Bandeau CTA Élégant

Liveaboard Packing List: The Ultimate Guide

Heading to Komodo or Alor? Don't leave port without these essentials. A complete checklist for the prepared diver.

Jump to Checklist

⚡ Quick Packing Overview

✅ Must-Haves

  • Certification Card & Logbook
  • Dive Computer (Mandatory)
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
  • Reef-Safe Sunscreen

💊 Health & Comfort

  • Seasickness Meds (Drowsy & Non-drowsy)
  • Earplugs (Engine noise)
  • Leave-in Conditioner (Saltwater protection)
  • Reusable Water Bottle

Why Packing for a Liveaboard is Different

Liveaboard trips are the pinnacle of diving. You wake up on the reef, dive, eat, sleep, and repeat. However, diving in remote areas like Komodo National Park or Alor means you are miles away from the nearest dive shop.

⚠️ Reality Check: Unlike a day trip, if your fin strap breaks or your camera battery dies on Day 1 of a 7-day cruise, your trip could be compromised. Self-sufficiency is key.

Dive Gear: What to Bring vs. What We Provide

⚓ Provided Onboard (Shenron)

If you rent gear from us, we include:

  • BCD & Regulator: Scubapro / Apeks serviced gear.
  • Wetsuit: Standard 3mm Shorty or Long (See tip below).
  • Tanks & Weights: Aluminum 12L tanks (DIN/Yoke adaptable) and belt.
  • Guide: Expert PADI Divemaster/Instructor.
🎒 You MUST Bring

Even if renting, always bring these personal items:

  • Mask: Fit is personal. A leaky rental mask ruins a dive.
  • Dive Computer: Mandatory for safety on multi-day repetitive dives.
  • SMB & Whistle: Essential safety gear for currents.
  • Exposure Protection: If you run cold, bring a hooded vest or your own 5mm suit. 4 dives a day drains body heat!

Non-Diving Essentials

1. Clothing: "Barefoot Luxury"

Liveaboards are casual. You will spend 90% of your time in swimwear. Pack light: Shorts, t-shirts, and a hoodie for cooler evenings at sea. Note: Most boats, including Shenron, have a strict "No Shoes" policy inside.

2. The Medicine Cabinet

Seasickness medication

Seasickness Meds

Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

💡 The "Sleep Hack": Boat engines can run at night during crossings. Bring high-quality Earplugs and an Eye Mask to ensure you are well-rested for the 6 AM briefing!

3. Electronics & Cameras

There is nothing worse than running out of space or power.

  • Storage: Bring an SSD hard drive or extra SD cards. You will shoot more footage than you think.
  • Power Strip: Cabins have limited outlets. A small power strip lets you charge your camera, lights, and phone simultaneously.
  • Spare O-Rings: For your specific camera housing. We cannot replace these at sea.

Common Questions

Do I really need a dive computer?
Yes. On a liveaboard, you are doing 3-4 dives a day for several days. This leads to residual nitrogen loading that tables cannot easily track. For your safety, a personal computer is non-negotiable.
Can I wash my clothes onboard?
Generally, no. Water is precious on a boat and reserved for showers and rinsing gear. Pack enough t-shirts for the week (or just wear the same one, we don't judge!).
What about toiletries?
Saltwater and sun are harsh. Bring reef-safe shampoo, a good leave-in conditioner, and moisturizer. Please avoid products with microbeads or harsh chemicals that harm the reef.

Ready to Pack?

Now that you are prepared, it's time to book your adventure.

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