Raja Ampat Liveaboard
Sailing in Raja Ampat offers a unique adventure in one of the Earth’s most biodiverse regions. Nestled in the Coral Triangle, this archipelago of over 1,500 islands spans 4.6 million hectares of ocean. Raja Ampat is a paradise where marine life, stunning landscapes, and pristine beaches come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Onboard our modern Phinisi yacht, you’ll embark on a luxury adventure that connects you with nature. Whether you’re diving into vibrant coral reefs, snorkeling alongside schools of tropical fish, or exploring hidden lagoons and lush jungles, Raja Ampat offers diverse activities for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
Why Choose Raja Ampat for Your Liveaboard Adventure?
The Last Paradise
This diversity makes Raja Ampat one of the most sought-after diving destinations in the world. It is part of the Coral Triangle, recognized for its unparalleled marine biodiversity. This area is home to more than 75% of the world’s coral species, making it an essential destination for marine enthusiasts. Learn more about Raja Ampat’s marine life or Explore Raja Ampat’s underwater world further with our detailed guide: Underwater Raja Ampat. Raja Ampat, often called the “Last Paradise,” boasts:
- Over 1,300 fish species
- 600 types of coral
- Encounters with manta rays, pygmy seahorses, and schools of barracudas
A Unique Liveaboard Experience with Calico Jack
Calico Jack and Anne Bonney are traditional Indonesian Phinisi schooner’s, offering an unparalleled Raja Ampat liveaboard experience with:
- Spacious cabins
- Gourmet meals prepared by our onboard chef
- A dedicated crew ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the journey
Experience the perfect blend of tradition and luxury as you explore Indonesia’s pristine waters. Discover Calico Jack. Discover Anne Bonney
World Class Diving
Breathtaking Dive Sites
Explore legendary sites like:
- Cape Kri: Known for its record-breaking fish species diversity, making every dive an unforgettable experience.
- Blue Magic: Famous for its manta ray cleaning stations, where you can witness these gentle giants up close.
Our experienced guides will lead you through these underwater paradises, ensuring you get the most out of each dive. Raja Ampat’s dive sites are also known for their strong currents, which attract large pelagic species and offer thrilling drift dives. Explore Raja Ampat dive sites. Discover more about the magical manta rays of Misool in our blog: Manta Mayhem at Misool.
Book Your Raja Ampat Liveaboard Adventure!
Don’t miss the chance to explore one of the world’s most stunning marine environments on a Raja Ampat liveaboard adventure, this is one you for the memory books! Contact Calico Jack Charters today to book your liveaboard adventure. Contact Us.
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Diving in Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is globally renowned for its extraordinary marine biodiversity, often referred to as the “Amazon of the Oceans.” The region’s pristine coral reefs are a magnet for divers from all over the world.
- Dive Sites
Raja Ampat offers a variety of dive sites, each with its unique attractions. From the vibrant coral gardens of Misool to the thrilling drift dives at The Passage, there’s something for every diver.- Cape Kri: Known for its incredible diversity of marine life, with the highest recorded number of fish species in a single dive.
- Blue Magic: A must-visit site for manta ray encounters, where you can observe these majestic creatures at their cleaning stations.
- Melissa’s Garden: Famous for its colorful coral gardens and diverse underwater fauna.
- Marine Life
The waters of Raja Ampat are teeming with life, offering sightings of manta rays, sharks, barracudas, and a plethora of macro creatures like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs. The region is also home to several endemic species, making every dive a unique experience. - Diving Conditions
With water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) and visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), Raja Ampat provides ideal conditions for divers. Strong currents are common in some areas, which attract pelagic species and create exciting drift dives. - Diving Season
While Raja Ampat is a year-round diving destination, the best conditions are typically found between October and April when the seas are calmest. Discover more about diving in Raja Ampat.
Located in the Northwest corner of Indonesian West Papua, where the Indian and Pacific Oceans meet, we find pristine coral reefs (home to 75% of all known corals) beeming with such an array of marine life that scientists describe it as a ‘species factory’.
Diving Raja Ampat is an extraordinary experience, no other dive destination in the world will fulfill your dive expectations like Raja Ampat: whales, dolphins, oceanic and reef manta rays, mobulas, limitless speciation of fish, beautiful vibrant soft and hard corals, invertebrates, mollusks, crustaceans and rare marine creatures.
This region has captured the imagination and enthralled divers, scientists, photographers and snorkelers from all over the world.
You will enjoy:
- World-class dive sites
- Diving in Misool
- Manta rays cleaning stations
- Jetty dives
- Shark Nursery (for RA North itinerary)
- Night dives
Getting to Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat, a remote paradise, is accessible yet feels a world away from the bustling city life. To start your journey, you’ll typically fly into Sorong, the gateway to this stunning archipelago.
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Step 1: Fly to Sorong
Sorong is well-connected by flights from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta, Bali, and Makassar. There are several airlines, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Batik Air, that offer daily flights to Sorong. Once you arrive, our team will assist with your transfer to the harbor. -
Step 2: Boat Transfer to Raja Ampat
From Sorong, you will board a ferry or speedboat to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat Regency, where your adventure with Calico Jack Charters begins. We can also arrange for a private speedboat directly to our liveaboard if preferred. -
Travel Tips:
- Visas: Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival, but it’s best to check the latest entry requirements for Indonesia.
- Best Times to Travel: For smoother seas and better visibility, plan your trip between October and April.
Additional Activities in Raja Ampat
Between dives and for guests seeking a more leisurely pace, Raja Ampat offers a wealth of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty and rich culture. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or simply looking to relax, there’s something for everyone.
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Stunning Anchorages with Breathtaking Views
Each anchorage in Raja Ampat provides stunning vistas of tropical islands, pristine beaches, and dramatic landscapes. These locations are perfect for exploring by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or simply enjoying safe and serene snorkeling activities in crystal-clear waters. -
Birdwatching and Wildlife
For the early risers, birdwatching is a must. Raja Ampat is home to the elusive Birds of Paradise, among other exotic species. Witnessing these magnificent birds in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. -
Cultural Experiences and Village Visits
Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to traditional Papuan villages. Here, you can learn about the indigenous way of life, interact with locals, and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage. -
Hiking and Trekking Adventures
Trek to some of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the world, including the famous peaks of Piaynemo, Wayag, and Misool. These treks offer panoramic views that are truly awe-inspiring and provide excellent photo opportunities. -
Legendary Beach BBQ Under the Stars
One of the highlights of your trip will undoubtedly be our legendary beach BBQ. Enjoy freshly prepared seafood and local delicacies while dining under a blanket of stars, with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack. -
Inland and Marine Activities
- Bat Beach, Mioskon: Visit this unique beach where thousands of bats take flight at sunset, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
- Snorkeling with Manta Rays: Swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat, a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
- Vibrant Jetties: Snorkel under colorful jetties teeming with marine life, where even a simple dip can feel like an underwater safari.
- Shark Nursery: Observe baby sharks in their natural nursery, a protected area that highlights the region’s commitment to conservation.
- Blue River: Explore the serene Blue River, a hidden gem known for its strikingly clear blue waters.
- Sand Bar Visit: Relax on a secluded sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters, a perfect spot for sunbathing and picnics.
- Kayaking and SUP Boarding: Paddle through tranquil lagoons, surrounded by lush mangroves and towering karst formations.
Ask us about how to Explore more about these activities and how to make the most of your Raja Ampat adventure.
Climate in Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for divers and nature lovers. However, certain months offer ideal conditions depending on your interests.
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Dry Season (October to April)
The dry season is the best time to visit Raja Ampat, with calm seas and excellent visibility for diving. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), providing warm and inviting waters. -
Wet Season (May to September)
The wet season brings more rain and slightly rougher seas, but it’s still possible to enjoy diving and other activities. The cooler months are typically quieter, offering a more serene experience with fewer tourists. -
Water Temperature
Water temperatures remain warm year-round, usually ranging between 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), making it comfortable for diving and snorkeling.
Knowing the climate will help you plan your trip and pack accordingly. For the most optimal conditions, we recommend visiting during the dry season. Explore more about Raja Ampat’s climate.
