{"id":19280,"date":"2023-12-31T23:45:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-31T23:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/?p=19280"},"modified":"2024-01-03T17:53:04","modified_gmt":"2024-01-03T17:53:04","slug":"raja-ampat-liveaboard-reviews","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/indonesia\/raja-ampat-liveaboard-reviews\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Raja Ampat Liveaboards [2024 Guide]\ufffc"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Looking for the best Raja Ampat liveaboards? In this travel guide, I am going to walk you through our top liveaboard picks in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in the newly-named West Papua Province of Indonesia, Raja Ampat is an idyllic paradise known for its stunning palm-fringed beaches and amazing marine life. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This archipelago is made up of over 1,500 beautiful islands, making it every diver\u2019s dream destination as it is home to some of the best diving in the world<\/a><\/strong>. You can easily spend a few weeks exploring the many dive sites in the area. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raja Ampat is even said to have more marine diversity than the coral triangles of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. In short, there are loads of things to see and explore underwater which is why liveaboards are quite popular in this destination. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the large number of choices and variations in itineraries, choosing a liveaboard<\/strong><\/a> in Raja Ampat can be an arduous task. To help you out, we\u2019ve put together a complete guide of the best Raja Ampat liveaboard boats ranging from budget to luxury.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our Top Raja Ampat Liveaboard Picks<\/h2>\n\n\n
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<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Cheapest Liveaboard in Raja Ampat<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"pearl<\/a><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n
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<\/a><\/a>Pearl of Papua<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Max Divers:<\/strong> 8 <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Rooms:<\/strong> 4 cabins <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Bathrooms:<\/strong> 2<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
\n\nView DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Best Mid-Range Liveaboard in Raja Ampat<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"sea<\/a><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n
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<\/a><\/a>Sea Safari 8<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Max Divers:<\/strong> 21 <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Rooms:<\/strong> 9 cabins \/ AC<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Bathrooms:<\/strong> 10<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
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<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Best Luxury Liveaboards in Raja Ampat<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"\"<\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n
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Mutiara Laut<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Max Divers:<\/strong> 14<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Rooms:<\/strong> 7 \/AC<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/path><\/svg><\/span>Bathrooms:<\/strong> 7<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

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\n\nView DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Comparison Table for Best Raja Ampat Liveaboards<\/h2>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
Boat Name<\/th>Price<\/th>Guests<\/th>Shared Cabins<\/th>Photography Station<\/th>Extended Itineraries<\/th>Reviews<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Pearl of Papua<\/a><\/td>$<\/td>14<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a> <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
IIike<\/a><\/td>$<\/td>16<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a> <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Calico Jack<\/a><\/td>$<\/td>8<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a> <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SMY Ondina<\/a><\/td>$$<\/td>16<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a> <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sea Safari 8<\/a><\/td>$$<\/td>24<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a> <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Raja Manta<\/a><\/td>$$<\/td>20<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Mutiara Laut<\/a><\/td>$$$<\/td>14<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Samambaia<\/a><\/td>$$$<\/td>14<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Tiger Blue<\/a><\/td>$$$<\/td>14<\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
Yes<\/center><\/td>
No<\/center><\/td>
Liveaboard.com<\/a> Divebooker<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Best Budget Liveaboard Diving in Raja Ampat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pearl of Papua<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 14 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 7 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms:<\/strong> 7<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"pearl-of-papua-liveaboard\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"pearl-of-papua-liveaboard\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This 30m Raja Ampat liveaboard is led by a 12-member crew who are all highly knowledgeable about the area. The divemasters are able to navigate their way through the waters with ease. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the ship is a luxury-style liveaboard, the price is definitely a lot cheaper compared to the other liveaboards in the area. Offering premium cabins, onboard massages, and delicious meals, this boat is a great choice for the budget-conscious. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The boat is outfitted with gear stations, rinse tanks, camera tables, and battery charging stations for underwater photographers. The Pearl of Papua<\/strong><\/a> runs multiple trips, varying from eight to eleven days, covering the best of what Raja Ampat has to offer.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Pearl of Papua.<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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IIike<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 16 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 8 cabins <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This traditional phinisi boat offers year-round trips<\/span> all over Indonesia, including the Raja Ampat Archipelago. It offers competitive rates and has an almost 1-1 guest and crew ratio, making sure you’re in good hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you\u2019re not busy diving, you can lounge around on the sun deck or in the open-air lounge with a good book. People who have done this liveaboard rave about the delicious local and international meals served throughout the trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the IIike.<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Calico Jack<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers: <\/strong>10 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 5 cabins \/AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms: 5<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"calico<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"calico<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In addition to running trips in the Komodo Islands, Calico Jack, a traditional 30m Indonesian sailing boat which is fitted with modern amenities and furnishings, also sails around Raja Ampat. The boat has a large galley and salon as well as a beautiful outdoor dining area. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This boat is a great choice for photography buffs as the Calico Jack<\/strong><\/a> has photography stations, with special storage for underwater camera setups. The diving platform is large and spacious, giving you room to gear up properly. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Power up after your diving with the delicious Asian fusion cuisine served onboard. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The boat has 8 crew members ready to help you make the most out of your dive trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Calico Jack.<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Best Mid-Range Liveaboard Diving in Raja Ampat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

SMY Ondina<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers: 16 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 8 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms:<\/strong> 8<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"ondina-room<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"ondina-room<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

After undergoing a renovation in 2014, the Ondina was relaunched with 8 air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms, a large outside deck, and an entertainment\/dining area. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The food is served buffet style and is a mix of both Asian and Western meals. One thing is for sure: you won\u2019t go hungry when onboard. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Ondina<\/strong><\/a> makes trips around Raja Ampat for nine to eleven nights, going to some of the best scuba diving sites in Raja Ampat. The divemasters are extremely helpful and knowledgeable, and will safely guide you around these pristine waters.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the SMY Ondina<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Sea Safari 8<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers: <\/strong>23 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 12 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms:<\/strong> 13<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"sea-safari<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"sea-safari<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This beautiful 34m traditional Indonesian Phinisi boat is a great option for those who want comfort and luxury without having to break the bank. Equipped with 12 air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms and TVs, the Sea Safari<\/strong><\/a> is a comfortable choice for a memorable liveaboard experience.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll get many day and night diving opportunities, and have the time to explore some of the uninhabited islands around Raja Ampat. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The boat has a spacious dive deck, indoor lounge with a full entertainment system, and a beautiful outdoor bar and sun deck. Nitrox is also available, if requested.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included: <\/b>VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Possible Fuel Surcharge, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Sea Safari 8<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Raja Manta<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 20 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 10 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms:<\/strong> 10<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"raja-manta\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"raja-manta-deck\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Formerly known as the M\/V White Manta, the Raja Manta<\/strong><\/a> is a mid-range liveaboard and is one of the best options for those who want to experience Raja Ampat in comfort and style. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dive amenities include Nitrox, full dive gear, camera tables, and rinse tanks. Guests can relax in their en-suite cabins or in the air-conditioned salon equipped with a large plasma TV and DVD. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making the whole dive experience fun and one of a kind.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, Tanks, Weights, Belts, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Raja Manta<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Best Luxury Liveaboard Diving in Raja Ampat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Mutiara Laut<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 14 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 7 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms:<\/strong> 7<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking to explore Raja Ampat in the most luxurious and best way possible, hop aboard the Mutiara Laut<\/strong><\/a>, a stunning 46m traditional Indonesian Phinisi luxury liveaboard. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The cabins are built with en-suite bathrooms, queen-sized beds, double wardrobes, and writing desks. The outdoor deck is a crowd favorite as you can lounge on oversized daybeds while staring at the string of islands around you. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a full day of scuba diving, enjoy an onboard spa treatment or the delicious international cuisine prepared daily. The dive equipment is free of charge, and the crew and divemasters will help you navigate your way around some of the most stunning dive sites you will ever see.<\/span> It explores the spectacular dive sites of Raja Ampat with 10-11 night diving trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, <\/span>diving gear<\/b>, Tanks, Divemaster Services, All Meals, <\/span>Free Nitrox<\/b>, Possible Fuel Surcharge, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Mutiara Laut<\/strong><\/span><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Samambaia<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 14 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 7 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms: <\/strong>7<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"samambaia<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"samambaia<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Samambaia sails in the areas of Raja Ampat, Banda Sea, Alor, and Komodo. While the areas are different in terms of topography, what\u2019s similar is you will receive an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard this ship. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Samambaia<\/strong><\/a> is a new ship built in a traditional wooden style and is committed to giving you five-star service. The ship has 6 gorgeous wooden cabins, a gorgeous deck, and unbelievable meals from locally-sourced food. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While traveling on the Samambaia, prepare to have life-changing day and night dives in the best of Raja Ampat, as well as stepping off the boat for land excursions. Many itineraries include traveling through lagoons and coves, trekking through scenic routes, and visiting secluded beaches.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included: <\/b>VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, Tanks, Weights, Belts, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Samambaia<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Tiger Blue<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Max. Divers:<\/strong> 14 guests<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms:<\/strong> 5 cabins \/ AC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bathrooms: <\/strong>5<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"tiger-blue<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"tiger-blue-rooms<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This luxurious 34m Raja Ampat liveaboard<\/strong><\/a> offers the ultimate five-star service for dive enthusiasts. <\/span>The staff will go above and beyond to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the executive chef whipping up delectable meals all day to the knowledge and experience of the dive crew who can expertly navigate you around the dive sites, the crew will take good care of you throughout the trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The 8-day trip often includes around 17 dives, taking you around some of the best areas in Raja Ampat. Luxury meets adventure as they organize the ultimate sea safari for guests to enjoy.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Included:<\/b> VAT, Accommodation, Complimentary Toiletries, Transfers\/pickups from Airport, <\/span>Diving Gear<\/b>, Tanks, Weights, Belts, Divemaster Services, All Meals, Towels<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the button below to learn more and check the prices and availability for the Tiger Blue<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\nView on Liveaboard<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\nView on DiveBooker<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Raja Ampat Liveaboard Diving Highlights<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In Indonesian, \u201cRaja Ampat\u201d translates to \u201cfour kings\u201d which give tribute to the four main islands — Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waige — that make up Raja Ampat. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When diving in this area, one word describes it perfectly: diversity.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expect to see it all! Home to over 1,000 types of coral fish as well as manta rays and sharks you probably won\u2019t see anywhere else, Raja Ampat can easily stake a claim as one of the best scuba diving sites in the world. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strong current, drift dives, cathedral swim-throughs, WWII shipwrecks, manta rays, dugongs, sharks, large pelagics, and a kaleidoscope of colorful soft corals. Scuba diving here is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and is a must for avid divers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the growing popularity of Raja Ampat (although it still is logistically hard and expensive to get to), homestays and day dives are now also possible. However, the best way to see, discover, and make the most out of your trip to Raja Ampat is hands down by doing a liveaboard. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Boat
Boat stopover to see the Stunning view of Raja Ampat Islands <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

FAQ about Diving in Raja Ampat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where is the best diving in Indonesia?<\/strong>

Good diving can be found all over Indonesia. A few popular areas are:1. Bali2. The Gili Islands3. Komodo National Park4. Sulawesiand more. For a full list, check out our detailed guide on the best diving in Indonesia<\/a><\/strong>.However, if you’re looking for a secluded place that has incredible wildlife, Raja Ampat is second to none. The best way to explore the diving here is through a liveaboard boat so you can really make the most out of your time there.<\/p> <\/div>

Is Raja Ampat good for diving?<\/strong>

Raja Ampat boasts of some of the best scuba diving in Asia and the world. Located in the Northwest of Papua, Raja Ampat is in the coral triangle which is why it is plentiful in marine life. It is home to over 1,200 various species of fish and corals and is generally unspoilt and abundant.<\/p> <\/div>

When is the best time to dive in Raja Ampat<\/strong>

In general, October to mid-December<\/strong> are the best times to go on a liveaboard in Raja Ampat. However, boats run during the entire dry season which stretches out until April.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Raja Ampat Diving: What You Need to Know<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Best Time to Go Diving in Raja Ampat<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While you can scuba dive all year round in Raja Ampat, liveaboard diving is very much dependent on the weather. That said, all the liveaboard companies plan their schedules in advance to get the best weather seasons possible. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As mentioned previously, October to mid-December<\/strong> are the best times to go on a liveaboard in Raja Ampat. However, boats run during the entire dry season as well. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mid-June to September is generally a season that liveaboards tend to avoid as there is a higher chance of getting a few strong winds and rain. During those times, you might want to consider Cenderawasih Bay where whale sharks tend to commune or other diving sites in Indonesia such as <\/span>liveaboard diving in Komodo<\/b><\/a>.<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Raja Ampat Diving Safety<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The currents in Raja Ampat can get quite strong but it is also the life force behind the incredible reef and marine life in the area. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The trick is to understand the currents and know how to go with it. The divemasters on every liveaboard are very knowledgeable about the water conditions and are seasoned divers within the area. Stick with them and you\u2019ll be fine.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Raja Ampat is located in a very remote place, medical facilities are limited. Most liveaboards will be strict in asking medical questions prior to your trip. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is also mandatory for all guests to get travel insurance which would cover trip cancellation, evacuations, and dive accidents. Insurance is a must for most liveaboards and proof of insurance will be required upon checking in. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best Dive Sites in Raja Ampat<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Cape Kri<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As far as sites in and around Raja Ampat go, Cape Kri is known to have the greatest diversity of marine life. Among the reefs, you\u2019ll find schools of fish, barracuda, hawksbill turtles and even reef sharks. <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll likely spot large schools of fish such as trevally, bannerfish, emperors and more. If you\u2019re lucky, you might also encounter whitetip or grey reef sharks.<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Venture down to the base of the reef to find a sunken anchor from ancient times. Cape Kri doesn\u2019t disappoint, especially if you\u2019re into underwater photography.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

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2. Fabiacet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re seeking the best visibility, take a visit to Fabiacet for clear waters and tons of different species of marine life. Be sure to take along your camera for unbeatable photos at a depth of 40 meters. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When diving at Fabiacet, you\u2019re bound to catch sight of hammerhead sharks and possibly even a green tortoise.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the current can sometimes be strong, this dive site is suitable for divers of all levels of experience so you shouldn\u2019t miss it!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Misool Island<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The second largest of the \u201cfour kings,\u201d Misool Island is one of the most colorful underwater scenes you can find. The reefs are brightly colored, filled with all different kinds of corals and home to many species of fish. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The site is nicknamed \u201cthe kaleidoscope\u201d because of this huge color variety, making it a prime location for photography, creature spotting and more. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a unique experience, visit the Blue Water Mangroves where you can see a mangrove environment in great visibility.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Manta Ridge<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Located in the middle section of Raja Ampat, Manta Ridge is a popular dive site because of its shallow waters. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s one of the best spots for sighting manta rays (hence the name) as there\u2019s a manta ray cleaning station that draws the animals in. If you\u2019re lucky, you may even catch a peek at an all-black manta ray which is rather uncommon. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Besides mantas, you\u2019re likely to see reef sharks, turtles, and many species of fish.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more on diving in Raja Ampat, check out our Complete Guide to Raja Ampat Diving<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to Get to the Raja Ampat<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To access any of the islands, you will first need to get to the port of Sorong. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are no direct international flights but you can fly into Sorong via Jakarta, Makassar, Ambon or Manado. Airlines include Lion Air, Xpress Airlines, Sriwijaya Airlines, Nam Airlines and Garuda Indonesia. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A return flight from Jakarta will cost you around $450 to 600 USD and flights from Bali are possible (with a stopover) and should cost around the same, but check schedules and book things in advance as some airlines may not fly every day.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From there, most liveaboard itineraries start from Sorong and will take you back there, traveling to some of the best scuba diving sites within Raja Ampat. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While most of your diving plus accommodations will be included, always double check if there are any additional park fees. Make sure you get whatever cash you need in Sorong; there are ATMs at the airport and near the port.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After your dive expedition, if you feel like hanging around the area, check out our <\/span>complete guide to Raja Ampat<\/b> <\/a>which has some information on places to stay and what to do.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best Diving Itineraries in Raja Ampat<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Short Raja Ampat Liveaboard Trips<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Because it\u2019s rather remote and challenging to get to, short Raja Ampat itineraries generally run from between 5 and 8 nights to make the most of your trip. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first day, you\u2019ll be transferred to your vessel, meet the crew and receive a briefing about the trip. The following days you\u2019ll spend traveling between dive sites, discovering all that lies beneath the surface. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A typical 8-night trip may grant you as many as 20 dives, so you\u2019ll be able to see all that Raja Ampat has to offer. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extended Raja Ampat Liveaboard Trips<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re interested in being out on the water for longer, there are liveaboards that offer trips lasting as long as 15 nights! That\u2019s a ton of diving, lots of sun and a truly unforgettable vacation. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take one of these extended trips and become an expert about the marine life throughout Raja Ampat. You\u2019ll have the chance to travel to more remote sites, dive more, and really improve your skills and confidence in the water.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

On longer trips, you may even have the chance for a land excursion. If this is something that you\u2019re interested in, be sure to check your specific trip\u2019s itinerary when booking.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Search for your dream Raja Ampat liveaboard now!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n