RAJA AMPAT – WESTERN PAPUA

At the crossroads of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, everything is enchanting, from the seabed to the tropical forests, birds of paradise and multicolored coral gardens. Departing from Sorong, you go on a ten-day diving cruise in the Center and North of the Raja Ampat. The program offers two to three dives per day with night dives if you wish. The delicate island of Kri, the karst cliffs of Wayag, the ascent of Mount Pindito, the plankton-rich waters of Aljui, the ballet of Manta rays near the Dampier Strait and more.

Please find below our additional itineraries. Jakare can cruise there as well, feel free to contact us for more information.

• Raja Ampat North or South: these complementary routes include either Raja Ampat south and Central, or Raja Ampat North and Central.
• Raja Ampat South (Misool) and Triton bay towards the East of Raja Ampat.
• Raja Ampat South (Missol) and Almahera, toward the west of Raja Ampat.

Welcome to West Papua! Arriving at Sorong Airport, the gateway to the Raja Ampat archipelago, you are met and taken to the port to board your Indonesian schooner the Jakaré. A welcome cocktail, presentation of the premises and settling in your cabin. Before setting off, the crew will explain the safety regulations and give you more details of your cruise to the Raja Ampat. You head off to the big island of Waigeo which joins the island of Kri to the east of Mansuar island. At the end of the day, will be the first dive in the crystal clear waters surrounded by the tropical forests of Yenbuba bay and a stroll in the village.

First sunrise at sea. During the cruise, you can alternate between scuba diving and snorkelling sessions among the beautiful coral . In the Yenbuba bay, turtles and multicolored fish dance amid the magnificent corals. Relax on the beach of Yenbuba and stroll through the village. Further on, the waters of Cape Kri are home to 374 different species. One of the most varied underwater landscapes of the Raja Ampat. Third dive in Saunderek. The day ends with a visit to the village where numerous encounters await you. After sunset, you sail due North at sea crossing the Equator for a night of sailing to the Wayag archipelago.

Waking up in the heart of the Wayag archipelago, one of the most beautiful of Raja Ampat: turquoise blue atolls topped by emerald green karst mountains. It is made up of more than 600 islets and cradles the greatest underwater diversity in the world. You get off the boat on Wayag Island for a hike to the top of Mount Pindito, which offers one of the most unique panoramic views in the world. There, two dives await you as well as many aquatic activities: kayaking or stand up paddle. Underwater, you get to meet the majestic manta rays in a secret spot as well as superb giant clams over a meter wide. Night at anchor in an unforgettable lagoon.

At dawn, depart the Wayag Islands and sail towards Kawe Island on your majestic schooner. You cross the equator again to reach the day’s diving and snorkelling spots. At Black Rock, you can swim in the middle of the coral gardens where large Napoleon fish roam. Travelling west along Kawe Island to reach Eagle Rock. It is not uncommon to see manta rays dancing and some carpet sharks hiding in the reefs. Sailing continues south-east to Aljui Bay. Anchorage in front of a pearl farm.

After a few days of sailing, everyone is settled on board and harmony reigns on the boat. Before going back to sea, you visit a pearl farm to understand the process of cultivating and harvesting of these little jewels of the Pacific. The adventure continues towards the island of Wofoh to indulge in your favorite activities: beaches, snorkelling and diving. Turtles are generally found in this corner of paradise. Go kayaking to discover the deserted white sand beaches. Masks and snorkels are enough to admire the gorgonian forests as far as the eye can see. In the afternoon, head southwest towards the island of Maniafun where you anchor for the night.

With everyone still sleeping the boat weighs anchor as it reaches Pienemu Island in the light of day. On the program, here are two renowned diving spots. Keruo Channel, an incredible passage between two islands and Melissa’s Garden, refuge of the wobbegong, the famous carpet sharks. A striking spectacle of a beautiful totally virgin underwater world in the midst of multicolored corals. After lunch, the boat drops anchor near the entrance to a lagoon. Walk and explore to admire the karst mountains of Pienemu. Underwater or on land, nature is lush and unspoilt. In the afternoon, the cruise continues to Yangello Island in the middle of a peaceful mangrove. Gourmet dinner is served on board in a heavenly setting.

The morning activities include, diving and kayaking exploration of the mangrove of Yangello. Aboard the schooner , you will sail toward Arborek Island. Exceptional snorkelling off the coast of Arborek: harmless tortoises and gray reef sharks are abound. Stroll through the Papuan village and relax on the beach. You embark again for Manta Sandy, a virtual cleaning station where manta rays come to be pampered by wrasses and butterfly fish. You will catch a glimpse of the ballet of the immense black manta rays. From the boat, you might see them jump out of the water. As the sailboat continues on its way to Mioskon Island, you can enjoy the scenery from the deck of the boat.

Located near Mansuar Island. The day begins at dawn for several extraordinary diving sessions at renowned spots of Mioskon, Blue Magic, Sardines reef and other incredible places. This area of ​​the Strait of Dampier is prone to currents, the seabed is composed of intact corals and schools of fish of different kinds including pygmy seahorses. On your comfortable ship, you sail to the island of Friwen, ideally situated for exploring the surroundings. Whilst watching the sunset, you will enjoy an excellent dinner on board. Night at Anchor.

Wake up early for a hike on dry land in the middle of the jungle listening to the sounds of the birds of paradise, an endemic species of West Papua. Ride in a dugout canoe then walk for about 30 minutes in the company of your local guide. The day continues with a dive at Mike’s Point or Friwen Wall in the Strait of Dampier. A festival of colorful underwater life comes alive in front of your masks. Nearby Gam Island, is a spot renowned for the diversity of species evolving in the splendid coral plateau. Return to Friwen Island for a swim, snorkel or just relax on the deck of the boat. In the evening, a beach barbecue is organized specially for you.

When you wake up, the boat will have already been sailing for several hours to Sorong. Enjoy the last moments on this unique boat. The morning is devoted to discussions with the crew who accompanied you during this cruise to the Raja Ampat. Have your logbook validated, exchange your photos and addresses. In the early afternoon, you disembark from the boat and are back on the mainland. It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and get back on the road with your private driver for your transfer to the airport or hotel. End of our services.