What to Expect on a Sailing Trip in Labuan Bajo (A First-Timer’s Guide)

If this is your first time joining a sailing trip in Labuan Bajo, it’s totally normal to feel excited—and maybe a little unsure about what the experience will be like. The good news? Sailing in Labuan Bajo is relaxed, scenic, and designed to be enjoyable even for first-timers.

Here’s a simple guide to help you know exactly what to expect.

⛵ Life on Board

A sailing trip in Labuan Bajo usually means spending most of your time on a boat—either for a day trip or a liveaboard experience.

What you’ll typically find on board:

Comfortable deck areas for relaxing and enjoying the view
Sleeping cabins (for overnight trips)
Shared or private bathrooms, depending on the boat
Friendly crew who handle navigation, cooking, and safety

Life on board is laid-back. Think slow mornings, ocean views, and plenty of time to relax.

🗺️ Daily Activities You’ll Enjoy

Each day brings a mix of adventure and downtime. Most sailing trips include:

Island hopping to iconic spots
Short trekking sessions (like Padar Island viewpoints)
Snorkeling in clear waters
Swimming and beach time
Sunrise and sunset watching from the boat

The pace is generally unhurried, so you won’t feel rushed.

🦺 Safety Comes First

Safety is always a priority on sailing trips.

You can expect:

Life jackets and basic safety equipment
Experienced captain and crew
Brief safety instructions at the start of the trip

If sea conditions are not ideal, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure everyone’s safety—this is completely normal and part of responsible sailing.

🍽️ Meals & Comfort

One of the best surprises for first-timers is the food.

Meals are freshly prepared on board
Expect Indonesian dishes and simple comfort food
Drinking water, tea, and coffee are usually provided

It’s not luxury dining, but it’s warm, satisfying, and perfect after a day in the sea.

🎒 What to Bring

Packing light is key. Here are the essentials:

Swimwear and quick-dry clothes
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Hat and sandals
Small backpack for island visits
Personal toiletries and medication

💡 Tip: Motion sickness tablets are recommended if you’re sensitive to boat movement.

🌊 Is It Suitable for First-Timers?

Absolutely. You don’t need sailing experience to join a sailing trip in Labuan Bajo. As long as you enjoy the ocean and are open to new experiences, you’ll feel right at home.

The atmosphere is friendly, flexible, and welcoming—even if it’s your first time sleeping on a boat.

Final Thoughts

A sailing trip in Labuan Bajo is less about luxury and more about connection with nature, the ocean, and the journey itself. For many travelers, it becomes the highlight of their entire trip to Indonesia.

If you’re planning your first sailing adventure and want everything handled smoothly, GAPS Tour is ready to guide you from start to finish—so you can relax and enjoy the experience ✨