Embark on an exploration of the world’s most vibrant reefs with Pindito! West Papua, locally known as Irian Jaya, stands out as a unique dive region, with the renowned archipelago of “Raja Ampat” leading the way in this aquatic paradise. Comprising over 1,500 islands, including the main ones – Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo – “Raja Ampat” translates to “united kingdom.”
Describing the region as “fantastic” barely does it justice. For photo and videographers, “Raja Ampat” offers optimal conditions to capture the finest macro shots and breathtaking wide-angle shots of the vibrant reef life.
Dive enthusiasts can explore numerous sites, each with its distinct character. Keen observers will discover an array of “macro-animals” nestled in crevices and on terraces along steep walls. “Raja Ampat” is particularly celebrated as a haven for pygmy seahorses, showcasing these charming creatures in an array of colors – red, yellow, orange, purple, or white. Other locations boast an abundance of fish along exposed underground rock saddles, where well-camouflaged frogfishes, scorpionfishes, and ghost pipefishes await the discerning eye. The blue waters surrounding the walls reveal Napoleon fish, mobulas, white-tip reef sharks, and schools of pelagic fish. Manta rays, barracuda, rare wobbegong, and the captivating epaulette sharks (walking sharks) add an extra layer of excitement.
A must-experience highlight of any journey is the renowned Zodiac trip around the islands, weather permitting, offering an unforgettable perspective of this captivating region. Immerse yourself in the wonders of “Raja Ampat” with Pindito Liveaboard, where every dive unveils a new dimension of underwater beauty.
More about PinditoDives: Approximately 38 dives in total
Experience: Open Water – No minimum logged dives required.
Itinerary Extras: Raja Ampat National Park Fee: 95EUR p.p – Payable on board
Diving in the endless maze of the islands of Misool is a very special treat for any diving career. It is a paradise for macro enthusiasts, but encounters with larger fish such as manta rays are often possible. Misool is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world with fish, corals, sponges, soft corals, shrimps, crabs, and countless nudibranchs, and other invertebrates. Huge shoals of sardines are a definite highlight. Soft corals and sea fans (diameter of 3-4 meters) in all sizes and colors dominate the underwater landscape.
One of Pindito’s special places is called “Vrenelies Gärtli” (in English it means Vreni’s Garden). It is a legendary dive site that has it all, because of it’s very diverse landscape. Overhangs, huge caverns with swim-throughs, lush steep walls with all kinds of corals are found here.
There is also plenty to do on land. With a unique speedboat ride, you will explore the beautiful scenery. Crystal clear, turquoise water awaits you as well as a variety of exotic tropical plants such as orchids and even carnivorous plants.
A special feature of this tour is the crossing of the equator. This area has a fascinating landscape. Many of the famous Raja Ampat landscape photographs were shot here. On the north is the island Wayag with the famous “Mount Pindito”, from where you get a fantastic view of the many islands. Pindito on anchor in the middle of the Bay, completes the beautiful landscape. “Sele Pele” offers the opportunity to look at a pearl farm up close. Depending on the production stage you will be invited to witness the fertilization or harvest! A unique opportunity you cannot afford to miss.
“Jef Fam” is the name of a group of karst islands with great diving, lots of fish, and colorful corals. Night dives at the “Red Wall” are always a special experience. In the sand under the pearl diving pier, a lot of special and peculiar creatures, especially wobbegongs and epaulette sharks (walking sharks) can be found. Countless nudibranchs, pipefish, seahorses, frogfish, scorpion fish cannot escape the well trained eye. A great highlight is the manta cleaning station near Mansuar.
The Dampier Strait separates the “Vogelkop” (Birdshead) Peninsula from Waigeo and Mansuar. The name comes from Dutch colonial times. It refers to the shape of the peninsula on the map, but it is also a paradise for many rare bird species.Here the Pacific Ocean meets the Halmahera Sea, with an explosion of marine life as consequence. With regular strong currents, big fish feel especially comfortable. Manta rays, reef sharks, different schools of mackerel, tuna, and barracuda are seen again and again. Even dolphins and whales (Bryde’s whales, pilot whales) keep spending time in the Dampier strait Since May 2011, we offer a special Whale-Macro tour that combines the macro-diving with whale and dolphin watching. This tour is accompanied by a marine expert in whale and dolphin behavior.
Included: VAT, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer, Alcoholic Beverages, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Diving Package, Nitrox, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Stand Up Paddleboard, Wakeboarding, Water Ski, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, Laundry / Pressing Services.
Required Extras: Fuel Surcharge (200-250 USD per trip), National Park Fees (200-250 USD per trip), Port Fees (80 USD per trip), Visas and Fees.
Optional Extras: Dive Insurance, Travel Insurance, Gratuities (30 USD per day), Wine with Dinner, Nitrox Course, Private Dive Guide, Rental Gear, Scuba Diving Courses.
Komodo Island, Maumere, Alor, Banda, Raja Ampat, Ambon
42 dives
Certificate: Open Water
No minimum logged dives required
Raja Ampat, Ambon, Halmahera, Manado
30 dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
50 minimum logged dives required
Maumere, Alor
38 dives
Certificate: Open Water
No minimum logged dives required
Raja Ampat
38 dives
Certificate: Open Water
No minimum logged dives required
Raja Ampat
30 dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
50 minimum logged dives required
Raja Ampat, Ambon, Banda Island
30 dives
Certificate: Advanced Open Water
50 minimum logged dives required
