Raja Ampat Snorkel trip Dec 10-21, 2018

Raja Ampat is one of the most awesome places to snorkel on this planet. If you are an avid snorkeler this is a place you have to get to. It’s not the easiest place to fly to but it’s so worth the effort!

Our expedition takes place in the heart of the famed Coral Triangle, the most bio-diverse region in the world. This area is home to over 1,000 fish species and 500 coral species. In fact 75% of all coral species that exist in the world are located here.
Where is Raja Ampat? Raja Ampat or “Four Kings” refers to four main islands: Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo located off the northwest cost of West Papua.

Raja Ampat is made up of over 1,500 islands so having a moveable home is ideal for discovering a diversity of marine habitats. From the comfort of our live-aboard we’ll explore the beautiful shallow reefs and mind-blowing coral and marine life of Raja Ampat.

Being on a live-aboard is ideal to maneuver through Raja Ampat. We will have the flexibility to optimize our snorkel experiences. We will begin and end in Sorong but the journey will unfold day by day seeking the best snorkel sites available based on real-time conditions. The Pindito crew pioneered diving in Raja Ampat and their knowledge is unparalleled. We will snorkel pristine shallow reefs through a kaleidoscope of corals and fish.

Itinerary:
Raja Ampat is remote and pristine. Once you are here you’ll know it was so worth the effort and you’ll start thinking about when you can return!
December 8  Plan to arrive Jakarta by December 8th.
December 9.  Most flights  depart Jakarta late evening and arrives Sorong the morning of the 10th.
December 10  The morning of December 10th the group will board the Pindito upon arrival in Sorong. Once we settle in we’ll begin our voyage!
December 10-December 21. At sea exploring the wonders of Raja Ampat.

The rhythm of a typical day will start with early morning coffee and light breakfast. A full breakfast is also available to fuel up before we jump in for our first snorkel adventure. We reach the snorkel sites by zodiac.  Snorkel sessions are guided by the Pindito snorkel guides and  last approximately 2-2 1/2 hours.  If you get tired you can take a break on a zodiac or return to the Pindito.  Our vessel will re-position for another afternoon exploration while we lunch. The afternoon may feature another exploration under the sea and perhaps a hike. Our day to day itinerary will vary to make sure we are at the best site at the best time.

We’ll experience a variety of reef environments.  We’ll explore shallow reefs, dramatic walls, mangroves and  sea mounts.  It’s all about maximum exposure to discover a variety of marine life.  During our 11 night adventure we will encounter petite to pelagic aquatic critters.   Fusiliers, butterfly fish, surgeons, bannerfish, triggerfish and squadrons of jacks and barracuda are typical sights. Highlights may also include pygmy seahorses, mandarin fish, lionfish, wobbegong sharks, turtles and majestic mantas.

The remarkable array of soft corals,  seafans, sponges, and beautiful coral gardens are extraordinary.
This is YOUR trip, you can focus on your passion whether it be photography, in-depth swimming and snorkeling, speaking Indonesian with the friendly crew or connecting with your fellow passengers. Our adventure-filled days will end watching the sun set and looking forward to what the next day will bring.

Personally, one of my favorite things about being at sea is the feeling of being so present. It’s one of the few times in my life I’m not preoccupied with the past or the future. Time seems suspended and it’s all about being in the here and now fully immersed in the beauty and nature.

December 21. Our voyage comes to an end in Sorong, we’ll fly back to Jakarta on December 21st.
Plan to spend December 21 in Jakarta unless your onward flight leaves after 10:00pm

I have been to Raja Ampat many times and my enthusiasm to return only gets stronger with each visit. This is truly a unique and special corner of the world. Our voyage takes place on the highly regarded Pindito. The Pindito is the only live-aboard dive boat operating in Raja Ampat with over 20 years of experience.
The Pindito crew has years of experience and knowledge. Under the caring and knowledgeable guidance of the snorkel guides we’ll be experience the stunning reefs of Raja Ampat.
Meals feature plentiful and delicious Indonesian cuisine. Special diets can easily be accommodated.

This will be my 8th voyage on the Pindito. You’ll understand why I keep returning from the moment you board. The crew is warm and welcoming. You’ll feel right at home on the solid and comfortable Pindito. The 10′ x 10′ cabins are air-conditioned and have ample storage space. All cabins have an en-suite bathroom. Six cabins have one queen lower berth and a single upper berth. There are two cabins that are ideal for two singles sharing. These cabins have a lower and upper single berth and more floor space.

What to expect:
This is a snorkel-intensive program. You should be a proficient swimmer/snorkeler able to snorkel unassisted. A typical day features 3-5 hours of snorkel time.
Be prepared for steep stairs on the live-aboard and ladders on and off the dinghy/zodiac.
Snorkel sessions are guided by the helpful and experienced crew provided by the Pindito.
Evenings are free to enjoy the sunset, a leisurely dinner and the company of your fellow passengers.

RAJA AMPAT EXPEDITION COST:
Trip cost is $5780.00 per person, based on double occupancy.
Currently sold out but please contact me to be waitlisted.

Trip costs include:

• Transfers to/from the Pindito and airport.
• 11 night accommodations in a double bed or twin bed cabin with en-suite shower bath, toilet and AC.
• $80.00 Harbor Fee
• Full board including all drinks on board (excluding wine)
• All water-based and land excursions.

Trip costs exclude:

• International and domestic airfare. Required flights within Indonesia approx. $550.00 p.p
• Airport taxes for domestic flights and departure fees, payable at the airport.
• Hotels before or after the cruise.
• National Park Fees. As of  March 2017, price is $120.00
• Tips for the crew.
• Trip cancellation and medical insurance. (essential)

Bali or another part of Indonesia can easily be combined with this trip. I can help with all arrangements including flights, insurance and extensions.

I hope you will be able to join me in this exceptional journey to experience this astonishing part of planet. For further information and an application please contact me Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com

 

 

 

Wendy Simon/CEO
Snorkeling Etc. Inc
831 254-5001