Raja Ampat Liveaboard DivingThe Heart of the Coral Triangle

Raja Ampat, off the northwest tip of New Guinea, lies at the centre of the Coral Triangle, the region of Southeast Asia and the western Pacific with the greatest marine biodiversity on earth. Scientists have recorded around 1,600 species of reef fish and around 75 per cent of the world's known coral species in its waters, more than anywhere else surveyed. For divers, that means healthy reefs, unusual marine life and the chance to see everything from tiny pygmy seahorses to manta rays.

This three-night liveaboard departs from Sorong, the port on the mainland, where you board at a time confirmed after booking. Three nights on a boat allow ten guided dives across sites that day trips from the islands rarely reach. The exact route is decided by the crew and dive guides according to the weather, currents and the season.

Depending on the itinerary, dive sites in the Dampier Strait and around Waigeo may include Cape Kri, where surveys once recorded hundreds of fish species on a single dive, Sardine Reef, known for schools of fish and sharks, and Manta Sandy, a cleaning station where mantas circle above a sandy slope, often visible at around fifteen metres. Passage, a narrow channel between two islands, is famous for its currents and its walls covered in soft corals. Some sites have strong currents, so the guides brief each dive carefully.

Between dives, the boat moves between islands and anchors in sheltered bays, with time for snorkelling, beach stops or a climb to a viewpoint. All meals are prepared on board, and the crew look after equipment, tanks and refills.

The best season is from October to April, when the seas are calmer and visibility is generally excellent. From June to September, southeast winds can make some areas rough, and itineraries change to more sheltered sites.

Divers must hold at least a PADI Open Water Diver certification or equivalent, and some sites require more experience, particularly where currents are strong. Bring your certification card, logbook and dive insurance. A marine park entry permit is required for all visitors and is included.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, a surface marker buoy if you have one, and any medication you need, as supplies in Raja Ampat are limited. Consult a doctor about malaria prevention before travelling.

The liveaboard lasts around three nights. A cabin, all meals, ten guided dives, dive equipment and the park entry fee are included. Flights to Sorong and alcohol are not.