Raja Ampat Snorkel Adventure by liveaboard! Jan 6-17, 2020

Indonesia is in the heart 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.

RAJA AMPAT
Raja Ampat is one of the most extraordinary places to snorkel on the 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 stunning.  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:
January 6.  Upon arrival in Sorong, we board the Seven Seas, our fabulous home for the next 11 days.  Once we settle in we’ll begin our voyage!

January 6-17.  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 the days on a live-aboard snorkel trip is fun, easy and flexible. During the day we are in protected anchorages. Mornings begin slipping into an underwater wonderland for our first snorkel session.  After lunch and repositioning to a new site we’ll jump back in the water for another session. On some days we’ll have a zodiac or land tour as well. When possible there may be a dusk or night snorkel.  Evenings are spent time enjoying each other’s company and hanging out under the bright stars as we travel quietly to our next amazing snorkel site.
Our snorkel sessions are guided by the knowledgeable Seven Seas 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 Seven Seas.
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.

January 17. Our voyage comes to an end in Sorong. You may choose to continue your travels in Indonesia or begin your journey home.
Consider extending your snorkel adventure and join the Christmas/New Year’s Wakatobi Snorke trip!

OUR YACHT:
This unique expedition takes place on the highly regarded, comfortable Seven Seas liveaboard yacht.
https://www.thesevenseas.net/
The Seven Seas is a 130 ft. traditionally built Indonesian sailing schooner built from the finest ironwood.
Comfortably accommodating 16 guests in 8 air-conditioned state rooms with en-suite bathrooms she sets high standards for liveaboards in Indonesia.

The talented chef uses as much fresh local produce as he can, including fresh seafood. Healthy buffets can be tailored to any diet requirements. When the weather is nice we can dine outside!

Most importantly, the experienced and friendly crew is eager to share their knowledge of the country, culture and marine life.
We’ll also have the option to kayak, explore deserted beaches and indulge in on-board massage.
Under the caring and knowledgeable guidance of the Seven Seas 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.

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 Seven Seas.
-Evenings are free to enjoy the sunset, a leisurely dinner and the company of your fellow passengers.

RAJA AMPAT EXPEDITION COST:
Trip cost is $6200.00 per person, based on double occupancy.
This departure is currently sold out. To be added to the wait list please contact Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com

Trip costs include:
♦ Transfers to/from the Seven Seas from Sorong airport.
♦ 11 night accommodations in a double or twin bedded cabin with en-suite shower bath, toilet and AC.
♦ $80.00 Harbor Fee and $120.00 Raja Ampat National Park fees.
♦ All meals, snacks, coffee, tea and drinking water.
♦ All water-based and land-based activities while on board.

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.
♦ Soft drinks and Alcoholic beverages.
♦ Massages on board.
♦ Laundry.
♦ 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 on this exceptional journey to experience astonishing and awesome Raja Ampat!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wendy Simon
Snorkeling Etc. Inc.
CEO/and Fellow Snorkel Addict
831 254-5001
Wendy@SnorkelingEtc.com