Le Pirate Explorer

Le Pirate, the group behind the beach clubs on Gili Meno and Gili Lontar, runs Explorer boats out of Labuan Bajo. They are deliberately simple: five tented cabins on the upper deck for two guests each, a maximum of ten guests, one shared toilet and one bathroom, an open lounge with sofas, hammocks and bean bags, and solar-powered electricity. There is no air conditioning and no Wi-Fi.

The 3D2N trip leaves every Monday and returns Wednesday, and the 4D3N leaves Thursday and returns Sunday. Routes include sunrise on Padar, Komodo or Rinca for the dragons, Pink Beach, Manta Point, Taka Makassar and Kanawa, with nights anchored at spots such as Siaba. A crew of five runs each boat, and evenings bring an outdoor movie.

It suits younger travellers and couples who want a social, back-to-basics trip. Meet at the Le Pirate office on Jl. Soekarno Hatta at 09:30 on departure day.