Best of Raja Ampat

 

January is a great time to escape a cold, wet, dreary winter and  Raja Ampat is one of the most awesome places to snorkel on this planet.
Just two of the many excellent reasons to treat yourself to this extraordinary adventure!
If you are an avid snorkeler this is the place you have to get to before more time goes by.

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. Raja Ampat is made up of over 1,500 islands so being on a live-aboard is ideal for having easy access to the maximum diversity of marine habitats. From the comfort of the Pindito we’ll explore the beautiful shallow reefs and mind-blowing coral and marine life of Raja Ampat.

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.

One advantage of being on a live-aboard is having flexibility to maneuver through Raja Ampat to have the most optimum snorkel experiences.  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.  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.

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 14th Plan to arrive Jakarta Jan. 14th at the latest.  I can help you with your flights and hotel arrangements in Jakarta.
Jan. 15th We will fly as a group to Sorong  the evening of the 15th. As the flight doesn’t leave until late, I recommend booking a room near the Jakarta airport for both Jan. 14th and 15th.
Jan. 16th We arrive Sorong in the morning. We’ll be met at the airport and transfer to the Pindito.
Jan. 16th-Jan. 27th At sea exploring the wonders of Raja Ampat!
Jan. 27th  Return to Jakarta for the night before returning home or continuing your journey. Plan to spend the night of the 27th in Jakarta unless your onward flight departs after 8:00pm.

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.
Evenings are a time to unwind, watch the sunset and review the adventures of day over a leisurely dinner. Star-gazing is a wonderful way to end the day. We’ll try to include an occasional night snorkel to experience the real Raja night life.

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.

Our home for 11 nights is the highly regarded and very comfortable Pindito . 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.

No matter how many times I’ve gone to Raja Ampat I remain enthralled and enchanted by the beauty or the area and the vitality of the reefs and marine life.  Contact me to be one of the 16 fortunate snorkelers to experience this astonishing part of planet.

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 me for advance notice of future Raja Ampat departures.

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.  For further information and an application please contact me.

In the spirit of adventure!

 

 

 

 

 

Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com

831 254-5001