Pindito 12D11N

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.