Raja Ampat is often referred to as the crown jewel of snorkeling.Its reefs, many of which have yet to be explored, are teeming with life big and small and are astonishingly vibrant.With
over 1,766 fish species and counting, and more than 550 coral species,
Raja Ampat is the most biodiverse marine environment in the world and a
truly incredible place to snorkel.
Raja, as it’s often called, is made up of over 1,500
islands and located off the western coast of the island of New Guinea―
the world’s second-largest island. The eastern half of New Guinea is
known as Papua New Guinea and is its own country. The western half is
part of Indonesia and known as West Papua. Sorong is the main port of
departure for Raja Ampat, and it’s where the newly built airport is
located. The harbor is just a quick fifteen-minute drive from the
airport and where you will either board the transfer boat to your resort
or join your liveaboard.
Raja Ampat is a massive area that is broken up into
several different regions. The area around the Dampier Strait and the
Fam Islands are typically referred to as the north—even though it’s
actually more central, and then in the very south, we have the area
known as Misool.
Best Snorkelling in Raja Ampat: Our 15 (Favourite) spots!
When it comes to a good snorkel, it’s fair
to say that we have some pretty high standards. We’ve been fortunate
enough to have sampled some of the world’s finest reefs from the Indian
Ocean, Red Sea, Philippines and Indonesia, but snorkelling in Raja Ampat
was always number one on our bucket list.
Our guide to the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat
Here’s
our guide of the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat. Raja Ampat is a world
class snorkelling destination. In total we’ve spent almost 6 months in
the region, exploring the many reefs throughout the Dampier Strait.
The
sheer diversity of this pristine habitat is outstanding. The longer we
spend here, the more apparent it has become that every island in Raja
Ampat offers a new and exciting environment to explore.
Sauwandarek
Village is located on the Southern coast of Pulau Mansuar, nestled in a
picture perfect cove. Sauwandarek has something for everyone, and
easily offers some of the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat.
There
are a number of famous jetty’s in Raja Ampat, but we feel Sauwandarek’s
is totally underrated! It’s beautiful underside is covered in colourful
sea fans and soft corals amongst a mixing pot of friendly Angel Fish,
Groupers and a resident Napoleon Wrasse.
Around 100 metres from
the shore, in front of the jetty is Sauwandareks ‘sweet spot’. Out here
in the blue there is a cleaning station where the big fish like to hang
out. Colourful Sweet Lips, Giant Groupers, Trigger Fish, Reef Sharks and
a school of bright blue and yellow Fusiliers easily make this one of
the most scenic spots for snorkelling in Raja Ampat.
The house
reef runs the entire length of the beach. Follow this along and discover
a mind-blowing variety of marine life such as the giant sleeping
Turtle, even more Reef Sharks, Groupers and swirling schools of
Barracuda.
The warm clear shallows have a lot to offer too. There
are healthy soft corals, pretty anemones, baby Black Tips and hungry
Turtles, so don’t forget to check out this area as well. Once you’re
wrinkly from all the snorkelling, dry off on the jetty or wander around
the tiny village and play with the local children.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Excellent Current: Mild to Medium Experience: Beginner Entry: From the jetty at high tide or the shore at low time
The
reef running from Yenkoranu to Mambetron Homestay on the North Shores
of Kri is a classic Raja Ampat snorkelling spot. Entry is made from the
jetty of Yenkoranu. From here, follow the drop-off along the coast to
the black and white buoys at Mambetron.
The reef has a good
mixture of hard and soft corals, along with excellent marine life
including big schools of blue and yellow Fusiliers, Red Tooth Trigger
Fish, large patterned Pufferfish, Black Tip Reef Sharks, Turtles and
much more.
It’s clear visibility and unchallenging conditions give
this veteran reef its good name. Personally we prefer something a
little more risqué, but nonetheless it is hard to find fault in this
very pretty drop-off. For children and beginner snorkelers, this is a
great place to start.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Very Good Current: Mild to Medium Experience: Beginner Entry: From the jetty at Yenkoranu Homestay, then head west
Friwen
Wall, a sliver of limestone next door to the tropical island of Friwen
Bonda can be found near the Eastern tip of Pulau Gam… And the
snorkelling here is sublime.
Depending on the current, work your
way slowly along Friwens rocky under-hang. The wall itself drops off
abruptly, but concentrate on the clear shallow waters and you will soon
discover an alien underwater world.
The unusual coral
infrastructure at Friwen Wall is kaleidoscopic. Its huge gorgonian fans
in yellows, pinks and reds, black coral, purple pipe corals, swaying
soft coral and iridescent sponges make this spot a feast for the eyes!
This
pristine reef and healthy topography is home to an array of strange
critters and heaps of impressive macro life such as Boxfish, Puffer and
Porcupine Fish, Pygmy Seahorses, Nudis, Crustaceans and more.
Friwen Wall can be reached by boat, where it is possible to access a jetty and a small beach on the opposite side of the island.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Good Current: Mild to Medium Experience: Beginner Entry: Make your entry depending on way the current is running and start or end your snorkel at the jetty.
The
pretty village of Sawinggrai located on Southern Gam, has just as much
to explore underwater as it does overwater. Being mindful of the current
running along the coastline here (it can be strong) enter from the main
floating jetty, or approximately 2km to the right of the village, past
Nudibranch Homestay depending on its direction.
Floating atop the
drop-off you will see an interesting mixture of hard and soft corals
plus plenty of colourful reef fish such as Butterfly Fish, Batfish, Blue
and Yellow Boxfish. Although the shallows will call for your attention,
don’t forget to keep your eyes on the blue as the big stuff has a habit
of appearing out of nowhere. Expect to see Reef Sharks, Eagle Rays,
Turtles, maybe even a passing Manta. The jetty itself is a great place
to hang out, especially if you like looking for little things like Nudis
and Mantis Shrimp. It’s also a great place for night snorkelling.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Very Good Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Intermediate Entry: Depending on the direction of the current, enter via the jetty or by boat
The tiny island of Arborek, reminiscent of a Maldivian Atoll, is famed for its jetty and the schools of fish spinning around it.
It
is true that on a good day, the jetty is impressive. However in our
humble opinion this site has been somewhat spoilt by the number of day
tripping boats which moor here. Sometimes the volume of boats vs people
far outweighs the fish.
Avoid the hoards by snorkelling out to the
right of the main jetty to a special spot between the 2nd jetty and
Barefoot Conservation. Around 100 metres from the shore, during the
hours of 3 and 6pm there is a fish feeding frenzy!
Snorkelling
Arborek around this time could honestly rival a dive. Shoals of
glistening Mackerel open their wide mouths in unison as hunting Tuna and
Giant Trevally chase them over mounds of pretty coral heads. If you’re
lucky you may even spot a Shark, or a passing Manta or two!
Keep
following the reef around past the Barefoot Conservation jetty and be
greeted by a beautiful shallow reef of hard and soft corals, big fish
and small. Before long you’ll reach an outcrop of hard coral where a
huge family of Bumphead Parrotfish like to feed.
For us, we found some of the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat on Arborek. It’s a great place to stay and to visit on an excursion.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Good Current: Mild to Strong Experience: Beginner Entry: From the main village jetty
There
are several different spots to explore here which make this super
special homestay an excellent choice for serious snorkel enthusiasts.
The main house reef runs along the opening to the bay, looking out to
Arborek. Keeping the mangroves to your left, follow this healthy reef
for as long as you can. The best bit is at about 100km along. If you’re a
strong swimmer its possible to reach the first village. This stretch is
full of life and constant surprises. We’ve spotted Octopus, Mantas,
Eagle Rays, Cuttlefish, Reef Sharks, Boxfish, Puffers, Seasnakes,
Turtles, Dolphins and even Dugongs!
Be aware not to enter and exit
the bay at low tide. The corals are incredibly shallow, making it
almost impossible to reach the drop-off after a certain point. If you
wish to snorkel at this time, it is better to enter at the bungalows of
Ano Homestay. By swimming alongside the karst limestone outcrop to the
left, it is possible to circle round to the front of the house reef, but
be careful of the current on the way back.
The rear of the island
is dotted with karst limestone islets, offering interesting snorkel
opportunities and plenty of rocky under-hangs to explore. We love the
weird coral sponges and brightly coloured anemones. If you enjoy hunting
for critters such as Seahorses, Pipefish and Nudibranches then this is
your place!
Beser Bays surrounding lagoon is yet another great
place to snorkel. These warm shallows act as a nursing home for baby
Black Tip Sharks, Blue Spotted Sting Rays, Squid, Clownfish, Clams and
of course the famous Walking Shark. If you like to night snorkel, expect
to see huge Sea Slugs, Crocodile Fish, Scorpionfish, Crabs, Punching
Shrimp and many other critters in the sand.
After spending just over two months here, we consider Beser Bay and its surrounding reefs as one of the top homestays for the best coral snorkelling in Raja Ampat.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Excellent Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Beginner to Advanced Entry: Best during high tide
If
you fancy going a little further afield from the main Dampier Strait,
then we recommend the mystical Citrus Ridge. This intriguing spot is
tucked between a mangrove channel hidden in the southern most depths of
Gam.
It’s fairly well-known to liveaboards, so the likelihood is
you won’t be the lone boat, but trust when we say that this site will
leave you feeling incredibly remote.
Enter the drop-off at the
broken jetty in front of the beach and follow the reef back round to the
main channel of water, keeping the mangrove forest to your right. It
gets pretty deep in places, but the water is crystal clear with
visibility up to 15 metres.
If you enjoy freediving this is an
excellent place to do so. Impressive pastel soft corals sway gently on
the sea floor, while the shallow areas offer brightly coloured sponges
in all shapes and sizes. Balls of mesmerising Fusiliers can be found
relaxing on top of the reef.
After approximately 500 metres, make
the bold crossing over to the opposite side of the channel, keeping a
look out for boat traffic. You’ll feel like a small fish in a big ocean,
but trust us its worth the slightly nerve-wracking swim. On the other
side, follow the reef along to the left.
The best spot is at the
tip of the land mass. There is a lot to see here – the highlight for us
was a huge Wobbegong Shark swimming towards us. The surge can be strong,
but riding the bright turquoise waves makes for an exhilarating
snorkel!
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Excellent Current: Medium Experience: Intermediate / Advanced Entry: From the broken jetty stilts by the beach
Hidden in the depths of Manyaifun, en route to Wayag,
is Tamaku Reef. You might have trouble finding it, but trust us, it is
well worth the wild goose chase. This long, thin atoll rises within one
metre of the surface and it really is what coral reef dreams are made
of!
Warm, clear waters lap around the outskirts of a pristine
reef, offering a variety of eye-popping hard and soft corals and a wide
array of fish species. We were particularly impressed by the volume of
colourful Anthias and hunting Black Tip Reef Sharks. When you picture
some of the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat, this could well be it!
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Very Good Current: Mild to Medium Experience: Beginner Entry: By boat
Probably
the 2nd most famous jetty in Raja Ampat is Yenbuba, on the tip of Pulau
Mansuar. But there is more to this place than just stilts in the water
as a healthy reef runs either side and is home to many wonderful fish,
in all shapes and sizes. The jetty offers pretty fans and soft corals,
plus the local kids who love to dive-bomb in from the top!
From
here, snorkel across to the island of Kri past the tiny islet of
Raniswor. This exciting and adventurous crossing is advised for the more
confident snorkeller, since the current running between the two islands
can be strong. But if you make it, expect to see lots of big stuff like
Sharks, Puffers, Triggerfish and Turtles.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Excelllent Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Beginner to Advanced Entry: Via the jetty
Just
to the left of the main entrance to the mangrove channel leading to
Citrus Ridge, is Mangrove Reef. This rarely visited dive site stretches
along Gam for at least 1km. And from our experience, it is not for the
faint-hearted. Depending on the conditions, the surge mixed with a
strong current can be hard work.
However, this extreme snorkel
spot will reward you no end with it’s excellent visibility, stunning
coral formations and impressive schools of fish. Trevally, Jacks, Tuna,
Barracuda, Fusiliers, you name it, they are all there. The reef is
untouched, unusual and teeming with life. This site really sums up what
it is all about for us and easily offers some of the best snorkelling in
Raja Ampat. Just be sure your boat captain is in sight in case you need
a break from the waves.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Excellent Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Advanced Entry: By boat
One of the most loved sites for diving
and snorkelling in Raja Ampat, but it is not for the faint hearted!
This vast cape reaches across from the Eastern tip of of Kri to the
island and sandbank of Pasir Timbul.
For snorkellers, it is
important to get the timing right with Cape Kri. If the current is too
strong, it is easy to get blown off course. Fins are a necessity at this site.
The
reef itself is deep, so be prepared to spend a lot of time looking down
into the blue. However, your efforts will be compensated by big
pelagics and vast schools of fish. This thrilling snorkel will set
pulses racing.
Further along from the cape, just off to the left
of the small island of Pasir Timbul, there is some excellent snorkelling
to be had. We don’t know the official name of this site (maybe its just
an extension of Cape Kri?) But, if you can get your boat to moor at the
island we highly recommend checking this spot out. The reef here is
much shallower and easier for the less experienced.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Excelllent Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Intermediate to Advanced Entry: By boat
Using
the village of Yenbekwan on Mansuar and Papua Explorers on Gam as rough
landmarks, Otdima is somewhere in between the two, in the middle of the
Dampier Strait. It took a few attempts before we found it, but when we
did, the reward was well worth our efforts. A reef rarely frequented, we
love its detachment from boats, land and any other people. It is a
place to be alone with the ocean.
For snorkelers, it is
recommended to visit at low tide since the reef is 4-5 metres at it’s
shallowest. If you freedive, this is heaven. The coral is mostly hard,
but it is vast, and smothered in small fish. In fact it is probably one
of the single most fishy snorkel spots we’ve ever been to.
Highways
of different species drift in between the corals, everything is alive
and moving. While all of this action is going on, full size Black Tip
Sharks advance from the blue while Eagle Rays occasionally grace their
presence. It is a reef full of surprises and worth spending time on to
truly appreciate.
On the topside, swimming in the open ocean is a
pretty cool experience. Pods of dolphins play on the outskirts of the
reef, teasing you with their presence. For divers,
the current here is known to be strong, but in our snorkelling
experience it was relatively mild (or maybe we got lucky). Either way,
make sure your boat stays close in case you need assistance.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Excellent Big Fish: Excellent Current: Mild to Medium Experience: Intermediate / Advanced Entry: By boat
For location please comment your interest and we will email you the coordinates.
(13) Batu Lima
Batu Lima or ‘5 Rocks’ is a small outcrop of, well, rocks located 300 metres or so from Yenanas Beach on Pulau Gam.
This
unusual formation of nooks and crannies is a fun place to explore as
the resident schooling fish glisten and swoop in and out of its dark
spaces offering plenty of hiding places from prying snorkellers and
divers.
Around the rocks, there are many coral bommies covered in
beautiful gorgonian fans. Making your way across the channel and back to
the beach, there is more reef to explore but be careful of passing
boats and an occasional current.
Yenanas’s house reef is a stunning coral garden with next to no current, so perfect for inexperienced snorkellers.
Coral: Very Good Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Good Current: Medium Experience: Intermediate Entry: From Yenanas Beach
Technically
this could be classed as an extension of Beser Bay, since the drop-off
runs from the homestay all the way along the mangroves to the village of
Kapisawar on Gam. It’s a pretty epic snorkelling session to go there
and back (approx 6km total) so we often get dropped off at Kapisawar
Jetty, and snorkel back home from there.
Aside from a couple of
homestays hidden in the mangroves, this is not a well-known snorkelling
site, but we confirm that it is worth a look-see. This reef is intact
and breathtakingly beautiful. The current can be strong, turning into
more of a drift in places, but floating above this incredible coral is
simply a joy. It’s also worth noting that after a storm or high waves,
this area can be susceptible to low vis and a collection of debris on
the surface. But don’t let this put you off, keep your head down and
enjoy the view.
The marine life is all you could ask for. We’ve
seen Mantas, Eagle Rays, Reef Sharks, Turtles, Cuttlefish, Seasnakes
amongst many other species of fish.
Coral: Excellent Small Fish: Very Good Big Fish: Medium Current: Medium to Strong Experience: Intermediate to Advanced Entry: From Kapisawar Jetty
Raja
Ampat is known to be one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
It is also an area which is vastly unexplored. During our most recent
trip (2018/19) we set out on a mission: to find some new locations and
secret spots!
By scanning a satellite map of the area, we embarked
on a number of exploratory snorkel trips. With help from our local boat
guides (and a little trial and error) we discovered a whole new set of
reefs – pristine, untouched and far from other traffic. Some of these
sites are not that easy to find, neither are they for the less
experienced snorkeller, since their current conditions can be more
unpredictable.
We wish to protect these special areas,
so have decided not to promote them on our list. However, if you’re
serious about snorkelling and you like getting off the beaten track,
please drop us a comment below and we’ll email you the coordinates to
these secret snorkel spots.
Tips for snorkelling in Raja Ampat
Some
of the best snorkelling in Raja Ampat was more wild and free than
anywhere else we’ve experienced! However the wilderness doesn’t come
without its challenges, so we have a few first-hand tips to share with
you.
Currents and safety guidelines
Raja Ampat is renowned
for its strong currents. It is important to know when it is safe to
swim, as a strong current could lead to unpredictable situations. In a
place as remote as Raja Ampat, this is potentially very dangerous.
Currents
are felt more so during a snorkel, as they run closer to the surface,
but it can be possible to evaluate the situation from above. Look for
tell-tale signs such as areas that are flat and glassy mixed with
swirling choppy water.
If you think you can feel a strong current
building, stay as close to the reef or rocks as possible and turn the
snorkel around or head back to the shore if you don’t feel safe.
If
you’re heading out alone, tell someone where you’re going and give them
a rough direction. Whether this is a friend, fellow guest or homestay
owner its important for people to know where you are, especially when
snorkelling in such a remote location.
Be sure to avoid contact with all marine life, including the reef. Coral stings for example, can be incredibly painful and hard to heal in hot and humid places such as Raja Ampat.
Snorkel Clothing
The
waters in Raja Ampat are alive and brimming with life! There can be a
lot of plankton, swaying fire coral and little stinging jellyfish so
cover up with full length rash guards (tops and bottoms) to protect your
skin.
Although the sea is warm here, after hours of snorkelling
you will start to feel cold. These extra protective layers will come in
handy. Plus you’ll be protected from the sun and more respectful to the
local people.
Ear care and cleaning
Ear infections are
rife in Raja Ampat. If you are unfortunate enough to get one, they will
put a stop to all of your underwater activities.
Take preventative
measures and always flush out your ears with freshwater. We cannot
stress how important it is to administer disinfectant drops, to dry and
clean your ears after snorkelling. We use a homemade mix of alcohol and
white vinegar.
Snorkel Gear
We highly recommend wearing
fins while snorkelling in Raja Ampat. Not only will they help you glide
through the water, but if you get caught in a current, fins make a huge difference. They really are for your own safety. We really like the Mares Avanti Quattros, which are specifically designed for handling strong currents.
We
prefer to use open back fins which allow for reef shoes or booties to
be worn. These are a bit of a necessity in Raja Ampat! Navigating your
way out to a reef over sharp dead coral at low tide is painful. We wear
the Mares Equator 2mm dive boots, which are super comfy and pack down really small, so a great choice if you are travelling light.
Rental equipment is very hard to come by here, especially if you’re staying in a traditional Papuan homestay so it is best to bring your own mask, snorkel, fins and reef shoes.
Lastly with all these insanely beautiful reefs to explore, an underwater camera is a must! We use the GoPro Hero 5 mostly when freediving for wide angle and video, and the Sony RX100 M3 which is excellent for capturing macro, stills and video.
We
soon learnt that whether you are a lover of the big stuff, colourful
coral reefs or tiny macro, there is never a lack of life. The only
downside is, that snorkelling in Raja Ampat may be impossible to beat…
Have we been spoilt for life? Quite possibly! But thats ok, we’re already planning our next trip 😉 Want to go? Check out our Raja Ampat Travel Guide.
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The Raja Ampat islands may be considered one of the best diving places left in the world, but it is also one the best snorkelling destinations in Indonesia and possibly has the best snorkelling in the world!
Surrounded by the clear waters of the Dampier Strait, with access to the most active reefs, we can curate for you unforgettable snorkelling experiences!
Corals love the sunlight, and most of the action is at the shallow
water! Both Coral reefs and marine life sit 15m and shallower, making
this true gold for snorkelers.
At Raja Ampat Biodiversity Nature Resort we have a spectacular house reef a foot step from your cottage.
The
coral garden in the resort is full of richness and has an abundance of
biodiversity, a common sight is the Epaulette Shark, which is endemic to the area, Hawksbill Turtles, Black Tip Sharks, and quite occasionally leaping dolphins!
Join our guided snorkel excursions to explore the vibrant reefs in the Raja Ampat Islands. For you convenience, we have snorkel-accommodation packages. Or embark on a Scuba diving course.
We urge you to become an eco-tourist
and recommend that all snorkels to be mindful of harmful sunscreen that
cause damage to reefs. Some harmful chemicals, oxybenzone and
octinoxate are the main culprits. Leave only bubbles, take only
memories!
BIODIVERSITY
HOUSE REEF
The tranquil waters in front of the resort
make a perfect location were all abilities are welcome for snorkelling
in Raja Ampat. The coral garden along the reef is full of hard and soft
corals and the colours sparkle when hit by the sun’s rays, making our
house reef feel like an aquarium full of life!
BIODIVERSITY HOUSE REEF
At
Raja Ampat Biodiversity Nature Resort we have a spectacular house reef a
foot step from your cottage. - The coral garden is full of richness and
has an abundance of biodiversity. The sandy white beach makes access
easy and is hassle free. - We recommend you spend a few minutes at the
jetty because the pillars are full of marine life such as, Diamond Fish,
Big Eye Trevally , Batfish, Fusiliers, Turtles and BlackTip Sharks. -
These are just some of our residents. A very common sight is the walking
shark which is endemic to the
What others say about snorkeling with us
“Snorkeling
in a little piece of paradise
Spent two weeks here in January and had a fantastic time. Everything was
amazing from the beautiful comfortable bungalow, the quality of the
food, the friendly staff made it a great stay. Fabulous trips snorkeling
every day, Mantas, dugongs, turtles, dolphins, pilot whale and all the
fishes big and small, pristine corals of every colour. Then coffee and
cake on surface breaks.”
John Doe
“We
went on snorkeling expeditions and the snorkeled the amazing house reef
everyday. I also admired their involvement with the local community and
their commitment to responsible eco tourism. Because if Biodiversity,
we can say that we had a wonderful experience in Raja Ampat. Without a
doubt, when we go back, it would be here again.
Mike Stuart
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DIVING EXPERIENCE
An
abundance of shallow reefs, close encounters with colourful corals and
other creatures of the deep, abundant fish bio-mass make it the ideal
spot for your diving vacation in Indonesia.
Excursions
and diversions make us the perfect spot. We’ll tailor-make excursions
just for you in addition to the many experiences already on offer at the
resort.
$US 1300 including Park Fees FOR 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS
After a week living aboard a boat touring Raja Ampat, we challenge you to take us to a more spectacular natural 'wow'. It’s certainly the most spectacular when it comes to the bizarre magnificence of the limestone karst islands, and on the marine bio front, well, science deemed Raja Ampat the winner years ago.
Without roads or ferries, the only way to see Asia’s great natural wonder is by boat.
In brief, to get there, it’s a flight to Sorong in east Indonesia. What you will see is the most diverse oceanic life on earth, set amongst a sculptured island landscape that is otherworldly.
A liveaboard trip on a spacey 24m multihull, will cost $US 1320 including Park Fees for a 7day/6 night cruise.
Nearly all the boats cruising Raja Ampat are for divers, and cost around 260 to 360 Euros per night, and their itineraries are all about the underwater landscape. The choice we offer is a much bigger experience than just diving, as the real ‘wow’ of Raja Ampat is where the reef meets the rainforest. This means beaches, karst cruising, villages, snorkelling, kayaking, beach dinner parties, and a ‘see it all’ agenda.
THE SPECIALIST IN SNORKELING CRUISES IN RAJA AMPAT BIG KANU!
Underwater or on land, come and discover the treasures and beauty of the Raja Ampat archipelago through our unique cruises.
The Wisesa liveaboard snorkeling cruise in Raja Ampat gives you the opportunity to explore the richest underwater ecosystem in the world, and swim with manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, schools of thousands of fish and colorful healthy corals.
Admire breathtaking landscapes, enjoy pristine beaches with turquoise waters, explore a virgin forest full of tropical birds including the endemic bird of paradise, as well as meet and share with local Papuan people.
You and your Family will enjoy the Beauty of Raja Ampat, meet his gorgeous and incomparable marine life, with our wooden phinisi boat WISESA, you will explore the best reefs of the area, underwater walls, coral gardens, spectacularly nice and calm lagoons. While you swim and look at the corals and fish, you hear the sounds echo from the jungle. On land, an incredible variety of birds, lizards and cuscus live in the Jungle. Raja Ampat also has breathtaking natural Landscapes, and a local population with still strong traditional culture !
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
-Jacques Yves Cousteau-
Our experience of more than 10 years of exploring the Raja Ampat has allowed us to draw routes specially designed for the practice of Snorkeling.
Our experience of more than 10 years of exploring the Raja Ampat has allowed us to draw routes specially designed for the practice of Snorkeling.
The spectacular RAJA AMPAT archipelago
The Raja-Ampat archipelago is located in the “coral triangle”, in the far east of Indonesia, where the waters of the Pacific and Indian oceans meet. It creates a strong current at the origin of an explosion of biodiversity in this region.
You can translate Raja Ampat as “Four Kings”. The archipelago fascinates with the beauty of its mysterious limestone karst islands. This wild region with legendary myths impresses all visitors with its spectacular landscapes that hide lagoons, bays and secret beaches. Nature is still intact!
The reputation of the Raja Ampat islands is undeniable. This region of Indonesia is indeed considered today as the place where the underwater biodiversity is the richest in the world!
You will find a variety of coral and fish species like nowhere else.
Paradise above water as well
Raja Ampat is a world class snorkeling area but this archipelago also has breathtaking landscapes, dream lagoons, virgin islands and local Papuan populations with intact traditions!
In addition to the marine life that you can admire while snorkeling, Raja Ampat also offers many other activities allowing you to explore this spectacular place on land and water: canoeing, village visits, excursions in the jungle, visits to small islands, animals and birds spotting who, for many are endemic.
When should you book?
The Wisesa sails in the Raja Ampat archipelago during the best seasons from August to June.
We take advantage of favorable conditions to explore the archipelago from the center to the northern part of the National Park up to the Wayag island, passing further south towards the island of Batanta for the longest cruises.
Location :
Situated in the Northeast of the island of Papua, Raja Ampat ( or the 4 kings ) is part of the Coral Triangle, with the richest marine biodiversity on earth !
This archipelago is composed of 1500 islands covering a total area of 40000 Km2, making Raja Ampat the biggest marine National park in Indonesia !
The Main islands are Batanta, Waigeo, Misool & Salawati. The Raja Ampat’s highly rich biodiversity is due to its particular position between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This mix of ocean waters creates the ideal home for plenty of endemic species.
