From Whale Sharks to Komodo Dragons: A Week of Unforgettable Encounters on Mermaid II

This week’s diving cruise onboard the Mermaid II from Bali to Komodo and beyond was marked by a series of diverse marine life encounters ranging from rare tiny critters to schooling fish above impeccable coral reefs to bigger ocean giants

The conditions and the weather was mostly pleasant throughout the trip. The atmosphere was filled with great vibes as guests got to know each other.

Earlier in the trip, we had some encounters with a rather curious Banded Sea Krait slithering the reef top on our first dive, a couple of grumpy looking Giant Frogfishes hanging around the sponges along the wall, while Dogtooth Tuna and Bluefin Trevallies cruises along in the blue hunting the big school of Fusiliers.

Some of our guests favorites also include, diving the shallow coral gardens in the north of Komodo. Great visibility allows the morning sunlight to shine through and creates a dreamy scene of the beautiful hard coral reefs.

In Saleh Bay, guests were delighted to have a long interaction with a friendly Whale Shark under a Bagan, feeding while basking under warm early morning light

At the famous Manta Alley, we encountered a train of a dozen Reef Manta Rays circling above us and the cleaning station

One fine afternoon, we took a break from diving to visit Loh Liang. Trekked the picturesque landscapes of Komodo island to see the legendary Komodo Dragons. Our lucky guests were delighted to see a total of 8 Komodo Dragons during our trek!

Christopher Pen

Mermaid II
August 16-23, 2025

For more details of our Komodo cruise check https://www.mermaid-liveaboards.com/destinations/komodo/