Raja Ampat Archipelago

Snorkeling

Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle- the waters surrounding the Raja Ampat Archipelago in Indonesia's West Papua province are one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet boasting more than 500 species of coral and more than 1,300 species of fish. Aboard our traditional style Indonesian schooner with all the modern comforts and facilities, our small group enjoys an intimate exploration of this underwater paradise located far from the beaten track.

Reefs throughout Raja Ampat are among the world's most pristine. We snorkel along mushroom-shaped rock islands, which harbor miles of hard and soft corals. In addition to snorkeling in aquamarine waters, we also explore some of the larger islands of the region including Waigeo whose lush green forest is inhabited by many variets of bird and animal life. We enjoy strolling along white sand beaches, and at Gam Island there is a possibility to see the magnificent Bird of Paradise.

Accommodations are aboard a 12-passenger, 123-foot-long motored schooner featuring six air-conditioned cabins with their own complete en-suite facilities. The Saloon is air-conditioned and comprises of the Dining and Lounge area, comfortable setting where participants can enjoy the library and socialize. It is spacious and attractive with large surrounding windows allowing continuous views of the spectacular outdoor topography.

With daily diverse snorkeling opportunities, combined with a mix of island exploration, this is one of the best remote snorkeling expeditions possible.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta, continue to Sorong, West Papua.
Day 2:Penemu Island, snorkeling.
Day 3:Penemu Island, evening cruise to Northwest part of Waigeo Island.
Day 4 - 5: Waigeo Island, 2 full days explore the island, snorkel and explorewhite sand beaches. Evening cruise to Wayag Island. Day 6:Wayag Island known for its beautiful snorkeling sites at the edge of some limestone cliffs. Evening cruise to Uramie Is. Day 7: Urami and Kawe Islands. Snorkel in between these mushroom like islands. .Evening cruise to Gam Is.
Day 8 - 9:Gam Island: Snorkeling activities and hikes inland. Day 9: Explore southern area of Gam Island. Evening cruise to Mansuar Island.
Day 10:Enjoy snorkeling at Mansuar Island reef area and Kri Island reefs. Late evening Cruise to Sorong.
Day 11: Debark Sorong, West Papua, transfer to airport for flight to Jakarta.

Click for large, interactive map

Naturalist: Wayne Sentman

2010 Dates: October 55-November 8

2010 Cost: $6,590 (including airfare from Jakarta)

Maximum group size: 12

Information & Reservations

Please fill out an APPLICATION to sign-up for the Raja Ampat expedition.

Send E-mail regarding this specific trip: Raja Ampat