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The area known as Raja Ampat (or the Four Kings) is an archipelago consisting of the islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Wiageo which are surrounded by over 1,500 small islands and cays.
Formerly known as Irian Jaya, this area is now part of the newly named West Papua province of Indonesia and is located on the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea.
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Tambora
11-12 night trips from $295 per night s
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Pindito
10-16 night trips from $450 per night |
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Arenui
8-13 night trips from $460 per night |

Mermaid1
9 night trips from $295 per night |
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Waow
9-13 night trips from $450 per night
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Damai
All inclusive trips from $550 per night |
Put simply, Raja Ampat diving could quite possibly be the best diving in the world. It is certainly the world's most biodiverse marine region with more recorded fish, coral and mollusk species than anywhere else on the planet. The variety of marine life can be staggering. Some areas boast enormous schools of fish and regular sightings of sharks, such as wobbegongs. In Mansuar, you may  encounter large groups of manta rays and turtles. From the boat and often close to shore you may get the chance to don your snorkeling gear for some unforgettable interaction with resident pods of dolphins or even some passing whales. Other highlights include the innumerable war wrecks, both ships and planes (with new wrecks being discovered constantly). The reefs of Raja Ampat are just as varied as the marine life. There are vertical walls, reef flats, slopes, sea mounts, mucky mangroves, lagoons and pinnacles - Raja Ampat photos
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Dewi Nusantara's  interior style is that of a “floating boutique resort” featuring the high end amenities guests expect from a boat of this quality!
All of the state rooms are larger than traditional liveaboard state rooms (at 180 sq. ft. each, more than 60% larger than an average liveaboard cabin) each cabin has private ensuite facilities and air conditioning. There isalso a 470 square foot "Master and Commander Suite " at the stern of the main deck that features a king size bed, separate sitting area  with a sofa, and table with chairs that reminds guests of the "captains quarters" from the schooner design that inspired her.
Charters are 11 nights with 3-4 dives per day.
From September to April Dewi Nusantara will be exploring the Raja Ampat archipelago one of the world's newest top destinations. From April through the September, Dewi Nusantara will cruise out of North Sulawesi (Bunaken Marine Park, Bangka Straight, Sangihe Islands, and Lembeh Straight, a top critter destination).
According to the vessel's managing partner, Guido Brink, "Our goal is to build the finest liveaboard yacht in the region and then put it in the best diving locations during the best diving season for that area." - more about Dewi Nusantara
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Smy Ondina offers a different way to enjoy adventure and exploration diving in the inner seas of Indonesia. SMY Ondina travels year round moving with the seasons to visit the best diving Indonesia has to offer at the right times - Raja Ampat, Fak Fak, Komodo, Sulawesi and Flores, we have an itinerary like no other. Travelling aboard a classic buginese schooner built entirely of teak and tropical woods you will have the opportunity to explore the most exotic and remote islands of Indonesia seeing places where you could possibly never get to by yourself. On  board Ondina you will have enough space to relax alone, or to share a nice chat sitting in the cool atmosphere of our a/c dinning room or enjoy a full moon evening from a comfortable hammock on our spacious sun deck before taking a rest in your a/c cabin.
We have tried to create a comfortable accommodation to be your home and base camp as we sail and dive from island to island.
In the unlikely event you don't feel like diving, swimming or snorkeling, we can arrange a walk through isolated forests, along desert beaches or in the undisturbed villages we will come across during our sail - more about Ondina
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At 33 meters long and 8.5 meters wide, the MSY Seahorse is a majestic and spacious vessel,  accommodating up to 16 guests attended by 12 crew. All cabins have individually controlled air-conditioning, private en-suite bathrooms with hot water and plenty of room for storage. 
The 5 standard twin cabins are 12 square meters and have two single 90 X 200 cmts beds, the 2 deluxe double cabins are 13.5 sq. meters, have a 150 x 200 cmts bed, desk, TV and dvd player, and the master cabin is 15 sq. meters, plenty of space for a 150x 200 mts bed, big desk, TV and dvd player.
The classic beauty of the MSY Seahorse combines traditional craftsmanship with fully modern conveniences and safety features, providing charming comfort in the remotest waters of Indonesia - more about Seahorse - Seahorse photos
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Arenui liveaboard is a traditional Phinisi,  a classic Indonesian wooden sailing vessel, set to raise its anchors in June 2009 to begin its explorations of the majestic underwater world of the Indonesian archipelago.
The underlying concept of the Arenui is to provide you with the convenience of a fully equipped dive liveaboard together with all the richness, artistic touches and comforts of a top-notch luxury  boutique hotel. This is the only boutique hotel that drops you off directly onto the best dive sites that Indonesia has to offer!
The same attention to detail was given in designing our cruise itineraries which include not only all of theusual popular diving sites in Indonesia, renowned worldwide for its biodiversity, but other world-class destinations which havebeen overlooked so far by most recreational diving operators.
Our cruise programs include: Komodo, North and Central Sulawesi, Wakatobi and, for those looking for more unusual journeys, the New Frontiers of Raja Ampat, Maluku, Cenderawasih Bay, Alor, Flores and the Taka Bone Rate Atolls - more about Arenui - Photos of Arenui
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Black Manta operates  in the famous Komodo national park and the untouched Raja Ampat in Indonesia.
Our highly experienced crew take great
pride in exceptional
service whilst always maintaining safety.
With 9 luxurious
en-suite cabins and one standard shared bathroom cabin, an
extensive dive deck, huge lounge equipped with Plasma T.V. & a full compliment of safety equipment, this vessel is state of the art.
Relax, enjoy delicious Thai & Western food whilst we take you on the holiday of a lifetime - more on Black Manta
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Mermaid liveaboards  are proud to offer the exciting new Indonesia schedules. Aiming to dive the best of the best, this experienced boat knows where and when its running. From 2011, as well as the awesome Bali-Komodo-Bali cruises, there is now the truly spectacular destinations of Raja Ampat, Ambon, Banda Sea, Alor, Triton Bay and Cenderawasih Bay.  Whilst some destinations for Mermaid I are new, it is not new to many of our dive and boat crew who have spent years in these waters. Mermaid1 was constructed in Bangkok in 1999 by a professional team of highly experienced boat constructers. Upon her launch she became the flagship of the fleet complete with IMO certification. M/V Mermaid1 is a 28 metre, double engine steel motor yacht that comfortably hosts 15 divers. In the past years she has been modified and improved to comply with her guest’s wishes and suggestions to provide arguably one of the finest liveaboard cruising experiences in the area - more about Mermaid1
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Mermaid 2  is a 32 metre, double engine steel motor yacht, one of the most comfortable diver boats around, she easily accommodates 16 guests in 8 deluxe cabins and 2 guests in a budget cabin below deck. All deluxe cabins are on the main deck with large panoramic sea view windows. Each cabin has a double bed and single bed (max pax 2 per cabin), air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms.  The budget cabin is below deck with twin bunks, air conditioning and a large shared bathroom with 1 other cabin. The large and comfotable saloon is more reminiscent of a family room at home than the saloon on a boat - it has 4 comfy chairs and 2 large sofas and has all the latest electronics - dvd, flat screen tv and stereo. There is also tea and fresh ground coffee making facilities and fridge to keep the beer, wine and soft drinks cold, we hope you will feel right at home.
EANX NITROX is available on every Komodo liveaboard - more about Mermaid2
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Pindito liveaboard is the only safari boat in Indonesia  that has 15+ years of operating experience in Raja Ampat, Komodo, Flores and the Banda sea.
Offering 8 cabins for 16 guests in 6 double and 2 twin all cabins feature ensuite heads with hot and cold running water (vanity and shower as well as toilet), individually controlled air  conditioning and five 220v AC electrical outlets available 24hours a day. Our crew is devoted to your comfort and will attend to your cabin daily, keeping it clean and tidy and providing fresh towels as necessary. Additional towels are available for you on deck as needed. Now you can join Pindito as she sails to and dives upon the most biodiverse coral reefs in the world. With a crew off 17 standing-by to look after you during your expedition you will be sure to discover the best diving in the world in style - more about Pindito
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Seven Seas  is a 33m, traditionally built Buginese schooner and has set new standards in Indonesian liveaboard luxury. Custom-designed to accommodate up to 16 guests in spacious comfort over three decks she is perfect for both diving and relaxation. The galley is fitted with the latest in culinary kits and chef welcomes guests who want to join in and prepare special snacks or meals. The Seven Seas features the latest diving and safety equipment, Nitrox, 3 speed boats and satellite communication,  all of which means that we can sail where we want in comfort and in confidence. Our dive guides share their knowledge of marine life and the local area as well as guiding you to the best dive sites.
With over 9 years culinary expertise, the chef prepares truly mouth-watering cuisine. Buffets form the main menu of the day so that we can give you a wider choice and suit the majority of taste buds, including vegetarians. The chef uses as much fresh local produce as she can, including fresh seafood.
The bar has a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Water, coffee and tea are included and you can enjoy as much as you like. Your waitresses are happy to help advise you on the full drinks menu - more about Seven Seas
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Tambora has  been built by traditional boat builders on the island of Sulawesi, in the centuries-old tradition of a wooden Phinisi. The design and materials used guarantee immense strength and resilience of all key structural elements, especially the keel, hull and decks. Among others, they include a double keel and relatively smaller beam, to minimize rolling of the vessel in heavy seas.
Tambora has been sized and configured to comfortably accommodate a maximum of 16  divers in eight spacious guest suites, each at least 15m2 in size, and with a large en-suite bathroom.
Cabins have a choice of double and large twin beds (no bunk beds!) all
longitudinally aligned with the vessel, so our guests sleep in the direction of the vessel movement.
Each guest suite comes with a writing desk. If you like, you can fill in your logbook or review the shots from the day’s diving in the privacy of your own suite and
ample storage space for clothes, bags, books, magazines, etc.
Our large salon with separate dining and relaxing sections, offering enough space during mealtimes, as well as for chilling out over a chat and drinks with fellow divers, with a book in your hands, or working on your laptop. Three seeparate lounge decks – bow, aft and salon rooftop – provide enough space and privacy, and can be fully shielded from the sun - more about Tambora
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Woaw is  a luxury three masted sailing vessel, constructed entirely from wood using traditional methods, evoking the southern seas, liberty, adventure, comfort, quality and style. All to be shared by those going to sea on her. With nine cabins for the guests, crew accommodation, dive equipment, multi media equipment and dream destinations, we wish to achieve dreams for all those aboard. Woaw has been designed with the diver  in mind to provide the ultimate experience. She will therefore be equipped to an extremely high level drawing on the teams more than 30 years experience in the industry. From the equipment used to the itineraries proposed, our philosophy is based on the following criteria and goals. Woaw has 9 cabins available catering for a guest list of 18 passengers. Each of the cabins is luxurious, spacious and provides all of the amenities expected of a vessel of this standing including en-suite bathroom, entertainment system in each cabin involving a media player and flat screen tv coplete with music and hundreds of movies to keep you entertained on your surface intervals - moe about Waow
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Damai liveaboard is purpose designed for cruising and  diving Indonesian waters with passenger well-being always our top priority. Equipped with the latest navigation, communication and safety equipment, our vessel sets a new standard for safety as well as comfort, service and passenger amenities.
Of course even the best ship is only as good as her crew, and this is another area where Dive Damai shines. Every trip is managed by a seasoned western cruise director, complimented by our experienced and ever-helpful Indonesian crew, all of whom are dedicated to making your diving holiday  the trip of a lifetime. Hosting only 8 guests at any one time in 4 luxurious and huge cabins each bed is a real king size even in the twin cabins. With a one time price Damai runs an all inclusive trip - Massage and spa treatments, drinks, dive equipment, Nitrox, unlimited diving, park fees and port clearance are all included in the price offering you stunning value for money on the new benchmark in luxury Indonesian liveaboard diving - Damai.
A "boutique liveaboard" - a place where the smallest details will be taken care of, where every customer is treated personally and where his or her needs can be addressed in no time at all - more about Damai
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Raja Ampat diving doesn't really have a high and low season as the seasons don't  vary all that much.
From May to September there is a light rainy season and from mid-July to mid-September there is some small surface swells, but these do not usually get serious enough to interfere with your diving.
The water temperature stays around the 27-30 degrees celcius mark all year round. The reefs are in pristine condition with miles of perfect hard corals and many varied colorful species of soft corals. The diving is predominantly drift dives due to the moderate prevalent currents in the area which provide nutrients for the myriad fish and coral. Currents average moderate and vary from none to very strong. Due to these currents and the number of wrecks, Irian Jaya is not really considered a destination for absolute beginners, rather for divers with a few dives under their weightbelts looking to get away from the crowds. Visibility is normally very good but can vary and is normally at its  best earlier in the day so your pre-breakfast dives are not to be slept through! According to the Conservation International Rapid Assessment Bulletin the marine life diversity for scuba diving in Raja Ampat and Papua is considerably greater than all other areas sampled in the Coral Triangle. The Raja Ampat area is considered home to more than 1,000 fish species, 101 of which were previously unknown in the area and four  that are new to all of Indonesia. A world record 284 sightings on one single dive was set at Kofiau Island. A benchmark figure for an excellent dive site is 200 fish species sightings, this was surpassed on 51% of Raja Ampat dives! There were 537 coral species and 699 mollusk species - again another world high.
The pristine beauty of the  area, both above and below the water is truly unrivalled. This success of area's staggering abundance of marine life can also be attributed to the areas incredibly low human population density. Its remote location and lack of infrastructure have inhibited the growth of tourism.
This is truly "Frontier Diving". Topside the beautiful islands stretch as far as you can see and are largely uninhabited.  At night the lights of local fishing boats twinkle in the dark along the few inhabited shorelines while in more remote areas you may only see a distant spec of light over the entire horizon.
Not many liveaboards dive the Raja Ampat area, making this adventure even more unique and special. The newly constructed Dewi Nusantara is the perfect platform that delivers modern comforts and outstanding service to adventurers exploring this remote outpost of civilization - Raja Ampat diving photos
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Sorong is the harbour town in West Papua and the normal departure point to dive Raja Ampat. If you are unsure of how to get to Sorong to start your trip it will depend on where your international flight into Indonesia is landing.
It is not possible for someone outside of Indonesia to purchase domestic flights in Indonesia so these can be purchased for you by me, if you would like, and added to your invoice. It will be about $550 return dependant on exchange rates, availability and where your entry airport is in Indonesia. We recommend coming through Jakarta as the quickest and easiest route to take. The cost of the domestic flights are not included in the trip price.
From Jakarta it is possible to reach Sorong in one day.
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Jakarta (CGK) |
Makassar (UPG) |
Day of departure |
05:00 |
08.00 |
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Makassar (UPG |
Sorong (SOQ) |
Day of departure |
08:40 |
12:00 |
The return trip from Sorong to Jakarta
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Sorong (SOQ |
Makassar (UPG) |
Day of disembarkation |
12:00 |
13:05 |
Makassar (UPG |
)Jakarta (CGK) |
Day of disembarkation |
14.00 |
15.10 |
If you come from Bali to Sorong it is a 2 stage process, from Bali (DPS) to Makassar (UPG) and from Makassar (UPG) to Sorong (SOQ), there would be a night in a hotel in Makassar on the way out (Ujung Pandang and Makassar are the same place and the half way point to Sorong). We recommend the Imperial Aryaduta in Makassar- http://www.aryaduta.com/hotels_home_makassar.php
These would be your flights from Bali to Sorong.
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Bali (DPS) |
Makassar (UPG) |
Day before departure |
18.40 |
19.55 |
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Makassar (UPG |
Sorong (SOQ) |
Day of departure |
08:40 |
12:00 |
The return trip from Sorong to Denpasar (Bali) is done in one day using 2 flights - SOQ-UPG and UPG-DPS and dependant on the day of the flight leaves at 2 different times
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Sorong (SOQ |
Makassar (UPG) |
Day of disembarkation |
12:00 |
13:05 |
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Makassar (UPG) |
Bali (DPS) |
Day of disembarkation |
16:45 |
18:05 |
It is also possible from Singapore to Manado on Silk Air and then onto Sorong with a over night in there somewhere depending on your arrival times of your Silk Air flight but the Manado to Sorong flights don’t run every day so you may end up spending an advance night in Sorong which is not a particularly interesting place to spend the night.
It is also possible to get to Sorong from Kuala Lumpur via Makassar on Air Asia with an overnight stay in Makassar and then catch the 09.35 flight to Sorong on the day of the departure.
We recommend the Imperial Aryaduta in Makassar- http://www.aryaduta.com/hotels_home_makassar.php
From |
To |
Date |
Dep |
Arr |
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) |
Makassar (UPG) |
Day before departure |
12.45 |
15.50 |
Domestic Air Carrier Notes:
We recommend two hotel nights be built into your travels. One upon arrival between the international and domestic legs, and one on your journey home between the domestic and international legs. Should a flight delay/cancellation, baggage delay, or schedule change be encountered in either direction, your domestic and international airline tickets are not “linked”, and as such, no compensation or assistance would be offered by the airline. The only financial protection available would be Trip Interruption and Cancellation insurance.
Domestic airlines have different baggage weight restrictions than international carriers. Many times these flights are on smaller turboprop aircraft and not jets which do not have as much space and cannot take as much weight. Therefore they have more restrictive luggage reqirements. A rule of thumb is that passengers are allowed 44lbs (20kg). Above that - expect excess baggage charges. All guests are advised
to please pack carefully and light using soft bags for easier storage on the boat. Just because excess luggage charges are paid it does not necessarily mean that your luggage and you will travel on the same fight or arrive on the same day.
Premier liveaboard diving and its local agents will schedule domestic flights and purchase a tickets on behalf of guests as a service for a nominal fee, however, in doing so, Premier liveaboard diving is only acting as an agent for the airline and is not responsible for, and can accept no responsibility for, cancellations, delays, schedule changes, or problems caused by the air carrier.
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Premier liveaboard diving Ltd - 7310144
116 Horncastle road, Boston, Lincolnshire, England.
Bali office
Jl. Gunung Salak, Kerobokan, Bali, Indonesia.
+6281236765660
info@liveaboarddiving.net
Click on the button to chat on skype when I am online

© 2003-2010 Premier liveaboard diving.
Website design by Atmospheres Imaging
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