Hatiku · Indonesia
This 6-day itinerary explores the heart of Raja Ampat, focusing on the world-renowned Central region. Dives cover the nutrient-rich Dampier Strait and the spectacular seascapes of the Fam Islands. Highlights include encounters with manta rays, diving on reefs holding world records for biodiversity, and trekking to the iconic Piaynemo viewpoint.
Sorong & Mioskon Island, Central Raja Ampat
Board the vessel mid-morning after a transfer from the airport. You'll have time to settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch while cruising towards the Dampier Strait. The adventure begins with an afternoon check dive at Mioskon Island, a gentle introduction to Raja Ampat's vibrant marine life and a chance to fine-tune your buoyancy and gear.
Dive sites: Mioskon Island
Good to know: Embarkation afrer transfer | Welcome briefing & lunch | Afternoon check dive
Dampier Strait, Central Raja Ampat
A full day is dedicated to exploring the legendary Dampier Strait, where powerful currents fuel astonishing biodiversity. Dives are planned at sites like Cape Kri, which famously holds a world record for the highest number of fish species on a single dive. You'll also visit Sardine Reef, a vibrant seamount swarming with life, where you can expect to see huge schools of fusiliers, hunting giant trevallies, and patrolling reef sharks.
Dive sites: Cape Kri, Sardine Reef, Chicken Reef
Good to know: Full day of diving in the Dampier Strait | Expect strong currents | Includes a potential night dive
Fam Islands, Central Raja Ampat
The journey continues west to the breathtaking Fam Islands. The day's diving includes Melissa's Garden, a vast and stunning hard coral plateau that's a delight for the eyes, covered in a kaleidoscopic dance of anthias and damselfish. After several dives, guests go ashore for a short trek up to the iconic Piaynemo viewpoint, which offers a spectacular panorama of the karst island landscape at sunset.
Dive sites: Melissa's Garden, My Reef, Batu Rufus
Good to know: Multiple dives in the Fam Islands | Afternoon land excursion to the Piaynemo viewpoint
Dampier Strait, Central Raja Ampat
Today focuses on the area around Arborek Island, renowned for its resident manta ray population. The highlight is a dive at Manta Sandy, a cleaning station where majestic reef mantas gracefully circle and hover while being tended to by small reef fish. Other dives may include the Arborek Jetty, a world-class macro site, and a chance to visit the charming local village. A night dive often reveals walking sharks and other cryptic creatures.
Dive sites: Manta Sandy, Arborek Jetty
Good to know: Excellent chance for manta ray encounters | Potential village visit to Arborek | Night dive opportunity
Dampier Strait, Central Raja Ampat
The final dives of the trip take place at another of the Dampier Strait's premier sites. Blue Magic, a submerged pinnacle swept by currents, is a magnet for pelagic life. Here, divers can encounter huge schools of fish, grey reef sharks, and sometimes even Oceanic Manta Rays. After the morning's dives, the vessel begins the cruise back toward Sorong, providing ample time to wash and dry equipment.
Dive sites: Blue Magic
Good to know: Two final morning dives | Equipment washing and drying | Farewell dinner
Sorong
After a final breakfast on board, you will say farewell to the crew. Guests will be transferred to the local airport in Sorong for their onward journey, filled with memories of Raja Ampat's underwater wonders.
Good to know: Final breakfast on board | Disembarkation | Transfer to Sorong airport