Matahariku Liveaboard Review

Sailing the beautiful blue Indonesian waters, the traditionally Phinisi Schooner styled MatahariKu is modern in facilties but offers a unique way to travel the wonderful dive sites on offer.

Known for it’s world class biodiversity, Indonesia’s Raja Ampat and Komodo have been described by some as one of the richest places on the planet for aquatic life. Thousands of fish species and small critters are in abundance. In addition there is the opportunity to see larger visitors such as manta rays and sharks.

You can check the availability, schedule and prices for this Boat here.

The wooden hulled MatahariKu is approximately 40m in length and 9m in beam. She has been wafting up and down the waters since 2010. Stylish and one of a kind, she is one of the best Komodo liveaboards working in the area along with KLM Euphoria.

Cabins and Boat Layout

MatahariKu has space for 14 guests within her 7 cabins. This makes her ideal for smaller groups and a more intimate diving experience.

Matahariku Luxury Double Cabin

MatahariKu features 5 ‘luxury’ cabins that have their own private bathrooms with hot and cold running water.

In addition there are two ‘standard’ cabins which are still, nevertheless, excellently trimmed and comfortable.

Matahariku Saloon Area

All cabins are air-conditioned to allow you to sleep in comfort and prepare for the next day’s scuba diving when the vessel is moored for the night.

When not in the cabins there is a comfortable indoor lounge where you can relax and unwind, read or make use of the onboard entertainment TV/DVD system. There is also a modern fitted kitchen.

Moving outside there is also a covered outdoor terrace where you can enjoy the fresh air and the wonderful panorama in the shade. However, should you wish to suntan there is of course a well-equipped sun terrace where you can lie on a sun bed and rest.

Matahariku Sun Deck

For the evenings or non-divers there is a bar onboard where you can contemplate the day’s diving over a beer or glass of wine.

Onboard you will dine either indoors or outdoors on a combination of local and western cuisine and, also included, are free (non-alcoholic) beverages throughout the day.

Diving onboard MatahariKu

Diving in Komodo and Raja Ampat is some of the best in the world. And the 11 friendly dive crew onboard the MatahariKu are there to ensure you have a safe and fun experience. Although, as with her competitor KLM Euphoria, nitrox is not available, every other safety feature is in place. Two diving craft are easily accessed from the stern deck. And there is also an additional zodiac on standby. The vessel, of course, has all the prerequisite first aid and emergency equipment.

Matahariku Dive Platform

Itineraries

The vessel makes three main tours depending on the season so check your calendar! December to March touring Raja Ampat, April to August touring Komodo with the remainder spent close to the Banda Islands. Every voyage offers spectacular diving.

Typically, expect to budget around EUR2,100 for the 9 day/8 night Raja Ampat night trip, competitive at only EUR233 a day.