Raja Ampat needs no introduction; it is one of the most legendary cluster of islands and waters in Indonesia. This is especially true for scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts who want to get a glimpse of an underwater paradise like no other. If this is your first-time visiting Raja Ampat it would be wise to do some preliminary research of the conditions before going there, so you know exactly when to book your flight, accommodation and diving trips!
Raja Ampat Overview
Located on the equator, Raja Ampat enjoys a consistent day length of about 12 hours, as well as a year-round temperature of around 31 Celsius during the day and 25 Celsius at night. These are fairly consistent, but some people find it hotter due to the high humidity index.
Our recommendation for best visiting times is between May and June. It’s during these times that the visibility will be at its greatest, and, more importantly, there will be less boats sailing around the park as they’ll most likely be in the Komodo Islands at this time. Additionally, for divers there are a significant amount of fish from the warm currents, giving more diversity to your diving experience.
Best Times to Visit
In terms of the best visiting time, it depends what your intentions are when visiting Raja Ampat. If you plan to visit Raja Ampat to relax and enjoy the tropical island paradise, you can plan a visit at any time of the year.
However, divers will want to plan their trips around certain months. Despite the fairly consistent weather conditions in Raja Ampat, there are times when conditions are more favorable. If you prefer to dive in calmer conditions, we recommend visiting around mid-October through December, as the winds are not as strong (which can cause the water to be choppy). This doesn’t necessarily affect your underwater visibility, but it can make the sailing experience a bit rougher than normal.
Are you currently planning a liveaboard to Raja Ampat? Sail with us at Calico Jack Charters and we’ll take care of you and your crew for the best sailing experience in Raja Ampat. Visit our website for details on our destinations, itineraries and schedules.
