A Raja Ampat snorkeling expedition is a true voyage to paradise on Earth. The majestic landscapes and vivid underwater world truly make this place one of the most beautiful and naturally gifted parts of the planet. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise will bring you through the captivating and magnificent labyrinth of straits. Cruise by the ocean-eroded landscapes of rugged and steep coastlines of thick, lush virgin rainforests. Go close to the shorelines to discover hidden beaches and lagoons for a nice relaxing day. Raja Ampat is the capital of marine biodiversity. About seventy percent of the recorded coral species on the planet live there. As a result, this place is the number one marine biodiversity destination in the world. Discover plenty of fish species and swim alongside the majestic manta rays as a highlight of this Raja Ampat boat charter. The region is a top diving destination. But that does not mean that only those who know how to dive can enjoy this marine diversity. You will be amazed that about ninety percent of marine life lives 4 meters below the water’s surface.
Depart from Waisai for your Raja Ampat Adventure Cruise – just a short fast boat ride from Sorong. After settling on board, the trip will start with a refreshing welcome drink, a brief introduction to the boat and crew, and a safety briefing. After, we start by visiting our first snorkeling site, Miskon. In the afternoon, we cruise towards Dampier Strait, while sipping sunset drinks and relaxing on deck. Overnight mooring will take place in Dampier Straight area.
Dampier Strait is a true beauty with its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, iridescent reefs, and a backdrop of lush rainforest. This day will start with an early morning trek to view the beautiful birds of Tapokreng. You will be accompanied along the way by a local Papuan guide as you observe these birds living in their natural habitat. Along with cockatoos, huge hornbills, frigates, eagles and colourful parrots swooping overhead, you’ll have an excellent chance to spot the exotic and rare birds of paradise. Dampier Strait is rapidly becoming known as the place with the most spectacular snorkeling views in the region.
Very early in the morning, the yachts depart towards Arborek. Cruising at dawn offers a beautiful and unique experience to sip your hot coffee or tea while listening to the musical calls of the various exotic birds. Your snorkeling expedition will you to Manta Slope or Manta Sandy –a well-known site as it is one of the most consistent spots for finding congregating manta rays. Maximize your time and enjoy a long snorkeling session while observing these majestic animals. You can spot them backflipping from the surface or being thoroughly cleaned by species of wrasse or butterfly fish underwater.
Your Raja Ampat snorkeling expedition day will start with another fantastic snorkeling session at Batu Dalam, where you can see plenty of pelagic species swimming by. Afterward, the cruise will head on to sail towards Wofoh Island, where white sandy beaches await. Of course, snorkeling here is a must! Seeing healthy corals thriving amidst the crystal clear waters in the area are part of what makes Raja Ampat to special!
This day will start with a visit to the Atlas pearl farm, where you can learn about the complicated and interesting process of developing the only organically grown gemstones. After the short “field trip” to the pearl farm, it is time to change to your wetsuit once more to go snorkel the abundant reefs! Immerse yourself fully in nature while touring with a speedboat in the bay at sunset. The best way to catch a glimpse of the spectacular display of sublime colors against pinnacles and rich forest.
The rocks and seamounts found in this group of islands are really a single rock formation as they actually sit on top of the equator. Apart from this nature trivia, Kawe is also one of the few places in the world where you can travel between the northern and southern hemispheres by simply snorkeling! Not too far from the area lies Eagle Rock – another famous site where you might see manta rays enjoying a cleaning or simply gliding by. The day will go on with an overnight cruise toward the lost paradise of Wayag.
Wayag Island is one of the most mystical sites to visit during a Raja Ampat snorkeling expedition. This enchanting place offers a series of covered lagoons, narrow channels and islets, brooding caves and ragged rocks – among other treasures yet to be explored here. As the afternoon starts, remove your diving gear and change to your hiking boots to hike Mount Pendito in Wayag. This trek will lead you to one of the most stunning viewpoints of Raja Ampat and to the opportunity of taking beautiful pictures. We continue the day by relaxing, swimming, exploring beaches, and snorkeling around Wayang. The protected lagoons are also perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddle explorations.
This morning will lead you toward Melissa’s Garden – an extraordinary site famous for its amazing display of coral fields in shallow water. This place is home to one of the largest population of fish in the area. When a brisk, nutrient rich current picks up, you can see enormous parades of fish and marine animals. The yacht will moore close by and you will be able to take out the dinghy to discover the lagoons and limestone scenery nearby. There, you will find various other sites with great snorekling such as “Rainbow Wall” in this area.
This is the last day of your Raja Ampat snorkeling expedition. You will disembark from your yacht in Waisai after a last delicious breakfast. Say bid your fond farewell to the crew and prepare for your further travels.
Please note that this is a sample itinerary. Each cruise is different and the detailed day-to-day itinerary and sites will be tailored to suit guests’ preferences as well as weather and ocean conditions. Private charters are more flexible in the itinerary compared to scheduled cruises. Your cruise director will work with you on the detailed day-to-day planning onboard.
Barefoot Yachts Indonesia is an established expert for personalized private voyages throughout Indonesia since 2016.
