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Rufas island, Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat Ultimate

A 12-day long trip on board the Seahorse

Length

12 Days

Ship category

Luxury

Ship type

Phinisi Yacht

Capacity

16 Passengers

Raja Ampat Ultimate

6 Reviews

Trip highlights

Encounter mantas in Misool

Snorkel in a natural shark nursery at a Ranger’s Station

Visit local villages to experience local culture

Hike Mount Pindito in Wayag Lagoon

The DiveIndonesia experience

Free Nitrox for certified divers.

Optimal diving experience for photographers & non-photographers alike.

Spacious ensuite cabins (all with air conditioners and hot water) and lounges.

Well-thought through itineraries for optimal diving experience in each destination.

This trip is a 12-day expedition that promises an unparalleled adventure, both above and below water. With a minimum of 33 dives, including 5 night dives, you will explore the vibrant and diverse underwater world of Raja Ampat, encountering everything from tiny pygmy seahorses to majestic oceanic manta rays. The trip also offers a variety of land and water activities, including kayaking, bird watching, and hiking to stunning viewpoints.

Starting and ending in Sorong, this trip covers the entire Raja Ampat area, from Misool in the south to Wayag in the north, ensuring you experience the best of what this region has to offer. The expert guides will conduct current checks before each dive to ensure your safety and provide up-to-the-minute briefings. Whether you are an avid diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, this trip offers something for everyone, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Your ship: Seahorse

MSY Seahorse, DiveIndonesia
Air Drone Pictures, MSY Seahorse
Deck Plan, MSY Seahorse

What sets the Seahorse apart is its dedication to delivering a top-notch diving experience in Indonesia’s most sought-after locations. This traditional Phinisi schooner, built in 2005 and extensively refurbished in 2018, combines classic charm with modern comfort, making it a favorite among avid divers.

Imagine starting your day with a breathtaking sunrise over the ocean, followed by a series of dives that reveal the underwater treasures of Indonesia. The Seahorse’s itineraries are crafted to take you to premier diving destinations like Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, and Cenderawasih Bay. With am … Read more about Seahorse

Cabins

Double Bed Seaview (Main Deck), Cabin 8, MSY Seahorse
Sea View Cabin

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Twin Beds (Lower Deck), Cabin 5, MSY Seahorse
Twin Cabin

Type:

Twins

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Double Twin Bed, Lower Deck, MSY Seahorse
Twin/Double Cabin

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Map

Itinerary

Your itinerary below may vary, depending on the weather, wildlife breeding, and local conditions.

Air Drone Pictures, MSY Seahorse
Sorong, Indonesia
Sorong

Disembarkation time: 12 noon

Pick-up Point: Domine Eduard Osok Airport

Recommended flight: Garuda Indonesia GA 682 CGK to SOQ

The Seahorse crew are standing by to Welcome you on board, arriving from Sorong. Safety briefing, crew introduction, necessary dive paperwork, cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing.

During the first day, take this opportunity to familiarize with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.

Misool, Raja Ampat
Fiabacet, Misool, Raja Ampat
Andiamo, Misool, Raja Ampat

Sagoff Island

Daram

Fiabacet

Wayil Islands

3–4 dives a day

Misool's underwater world boasts incredible biodiversity. You can expect to see everything from pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs to schools of barracuda and reef sharks. Misool is excellent for taking wide angle shots, encounters with mantas, and massive schools of fish. The underwater topography is predominantly rocky, with ridges and rock formations. The colorful reefs display an abundance of soft corals and huge gorgonian coral fans.

Fam Islands, Raja Ampat
Fam Islands, Raja Ampat
Fam Islands, Raja Ampat

Melissa's Garden

Penemu Island

Rufas Island

Piaynemo

3-4 dives

You spend one day on these islands between the North and the South area. The dives include the site “Melissa garden” which has the best coral garden of the Raja Ampat area.

Wayag full View, Raja Ampat
Wayag with boats, Raja Ampat
Wayag full view, Raja Ampat

Mount Pindito

Ranger station

Figure Eight Rock

Wayag Lagoon

3–4 dives

Diving here reveals underwater landscapes teeming with life: expect to see blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, and stunning coral reefs. The iconic Wayag lagoons, composed of hundreds of rocky quartz limestone islets, are a marvel to explore with dinghies or onboard kayaks. The crew also recommends a short hike to a summit to admire the surrounding areas.

Kawe Island, Raja Ampat
Black Rock, Kawe Island, Raja Ampat
Black Window, Kawe, Raja Ampat

Equator Islands

Black Rock

3–4 dives

Kawe's dive sites feature vibrant coral gardens, dramatic rock formations, and nutrient-rich currents that attract pelagic species like manta rays, reef sharks, and large schools of fish. The underwater topography varies, featuring walls, pinnacles, and caverns, promising thrilling exploration.

Dampier Strait, Raja Ampat
Blue Magic, Dampier Strait, Raja Ampat
Manta Sandy, Dampier Strait, Raja Ampat

Blue Magic

Cape Kri

Manta Sandy

3–4 dives a day and 1 dive on the last day

The Dampier Strait is a nutrient-rich channel, which offers you the chance to explore vibrant coral gardens bustling with life, including reef sharks, giant trevallies, and schooling fish. Its strong currents attract pelagic species like manta rays and mobula rays, providing exhilarating drift dives.

Sorong, Indonesia
Sorong
Gam Island, Raja Ampat

Disembarkation time: 12 noon

Drop-off Point: Domine Eduard Osok Airport

Recommended flight: Garuda Indonesia GA 683 SOQ to CGK

Awake to an early breakfast on board and prepare for your departure from Sorong. Disembark after a farewell from the crew. You will be accompanied by the crew to the airport or your hotel.

Dates & Prices

When do you want to travel?

From

Until

Info

Availability

Price

26

Nov

2024

7

Dec

2024

Full

Upon Request

26

Nov

2024

7

Dec

2024

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10

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2024

21

Dec

2024

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EUR 5,658

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2024

21

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2024

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EUR 5,658

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2024

4

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2025

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EUR 5,658

24

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2024

4

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EUR 5,658

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2025

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EUR 5,935

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2025

17

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2025

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20

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2025

31

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2025

Full

Upon Request

20

Jan

2025

31

Jan

2025

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Upon Request

3

Feb

2025

14

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2025

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From

EUR 5,935

3

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2025

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EUR 5,935

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28

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2025

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28

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2025

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From

EUR 5,935

3

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2025

14

Mar

2025

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EUR 5,935

3

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2025

14

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2025

Available

From

EUR 5,935

17

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2025

28

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2025

Full

Upon Request

17

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2025

28

Mar

2025

Full

Upon Request

31

Mar

2025

11

Apr

2025

Full

Upon Request

31

Mar

2025

11

Apr

2025

Full

Upon Request

Preferred date unavailable? Contact us

Info

Single Cabin Supplement

When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you.

What's included

All meals onboard. Almost all dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice - please ask us about your needs.

Drinking water, soft drinks and hot drinks on board.

Accommodation on board.

Snorkeling sessions - whenever possible.

Activities - according to weather conditions and the final trip itinerary.

All transport to and from the ship: Pick-up and drop-off by the crew directly from and to the airport or hotel.

English-speaking guides for all dives (1 guide for 4 divers maximum).

Briefings before each dive.

Equipment: Aluminum tanks (80 cf /12 lts), weights and belts.

Nitrox (for certified divers)

Your booking contributes to our Conservation Project.

What's not included

International and domestic flights

Alcoholic beverages

Diving equipment rental

100 cf (15 litres) tank

Port and park fees (200 EUR p.p) have to be paid onboard

Fuel surcharge (100 EUR p.p) have to be paid onboard

Reviews

Kristelle Maouad

MSY Seahorse

Luxury

August 2024

Magnificent Komodo cruise and unforgettable memories thanks to Nicolas and the entire Wallacea team from MSY Seahorse. A big terima kasih to you!!! It was great, from the reception until the departure on the last day for the airport. Super organization and continuous adaptation of the schedule according to the conditions to make the most of the diving sites and activities. As a result, our whole group enjoyed macro diving, turtles, mantas, mobulas, sharks, tropical fish, drop-offs and gardens of rich and colorful corals,... The other activities were also very nice (walks to enjoy magnificent landscapes of the Indonesian islands, visit to the dragons, dinner under the stars, waterfall,…☺️) The team was always attentive, on and under the water, always smiling and wanting to please us. Meals, a moment of delight with varied and balanced cuisine taking into account everyone's requirements. Andy’s massages, a regenerating break! The boat, on a human scale, where you quickly feel at home. So, no choice, it was really wonderful Indonesia,..so thank you again for these unforgettable moments and I hope to see you again next year for a new cruise ☺️

REISEbazaar - Norway

MSY Seahorse

Luxury

August 2024

Without a doubt one of the best liveboard boats that we haver been on. Though the Helmahera area is not the best diving in Indonesia we had a very nice time onboard thanks to the wonderful crew,m supberb in all aspects.

Cyrille Schelker

MSY Seahorse

Luxury

August 2024

Very great experience, best boat trip ever done. All the team And crew are great and fantastic and funny. I had a lot of joy to do this diving boat trip with Wallacea. The service is exceptional. The food is great. The cabin standard are Five stars. All the dive spots were awesome. I’ve seen heaps of corals and fishes definitely one of my best Travel trip in my life. I could only recommend you to start your journey with Wallacea Dive Cruise. Thank you, everybody, for the great experience.

Worth Knowing

For this trip, a with a minimum of 30 dives is necessary and dive level of Advanced Open Water or CMAS level 2.

Every diver must provide proof of insurance covering medical evacuation and treatment for dive-related injuries.

The tipping recommendation is 10-15% of the cruise rate.

Your cruise director will inform you of special rules and regulations if you visit locations in protected areas.

On board payments (Dive equipment rental, drinks, park entry fees, fuel surcharge etc..) have to be done in cash.

Currencies accepted onboard are Euros, US Dollars, Singapore Dollars, Australian Dollars, Yen, Swiss Francs and Indonesian Rupiah.

FAQs

Liveaboard Diving vs. Resort Diving in Indonesia: Which is Right for You?

What is Liveaboard Diving?

Liveaboard diving is an immersive experience where divers live on a specially equipped boat for the duration of their trip. This allows you to dive multiple times a day and explore remote dive sites that are often inaccessible from the shore. Imagine waking up each morning surrounded by pristine waters, ready to dive into new underwater worlds teeming with marine life.

Benefits of Liveaboard Diving in Indonesia

  1. Access to Remote Dive Sites: Liveaboards can take you to off-the-beaten-path dive spots like Raja Ampat, Komodo, and the Banda Sea, where biodiversity is unparalleled.
  2. Maximized Dive Time: With up to 4-5 dives per day, liveaboards allow you to make the most of your diving adventure, often including night dives.
  3. Convenience and Community: Everything is on board – dive gear, meals, and accommodations. Plus, you get to share the experience with a small group of like-minded divers.
  4. Continuous Adventure: You’re always on the move, exploring new sites daily, which means less downtime and more diving.

What is Resort Diving?

Resort diving offers the comfort of staying in a hotel or dive resort, usually situated in prime diving locations. Divers take daily trips to nearby dive sites, returning to the resort each evening. This option combines diving with the amenities and relaxation of a resort stay, including access to beaches, spas, and local attractions.

Benefits of Resort Diving in Indonesia

  1. Comfort and Luxury: Enjoy the comforts of a full-service resort with amenities like spas, restaurants, and private beaches.
  2. Flexibility: Resort diving offers the flexibility to dive as much or as little as you like, with the option to engage in other activities such as sightseeing or relaxing by the pool.
  3. Family-Friendly: Resorts often provide facilities and activities for non-diving family members, making it an ideal choice for mixed-interest groups.
  4. Stable Base: Having a fixed location means you can explore the local culture, cuisine, and land-based attractions in between dives.

Which Should You Choose?

Liveaboard diving is perfect for those who want a dedicated diving experience, exploring remote sites, and maximizing their time underwater. It’s an adventure-packed choice for avid divers who are comfortable with life at sea.

Resort diving suits those who prefer a balance between diving and relaxation, enjoying luxurious amenities, and having the flexibility to engage in other activities. It’s ideal for divers traveling with non-diving companions or those who appreciate a bit more stability and comfort.

Indonesia offers unparalleled diving experiences, whether you choose the adventure of a liveaboard or the comfort of a resort. Both options provide unique benefits, so consider your preferences and what kind of experience you’re seeking. Happy diving!

Top dive sites in Bali

Bali is a diver's paradise, offering a range of dive sites that cater to all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, Bali has something for everyone. Some of the top dive sites include:

  • Tulamben (USS Liberty Wreck): Located on Bali's northeastern coast, this site is home to the famous USS Liberty wreck, a must-visit for any diver. The wreck is teeming with marine life, including schools of trevallies, bumphead parrotfish, and a variety of macro critters. With its shallow depths and calm conditions, it's perfect for both novice and experienced divers. The area around the wreck is also popular for muck diving, where you can spot a diverse range of small and unusual creatures hiding in the black volcanic sand.
  • Nusa Penida (Crystal Bay): Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Nusa Penida offers thrilling drift dives. Crystal Bay is one of the best places in Bali to encounter the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish) during the season from July to October. The site also features beautiful coral gardens and abundant marine life, making it a favorite among underwater photographers. In addition to the larger marine species, the surrounding reef offers opportunities for muck diving, where divers can discover an array of tiny critters.
  • Menjangan Island: Situated in the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is famous for its pristine coral walls and excellent visibility. The island is less crowded, providing a more tranquil diving experience. Divers can expect to see vibrant coral formations, reef sharks, turtles, and schools of tropical fish in these waters. The combination of calm conditions and rich marine life also makes Menjangan an excellent location for macro and muck diving enthusiasts.
  • Amed: Amed offers a variety of dive sites, including vibrant coral reefs and intriguing artificial reefs. The area's calm conditions make it ideal for macro photography, with a chance to spot critters like nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and pygmy seahorses. The Japanese shipwreck here is another highlight, lying in shallow waters and accessible to snorkelers and divers alike. Amed is also a popular spot for muck diving, where divers can uncover an abundance of hidden treasures among the sand and debris.

What are the top Bali scuba diving locations?

Bali boasts a diverse array of scuba diving locations, each offering unique underwater experiences. Some of the top Bali scuba diving locations include:

  • Padang Bai: This coastal village is a gateway to several outstanding dive sites, including Blue Lagoon and Bias Tugel. Known for its calm conditions, Padang Bai is ideal for beginner divers and those interested in macro photography. Expect to see colorful coral gardens, frogfish, and even the occasional reef shark. The area is also well-suited for muck diving, with many small and cryptic species hiding in the sand and rubble.
  • Candidasa: Located on Bali’s eastern coast, Candidasa provides access to sites like Gili Tepekong and Gili Mimpang. These sites are renowned for their dramatic underwater landscapes, featuring steep walls and large coral bommies that attract a variety of marine life. Divers here can experience the thrill of encountering sharks, rays, and large schools of fish in the deep blue. Candidasa also offers muck diving opportunities, where keen-eyed divers can search for rare and unusual critters in the sandy and rocky areas.
  • Nusa Lembongan: Part of the Nusa Islands, Nusa Lembongan is a short boat ride from Bali and offers a range of dive sites that are less crowded but equally stunning. Here, you can explore vibrant coral gardens, spot manta rays at Manta Point, and experience the thrill of drift diving. The calm waters and rich marine life make it an excellent location for divers of all levels. The nearby sites also provide fantastic muck diving experiences, where you can find everything from tiny shrimp to colorful nudibranchs

Where can I go on a liveaboard diving tour from Bali?

Liveaboard diving tours from Bali typically focus on exploring the rich underwater landscapes of Sumbawa and Komodo. These tours offer the opportunity to dive in some of Indonesia’s most renowned spots, with a seamless transition from Bali’s waters to the more remote dive sites.

  • Komodo National Park: Liveaboard tours from Bali often include Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse marine life and strong currents. Highlights include encounters with manta rays at Manta Alley, drift dives at Batu Bolong, and the chance to see the famous Komodo dragons on land excursions. Komodo is also a haven for muck diving, with sites like Cannibal Rock offering the chance to see rare nudibranchs, frogfish, and other unique critters.

See all trips in Komodo National Park

  • Sumbawa Island: Located between Bali and Komodo, Sumbawa is an often-overlooked gem. The dive sites here are less crowded, offering a more intimate diving experience. You can explore the stunning reefs, walls, and pinnacles that are home to everything from tiny critters to large pelagics. Sumbawa also boasts some excellent muck diving sites, where divers can spot a variety of strange and fascinating marine life in the sandy and silty environments.

See all trips in Sumbawa

Why choose a liveaboard diving tour from Bali?

Liveaboard diving tours from Bali are perfect for those who want to maximize their underwater experience and explore a variety of dive sites in a single trip. These tours allow you to access remote and pristine dive sites that are not reachable on day trips. You’ll have the opportunity to dive at sites that are less frequented by day trippers, ensuring a more exclusive and serene diving experience. Plus, the convenience of traveling from Bali, with its excellent connectivity, makes it a popular starting point for divers looking to explore more of Indonesia's underwater wonders.

What should I expect from the dive conditions in Bali?

Bali’s dive conditions vary depending on the location and season.

Generally, you can expect warm waters with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F). This makes Bali a comfortable destination for diving year-round, although water temperatures can be slightly cooler in areas with strong currents, such as Nusa Penida.

Visibility is often excellent, particularly in sites like Menjangan Island and Nusa Penida, where it can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet). However, visibility can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. During the rainy season (December to March), visibility might decrease slightly, but the dive sites are still accessible and enjoyable.

Currents can be strong in areas like Nusa Penida and Candidasa, which are known for their drift dives. These currents bring nutrient-rich waters that attract large pelagic species, but they also require divers to be experienced and comfortable in such conditions. In contrast, areas like Amed and Tulamben offer calm and gentle conditions, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed dive.

Bali also offers a variety of diving environments, from coral reefs and walls to muck diving sites with sandy or silty bottoms. Each of these environments provides different diving experiences, whether you're exploring the vibrant coral gardens of Padang Bai or searching for rare critters in the muck at Amed.

What is muck diving, and where can I experience it in Bali?

Muck diving is a unique form of diving that involves exploring sandy, silty, or muddy environments in search of small, often camouflaged marine creatures. These sites may not have the vibrant corals of a reef dive, but they are teeming with unusual and fascinating critters, making them a favorite among macro photographers and divers who enjoy discovering the hidden gems of the underwater world.

In Bali, several locations are renowned for their muck diving opportunities:

  • Tulamben: The area around the USS Liberty wreck is a hotspot for muck diving, where you can find everything from mimic octopuses to flamboyant cuttlefish hiding in the black sand.
  • Amed: Amed's calm and shallow sites are perfect for muck diving, with an array of small creatures like frogfish, ghost pipefish, and nudibranchs waiting to be discovered.
  • Padang Bai: Known for its diverse dive sites, Padang Bai also offers excellent muck diving, particularly in the sandy areas around Blue Lagoon, where you might spot rare species like the rhinopias or leaf scorpionfish.

Is Bali suitable for beginner divers?

Absolutely! Bali is a fantastic destination for beginner divers, offering a range of sites with calm conditions, easy access, and stunning underwater landscapes. Locations like Amed, Tulamben, and Padang Bai are especially popular with beginners, thanks to their gentle currents, warm waters, and shallow depths. These sites provide an ideal environment for learning to dive, with plenty of marine life to keep you entertained as you build your skills.

At the same time, Bali's diverse range of dive sites means that as you gain experience, you can gradually take on more challenging dives, such as the drift dives at Nusa Penida or the deeper sites at Candidasa. This makes Bali not only a great place to start your diving journey but also a destination you can continue to enjoy as you grow more confident

Bali, Amed
Bali, Amed
Bali Underwater

Indonesia offers a unique blend of world-class diving and vibrant cultural experiences. Beyond its stunning underwater landscapes, the archipelago boasts a rich tapestry of traditions, art, and history. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, bustling markets, or traditional villages, Indonesia's cultural attractions provide a perfect complement to your diving adventures. Here are some top cultural highlights to explore at popular diving destinations in Indonesia.

Bali: Temples, Dance, and Cuisine

Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," is renowned for its lush landscapes and intricate temples. When you're not diving in Bali's crystal-clear waters, take the time to visit some of the island's most famous temples, such as Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. These temples offer stunning views and are perfect for experiencing traditional Balinese dance performances. Don’t miss out on the vibrant Ubud Art Market, where you can find exquisite handicrafts and textiles. Balinese cuisine is another highlight; savor local dishes like Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck).

Raja Ampat: Indigenous Tribes and Marine Conservation

Raja Ampat is a diver’s paradise with its rich marine biodiversity, but its cultural heritage is equally fascinating. The indigenous tribes of Raja Ampat have a deep connection with the sea, and their traditions reflect a sustainable way of life. Visiting the Arborek Village offers a glimpse into the local way of life, where you can witness traditional dances and participate in handicraft workshops. Additionally, Raja Ampat is known for its marine conservation efforts, and learning about the community-led conservation projects can be an enriching experience.

Komodo: Ancient Legends and National Park Adventures

While Komodo is famous for its namesake dragons, the island also offers cultural attractions worth exploring. The Komodo National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a place steeped in ancient legends and lore. Engage with the local communities in the fishing villages of Kampung Komodo and Kampung Rinca to learn about their unique traditions and way of life. The park itself is a marvel of natural beauty, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring pristine beaches.

Banda Islands: Historical Forts and Nutmeg Plantations

The Banda Islands, known for their historical significance and spice trade legacy, are a hidden gem for cultural enthusiasts. These islands were once the world’s only source of nutmeg, leading to a rich history marked by colonial forts and plantations. Visit Fort Belgica, a well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fort, and explore the old nutmeg plantations to learn about the islands' pivotal role in global trade. The Banda Islands also offer a glimpse into the life of the Bandanese people, who have preserved their unique cultural identity over centuries.

Wakatobi: Traditional Villages and Weaving Arts

Wakatobi, an emerging diving destination, is also home to vibrant cultural traditions. The Bajo people, known as sea nomads, inhabit the region and have a unique maritime culture. Visiting Bajo villages like Sampela provides insight into their traditional way of life, where homes are built on stilts over the water. The island of Tomia is famous for its traditional weaving, where you can watch skilled artisans create beautiful fabrics using age-old techniques. These cultural experiences add depth to your diving trip, offering a harmonious blend of underwater and topside adventures.

Practical Tips for Cultural Exploration

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and traditional villages, dress modestly and follow local etiquette.
  • Learn Basic Phrases: A few words in the local language can go a long way in building rapport with locals.
  • Support Local Artisans: Purchase souvenirs from local markets to support the community and bring home unique memories.
  • Combine Activities: Plan your itinerary to include both diving and cultural activities for a well-rounded experience.

Indonesia's diving destinations offer more than just underwater wonders. By exploring the cultural attractions and engaging with local communities, you can enrich your travel experience and gain a deeper appreciation for this diverse and vibrant country. Dive into Indonesia's rich culture and create unforgettable memories both above and below the surface.

Diving in Indonesia offers a spectacular array of underwater experiences, catering to both novice and experienced divers. Here's a breakdown of the different dive certification levels you might need:

  1. Open Water Diver (OWD): This is the entry-level certification that allows you to dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) under the supervision of a dive professional. Ideal for exploring many of Indonesia’s stunning reefs and beginner-friendly dive sites.
  2. Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD): Recommended for those looking to extend their diving skills and dive deeper, up to 30 meters (100 feet). This certification opens up more challenging dive sites in Indonesia, including some of the more famous dive spots in Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat.
  3. Rescue Diver: This certification is for those wanting to improve their safety and emergency response skills. It’s highly recommended for divers looking to undertake more adventurous dives.
  4. Divemaster: The first professional level, allowing you to lead certified divers. This is perfect for those looking to make a career out of diving or wanting to gain a deep understanding of dive planning and marine environments.

Where can I obtain dive certifications in Indonesia?

Indonesia is home to numerous world-class dive schools and resorts offering a range of certification courses. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Bali: Renowned for its excellent dive training facilities, Bali offers everything from Open Water to Divemaster courses. Popular spots include Padang Bai and Amed.
  • Gili Islands: Known for vibrant marine life and clear waters, the Gili Islands are a fantastic place to get certified. Many dive centers here offer courses in multiple languages.
  • Komodo: For those already holding an Open Water certification, Komodo offers advanced training opportunities with its thrilling currents and diverse dive sites.
  • Raja Ampat: While more remote, Raja Ampat provides unparalleled diving experiences and advanced training in one of the world's most biodiverse marine environments.

Do I need an advanced certification to dive in Indonesia?

While an Open Water certification is sufficient for many dive sites in Indonesia, an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended. This allows you to dive deeper and access more challenging and rewarding dive sites. It’s especially beneficial for exploring areas with stronger currents or deeper reefs.

What should I consider when choosing a dive school in Indonesia? When selecting a dive school, consider the following:

  1. Certification Agency: Ensure the school is affiliated with a recognized certification agency like PADI or SSI.
  2. Instructor Experience: Look for experienced instructors with a good track record of safety and student success.
  3. Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes often mean more personalized attention and a better learning experience.
  4. Equipment Quality: Check that the school uses well-maintained and up-to-date diving equipment.
  5. Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow divers to ensure a reputable and enjoyable learning experience.

Can I get certified before my trip to Indonesia?

Absolutely! Many divers prefer to complete their theory and pool sessions at home and finish their open water dives in the crystal-clear waters of Indonesia. This option, known as a referral course, allows you to maximize your vacation time enjoying the incredible marine life.

With a range of certification levels and top-notch dive schools, Indonesia is an ideal destination for divers of all abilities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your skills, the underwater wonders of Indonesia await you.

For more detailed advice and personalized recommendations, feel free to contact us! Happy diving!

Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting your underwater adventures, Indonesia offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse dive spots in the world. Dive in to discover the best diving spots Indonesia has to offer!

Raja Ampat

Known as the crown jewel of Indonesia's diving destinations, Raja Ampat boasts the highest marine biodiversity on the planet. With over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals, divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, manta ray cleaning stations, and spectacular underwater topography.

  • Water Temperature: 28-30°C (82-86°F) / Depth: 5-40 meters (16-130 feet) / Visibility: 10-30 meters (33-100 feet)
  • Diving Conditions: Generally calm, with some sites featuring strong currents
  • Required Experience Level: All levels
  • Marine Wildlife: Manta rays, reef sharks, pygmy seahorses, and over 1,500 species of fish
  • Best time to dive: October to April for the best conditions.

Top Dive Spots in Raja Ampat:

  1. Cape Kri: Known for its record-breaking marine life, with over 374 species of fish observed in a single dive.
  2. Blue Magic: Famous for its cleaning stations, frequented by manta rays and schools of barracuda.
  3. Mioskon: A macro photographer’s dream, with critters like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs.
  4. Melissa’s Garden: Offers expansive coral gardens teeming with life, perfect for shallow dives.

Komodo National Park

Famous for its strong currents and rich marine life, Komodo National Park is home to some of the most thrilling dive sites. Experience the magic of diving with manta rays, sharks, and colorful coral gardens. Don't miss sites like Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Manta Point.

  • Water Temperature: 27-29°C (81-84°F) / Depth: 5-30 meters (16-98 feet) / Visibility: 10-25 meters (33-82 feet)
  • Diving Conditions: Strong currents, best for experienced divers
  • Required Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
  • Marine Wildlife: Manta rays, sharks, turtles, and the famous Komodo dragons on land
  • Best time to dive: April to December, with peak visibility from September to November.

Top Dive Spots in Komodo National Park:

  1. Batu Bolong: A pinnacle dive site known for its vibrant coral and abundant fish life.
  2. Manta Alley: A hotspot for encountering large groups of manta rays.
  3. Castle Rock: Features strong currents attracting schools of jacks, barracudas, and sharks.
  4. Pink Beach: Offers a stunning combination of macro life and beautiful soft corals.

Banda Sea

The Banda Sea is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for its deep blue waters, impressive walls, and historical spice islands. Dive sites like the Banda Neira, Hammerhead Point, and the incredible coral gardens of the Lucipara Atolls offer unforgettable experiences.

  • Water Temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F) / Depth: 5-40 meters (16-130 feet) / Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)
  • Diving Conditions: Generally calm, some sites with strong currents
  • Required Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
  • Marine Wildlife: Hammerhead sharks, whales, and large schools of fish
  • Best time to dive: March to April and September to November for calm seas and best visibility

Top Dive Spots in the Banda Sea:

  1. Ai Island: Known for its stunning walls and large schools of fish.
  2. Manuk Island: Famous for its sea snakes and vibrant coral reefs.
  3. Hatta Island: Offers dramatic drop-offs and encounters with hammerhead sharks.
  4. Nusa Laut: A less-visited site with pristine coral gardens and abundant marine life.

Bali

Bali offers a variety of diving experiences, from the famous USS Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben to the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida. Encounter majestic mola molas, manta rays, and an abundance of macro life. Bali's diverse dive sites cater to all levels of divers.

  • Water Temperature: 27-29°C (81-84°F) / Depth: 5-30 meters (16-98 feet) / Visibility: 10-30 meters (33-100 feet)
  • Diving Conditions: Varies by site; some areas have strong currents
  • Required Experience Level: All levels
  • Marine Wildlife: Manta rays, sharks, turtles, and the famous Komodo dragons on land
  • Best time to dive: March to April and September to November for calm seas and best visibility.

Top Dive Spots in Bali:

  1. Tulamben (USAT Liberty Wreck): A renowned wreck dive teeming with marine life and great for all experience levels.
  2. Nusa Penida (Crystal Bay): Famous for its seasonal sightings of the elusive mola mola.
  3. Padang Bai: Known for its diverse dive sites, from muck diving to vibrant coral gardens.
  4. Menjangan Island: Offers pristine walls and some of the best coral reefs in Bali.

Top dive sites in Indonesia

Indonesia is a diver's paradise, offering some of the most biodiverse and exciting dive sites in the world. Here are some of the top locations that you should consider for your next diving adventure:

  • Raja Ampat: Often referred to as the crown jewel of Indonesian diving, Raja Ampat is located in the heart of the Coral Triangle. With over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals, this area boasts the highest marine biodiversity on the planet. Divers can expect to see everything from vibrant coral gardens to large pelagic species like manta rays and sharks. Raja Ampat is undoubtedly one of the top Indonesia scuba diving hotspots, offering an unforgettable underwater experience.

  • Komodo National Park: Famous for its strong currents and incredible marine life, Komodo offers a challenging yet rewarding diving experience. The park is home to the famous Komodo dragons and some of the best drift diving in the world. Expect to see colorful reefs, schools of fish, turtles, and the occasional reef shark.Komodo is also known for its muck diving sites, where you can discover unique critters like frogfish and nudibranchs hiding in the sandy bottoms.

  • Bali: Bali is not only a top tourist destination but also a fantastic diving hotspot. The island offers a variety of dive sites, from the USS Liberty wreck in Tulamben to the rich marine life around Nusa Penida, where you might encounter the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish) and majestic manta rays. Muck diving enthusiasts will love the black sand slopes of Tulamben, which are home to a fascinating array of critters, including the rare mimic octopus.

  • Banda Sea: Known for its deep waters and nutrient-rich currents, the Banda Sea offers a unique diving experience. This remote location is famous for its vertical walls, large pelagic species, and historical significance as the original spice islands. It's a great spot for liveaboard diving in Indonesia, where you can explore multiple dive sites in one trip, diving among hammerhead sharks and other oceanic wonders.

Why is liveaboard diving the best way to explore Indonesia?

Liveaboard diving is the ultimate way to experience the vast and varied underwater landscapes of Indonesia. Here's why:

  • Access to Remote Sites: You can reach Indonesia's best dive sites, often located in remote areas far from the reach of day boats. With a liveaboard, you're right where the action is, diving in pristine waters that few others have the opportunity to explore.
  • Multiple Dives Per Day: You can dive multiple times a day on a liveaboard, including night dives. This immersive experience allows you to fully connect with the underwater world, experiencing different marine life at various times of the day.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Liveaboards provide comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing and enjoyable dive vacation. With everything taken care of, you can focus entirely on diving while the crew ensures you have an exceptional experience.
  • Diverse Itineraries: Whether you're interested in exploring the vibrant reefs of Raja Ampat, the thrilling drift dives of Komodo, or the remote beauty of the Banda Sea, liveaboard diving in Indonesia offers diverse itineraries that cater to all levels of diving experience.

When is the best time to dive in Indonesia?

Indonesia offers year-round diving, but the best time to dive depends on the region you plan to visit:

  • Raja Ampat: The best diving season is from October to April when the seas are calm, and visibility is excellent.
  • Komodo National Park: April to November is the ideal time to dive in Komodo, as the dry season offers the best conditions.
  • Bali: You can dive in Bali year-round, but the best conditions are from April to November, with the possibility of seeing Mola Mola from July to October.
  • Banda Sea: The best time to explore the Banda Sea is during the transition months of March to April and September to November, when liveaboards operate in the area.

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What marine life can I expect to see while diving in Indonesia?

Indonesia's waters are teeming with marine life, offering encounters with a wide range of species:

  • Coral Reefs: Indonesia is home to some of the healthiest and most diverse coral reefs in the world. You'll see vibrant hard and soft corals teeming with reef fish, nudibranchs, and other small critters.
  • Pelagics: Large pelagic species, such as manta rays, reef sharks, and even whale sharks, are common in areas like Raja Ampat and Komodo.
  • Macro Life: For those interested in macro photography, Indonesia is a treasure trove of tiny marine life, including pygmy seahorses, frogfish, and ornate ghost pipefish.
  • Wrecks: Bali offers wreck diving opportunities, most notably the USS Liberty wreck in Tulamben, which is now home to a rich variety of marine life.

By exploring Indonesia's diverse dive sites, you'll experience some of the best scuba diving the world has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, Indonesia's underwater wonders are sure to leave you mesmerized. We will gladly help you plan the perfect diving trip to Indonesia's top sites! Contact us

Tanjung Loh Sera, Komodo Island
Cape Kri, Raja Ampat
Bali Underwater
Raja Ampat Ultimate

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