5.0 
Cenderawasih Bay
One of Indonesia’s most unique liveaboard destinations
Main Sailing Season
July – August
Typical Trip Length
9-11 nights
Start & End Points
Nabire ⇔ Manokwari
Trip Types
Cabins & Private Charter
Cenderawasih Bay is one of Indonesia’s most unique liveaboard destinations, a vast, sheltered bay in West Papua that blends pristine reefs with an unparalleled opportunity for close encounters with whale sharks.
Unlike anywhere else in the world, these gentle giants gather around traditional fishing platforms, offering divers and snorkelers unforgettable face-to-face experiences.
Beyond the whale sharks, Cenderawasih reveals a different side of Indonesia’s seas: WWII wrecks, untouched coral gardens, remote islands, and a sense of exploration that few divers ever experience. With calm conditions during the main season (June to September), this is a destination for adventurers who want to go truly off the beaten path.
- Year-Round Whale Shark Encounters
- Pristine Reefs & Remote Coral Gardens
- Historic WWII Shipwrecks
- Rare, Off-the-Beaten-Path Expedition
- Kayak glassy lagoons, explore remote Papuan villages, or hike for bird-of-paradise sightings.
- Explore a part of the world few ever will
Diving Cenderawasih Bay with Calico Jack
Cenderawasih Bay, nestled within breathtaking landscapes, is famed for its warm, nutrient-rich waters, making it a diver’s paradise. This region offers incredible biodiversity, allowing visitors to swim alongside majestic whale sharks and explore vibrant coral reefs. Calico Jack visits Cenderawasih Bay in August and September, running 11-night dive cruises to access the area’s best dive sites.
Whale Sharks: Cenderawasih Bay is known for its year-round whale shark sightings, where fishermen attract these gentle giants with baitfish. Observing these magnificent creatures is a captivating experience for divers and snorkelers.
WWII Shipwrecks: The bay is home to several historically significant WWII shipwrecks, suitable for divers of all levels. Explore various wrecks, from landing crafts to a submerged warship, each surrounded by vibrant marine life.
Stunning Seascapes: In addition to whale sharks and shipwrecks, Cenderawasih Bay features stunning seascapes with massive boulders, dramatic drops, and pristine coral reefs, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and diverse fish, including graceful blacktip reef sharks.
- Kwatisore Bay: This is perhaps the most famous spot in Cenderawasih Bay, known for its consistent sightings of whale sharks. These gentle giants can often be seen feeding near local fishing platforms, providing divers with an extraordinary experience. The clarity of the water and the close encounters with these magnificent creatures make it a must-visit location.
- Shinwa Maru Wreck: Located near Manokwari, this WWII shipwreck offers divers a chance to explore a historical site that has become a vibrant habitat for marine life. The wreck lies at depths ranging from 16 to 34 meters, attracting those interested in both history and underwater photography.
- Purup Island: This spot is known for its beautiful reefs and diverse marine life, offering excellent opportunities for macro photography as well as sightings of larger species.
- Wairundi Island: Another great diving spot, Wairundi Island features rich coral gardens and a variety of fish species, making it suitable for divers of all levels.
- Padaido Archipelago: This area is noted for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, providing a more secluded diving experience away from the more crowded sites.
This sample itinerary might be subject to change due to weather conditions.
Day 1: Arrive in Nabire, where you’ll be picked up and taken to the boat. After lunch, enjoy a check dive in Kwatisore Bay.
Days 2-3: Dive with majestic whale sharks in Kwatisore Bay over six dives. Experience the thrill of swimming alongside these gentle giants and explore the rich marine life in this unique setting.
Day 4: Dive at Tanjung Mangguar with four dives at stunning sites featuring giant barrel sponges and vibrant marine life. Enjoy a possible night dive in the area.
Day 5: Explore Pulau Sodompari and Wandammen Peninsula with three dives on a half-kilometer reef and enjoy the diversity of pelagic species, including schooling barracuda and giant trevally.
Day 6: Dive around Pulau Roon and Pulau Ribbon. Explore beautiful soft corals, sea fans, and a WWII downed aircraft in shallow waters. Possible night dive.
Day 7: Dive in Pulau Mioswar with three dives featuring abundant fish life among large rocks and boulders. Visit a local village and enjoy a night dive off the village’s front.
Day 8: Dive at Pulau Matas and Pulau Rouw, featuring stunning coral walls and a WWII “P38 Lightning” fighter plane wreck. Spend the afternoon relaxing on a beautiful beach and enjoy a beach BBQ party.
Day 9: Dive around Pulau Wairundi, experiencing unspoiled reefs with abundant marine life and shark sightings, perfect for underwater photographers.
Day 10: Explore the wall dives around Pulau Numfoor and check out multiple WWII landing crafts that are covered in colorful corals.
Day 11: Dive at Manokwari to explore WWII wrecks, including the “Shinwa Maru” and the “Pillbox wreck,” both known for their historical significance and vibrant marine life.
Day 12: After breakfast and final farewells, disembark in Manokwari, concluding your incredible diving adventure in Cenderawasih Bay.
This sample itinerary might be subject to change due to weather conditions.
Day 1: Arrive in Manokwari, where you’ll be picked up and transferred to the boat. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon check dive in the Manokwari area.
Days 2: Dive around Manokwari to explore WWII wrecks over four dives, including the “Shinwa Maru,” a bombed ship resting at 35 meters, and the “Cross Wreck,” known for its vibrant coral life.
Day 3: Dive at Pulau Numfoor and Manim Island, featuring a wall dive and several WWII landing crafts adorned with colorful corals at various depths.
Day 4: Enjoy four dives at Pulau Wairundi, characterized by unspoiled reefs with diverse marine life and plenty of shark action.
Day 5: Arrive at Pulau Matas for two dives, including a sloping wall and a WWII “P38 Lightning” fighter plane wreck. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and enjoy a beach BBQ party in the evening.
Day 6: Dive near Pulau Mioswar with three dives among vibrant coral-covered boulders, followed by a village visit and a night dive offshore.
Day 7: Enjoy four dives around Pulau Roon and Pulau Ribbon, spotting turtles and exploring vibrant coral reefs, including a WWII aircraft wreck resting at 12 meters. A possible night dive will conclude the day.
Day 8: Dive near Pulau Sodompari and Wandammen Peninsula with three dives, featuring mini walls and rich marine biodiversity, including schooling barracuda and giant trevally.
Day 9: Dive in Tanjung Mangguar, known for its stunning underwater landscapes and diverse marine life, including large sponges and plenty of fish. Night dive opportunities may be available.
Days 10-11: Spend two days diving in Kwatisore Bay, where whale shark encounters are common. Depending on sightings, the itinerary may vary as you enjoy the chance to swim with these gentle giants.
Day 12: After breakfast and final farewells, disembark in Nabire and be transported to your hotel or Nabire airport, concluding your unforgettable diving experience in Cenderawasih Bay.
Beyond Diving in Cenderawasih
Cenerawasih Bay is the closest area to the border with Papua New Guinea. Its cities have a colourful spin on the native culture of Papua. People here are of the same race as native Australians, with distinct facial features and traditions. If you are not a diver, there are still plenty of opportunities for exploration!
Island Exploration: Cenderawasih Bay is not just about diving; it’s also rich in cultural and natural attractions. Visit local villages to experience traditional Papuan culture and learn about the region’s history. The bay is dotted with uninhabited islands, perfect for beachcombing or hiking to scenic viewpoints. Snorkelling and Kayaking: For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, Cenderawasih Bay offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. The calm, clear waters make it easy to explore the vibrant coral reefs just below the surface.
Kayaking is another great way to explore the bay’s pristine waters and remote coastlines, offering a peaceful and intimate way to connect with nature. You can also experience the Whale Sharks while snorkelling! In order to feed from the fishing platforms, they will surface up and circle around the platform, filtering the water full of nutrients.
Bird Watching and Nature Walks: The surrounding islands of Cenderawasih Bay are home to a variety of bird species, including the endemic Wilson’s bird-of-paradise. Guided nature walks and bird-watching tours can be arranged to explore the lush tropical forests and spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Visit local villages: Cenderawasih Bay is a fairly remote area. The local community is very friendly and welcoming. When in Nabire or Mankwari, you can visit local schools, meet the kids, and offer some school supplies. Please let us know if you wish to do so, and we can organise the meeting. Throughout the cruise, we will be visiting several remote villages where people would appreciate receiving medical supplies (we would usually bring first-aid kits to distribute across the villages). You are welcome to participate in it!
Travel Routes: Cenderawasih Bay is accessible via flights to Nabire or Biak, two remote towns in Papua, Indonesia. Most visitors fly from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta or Bali, with connecting flights available through domestic carriers. We suggest choosing Garuda Indonesia for your domestic flights, but other carriers are also acceptable.
Once you arrive at Nabire or Manokwari, Calico Jack Charters arranges a transfer to our liveaboard, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure.
If your cruise starts from Manokwari, Calico Jack will leave the harbour around noon. All guests must be on board before 10 a.m.
Our last dive will be at 11 a.m., one day before the last. We will return to the harbour of Nabire in the late light of the day before the last.
The departure from the boat is planned for after breakfast (around 11 a.m.). However, if you need to take an early morning flight, we can drop you off any morning. For the early departures, please remember that you will need to skip the last dive at noon of the previous day.
Health & Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa for Indonesia and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. Most travellers can obtain a visa on arrival, but you can also apply for an e-visa online to streamline the process. This 30-day visa costs 500.000 IDR (EUR 33).
Packing Essentials: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the vibrant marine environment. We provide towels and amenities. However, if you have particular product preferences, please grab your own.
Reliable Travel Agent
Vifa Holidays Indonesia has supported international travel agents and local boat and resort operators for over 19 years. They ensure that you enjoy a hassle-free travel experience in one of the world’s most diverse and captivating diving destinations.
Vifa Holiday Indonesia provides a wide range of services designed to cater to all travel needs:
- Travel Planning
- Domestic and International Flight Bookings
- Airport Assistance
- Accommodation Arrangements
- Transportation Services
- Tours and Excursions
Please contact Vifa’s team for enquiries on your best flight route by emailing travel@vifaholidayindonesia.com or visiting their website, www.vifaholidayindonesia.com.
WhatsApp: Theo +62 812 4262 7110
Seasonal Overview: Cenderawasih Bay enjoys a tropical climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging between 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). The region experiences a wet and dry season, with the wet season occurring from November to April and the dry season from May to October.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cenderawasih Bay for diving is during the dry season when the seas are calm, and visibility is at its peak. However, whale sharks can be spotted year-round, making it a prime destination for marine enthusiasts regardless of the season.
Packing Tips: Visitors should pack light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather. During the wet season, it’s advisable to bring waterproof gear and quick-drying fabrics. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good hat to protect against the sun.
Exploring Cenderawasih Bay
Marine Paradise of Cenderawasih Bay
Cenderawasih Bay’s landscape is as diverse as it is stunning. From lush tropical forests and serene coastal waters to vibrant underwater ecosystems bursting with life, there’s something here for every explorer. The bay’s unique features and its reputation for whale sharks have sparked international interest, drawing divers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
While whale sharks may not be the mythical creatures of ancient tales, their presence in Cenderawasih Bay, along with the rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity, is a testament to the area’s ecological significance. This led to the establishment of Teluk Cenderawasih National Park, which protects both the waters and the unique wildlife found in the region. The park’s commitment to conservation ensures that the natural beauty and biodiversity of Cenderawasih Bay remain intact for generations to come.
The park encompasses a variety of islands and coastal areas, each offering unique experiences—from stunning sunsets over the bay to encounters with indigenous marine life. The surrounding waters are a protected haven for divers, boasting a rich array of marine species and stunning coral reefs. For liveaboard divers, this means access to diverse dive sites across the region’s small, often secluded islands. Whether you’re passionate about capturing the details of macro life or eager to spot larger pelagic species, a dive in Cenderawasih Bay promises something for every diving enthusiast. With opportunities ranging from muck diving for macro photography to the exhilarating sight of majestic manta rays, every dive is an unforgettable experience in this underwater paradise.
Cenderawasih Bay Schedule
Calico Jack
Calico Jack has become a legend in the waters of Raja Ampat. For over 10 years we have proudly explored the waters of this stunning destination through every season.
Anne Bonny
Anne Bonny brings a new level of comfort to our Raja Ampat Charters. Designed for private charter it is the perfect yacht for incredible family adventures in Raja Ampat.
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Book Your Cenderawasih Bay Liveaboard Adventure
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