Hatiku · Indonesia
This 9-day liveaboard expedition navigates to the southern reaches of Raja Ampat to explore the world-renowned waters of Misool. Divers can anticipate stunning reefs covered in a rainbow of soft corals, with opportunities to find macro subjects like pygmy seahorses and larger marine life including reef sharks and the unique epaulette 'walking' shark.
Sorong, West Papua
Guests board the vessel in Sorong. After a welcome briefing and settling into the cabins, the journey south begins, cruising overnight towards the remote paradise of Misool. A check dive may be offered in the afternoon, depending on arrival times and weather conditions.
Good to know: Welcome briefing | Settle into cabins | Depart for Misool
Fiabacet, Misool, Raja Ampat
The first full day is spent exploring the iconic Fiabacet chain of islands. Dive sites are characterized by dramatic walls and pinnacles blanketed in enormous sea fans and vibrant soft corals. It's a prime area for macro photographers, with keen eyes spotting various nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses. The day typically includes four dives, including a dusk or night dive to search for nocturnal critters.
Dive sites: Fiabacet, Nudi Rock
Boo Islands, Misool, Raja Ampat
Today's diving focuses on one of Misool's most famous sites, Boo Rock, renowned for its two swim-through "windows" that pierce the island. The surrounding reefs are a kaleidoscope of color, teeming with schooling fish. Divers can expect current-swept ridges and sheltered coral gardens, offering a huge variety of topography and marine encounters across three to four dives.
Dive sites: Boo Windows, Boo Rock, Tank Rock
Farondi, Misool, Raja Ampat
Explore the Farondi area, a labyrinth of limestone islands offering unique underwater experiences. The day's dives feature exciting caves, tunnels, and dramatic swim-throughs draped in colourful soft coral. The topography is spectacular both above and below the water, with sites like Goa Besar offering a thrilling cavern experience. The rich environment also supports a wealth of macro life.
Dive sites: Goa Besar, Farondi Cave, Three Sisters
South East Misool, Raja Ampat
The plan moves to Misool's legendary seamounts, known for attracting majestic pelagics. The highlight is Magic Mountain, a cleaning station for both oceanic and reef manta rays. This world-famous site is a submerged pinnacle bustling with activity, from sharks patrolling the deeper sections to massive schools of fish in the blue. Nearby sites offer similarly thrilling, fish-packed dives.
Dive sites: Magic Mountain, Four Kings
Wayilbatan, Misool, Raja Ampat
Explore the intricate island formations of the Wayilbatan area. Dives here often involve navigating through a 'maze' of narrow channels and tunnels connecting different lagoons. The play of light filtering through the overhead rock is mesmerizing. Sites like Wedding Cake offer stunning multi-level coral formations where macro critters and colourful reef fish thrive.
Dive sites: The Maze, Wedding Cake, Puri Pinnacle
Central Misool, Raja Ampat
A day of unique experiences blending diving with surface exploration. After morning dives, guests may visit the famous Jellyfish Lake for an unforgettable snorkel amongst thousands of stingless jellyfish. The afternoon often includes a breathtaking hike to a viewpoint overlooking the heart-shaped lagoon of Dafalen, showcasing the spectacular beauty of Misool's karst landscape.
Dive sites: Balbulol, Gamfi
Good to know: Snorkeling in Jellyfish Lake | Viewpoint hike
Misool, Raja Ampat
Two final morning dives are offered at a spectacular site to cap off the Misool adventure. After the dives, the crew will wash and dry guest equipment as the vessel begins its long journey north back to Sorong. The afternoon is for relaxing, sharing photos, and enjoying a final sunset over the Indonesian seascape.
Good to know: Two morning dives | Gear washing | Cruise back to Sorong
Sorong, West Papua
The vessel arrives in Sorong Harbour in the morning. Guests enjoy a final breakfast onboard before saying their farewells to the crew and fellow divers. Disembarkation and transfers to the airport or local hotels follow.
Good to know: Final breakfast onboard | Disembarkation | Airport transfers