The affordable way from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo
Source : The Jakarta Post
The affordable way to get from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo is the topic of my article today
I will give you some interesting information about how to get to Labuan Bajo in a more affordable way
But of course, this depends on your sense of adventure
I will focus on the affordable way from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo by sea travel ( by ferry ), but first, I will give an overview of other travel options.
Apart from that, the affordable way to get to Labuan Bajo from Surabaya also depends on the length of your traveling time.
Of course, if you are in a hurry or only have very little time, this tip is useless because your time is very limited.
The Beautiful Labuan Bajo from Surabaya
Labuan Bajo, located in the picturesque Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Island of Indonesia, has become a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life,
and the gateway to the famous Komodo National Park.
For travelers seeking an affordable adventure, planning the journey from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo requires strategic choices and a bit of local know-how.
In this guide, we will explore the most cost-effective and enjoyable ways to traverse this route
Choosing the Right Mode of Transportation
There are several ways to get to Labuan Bajo, depending on your preferences and the mode of transport you are comfortable with.
Flights
The first option is by air.
Consider low-cost airlines and book tickets well in advance to get the best prices.
Look out for promotions and discounts offered by airlines that fly between Surabaya and Labuan Bajo.
However, you will need to do all this well in advance of your trip to Indonesia, i.e. book your ticket from your own country.
Road travel
For budget travelers, consider the option of road travel.
You can use the buses and vans that are available and this option is also a cheaper alternative.
Road trips will certainly take longer, but the upside is that you can enjoy the diverse landscapes of Java and Flores.
Bus tickets cost around 750,000 rupiah with an estimated travel time of around 35 hours, assuming normal conditions and no traffic jams or other obstacles.
And for those 35 hours, you’re just on the bus and can’t go anywhere.
Travel by sea
There are other alternatives to get to Labuan Bajo from Surabaya, namely by sea or by boat.
There are several boats that you can book to go to Labuan Bajo.
The travel time by sea is about 36 hours, but the advantage is that you can walk around the ship and there are rooms for you to rest and sleep.
You can also buy food in the ship’s cafeteria, which makes you more comfortable and relaxed.
The only disadvantage is that all you can see is the sea and the waves.
And these boats don’t run every day because of the weather, so if you’re short on time it can be very inconvenient.
Boat options from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo
KM Swarna Bahtera
KM Swarna Bahtera is a motor vessel that serves the Surabaya-Labuan Bajo PP route and transits at Badas Harbour, Sumbawa Regency.
PT Jembatan Nusantara operates this vessel.
The ship offers various passenger and vehicle services. For economy class passengers,
the ticket price per person is IDR 50,000 for infants, IDR 230,000 for children
and IDR 320,000 for adults.
However, the KM Swarna Bahtera does not operate every day.
To check the timetable and order tickets, visit the official website of PT Jembatan Nusantara at roro.prahu-hub.com.
KM Darma Rucitra VIII
This vessel calls at Selamat Port, West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
There are several classes with different prices to suit the needs and type of passenger, including
Class, I IDR 550,000
Class II Rp. 495.000
Class III Rp. 400.000
Economy IDR 350,000
Economy Rp. 380.000
Economy Seat IDR 350,000
Executive Chair Rp. 420,000
Single cabin IDR 500,000
Double cabin Rp. 430,000
VIP Suite IDR 1.500.000
Tickets can be purchased from the official PT Dharma Lautan Utama website at tiket.dlu.co.id.
Like a hotel, there are many free and paid facilities that you can enjoy when you travel here.
They start from bathrooms, toilets, prayer rooms, cafes or canteens, playgrounds for children, gyms, salons, karaoke places,
food and drink during the trip, life jackets, decks to relax on, and many others.
KM DARMA RUCITRA VII
Like KM Dharma Rucitra VIII, KM Dharma Rucitra VII plies the Surabaya-Labuan Bajo PP route but does not call at Lembar Harbour. Another difference between the two ships is the type of passenger class and ticket prices.
KM Dharma Rucitra VII also has the following passenger class and ticket prices.
VIP IDR 705,000
Class, I IDR 550,000
Class II Rp. 495,000
Class III Rp. 400,000
Economy 350.000 IDR
Sleeping Economy 380.000 IDR
Economy Sitting IDR 350,000
Please note that this ship does not sail every day, so you need to check the schedule on their website first.
Tips for saving money in Labuan Bajo
As well as tips for getting around, here are some tips for saving money while in Labuan Bajo
Budget Accommodations
Look for budget-friendly accommodations in Surabaya and Labuan Bajo. Hostels, guesthouses, and homestays are great options for those seeking affordable yet comfortable lodgings.
Utilize online platforms to compare prices and read reviews to ensure a good balance between cost and quality.
Strategic Dining
Explore local eateries and street food stalls for authentic Indonesian cuisine at a fraction of the cost of upscale restaurants.
Embrace the opportunity to savor regional specialties, providing a cultural experience alongside cost savings.
Exploring Labuan Bajo on a Budget
- Komodo National Park
Plan your visit during the off-peak season to benefit from lower entrance fees and fewer crowds.
Consider group tours or shared boat trips to explore the Komodo Islands, providing a cost-effective way to witness the majestic Komodo dragons.
Local Attractions
Opt for self-guided explorations to local viewpoints and beaches, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Labuan Bajo without incurring additional expenses.
Navigating the Komodo Islands:
Research and choose budget-friendly dive operators or snorkeling excursions to experience the rich marine life around the Komodo Islands without breaking the bank.
Negotiate prices and inquire about package deals for multiple activities.
Local Transportation
Use public transportation, such as buses or Ojeks (motorcycle taxis) for short distances within Labuan Bajo to save on transportation costs.
But if you stay for several days maybe it will be better if you rent a motorbike because it will make it easier to explore Labuan Bajo
It is also a popular and affordable option for exploring the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
The summary
Taking an affordable trip from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo means making informed choices every step of the way.
By choosing budget-friendly transport, accommodation, and activities, travelers can enjoy the beauty of Labuan Bajo without breaking the bank.
Remember to plan ahead, use online resources, and embrace the local culture for a truly enriching and economical adventure.
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