Private vs Shared Liveaboard: What You Should Know

What Is a Liveaboard Dive Experience?

A liveaboard is a multi-day trip aboard a vessel designed for diving and ocean exploration. You’ll sleep, eat, and dive from the boat, waking up surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine reefs, and no crowds in sight.

Popular destinations like Komodo, Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, and Halmahera become easily accessible, offering world-class dive sites far from the reach of land-based resorts.

If you’re still comparing the overall experience, check out our guide on liveaboard vs resort to understand the pros and cons of both options.

What to Expect on a Shared Liveaboard Trip

Shared liveaboards are popular among solo travelers or divers on a budget. You’ll book a single cabin or bunk and share the boat with other guests.

Key Features of Shared Liveaboards:

• Fixed itineraries and schedules: Your trip follows a pre-designed route with specific dive sites and activities.
• Multiple guests onboard: You’ll meet and share the boat with people from various parts of the world, offering an opportunity to make new friends.
• Lower cost: Shared trips tend to be more affordable since the costs are divided among more people.

If you enjoy meeting new people and are happy with a structured schedule, this is a solid way to experience Indonesia’s dive sites.

It also offers an excellent opportunity for travelers who are new to liveaboard trips and want to enjoy the benefits of the dive lifestyle at a lower cost.

What Makes a Private Liveaboard Experience Different?

Now, let’s talk about private liveaboards. These are also called private yacht charter, which means you book the entire boat for your group, giving you full control over the journey.

This type of liveaboard gives you complete control over your experience. You book the entire vessel for your group, whether you're traveling with family, friends, or fellow divers.

Key Features of Private Liveaboards

• Customized itineraries and schedules: You and your group decide where you want to go, what dive sites to explore, and how long to spend at each location.
• Full control over your experience: Whether you’re an avid photographer who needs flexibility with dive times or a family who prefers privacy, a private liveaboard offers the freedom to design your dream trip.
• Access to more remote destinations: Private charters give you access to less-visited, off-the-beaten-path areas of Indonesia. You can explore places that would be difficult to reach through standard shared itineraries.
• Full privacy: Since you're the only guests aboard, you can enjoy a more intimate and private experience, with the luxury of setting your own pace.
• Flexibility: Private charters allow you to choose specific dive sites, times, and activities, giving you a level of freedom that a shared liveaboard can’t match.

If you’re wondering how to choose the right boat, don’t miss our article on how to choose the best cruise for a dive trip, covering key features, boat types, and what to look for.

The Uncharted Cruises Difference: Expedition-Style Exploration on KLM Thalassa 42

At Uncharted Cruises, we don’t just offer private liveaboard charters; we craft expedition-style journeys designed for curious travelers seeking more than the standard route. Our newly built traditional phinisi, KLM Thalassa 42, blends luxury and adventure with a bold spirit of discovery.

Where Can Private Liveaboards Go in Indonesia? Explore iconic regions like:

• Komodo National Park: Komodo dive sites are known for its diverse marine life and crystal-clear waters. Komodo is a favorite for divers.
• Raja Ampat: Raja Ampat dive sites are known for its exceptional biodiversity.  Raja Ampat is a bucket-list destination for any diver.
• The Banda Sea: Banda Sea offering some of the most pristine diving in Indonesia, this remote location is perfect for those seeking a quiet, less-visited destination.
• Halmahera: Known for vibrant coral reefs and rare marine species, Halmahera provides a more secluded diving experience, with incredible underwater ecosystems that are waiting to be explored.
• Cenderawasih Bay: This stunning location is famous for its large whale shark population, and its clear, calm waters make it a top choice for divers looking for unique encounters with these magnificent creatures. You can dive with gentle whale sharks here.

With a private liveaboard, you’re not limited to these famous locations; you can chart your own course and explore new, uncharted waters.

Who Should Choose a Private Liveaboard Charter?

Private liveaboard charters are perfect for those who want a bespoke experience. Here are some examples of travelers who might find a private charter ideal:

• Diving groups with specific goals: If your group has advanced dive sites or a particular focus, private liveaboards give you the ability to customize the trip to meet your needs.
• Families or friends: Whether it's a family reunion or a group of friends, a private charter ensures that you share this experience exclusively with your loved ones.
• Photographers and videographers: A private charter allows more flexibility with dive times, giving photographers a chance to capture the perfect shot without the pressure of a fixed schedule.
• Explorers seeking uncharted waters: For those interested in exploring hidden, remote locations, a private liveaboard provides a unique opportunity to visit lesser-known dive spots in Indonesia.

Can Beginners Join a Private Liveaboard?

Absolutely! A private charter is actually one of the best ways for beginners to get into diving. With personalized attention, beginner-friendly dive sites, and expert instructors, you’ll learn at your own pace, without pressure or crowds.

Key Considerations Before You Book Your Liveaboard Trip

Choosing between a private or shared liveaboard depends on several factors:

• What kind of experience do you want? Do you prefer a social environment with a set itinerary or a more intimate, flexible experience?
• How much flexibility do you want with your dive sites and schedule? If you’re looking for a more customizable trip, a private liveaboard is the better option.

Are you traveling with a group? Private liveaboards are best for groups who can fill the boat and are looking for a customized journey.