Raja Ampat Diving Liveaboards
Highlights ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
World Famous Dive Destination
Traditional Indonesian sailing boat
Wifi Available (Starlink 5G)
Diving, Freediving, Leisure cruises
Marine Biologist (Cruise Director)
Great for Macro diving
Why Choose a Raja Ampat Liveaboard?
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.
Diving in Raja Ampat
Diving cruises in Raja Ampat are our speciality! Since 2014, we have proudly explored the waters of this stunning destination every season. Our connection to the region is unique, encompassing everything from its rich culture to its vibrant coral reefs.
Our Cruise Directors are highly skilled divers with years of experience and extensive knowledge of the ocean, while our crew is exceptionally trained in this area. We are passionate about creating comfortable adventures in remote locales, and we excel at it!
Raja Ampat is widely regarded as a “must-visit” destination for every diver due to its astonishing volume and variety of coral and fish. It’s truly an experience worth witnessing! It also offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a cold drink, sitting on a beanbag on a secluded island with no one around for kilometers.
- Cape Kri: Often hailed as a premier diving destination, Cape Kri features vibrant, healthy coral reefs brimming with marine life, including a variety of reef sharks. This underwater paradise offers an exhilarating diving experience and is a highlight of any Raja Ampat liveaboard itinerary.
- Manta Sandy: Located within Raja Ampat, Manta Sandy is renowned for its thrilling encounters with large schools of manta rays. Divers often have the unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside these majestic creatures, making it a must-visit spot on your diving adventure.
- Blue Magic: A submerged seamount rich in biodiversity, Blue Magic is a hotspot for pelagic species such as sharks and trevallies, as well as dense schools of colorful reef fish. This vibrant site promises an exciting Raja Ampat diving experience for underwater enthusiasts.
- Misool Island: A visit to Misool Island not only offers the chance to witness stunning landscapes but also allows divers to explore rich coral gardens. With varied visibility, this area is a treasure trove for macro photographers seeking to capture nudibranchs and other fascinating critters.
- Batanta: Many liveaboard itineraries include dives around Batanta, where muck diving enthusiasts can encounter an incredible array of unique marine life, including elusive blue-ringed octopuses and colorful nudibranchs. This area is perfect for those looking to discover the hidden gems of Raja Ampat’s underwater world.
This sample itinerary might be subject to change due to weather conditions.
Day 1: Arrive in Sorong, where you’ll be picked up and taken to the boat for an 11 AM departure. Set sail on a 12-hour cruise to the East of Misool.The following six days we will spend exploring Misool, located in the South of Raja Ampat. We will do a total of 16 to 18 dives in this area.
Day 2: Dive in the Balbulol and Daram areas, experiencing famous dive sites like No Contest, Dangerous Kayak, and Candy Store, known for its vibrant marine life. Explore additional lagoons and enjoy the sounds of Palm Cockatoos at night.
Day 3: Continue diving around Warokaraket/Boo Island, with sites like Shadow Reef and Yellit Kecil, known for its nudibranchs and unique underwater features. Enjoy a night dive at Shadow Reef.
Day 4: Explore Wayilbatan with four dives, including Wedding Cake, where you can spot batfish and pygmy seahorses. Spend the afternoon kayaking and paddle boarding among spectacular hidden lagoons.
Day 5: Short navigation to the Fiabacet area for three dives, including Batu Kecil, Nudi Rock, and Whale Rock. Experience one of the most extensive reef systems in Raja Ampat with abundant fish life and vibrant corals.
Day 6: Dive around Wagmab and the islet of Farondi, known for tunnels, caverns, and colorful walls. Enjoy the diverse marine landscapes before setting sail for an overnight cruise to Penemu Island.
Day 7: Arrive at Penemu for three dives at My Reef and Melissa’s Garden, followed by a short boat tour and a trek to a viewpoint overlooking the star-shaped lagoons of Piaynemo.
Day 8: Dive at Wofo Island, including the Black Forest and Wofo Tembok. Spend the evening enjoying a beach BBQ, soaking in the views and relaxation.
Day 9: Explore the mangrove anchorage at Gam with three dives at stunning sites such as Citrus Ridge and Mayhem, experiencing some of the region’s best diving.
Day 10: Dive at Lalosi before visiting Manta Sandy, one of the best sites for manta ray encounters. In the afternoon, visit a local village on Arborek and conclude the day with a night dive at Arborek Pier.
Day 11: Final dives at Cape Kri, known for its large fish populations, before relaxing on a secluded beach. In the evening, return to Sorong.
Day 12: After breakfast and final farewells, disembark in Sorong and be transported to your hotel or airport, concluding your unforgettable Raja Ampat adventure.
This sample itinerary might be subject to change due to weather conditions.
Day 1: Arrive in Sorong, where you’ll be picked up and taken to the boat. After a safety briefing and refreshments, set sail for a 5-hour cruise to Mioskon Island. Enjoy an afternoon check dive and watch the sunset as flying foxes embark on their night adventures.
Day 2: Dive in the Dampier Strait with four dives at Mioskon, Sardine Reef, and Yenbuba Jetty. Experience the impressive “fish thunder” at Sardine Reef before an evening navigation to Penemu.
Day 3: Arrive at Penemu for three dives, including My Reef and Melissa’s Garden, known for their rich marine life. Take a boat tour to explore and trek to the iconic viewpoint overlooking the star-shaped lagoons.
Day 4: Navigate towards Wayag, diving at Eagle Rock and Black Rock, home to diverse marine life. Enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding and trek to the panoramic viewpoint on Mount Pindito, followed by a night dive in the lagoon.
Day 5: Dive with mantas at a secret cleaning station and visit a shark sanctuary in Wayag. Experience an afternoon dive at Ridge Rock before evening navigation to Wofo Island.
Day 6: Dive at Wofo, exploring Woo’s Black Forest, Woo Tembok, and Teman Wofo. Spend the evening enjoying a beach BBQ party complete with local music and fireworks.
Day 7: Early morning navigation to Yanggefo for four dives at Mayhem and Citrus Ridge, known for high-voltage diving with massive schools of fish. Dive at the Arborek Jetty and visit the local village to learn about island life before a night dive
Day 8: Conclude diving with two fabulous sites: Blue Magic and Cape Kri, known for abundant marine life. Relax on a secluded beach in the afternoon before sailing back to Sorong.
Day 9: After breakfast and final farewells, disembark in Sorong, concluding your incredible diving adventure in Raja Ampat, with transport to your hotel or airport
Raja Ampat (Misool Route)
Raja Ampat (Wayag Route)
Leisure Activities in Raja Ampat
Being mostly a diving destination, Raja Ampat can be explored by freedivers and snorkelers. Most dive sites have shallow parts, providing a stunning experience for anyone able to swim with a mask.
Raja Ampat is a stunning archipelago that should be explored above the water. Kayaking amongst the carst lagoons is another fantastic activity to engage in. We can also set up a beach hang-out to spend a lazy day under the umbrella. So, if you (or your partner) are not a diver, there are still plenty of exciting things to do in Raja Ampat!
We can easily add more inland activities to the trips on Anne Bonny, making this boat a perfect choice for couples with one diver and families.
We are open to private charters for groups of friends, families and retreats. We also collaborate with yoga teachers, freediver instructors and coaches to create a unique private experience
Raja Ampat is not just about diving. The archipelago offers a wealth of other activities for those who wish to explore the natural beauty above water as well.
Top Activities in Raja Ampat:
Snorkeling: The shallow reefs around the islands are perfect for snorkeling, offering a chance to see vibrant corals, reef fish, and even the occasional turtle.
Island Hopping: Explore the many islands of Raja Ampat, each with its unique landscape. Highlights include the stunning karst formations of Wayag Island and the hidden lagoons of Misool.
Bird Watching: Raja Ampat is home to several endemic bird species, including the iconic Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise. Early morning bird-watching tours offer a chance to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Cultural Visits: Experience the local culture by visiting traditional Papuan villages. Engage with the friendly locals, learn about their way of life, and purchase handmade crafts as souvenirs.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore hidden coves, mangroves, and uninhabited islands by kayak or paddleboard in the calm, clear waters of Raja Ampat.
Tracking and Nature Sites Exploration: Raja Amapt has the most stunning outlooks from the pinnacle-looking islands, which are available for hiking. Here, you can also discover caves, turquoise blue rivers, and other amazing nature sites.
This sample itinerary is for charter bookings only. It can be modified based on guest’s preferences. We can add a few dives, more adventurous kayaking, or more relaxing beach hangouts.
Day 1: Arrive in Sorong and be transported to the boat for an 11 AM departure. After approximately 5 hours of navigation, arrive at Mioskon Island for snorkeling, sunset views, and the chance to see a family of cats and flying foxes.
Day 2: Snorkel with majestic manta rays at Manta Sandy, explore the vibrant marine life around Sauwandarek jetty, and visit the local village of Arborek. Evening navigation to Penemu Islands.
Day 3: Dive at Melissa’s Garden, famous for its hard coral gardens, followed by kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in the beautiful inlets. Afternoon boat lagoon tour and trek to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Piaynemo.
Day 4: Enjoy snorkeling and diving around the coral reefs of Wofo in the morning, followed by a relaxing beach afternoon with umbrellas, bean bags, and refreshments.
Day 5: Navigate to Eagle Rock, known for sea eagles and manta ray snorkeling, before crossing the equator to explore the breathtaking Wayag National Park. Afternoon lagoon exploration and trekking for stunning views.
Day 6: Discover a newly found manta ray cleaning station and then head to Wayag Ranger station, where you’ll encounter juvenile blacktip reef sharks in waist-deep water.
Day 7: Option to visit a local village and trek to see the Red Birds of Paradise. After breakfast, snorkel at Cape Kri, one of the most biodiverse reefs, and enjoy a beach set up for relaxation and sunset at Pasir Timbul sandbar.
Day 8: Visit the stunning turquoise Kali Biru river, considered holy by local tribes. Afternoon relaxation on Frewin Beach before navigating back to Sorong.
Day 9: After breakfast and final farewells, disembark in Sorong, concluding your unforgettable Raja Ampat adventure.
The Raja Ampat cruise starts and finishes in Sorong, Indonesia. We suggest choosing Garuda Indonesia for your domestic flights, but other carriers are also acceptable. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Our driver will pick you up from the airport or the hotel on the first day of the cruise. The hotel pick-up is usually between 9 and 9:30 am. We will drop you off at the airport or the hotel on the last day of the cruise. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer.
Calico Jack will leave from the harbour before noon. All guests are required to be on board before 10 am. For the remote areas, we advise arriving one day in advance to avoid being late for the cruise and get some rest after the long travel.
Our last dive will be at 12 p.m. on the day before last. We will arrive at the harbour in the late light of the day before the last. The departure from the boat is planned for after breakfast (around 11 a.m.). Yet, if you need to take an early morning flight, we can drop you off any morning. However, for the early departures, please mind 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 visa is valid for 30 days and 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
Exploring the Raja Ampat Islands
A Diverse and Thrilling Landscape
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. Read More
Raja Ampat Schedule
Raja Ampat Liveaboard
Tailored Itineraries Just for You
Aboard the Calico Jack and Anne Bonny Raja Ampat liveaboards, you can explore the rich underwater world of Raja Ampat, known for its unmatched marine biodiversity and pristine coral reefs. Throughout the year, we explore Raja Ampat from October until June.
Calico Jack runs two guaranteed dive cruises a month. Each cruise is tailored to provide the best diving experience possible. The 11-night cruises head toward Misool on the South of the Park, which is in the top 10 World Diving destinations. Misool is famous for its steep rocks with vertical walls, a profusion of soft, colourful corals, sea fans draped brilliantly over the reefs, and plenty of fish. The islands around East Misool are grouped by area.
The 8-night diving cruises head toward the north of the archipelago, the stunning Wayag. These cruises are slightly less “divey,” offering more opportunities for kayaking and tracking.
Anne Bonny sails Raja Ampat from October until April, offering 8-night diving and leisure charters and scheduled trips. For the trips that are available for booking by cabin, we offer our diving itinerary. At the same time, due to the small size of the groups, we can balance it with more leisure activities, so families are welcome to join the cruise. We are happy to customise the itinerary for charters according to the guests’ preferences.
Calico Jack Liveaboard
Calico Jack has become a legend within the Liveaboard world, operating in some of the more far-flung corners of Eastern Indonesia; Raja Ampat, Komodo, Cenderawasih Bay, Triton Bay and the Banda Sea.
Anne Bonny Liveaboard
Anne Bonny, the latest beautiful addition to our operations, is a balance to our original Vessel Calico Jack, being more refined and lighter for Charter groups and families.
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.
