Raja Ampat Liveaboard Diving & What Makes It So Special?

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Raja Ampat is located in West Papua on the western tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsula. The region gets its name from the archipelago’s four main islands, known as the “four kings” in Indonesian. These islands are Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo. More than a thousand other islands dot the region, ranging in size from jagged giants to tiny rock pinnacles rising from turquoise lagoons. Nobody wants to spend their entire vacation traveling, right? The majority of Raja Ampat liveaboard diving operators have their itineraries down to a science. Allowing for three or four dives in a single area during the day, followed by an overnight journey to the next stop. Who wouldn’t want to wake up every day in a different world-class diving destination? 

Raja Ampat Liveaboard Diving & What Makes It So Special?

The advantages of a moving hotel do not end there. Raja ampat liveaboard diving can take guests to more remote areas in search of better conditions, and seasonal gatherings of species like manta rays. Non-diving activities such as snorkeling, lounging on hidden beaches, and jungle trekking in search of rare endemic birds are also popular on the Raja Ampat trips.

Raja Ampat Liveaboard Diving Routes

Because Raja Ampat’s two distinct diving regions are so far apart and have slightly different seasons, there are two main liveaboard routes – north and south. But don’t worry, they frequently visit the same famous central dive sites before sailing off into the distance.

Dampier Strait

Your liveaboard can explore the Dampier Strait, Bantanta, and Mansuar after departing from Sorong. Visit the Fam Islands at the western end of the Dampier Strait before continuing north past Pulau Penem towards Gam. The large islands of Gam and Waigeo have a lot to offer before the ship heads north to Kawe and then Wayag. From here, the itinerary will most likely return to Sarong, visiting any iconic dive sites missed on the way out, as well as any repeat dives requested by the guests.

Misool

Before heading south, Misool Itineraries will usually visit the same iconic Dampier Straits sites. When the ship arrives in the south, it will explore Misool as well as the smaller surrounding islands of Pelee, Yellit, and Daram. The Raja Ampat trip itinerary will most likely return to Sarong. You will visit any iconic dive sites that were missed or any favorites that the guests requested.

Top Luxury Raja Ampat liveaboard review for unique itineraries

Dunia Baru Liveaboard

Dunia Baru, at 51 meters in length, provides plenty of space for guests on her three decks. The open kitchen and bar area is where guests can enjoy the chef’s delicious teppanyaki dinner. The ship offers a variety of relaxation options. Whether it’s in front of the wheelhouse for a panoramic view, or in the indoor air-conditioned lounge to escape the midday sun. On the deck at night to see the ship’s lights reflecting in the water, guests will find an idyllic spot to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

Aqua Blue

Aqua Blu’s spacious outdoor areas will appeal to guests. There is plenty of space for guests to enjoy a delicious meal with two outdoor dining options and indoor dining. The sun deck has a large outdoor seating area with sun loungers. The bridge deck has a jacuzzi where guests can relax after exploring. Aqua Blu also has a watersports platform where guests can rent kayaks, SUPs, snorkeling, and diving equipment.

Lamima Liveaboard

Lamima has a total of seven cabins. The master suite, located on the main deck aft is a luxurious space with a king bed and an extended seating area. The other six cabins are located on the lower deck. Four have a kingsize bed and a sitting area, and two have two single/twin beds with plenty of storage space. Each cabin has air conditioning as well as an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, a toilet, and two vanities.

Silolona Liveaboard

Silolona has a large outdoor deck with plenty of comfortable lounge areas. Making it ideal for a massage or simply sitting back and watching the world go by. Guests can enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars at two outdoor dining tables.

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The indoor dining and lounge area is a relaxing retreat from the midday sun. The indoor space flows seamlessly to the outdoor lounge area, which is surrounded by windows that allow natural light to flow in. The expansive deck of Silolona offers guests a variety of places to unwind. There are plenty of places to relax outside, including outdoor lounges, chairs, and day beds.

Si Datu Bua

Si Datu Bua has a large outdoor deck with comfortable lounge areas where you can relax on deck chairs or sunbeds. An outdoor dining table allows guests to enjoy chef-prepared al fresco dining. The indoor dining and lounge area is a cozy and comfortable place to eat. The indoor space flows seamlessly to the outdoor lounge area, which is surrounded by windows that allow natural light to flow in. There are day beds and deck chairs located throughout the ship, so there is no shortage of places to unwind.