Epic Indonesia Snorkel Trip: Part III Raja Ampat Oct 27-Nov 6, 2019

Indonesia is a fascinating and diverse country in terms of culture, nature and landscape. I’ve designed a unique itinerary that highlights the stunning biodiversity of Indonesia beneath the sea.
Indonesia is in the heart of of the Coral Triangle. 75% of the world’s coral species and a whooping 1,000 species of fish are found here.  Snorkeling in Indonesia is unique not only for the sheer volume of marine life but also due to the variety of accessible marine habitats including vibrant coral gardens, sea mounts and magical mangroves.
It all adds up to be the epicenter of the most awesome snorkeling.
I’ve combined three distinct and remarkable areas of Indonesia to create the pinnacle of snorkel trips.
Choose one, two, or combine all three adventures to experience the remote and pristine reefs of Indonesia

Part I  Komodo Liveaboard Snorkel Trip Oct 7-17, 2019
Part II  Land-based snorkel trip in Bangka and Siladen, N. Sulawesi Oct 19-27, 2019
Part III  Raja Ampat Liveaboard Snorkel Trip Oct 27-Nov 6, 2019

October is the perfect month to take advantage of ideal snorkel conditions in all three areas without crowds.
I’m thrilled to offer this combination of experiences that showcases the underwater wonders of Indonesia.
The third of the trio of adventures takes place in remarkable Raja Ampat.

RAJA AMPAT
Raja Ampat is one of the most awesome places to snorkel on this planet. If you are an avid snorkeler this is a part of the world you must visit. I have been to Raja Ampat many times and my enthusiasm to return only gets stronger with each visit. Every time I enter the water it’s a different and exciting experience.  The remarkable array of  vibrant soft corals, sea fans, sponges, and  hard coral gardens are extraordinary.  The prolific marine life includes petite to pelagic aquatic critters.   Fusiliers, butterflyfish, parrotfish, surgeons, bannerfish, triggerfish and squadrons of jacks and barracuda are typical sights. Highlights can include pygmy seahorses, mandarin fish, wobbegong sharks, turtles and majestic mantas.

Where is Raja Ampat? Raja Ampat or “Four Kings” refers to four main islands located off the northwest coast of West Papua: Misool, Salawati, Batan, and Waigeo.  The region stretches over 15,000 square miles.

Itinerary:
October 27.  Upon arrival in Sorong, we board the Pindito, our comfortable home for the next ten days.  Once we settle in we’ll begin our voyage!
October 27- November 6.  At sea exploring the wonders of Raja Ampat.
From the comfort of our liveaboard we’ll explore the beautiful shallow reefs and mind-blowing coral and marine life of Raja Ampat.  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. We will have the flexibility to optimize our snorkel experiences by maneuvering to the most fishy and sheltered areas.

The rhythm of a typical day will start with morning coffee at sunrise.  We’ll fuel up with a full breakfast before we jump in for our first snorkel adventure. Generally, snorkel sites are just a short zodiac ride from the anchorage. Our snorkel sessions are guided by the knowledgeable Pindito 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.
The afternoon will feature another exploration under the sea and when possible, a beach walk will be offered.
Our day to day itinerary will vary to make sure we are at the best site at the best time.
It’s all about maximum exposure to discover a variety of marine life in the best possible conditions.

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 beauty and nature.

November 6. Our voyage comes to an end in Sorong. You may choose to continue your travels in Indonesia or begin your journey home.

Pindito LIveaboard:
Our voyage takes place on the highly regarded Pindito,  the only liveaboard operating in Raja Ampat for over 20 years.

Under the caring and knowledgeable guidance of the Pindito 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 9th 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 $5450.00 per person, based on double occupancy.
-SOLD OUT, CONTACT WENDY@SNORKELINGETC.COM TO WAITLIST-

Trip costs include:
♦ Transfers to/from the Pindito from Sorong airport.
♦ 10 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 from Jakarta
♦ Airport taxes for domestic flights and departure fees, payable at the airport.
♦ Hotels before or after the cruise.
♦ National Park Fees. As of  January 2018, price is $120.00
♦ Tips for the crew.
♦ Trip cancellation and medical insurance. (essential)

“This is the best coral I have experienced and the marine life was varied and plentiful.
The trip was as close to perfect as I could imagine. Amazing coral and fish and wonderful crew and snorkeling companions. I loved every minute of it.”
-Helen Glasgow, Raja Ampat Feb. 2017

“Wendy, you are a marvel. (10+) I can’t tell you how much I appreciate all you do to make the trip run smoothly. I know you love being in the water. And always with a big smile and gentle laugh carrying that joy forward in every conversation, your intention to make our time just as memorable and enjoyable. It works!”
-Flo McAlary, Raja Ampat Jan and Feb 2017

“What a fabulous adventure from the boat, the crew and staff, director, guides.  Thoughtful, attentive, flexible, knowledgable,experienced. Thank you Wendy for making it all happen. I’d do it over again.”
-Liz Hicks, Raja Ampat Jan. 2017

I hope you will be able to join me in this exceptional journey to experience this astonishing part of the planet.

 

 

 

For further information and an application please contact me Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com