Are Komodo speedboats bumpy?

Yes, Komodo speedboats can be quite bumpy, especially when the wind picks up or when you are crossing open stretches of water. Speedboats sit higher on the surface and move quickly, so they feel every wave. This often results in a rough and uncomfortable ride that can be tiring for many travellers. People who are prone to motion sickness usually struggle on speedboats in Komodo because there is no place to rest, lie down, or escape the constant bouncing.

Another issue is that speedboats in Komodo tend to rush through the itinerary in one day which means they have no flexibility to wait for calmer conditions or change timings to avoid rough sections. If the sea is choppy, the ride stays choppy the entire day. This is one of the reasons we do not recommend speedboat day tours. They are loud, crowded, exhausting, and do not offer the peaceful experience Komodo deserves.

Phinisi style slow boats are much more comfortable. They move slowly, sit deeper in the water, and glide through waves instead of slamming over them. This creates a smoother journey and allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling like you are in a race. If you want a relaxing and safe experience, especially for families or older travellers, the phinisi cruises from Labuan Bajo are a much better option.