Komodo
Images taken during a dive trip aboard the Arenui in Komodo, Indonesia.
Airport at Labuan Bajo, Flores, the gateway to Komodo
Phinisi boats in Labuan Bajo harbor
Small Indonesian watercraft
Labuan Bajo at sunset
The dive boat Arenui
Stateroom on the Arenui
Another part of the stateroom on the Arenui
Carving on stateroom door. Over 70% of the Arenui is made from antique wood, much of which is intricately carved.
At the helm of the Arenui
Putting up the sails
Chef Putu's creation
The Arenui
Welcome sign at Rinca Island, home to many Komodo Dragons
Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis). These largest of all lizards average 8.5 feet in length and weigh close to 200 lbs.
Park ranger, Rinca Island. All visitors are guided by the rangers, who carry large staffs to hold the dragons at bay should the need arise. Komodo dragons are carnivores and have attacked humans.
Dragon resting in the sun.
The Komodo dragon differentiated from its predecessor in Australia about 4 million years ago.
Rangers and dragon. The rangers do not lack for courage.
Resting dragon.
Thankfully, this was the extent of this dragon's interest in us.
Rinca Island landscape.
Dragons hang out near the cabins of the rangers, attracted by the smell of food.
Beginning the courtship ritual.
Mating behavior.
The ritual continues.
Farewell from Rinca Island.