Raja Ampat North (Wayag)

Sorong → Wayag → Sorong

An unforgettable expedition through the northern islands of Raja Ampat, combining world-class diving, dramatic limestone landscapes, remote beaches and legendary dive sites.

Expect around 24–26 dives across the trip, typically three dives per day with alternating night dives.

Day 1

Embarkation in Sorong

Your expedition begins in Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat.

Our crew will meet you at the airport or your hotel and transfer you to Calico Jack, where you’ll settle into your cabin and meet the team and fellow guests. After a short boat orientation and safety briefing we begin sailing north toward the islands.

During the afternoon we conduct a relaxed check dive at Mioskon, a gentle sloping reef where wobbegong sharks, reef fish and vibrant corals provide the perfect introduction to Raja Ampat.

At sunset we visit the beach at Mioskon Island, watching hundreds of flying foxes leave the island as the sun disappears behind the limestone peaks.

Day 2

Dampier Strait — Fish Thunder

Today we dive the legendary reefs of Dampier Strait, one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth.

Sites such as Sardine Reef and nearby pinnacles are famous for enormous schools of fish — fusiliers, snapper and trevallies often forming swirling clouds above the reef while reef sharks patrol the slopes.

In the afternoon we dive Yenbuba Jetty, where village structures create a thriving artificial reef packed with fish life and macro critters.

That evening we begin the journey north toward the spectacular islands of Penemu.

Day 3

Penemu — Melissa’s Garden

We wake among the limestone islands of the Penemu Archipelago.

The day begins at My Reef, a spectacular fish aggregation site before continuing to the famous Melissa’s Garden, widely considered one of the most beautiful coral reefs in Raja Ampat. Vast coral bommies and pristine hard coral gardens stretch across the reef, home to reef sharks, schooling fish and countless reef species.

In the afternoon we explore Penemu’s star-shaped lagoons, trekking to the famous viewpoint for one of Raja Ampat’s most iconic panoramas.

A night dive completes the day.

Day 4

Kawe — Crossing the Equator

Today we continue north toward the remote Kawe Islands, crossing the Equator along the way.

Our dives include Eagle Rock, a site known for large schools of fish, bumphead parrotfish and an incredible variety of nudibranchs and macro life.

Later we dive Black Rock, where deep slopes covered in black coral forests and gorgonian fans attract reef sharks and schooling fish.

In the afternoon we arrive in the breathtaking Wayag lagoon system, exploring the islands by kayak or paddleboard before hiking to the famous Mount Pindito viewpoint.

Day 5

Wayag — Mantas & Shark Sanctuary

The limestone towers of Wayag form one of the most spectacular landscapes in Indonesia.

Today’s dives include a manta cleaning station where graceful manta rays glide above the reef while cleaner fish work around them.

Later we visit a nearby shark sanctuary, where juvenile reef sharks gather in shallow waters near the beach.

An afternoon dive at Ridge Rock completes the day before we begin our evening cruise south toward Wofo Island.

Day 6

Wofo — Black Coral Forests

Today we explore the reefs surrounding Wofo Island.

At Woo’s Black Forest, divers glide through deep slopes covered in massive black coral fans before ascending to vibrant shallow reefs teeming with fish.

Further dives include Woo Tembok, a dramatic wall dive, and Teman Wofo, known for healthy coral and schooling reef fish.

That evening we host one of Calico Jack’s signature experiences — a private beach BBQ on a remote island beneath the stars.

Day 7

Yanggefo & Arborek — Village Life

An early morning navigation brings us to Yanggefo, home to some of the most exciting diving in West Waigeo.

Sites such as Mayhem and Citrus Ridge are famous for strong currents that bring massive schools of barracuda, fusiliers and trevallies alongside reef sharks and wobbegongs.

Later we dive Arborek Jetty, a favourite among underwater photographers for its colourful coral-covered pillars and huge schools of fish.

In the afternoon we visit Arborek Village, where guests can explore the island and learn about traditional Papuan island life.

Day 8

Blue Magic & Cape Kri — Raja Ampat’s Greatest Hits

For our final full day of diving we explore two of the most famous sites in Raja Ampat.

At Blue Magic, a submerged seamount attracts oceanic manta rays, trevallies, tuna and schooling barracuda.

Later we dive Cape Kri, a world-record biodiversity hotspot where hundreds of fish species can be seen on a single dive.

In the afternoon we relax on a quiet beach before sailing overnight back to Sorong.

Day 9

Disembarkation in Sorong

After breakfast we arrive back in Sorong.

Our crew assists with transfers to the airport or your hotel as guests depart with unforgettable memories of Raja Ampat’s reefs, wildlife and spectacular landscapes.

Trip Start
Sorong, West Papua – Indonesia

This expedition begins and ends in Sorong, the main gateway to Raja Ampat.

Guests should plan to arrive at Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ) in Sorong on the morning of Day 1. Our team will meet you at the airport or your hotel and transfer you directly to Calico Jack for embarkation.

Boarding typically takes place before 11:00 am, after which we depart for Raja Ampat.

International Flights

Most international travellers reach Sorong via Jakarta, Bali, or Singapore, connecting onward to Papua with domestic flights.

Typical travel routes include:

International → Jakarta or Bali → Sorong

Major Indonesian airlines including Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, Lion Air and Sriwijaya Air operate daily flights to Sorong.

Arrival Tips

Because Sorong is located in eastern Indonesia, many guests choose to arrive one day early and stay overnight in Sorong before the trip.

This allows time to rest after international travel and avoids potential delays with domestic flights.

Airport Transfers

Complimentary transfers are included on the first and final day of your expedition.

Our crew will meet you at Sorong Airport with a Calico Jack sign, assist with luggage, and transfer you to the harbour where the yacht is waiting.

Need Help Planning Your Travel?

Flights to Raja Ampat can involve several connections, and schedules occasionally change.

If you need assistance planning your travel route or pre-trip accommodation, our team is happy to help.

WhatsApp: +62 813-3932-5544
Email: calicojackbookings@gmail.com

Your Stay Onboard

Calico Jack · Double / Twin Cabin with Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

During the expedition you’ll stay aboard Calico Jack, a traditional 30-metre Indonesian Phinisi designed for small-group dive expeditions. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 10 guests in five comfortable cabins, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere throughout the journey.

Each cabin includes:

• Air conditioning
• En-suite bathroom with hot shower
• Storage space and charging sockets
• Daily housekeeping

Cabins are configured as two convertible double/twin cabins, two double cabins and one twin cabin. Cabin allocation is arranged prior to embarkation depending on group composition, with couples prioritised for double cabins and solo travellers typically sharing twin accommodation.

For guests seeking additional privacy, single occupancy cabins may be available for a supplement, subject to availability.

What Is the Food Like?

Life aboard Calico Jack is as much about the food and shared meals as it is about the diving.

Our onboard chef prepares a variety of fresh Asian-fusion and international cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Meals are served in the open-air dining area or under the stars on deck.

A typical day of dining includes:

• Light early breakfast before the first dive
• Full cooked breakfast after the morning dive
• Freshly prepared lunch
• Afternoon snacks between dives
• Three-course dinner in the evening

Expect a rotating menu of fresh fish, grilled meats, curries, salads, soups and homemade desserts, blending Indonesian, Chinese and Western influences.

One of the highlights of many expeditions is the Calico Jack beach BBQ, where the crew prepares a special dinner on a remote island.

Vegetarian, vegan and most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Life Onboard

Between dives the atmosphere onboard is relaxed and social.

Guests often spend time:

• relaxing on the sun deck
• reviewing photos from the day’s dives
• kayaking or paddleboarding in calm lagoons
• enjoying sunset drinks on deck

With a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, the service onboard is attentive while still maintaining the easygoing expedition atmosphere Calico Jack is known for.

Raja Ampat lies just north of the equator in the heart of the Coral Triangle, giving the region a warm tropical climate year-round.

Daytime temperatures typically range between 28–31°C (82–88°F) with warm evenings and occasional short rain showers. Even during the drier months, brief tropical showers can occur but usually pass quickly.

Because most dive sites are located within island channels and reef systems, sea conditions are often protected and comfortable for liveaboard cruising.

Water Temperature

The ocean temperature in Raja Ampat remains consistently warm throughout the year, typically between 28–30°C (82–86°F).

Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm wetsuit, though some guests prefer a 5mm suit when diving multiple times per day.

Visibility

Visibility in Raja Ampat generally ranges between 15–25 metres, though this can vary depending on tides and plankton levels.

While visibility can fluctuate, the nutrient-rich waters are what support the extraordinary biodiversity that makes Raja Ampat one of the best dive destinations in the world.

Currents

Many dive sites in Raja Ampat are located in channels where currents bring nutrients and attract large schools of fish and pelagic species.

Currents can range from gentle to moderate, particularly in areas such as Dampier Strait, where sites like Cape Kri and Blue Magic are famous for fish action. Our experienced dive guides always conduct current checks before every dive, selecting entry points and timing to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions for all guests.

Expedition Activities

• Up to 3–4 guided dives per day (approx. 30+ dives per expedition)
• Night dives when conditions allow
• Shore excursions and island visits during the journey
• Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in lagoons and sheltered bays
• Marine life briefings and dive site introductions
• Guided visits to historic locations such as Banda Neira

Dive Team

• Experienced English-speaking dive guides
• Small dive groups (typically max 4–5 divers per guide)
• Dedicated dive tenders for each dive group
• Professional dive briefings and safety support

Accommodation

• 11 nights aboard the Calico Jack expedition vessel
• Comfortable air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms
• Daily housekeeping
• Access to all onboard lounge and deck areas

Meals

• All meals prepared fresh onboard by our chef
• Early breakfast before the first dive
• Full breakfast, lunch and dinner daily
• Afternoon snacks between dives
• Tea, coffee and soft drinks

Expect a mix of Asian fusion and international cuisine, with fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads and homemade desserts.

Dive Facilities & Equipment

• Tanks and weights
• Nitrox system available onboard
• Spacious dive deck and camera preparation area
• Two dive tenders for easy access to dive sites

Water Toys

• Snorkelling equipment
• Kayaks and paddleboards for lagoon exploration
• Beach setups and island landings where conditions allow

Transfers

• Airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days
• Transfers between the vessel and harbour

Flights & Travel

International and domestic flights to the embarkation port, and onward travel from the disembarkation port, are not included.

Guests are responsible for arranging their own travel arrangements to the to and from the start and end locations. 

Marine Park & Port Fees

Marine park and port fees are payable onboard.

These fees go directly toward marine park conservation and local permits.

Alcoholic Beverages

Beer, wine, spirits and specialty drinks are available onboard but are not included in the trip price.

Dive Equipment Rental

Dive equipment rental (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, mask, computer etc.) is available onboard for an additional charge if required.

Nitrox

Nitrox fills are available onboard and may be offered as an optional add-on depending on the trip.

Crew Gratuities

Crew tips are not included and are entirely at your discretion.

Tipping is customary on liveaboards and typically reflects your satisfaction with the service provided by the crew during the expedition.

Personal Expenses

Personal purchases such as merchandise, additional beverages, laundry, or other incidental expenses are not included.

Travel & Dive Insurance

All guests are required to have valid travel insurance and dive accident insurance covering:

• overseas medical treatment
• dive-related accidents
• emergency evacuation
• trip cancellation or interruption

Policies such as DAN (Divers Alert Network) or equivalent dive insurance are strongly recommended.

Visas

Guests are responsible for obtaining any required entry visas for Indonesia, if applicable.

Visa requirements vary by nationality, so please check with your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate before travelling.

What Should I Bring?

Packing for a liveaboard expedition is simple. Life onboard is relaxed and casual, and most of your time will be spent diving, relaxing on deck, or exploring islands between dives.

Bags

• Soft suitcase, duffel bag or backpack (easier to store in cabins)
• Small daypack or drybag for shore excursions and cameras

Clothing

• Lightweight T-shirts and casual tops
• Shorts or lightweight trousers
• Swimwear (2–3 sets recommended)
• Light long-sleeve shirts for sun protection
• Lightweight jacket or windbreaker for evenings
• Underwear and sleepwear
• Sandals or flip flops for onboard use
• Comfortable shoes for short island walks

Diving Equipment

Divers may bring their own gear or rent equipment onboard.

If bringing your own gear, consider:

• Mask and snorkel
• Dive computer
• BCD and regulator
• Wetsuit (3mm recommended for most guests)
• Fins
• Reef-safe sunscreen

A surface marker buoy (SMB) is recommended for all divers.

Sun & Ocean Essentials

• Sun hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Refillable water bottle
• Small towel or sarong for beach visits

Cameras & Electronics (Optional)

• Underwater camera or GoPro
• Spare batteries and memory cards
• Small dry bag for electronics
• Charging cables and adapters

The boat has dedicated camera rinse tanks and charging stations.

Travel Documents

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Visa for Indonesia if required
• Travel insurance documents
• Dive certification cards and logbook

Personal Items

• Toiletries
• Motion sickness medication if needed
• Basic personal medication
• Small first aid kit (optional)