Adelaar’s unique charm, steeped in history and attention to detail, made your experience truly magical.
You captured the essence of what makes Adelaar so special — she’s not just a liveaboard, but a piece of living history. We’re so glad you felt the love and care that goes into preserving her, and that the intimate setting with a small group of divers stood out to you. It was such a joy sharing a Bintang over WhatsApp — even from two different locations, it felt like we were toasting together!
Thank you again for your kind words. We hope to welcome you back on board for another unforgettable adventure in the future!
The Adelaar Team
Written 21 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Orlagh
16 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
I can’t recommend this boat enough, from Reto, Nick and the crew, the food, the boat itself. We were very spoilt. The team made such an effort with everything.. The diving was spectacular. One of the best diving spots I have ever had the privilege to experience.. we got off the boat to visit Komodo island to see lots of Komodo dragons and a bang Komodo! Also Pink beach was a treat.. definitely put this boat and dive spot on your bucket list!
Written 12 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Orlagh,
Thank you immensely for your glowing review of your Adelaar experience! We're truly delighted to hear that you had such a fantastic time with us, from the attentive crew and delicious food to the stunning boat itself.
Your kind words about Reto, Nick, and the entire team are greatly appreciated. We're thrilled that you found the diving to be spectacular and among the best you've ever experienced. It's wonderful that you had the chance to explore Komodo Island and its incredible wildlife, including the Komodo dragons, and enjoyed the beauty of Pink Beach.
We couldn't be happier to have made your journey a memorable one, and we're honored to be on your bucket list.
We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures in the future.
Until then, safe travels and happy diving!
Written 19 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Connector83351
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • Friends
I just came back from a 10-day cruise between Bali and Komodo, in this superb boat. It was a very nice cruise, with a quality crew, kind and caring. Thank you all for making this trip so beautiful.
We had some great unforgettable dives, especially Requin baleines, mantas and so many other things.
Everything was great. Thank you to the guides for their support!
Now we know that there is a lot of currents in Komodo :)
We had some great unforgettable dives, especially Requin baleines, mantas and so many other things.
Everything was great. Thank you to the guides for their support!
Now we know that there is a lot of currents in Komodo :)
Written 21 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Connector83351,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! We’re delighted to hear that your 10-night cruise from Bali to Labuanbajo was such a memorable journey and that the Adelaar crew made your trip even more special with their care and attention.
It sounds like you had some truly unforgettable dives—whale sharks, mantas, and everything in between! We’re glad our dive guides could support you throughout and that you got to experience the dynamic currents of Komodo firsthand—definitely part of what makes the region so thrilling for divers!
We hope to welcome you back onboard for another adventure in the near future.
Written 22 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi Divers — We are snorkelers interested in the Adelaar experience. Were there any snorkelers on your voyage, and if so, how did they do? I note all the reviews are about the great diving.
Written 4 September 2017
Hi Linda, I was snorkeling twice on the Adelaar before I tried and got addicted to scuba diving. I had my guide who “helped” me. We always found snorkeling sites close to the dive sites of the other (diving) guests.
Written 22 March 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.