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Hellooo guys! Welcome back to another travel vlog blog edition!
Honestly, I’m still in complete disbelief. If you’ve read my previous post about my Lombok to Labuan Bajo trip, then you already know I was the ultimate drama queen. I couldn’t swim, I panicked over everything, and it was my very first time on a liveaboard. The moment the boat engine started vibrating at Lombok Harbor, I was literally screaming in terror! Every wave throughout the night had me on the verge of tears.
But guess what?
This 4D3N Labuan Bajo to Lombok journey with Golden Island Cruises came with the biggest plot twist ever: the girl who cried over every little wave finally made peace with the ocean.
No more screaming when the engine started. No more constant panic. Somewhere between the sunsets, the open sea, and four unforgettable days on board, I realized I had fallen in love with the very thing that terrified me the most.
So come along with me as I relive every magical moment of this incredible return journey!
Okay, let’s kick off Day 1!
We gathered around 4:00 PM at the Cristoper Komodo Office in Labuan Bajo for check-in. The moment I stepped onto the boat, my friends were all waiting for that moment the engine started, and the entire boat began to vibrate.
They were already covering their ears, fully expecting me to scream like I did on my Lombok to Labuan Bajo trip. But… sorry to disappoint them! This time, I just smiled.
The engine vibrations that once made my heart race now felt more like a warm welcome, signaling the start of another incredible adventure.
That evening, we began our overnight sailing to Padar Island. Cozy in my air-conditioned cabin, I slept surprisingly well. Somehow, I’d finally gotten used to the gentle rhythm of the open sea.
I have to admit I was pretty proud of myself.
We were woken up at around 5:00 AM because the boat had arrived at Padar Island. During my first trip, the famous staircase left my legs cramping and me completely out of breath. This time, though, it was a different story. I climbed all the way to the top with confidence, just in time to watch one of the most beautiful golden sunrises I’ve ever seen.
After Padar, we headed straight to Pink Beach for a swim and, of course, plenty of photos. The gentle waves that used to make me nervous now felt incredibly calming. It was funny to realize how much my perspective had changed in just one trip.
In the afternoon, we continued to Komodo Island (Loh Liang) for a guided trek to see the legendary Komodo dragons. Having done this once before and with experienced park rangers leading the way I felt much more relaxed this time. Instead of standing there frozen with fear, I was actually able to enjoy the experience and even pose for another photo with these incredible prehistoric giants.
Day 2 was easily one of the highlights of the trip!
Early in the morning, we headed to Manta Point and Taka Makassar. This was our chance to snorkel alongside giant manta rays graceful, gentle creatures that were even more impressive in real life. The water was so crystal clear that it felt like swimming through glass. Even though I can’t swim, I felt completely safe wearing a life jacket and was still able to enjoy the incredible underwater world.
But the best part of the day came after sunset…
Boat party time!
The crew from Golden Island Cruises turned the upper deck into a floating party by turning up the music, switching on the lights, and getting everyone dancing together. Just imagine it celebrating in the middle of the open ocean, surrounded by waves, music, and travelers from all over the world.
On my first Lombok to Labuan Bajo trip, I would have hidden in my cabin because I was terrified of the waves at night. This time? I was right at the front of the dance floor, singing, dancing, and enjoying every single moment.
On Day 3, we arrived at Satonda Island, home to one of Indonesia’s most fascinating natural wonders a saltwater lake located right in the middle of the island. While we were there, some of my friends couldn’t resist jumping straight into the sea from the boat, adding a little extra excitement to the day.
In the afternoon, we continued sailing to Moyo Island. From there, we took a short trek through lush tropical forest to reach Mata Jitu Waterfall.
Honestly, this place looked like something straight out of a fairy tale. The naturally turquoise water was crystal clear, refreshingly cool, and surrounded by beautiful greenery. It was the kind of hidden paradise that instantly made you forget how tired you were a true hidden gem that was absolutely worth the walk.
Our final morning began at Kenawa Island at around 7:00 AM, and it couldn’t have been a better way to end the trip. We took a leisurely walk across the island’s beautiful savanna, enjoyed one last snorkeling session with colorful tropical fish, and spent some time relaxing at the iconic wooden pier, taking in the endless ocean views.
As we sat there, my friends and I couldn’t stop laughing about how dramatic and terrified I had been the very first time I stepped onto a boat. Looking back now, it almost didn’t feel like the same person.
At around 10:00 AM, our boat safely arrived at Kayangan Harbor in Lombok, marking the end of an unforgettable four-day adventure.
No tears this time just amazing memories and a newfound love for life at sea.
If you’re planning to join the Labuan Bajo to Lombok route, there’s no need to worry about what happens after you arrive in Lombok. To help you prepare, here’s a complete overview of the complimentary facilities and a few important things you should know before the trip, so you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and worry-free adventure.
When our boat arrived at Kayangan Harbor in Lombok at around 10:00 AM, a comfortable air-conditioned shuttle from the Golden Island Cruises team was already waiting for us.
Even better, the trip includes a FREE shuttle drop-off to Mataram and Senggigi, so you don’t have to worry about finding transportation or negotiating with local drivers at the harbor.
Note: If you’re heading to Kuta Lombok or Bangsal Harbor, drop-off is also available for a small additional charge.
One thing you definitely won’t have to worry about during the 4-day, 3-night journey is the food.
The trip includes three freshly prepared meals every day, cooked onboard by the boat’s chef. On top of that, you’ll also enjoy fresh fruit, daily snacks, and unlimited coffee and tea whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Snorkeling equipment, including a mask and snorkel, is also provided free of charge, so you’ll have everything you need to explore the incredible underwater world along the way.
This Labuan Bajo to Lombok journey proved something I never thought I’d say: fear can be overcome.
I went from being the girl who nearly cried over the sound and vibration of a boat engine to someone who could genuinely smile, relax, and enjoy four days sailing across the open sea.
If you’re anything like me someone who can’t swim or tends to panic easily don’t let those fears stop you from experiencing something incredible. The key is to choose a trusted and professional tour operator with safe boats and an experienced crew, like Golden Island Cruises. When you know you’re in good hands, it’s much easier to enjoy the journey.
Looking back, I’m so grateful I gave myself the chance to face my fears instead of running from them. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
See you in my next adventure, bestie. Until then, happy travels!
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