Sea Safari 8 · Indonesia · 9D8N
This 9-day liveaboard journey explores the diverse waters of Raja Ampat, beginning and ending in Sorong. The itinerary focuses on the rich southern Misool region, known for its healthy soft coral gardens, hidden caves, and abundant reef fish life around islands like Fiabacet, Boo, and Farondi. Moving north, expect encounters with majestic manta rays at dedicated cleaning stations, along with vibrant hard coral formations and macro life around Penemu, Arborek, and Mioskon. This route offers a comprehensive glimpse into Raja Ampat's renowned biodiversity, combining both pelagic encounters and exquisite reef diving suitable for experienced divers. Conditions typically feature warm waters and varying currents, often offering excellent visibility.
Sorong, West Papua
You will be collected from the airport or your hotel in Sorong for transfer to the harbor. Once onboard, you'll receive a welcome briefing and settle into your cabin. The vessel then departs, cruising towards Central Raja Ampat. Depending on arrival time at Mioskon Island, a late-afternoon may be conducted to begin the underwater exploration.
Dive sites: Mioskon
Good to know: Airport or hotel pick-up provided | Welcome briefing and vessel orientation | Afternoon sail to Central Raja Ampat
Dampier Strait, Central Raja Ampat
The day is spent in the famous Dampier Strait. The first dives focus on Manta Sandy, a celebrated cleaning station where majestic manta rays gather. The journey continues to Sauwandarek to explore its vibrant jetty, teeming with fish life, blacktip reef sharks, and turtles. The day may conclude with a fantastic dive under the Arborek village pier, another site known for schooling fish and macro subjects.
Dive sites: Manta Sandy, Sauwandarek Jetty, Arborek Jetty
Good to know: Village visit to Arborek may be offered
Penemu & Fam Islands, Central Raja Ampat
Diving today centers on the Penemu Islands, home to some of the most beautiful seascapes in Raja Ampat. The highlight is Melissa's Garden, a sprawling shallow reef covered in a stunning diversity of pristine hard corals, where wobbegong sharks rest. Between dives, there is an opportunity to trek to the iconic Piaynemo viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding lagoons and limestone islands.
Dive sites: Melissa's Garden, My Reef, Batu Rufus
Good to know: Trek to the iconic Piaynemo viewpoint is a highlight of the day
Wofo Islands, North Raja Ampat
The journey continues north to the scenic Wofo Islands. This cluster of islands is fringed by white-sand beaches and surrounded by extensive coral reefs. You will spend the day exploring the area's many dive sites, known for their excellent visibility and healthy, vibrant coral walls and slopes. It's a perfect day for relaxed diving and enjoying the remote island scenery, with a chance for a beach visit.
Good to know: Beach visit with umbrellas and refreshments may be arranged, conditions permitting
Wayag, Far Northern Raja Ampat
Today the vessel navigates across the equator to reach Wayag, the undisputed jewel of Raja Ampat. Dives are conducted around the spectacular mushroom-shaped islands and in the turquoise lagoons, with sites like Eagle Rock offering chances to see manta rays. A highlight is a trek up to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the iconic karst landscape, a must-do for any visitor.
Dive sites: Eagle Rock
Good to know: Equator crossing ceremony | Trek to the iconic Wayag viewpoint
Wayag, Far Northern Raja Ampat
A second day is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Wayag archipelago. Dives may focus on a newly discovered manta ray cleaning station. A truly unique experience is a visit to the Wayag Ranger Station, where you can dive or snorkel in waist-deep water with a nursery of friendly juvenile blacktip reef sharks. The day often concludes with a memorable beach barbecue under the stars.
Dive sites: Wayag Ranger Station
Good to know: Encounter with juvenile blacktip reef sharks at the Ranger Station | Evening beach BBQ on a pristine beach
Yeben, North Raja Ampat
The boat sails south to the beautiful island group of Yeben. Known for its brilliant white-sand beaches and fantastic coral formations, this area offers superb, relaxed diving. The clear waters and healthy reefs are home to a wide variety of colorful reef fish and provide excellent conditions for underwater photography and enjoying the tranquil side of Raja Ampat.
Good to know: Relaxing dives and potential for beach time on white sand beaches
Dampier Strait, Central Raja Ampat
The final dives of the trip take place back in the Dampier Strait at Cape Kri. This legendary site holds a world record for the highest number of fish species on a single dive. Expect to be mesmerized by the "fish thunder" of immense schools of fusiliers, surgeonfish, and sweetlips. After the dives, the vessel begins its journey back towards Sorong.
Dive sites: Cape Kri, Pasir Timbul
Good to know: Optional early morning trek for Birds of Paradise may be available | Visit to Pasir Timbul sandbar, tides permitting | Evening navigation back to Sorong
Sorong, West Papua
After enjoying a final breakfast on board, it's time to say farewell to the crew and exchange photos and memories with new friends. You will be transferred to your hotel in Sorong or to the airport for your onward journey.
Good to know: Final breakfast on board | Disembarkation | Transfer to airport or local hotel