The agent needs your passportdetails since they need to report you at the harbourmaster in Labuan Bajo.

All travelers who visit Komodo NP need to be registered, so this is normal yes.

many deals are done by whatsapp these days. i book hotel, car rental, excursions through it for the past few yrs. it cost money to build and maintain website and why bother when you can do business via free social media platforms. i vet many providers through whatsapp. so easy to call up and talk to the person half a world away, for free.

i wouldnt worry abt passport. we give up more data by sharing location every day. at least if anything happen to the boat, they would know which tourist is on it.

Thank you everyone that’s put my mind at ease! :)

I emailed them but got no response. Some travel vlogger video about their hip looked good. But it looked like its Russian owned which, IF true, I'd avoid.

Many old hands say just shop around on arrival in LBJ as there are SO many boats competition keeps prices lower than online and lots of choice.