AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach Deepens Commitment To Ocean Conservation

Since opening in September 2018, AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach has placed a strong focus on preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings at the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park. From day one, the resort has integrated marine conservation into its operations through its Marine Discovery Center, launched as part of the broader AYANA Cares sustainability initiative. The center was established to promote ocean education and coral reef conservation — key priorities in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems.

Led by resident marine biologist Lee Miles, who has a strong background in coral reef restoration and marine ecosystem management, the Marine Discovery Center raises awareness of ocean conservation issues through interactive exhibits, snorkeling excursions, and hands-on coral planting experiences. “At AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, we believe everyone can contribute to environmental protection,” says Miles. “Our goal is to engage and inspire guests and local youth to become active stewards of the ocean.”

At the heart of AYANA Komodo’s conservation work is a growing coral restoration program, covering 2,250 square meters of reef. So far, 325 square meters of coral have been outplanted (the process of transplanting coral fragments that were grown in nurseries back onto natural reef areas) using a variety of techniques.

These include coral gardening, where coral fragments are grown in rope nurseries and nursery racks before being replanted onto the reef after approximately 12 months. For areas lacking natural substrate (a surface or material on the seafloor where organisms such as corals can attach and grow), artificial structures including frames, bottle reef units, concrete slabs, and fish domes are used to create new habitats and increase marine biodiversity.

AYANA also practices a low-impact, organic coral restoration method, using cotton ropes and wooden stakes arranged in underwater grids. Corals planted by guests during interactive sessions gradually self-attach over two to three years, creating vibrant new reef sections. Currently, 160 square meters of coral have been restored using this method. These efforts have transformed the target reef areas into a thriving marine habitat, now home to more than 120 recorded fish species around the resort’s jetty and lagoon.

Located on a peninsular just north of the small town of Labuan Bajo on Flores Island in East Indonesia, AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach is a five-star resort with 205 ocean-facing guest rooms and suites and seven distinct dining options. An ideal gateway to the UNESCO Heritage- listed Komodo National Park, the resort caters to all age groups and offers a diverse array of activities and experiences managed end-to-end by the property. Guests can engage in marine conservation activities, enjoy a romantic dinner on a private deck, practice yoga overlooking the water, and indulge in locally inspired spa treatments.

AYANA Cruises also invites guests to explore Komodo National Park aboard the star of its fleet, the 54-meter luxury wooden ship, the AYANA Lako D’ia. Available for privately chartered or shared multi-day cruising adventures, the magnificent vessel features five-star accommodation and AYANA’s signature five-star hospitality for up to 18 guests. Travelers can also immerse themselves in the region’s rich biodiversity aboard AYANA Cruise’s four other vessels: the AYANA Lako Sae, a stylish three-deck cruise boat; the AYANA Lako Cama, a 12-meter speed boat for intimate day trips; the AYANA Lako Lelo, a 12-meter boat for fishing trips; and the AYANA Lako Taka, a custom-made glass-bottom boat. The resort’s world class luxury and AYANA’s signature five-star hospitality make AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach and AYANA Cruise the ideal choice for families, friends and romantic getaways, and the ultimate way to discover the natural wonders of Komodo National Park.

Press inquiries:
Oka Ciptantio Octorama
E oka.octorama@ayana.com
T +62 812 1806 6808

Haruka Yoshimura
E haruka.yoshimura@ayana.com
T +62 812-4614-7561