Secrets of Raja Ampat Snorkel Expedition

 

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. One reason is has retained it’s unspoiled beauty is because it takes perseverance to get here. Once you are here you’ll know it was so worth the effort and you’ll start thinking about when you can return!

Jan. 28th. Arrival in Jakarta.  I can help you with you with your flights and hotel arrangements in Jakarta.
Jan. 29th. The group flight will depart Jakarta late evening and will arrive Sorong the morning of the 30th. (Because the flight doesn’t leave until late on the 29th I recommend booking your airport hotel for both the 28th and 29th.)
Jan. 30th.  The morning of Jan. 30th the group will board the Pindito upon arrival in Sorong. Once we settle in we’ll begin our voyage!
Jan. 30th-Feb. 10th At sea exploring the wonders of Raja Ampat.
Feb. 10th. Return to Jakarta for the night before returning home or continuing your journey. Plan to spend Feb. 10th in Jakarta unless your onward flight leaves after 10:00pm

During on 11 night adventure we will swim through schools of fish. Fusiliers, surgeons, bannerfish, triggerfish and squadrons of jacks and barracuda are typical sights. Area highlights may also include pygmy seahorses, mandarin fish, lionfish, wobbegongs, turtles and majestic mantas.
You’ll be delighted by the array of shapes and colors of huge seafans, sponges, and beautiful coral gardens.

The rhythm of a typical day will start with watching the sunrise. Early morning coffee and light breakfast is available before we jump in for our first snorkel adventure, a full breakfast will follow. 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.
Our  days will be full of fantastic snorkeling, village visits and relaxing time on board with other like-minded adventurers.

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.

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 has a 5-star crew with years of experience and knowledge. The meals are plentiful and delicious and special diets can easily be accommodated.
You will be at home on the comfortable and elegant Pindito. Your cabin is air-conditioned and has an en-suite bathroom.

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 $5580.00 per person, based on double occupancy.

This departure is sold out. Please contact Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com to be wait listed and to get advance notification of future Raja Ampat trips. 

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 July 2015, price is $120.00
• Tips for the crew.
• Trip cancellation and medical insurance. (mandatory)
• 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! Be one of the only 16 fortunate snorkelers to experience this astonishing part of planet. For further information and an application please contact me!

In the spirit of adventure!

 

 

 

 

 

Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com
831-254-5001