An exclusive, adults-only sanctuary floating above the Flores Sea, Katamaran blends traditional Indonesian phinisi boat heritage with minimalist luxury. Perfect for couples, divers, and tranquility-seekers who value privacy, direct reef access, and sunset views without the crowds.
Location & First Impressions:
Where: On a secluded stretch of Waecicu Beach, 10 minutes from Komodo Airport (LBJ). Built entirely over water on stilts, surrounded by coral reefs. Shares the bay with AYANA/TA’AKTANA but feels worlds apart.
Arrival: Arrive via a scenic wooden jetty. The open-air lobby reveals 180° ocean vistas, a horizon pool, and the sound of lapping waves. Staff greet with lemongrass towels and fresh juice. Immediate vibe: peaceful immersion.
The Design & Ambiance:
Architecture: Inspired by traditional Indonesian phinisi sailing ships. Think: teak wood decks, vaulted thatched roofs, rope accents, and floor-to-ceiling glass. Rooms hover directly above turquoise water.
Atmosphere: Intimate (only 18 rooms!), serene, and deeply connected to the sea. No loud music or crowds — just the sound of waves and birds. Romantic and adults-focused (minimum age 15).
Ocean View Pool Villas (85 sqm)
Layout: Spacious bedroom + living area, floor-to-ceiling windows, private deck with infinity plunge pool, sun loungers, and direct ladder access to the sea.
Interiors: Nautical-chic with teak floors, rattan furniture, and a palette of cream, blue, and natural wood. High ceilings amplify the sense of space.
Bathroom: Glass-walled rainforest shower, twin vanities, premium amenities (L’Occitane or similar), and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the ocean.
Key Amenities:
Private infinity plunge pool (heated upon request)King bed with luxury linens
Nespresso machine & gourmet tea selection
Minibar with complimentary soft drinks + local snacks
Smart TV + Bluetooth sound system
Binoculars for birdwatching/whale spotting
24/7 butler service via WhatsApp
Dining & Drinks
The Restaurant:
Cuisine: Fresh seafood, Indonesian classics (try ikan bakar), and Western dishes. Emphasis on locally caught fish and organic produce.
Setting: Overwater dining with panoramic views. Breakfast (à la carte/limited buffet) is a highlight with dragonfruit smoothie bowls and Balinese coffee.
The Jetty Bar:
Sunset cocktails, fine wines, and tapas. Uninterrupted views of Rinca Island. Signature drink: Komodo Breeze (lychee, lime, local gin).
Wellness & Relaxation
Spa: Small but exquisite. Two overwater treatment rooms with glass floors (watch fish during massages!). Treatments use natural ingredients (coconut, seaweed, volcanic stone).
Must-try: “Flores Harmony Massage” (90 mins, traditional techniques).
Yoga: Sunrise sessions on a dedicated deck (mats provided).
Pools: Main infinity pool + private villa plunge pools. No kids splashing — pure tranquility.
Marine Access & Activities
The Reef: The resort’s biggest asset. A thriving house reef surrounds the villas — snorkel directly from your deck. Spot parrotfish, angelfish, octopus, and turtles. Coral health is meticulously protected.
Dive Center (PADI Certified):
Personalized diving/snorkeling trips to Komodo National Park (no crowded boats!).
Freediving courses and private guides.
Non-Water Activities:
Komodo Island tours (early access to avoid crowds).
Padar Island sunrise hike (arranged via private boat).
Stand-up paddleboarding at sunset.
Service & Sustainability
Service: Attentive but unobtrusive. Butlers handle everything from excursion planning to in-room coffee setups. Staff know guests by name.
Eco-Practices:
Built on stilts to minimize coastal impact.
Coral reef regeneration program (guest adopt-a-coral).
Zero single-use plastics (glass bottles, bamboo straws).
Solar-powered hot water + energy-efficient AC.
Supports local seaweed farmers and fishing communities.
Ideal For
Couples & Honeymooners: Ultimate privacy and romance.
Divers/Snorkelers: Unbeatable house reef access.
Travelers Seeking Silence: No kids, no loud music, no crowds.
Wellness-focused Guests: Yoga, spa, and healthy dining.
Considerations
Price: Premium (comparable to TA’AKTANA villas).
Minimalist Design: Less “wow” architecture than TA’AKTANA, more understated elegance.
No Beach: Accessible only via ladders/decks — not for travelers wanting sand between their toes.
Limited Facilities: No gym, kids’ club, or multiple restaurants (focus is on exclusivity, not resort-scale amenities).
Final Thoughts
Katamaran isn’t just a hotel — it’s an immersive overwater experience. Its magic lies in simplicity: waking to fish swimming beneath your floorboards, snorkeling untouched reefs before breakfast, and sipping cocktails as fruit bats glide over scarlet sunsets. While it lacks the grand facilities of AYANA or the architectural drama of TA’AKTANA, it offers unmatched serenity and marine intimacy. For couples or solitude-seekers who prioritize ocean connection over resort bustle, Katamaran is Labuan Bajo’s best-kept secret.
Tip: Book Villa 101 or 102 for the most panoramic views.