5.0 
Raja Ampat
Explore an unmatched blend of pristine nature, rich biodiversity, and adventure with Calico Jack and Anne Bonny Raja Ampat Diving Liveaboards
Main Sailing Season
October – April
Typical Trip Length
7-11 nights
Start & End Points
Sorong
Trip Types
Cabins & Private Charter
Raja Ampat is the crown jewel of Indonesia’s Coral Triangle, a remote paradise of 1,500 islands, world-class diving, and the richest reefs on Earth.
Raja Ampat isn’t just a hidden gem in Indonesia; it’s a diver’s paradise that offers an unmatched blend of pristine nature, rich biodiversity, and adventure. Known as ‘The Last Paradise’ for its stunning underwater world and topography, Raja Ampat liveaboard adventures take you through these remote islands, offering unparalleled access to the region’s most breathtaking dive sites. With over 1,700 species of fish and 600 types of coral, Raja Ampat is the holy grail for divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts seeking one of the world’s last untouched frontiers. Whether you’re searching for the best Raja Ampat liveaboard for diving or an all-encompassing nature experience, this destination delivers it all.
- World’s Most Biodiverse Reefs – 600+ coral species & 1,700+ fish species
- 1,500 Islands & Lagoons – limestone towers, hidden bays, turquoise seas
- Wayag Viewpoints – iconic panoramas of Raja Ampat’s karst islands
- Whale Sharks & Rare Wildlife – walking sharks, pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs
- Year-Round Diving – 28–30°C waters, 30m visibility in peak season
- Birds of Paradise – witness rare dawn courtship displays
- Remote & Exclusive – untouched frontier, far from mass tourism
Experiences in Raja Ampat
From vibrant coral reefs and manta encounters to jungle-covered islands, hidden lagoons and rare wildlife, every journey through Raja Ampat offers a different way to explore this extraordinary region.
Diving in Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is widely regarded as the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on Earth, and one of the finest liveaboard diving destinations anywhere in the world.
With over 1,700 species of fish and 600 types of coral, the region offers an extraordinary mix of vibrant reefs, pelagic encounters, and rare macro life across a vast and remote island chain.
Exceptional Marine Biodiversity
Raja Ampat sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle and is home to more marine species than anywhere else on Earth, from reef sharks and manta rays to pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs.
Iconic Dive Regions
Explore diverse dive environments across Misool, Dampier Strait and the northern islands, each offering different conditions, reef structures and marine life encounters.
Big Fish & Macro Life
From manta ray cleaning stations and schooling fish to rare macro species hidden within coral reefs, Raja Ampat offers one of the most complete diving experiences in the world.
Varied Dive Conditions
Dives range from calm reef systems to current-rich channels. Water temperatures average 26–30°C, with visibility typically between 15–30 metres.
Discover our liveaboard diving expeditions across Raja Ampat, including detailed itineraries, dive sites, and trip options.
When to Visit Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is widely considered a seasonal destination, with the best conditions typically found between October and April.
During this period, seas are generally calmer, visibility is at its best, and conditions are ideal for exploring the region’s most iconic dive sites, from the reefs of Misool to the channels of Dampier Strait and the lagoons of Wayag.
Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
May
Oct
Nov
Dec
Outside the Peak Season
Raja Ampat can still be explored outside of peak months, but conditions become more variable.
- Increased wind and surface conditions
- Reduced access to certain exposed areas
- More itinerary flexibility required
Peak Season: October to April
This is the prime window for liveaboard diving in Raja Ampat.
- Calm seas and favourable weather
- Excellent visibility across most regions
- Consistent diving conditions throughout the expedition
- Access to the full range of Raja Ampat dive sites
How to get to Raja Ampat
Getting to Raja Ampat is part of the adventure, but with the right planning, it’s a smooth and well-established journey.
All Calico Jack expeditions begin in Sorong (SOQ), the main gateway to Raja Ampat. From here, guests board the vessel directly and begin their expedition.
1. Fly to Indonesia
Most guests arrive via Bali (Denpasar) or Jakarta, both of which have strong international connections.
2. Domestic Flight to Sorong
From Bali or Jakarta, guests take a domestic flight to Sorong (SOQ).
- Flight time: approximately 4 hours
- Several daily flights available
- Typically overnight or early morning connections
3. Boarding the Vessel
On arrival in Sorong:
- Our team will meet you at the airport
- Transfers to the harbour are arranged
- Guests board Calico Jack directly
Seamless Expedition Planning
From airport transfers to boarding logistics, our team ensures your journey to and from the vessel is straightforward and well coordinated — even in this remote part of Indonesia.
Why Visit Raja Ampat with Us
A charter yacht adventure in Raja Ampat is an expedition into the most biodiverse marine region on the planet, and we’ve been sailing it for over a decade.
Our two yachts, Calico Jack and Anne Bonny, explore every corner of this 4.5 million-hectare marine park, the manta cleaning stations of Dampier Strait to the cathedral-lit lagoons of Misool.
Why choose us:
- Two Iconic Yachts – Calico Jack (legendary phinisi) & Anne Bonny (modern private charter)
- Expert Local Crew – Marine-biologist cruise directors + Papuan crew who know these currents like home
- Intimate Groups – Max 10 guests = more dive time, more freedom
- Go-Anywhere Range – Remote lagoons, hidden reefs, private beaches
- Eco-Conscious Operation – Zero single-use plastics, reef-safe protocols, conservation support
Exploring the Raja Ampat Islands
Raja Ampat boasts an astonishing diversity of landscapes and marine ecosystems, making it a must-visit destination for explorers. From the lush rainforests, home to unique species like the red and Wilson’s birds-of-paradise, to the crystal-clear waters that host over 1,700 species of reef fish and 600 types of coral, this region is a true paradise for both terrestrial and marine enthusiasts. The area’s commitment to conservation ensures that its natural beauty and rich biodiversity remain protected for generations to come.
In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Raja Ampat is renowned for its vibrant underwater world, making it a top destination for divers and snorkelers. With exceptional visibility and warm waters, the region offers unparalleled opportunities to encounter megafauna such as manta rays, whale sharks, and various sea turtles. The surrounding marine parks protect not only the rich coral reefs but also the endangered species that thrive in these waters, solidifying Raja Ampat’s reputation as one of the planet’s marine biodiversity hotspots. Each dive or snorkeling adventure reveals a new wonder, from vibrant coral gardens to elusive pygmy seahorses, ensuring that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories of this extraordinary marine paradise.
Find Your Perfect Raja Ampat Voyage
Whether you’re chasing mantas through Misool’s coral gardens or cruising between Wayag’s limestone peaks, every voyage we run is handcrafted for a different kind of traveller.
Triton Bay to Raja Ampat
11 nights
Kaimana
~33 dives
From $5,100
Raja Ampat Full Park
11 nights
Sorong
~35 dives
From $4,365
Raja Ampat North (Wayag)
8 nights
Sorong
~26 dives
From $3,100
Cenderawasih Bay – Nabire to Manokwari
11 nights
Nabire
~35 dives
From $5,100
Raja Ampat to the Spice Islands Dive Expedition
11 nights
Sorong
~35 dives
From $5,300
Raja Ampat Sailing Schedule
See our availability and sailing schedule for Raja Ampat
Need help or have questions before booking?
We’re here to help.
Call or Whatsapp: +62 813-3932-5544
Email: calicojackbookings@gmail.com
Guaranteed Departures
Our scheduled expeditions run with very small guest numbers, and most trips confirm well in advance. Once your departure is confirmed you can confidently arrange your flights and travel plans.
Small Guest Groups
Calico Jack carries a maximum of just 10 guests. This allows for relaxed dive operations, small dive groups, and a far more personal onboard experience than larger liveaboards.
Expedition Experience
Our crew has spent years navigating Indonesia’s remote seas, guiding divers across Raja Ampat, Triton Bay, the Banda Sea and other rarely visited regions of the Coral Triangle.
Trusted by Divers Worldwide
Calico Jack Charters is consistently rated among the top liveaboards in Indonesia, with excellent guest reviews and many returning divers joining multiple expeditions.
Prepared for Your Expedition
Before departure you’ll receive a complete trip preparation guide covering travel logistics, packing advice, dive equipment recommendations, and destination information.
Ready to set sail?
Book Your Raja Ampat Liveaboard Adventure
Don’t miss the chance to explore one of the world’s most stunning marine environments. Contact Calico Jack Charters today to book your liveaboard adventure.