Raja Ampat. The name conjures images of vibrant coral gardens, schools of shimmering fish, and the promise of underwater encounters that transcend the ordinary. For divers seeking the pinnacle of marine biodiversity, North Raja Ampat diving is exceptionally inviting, and there’s arguably no finer way to experience it on a few select cruises each year than aboard the luxurious Dewi Nusantara.
This magnificent schooner, a true masterpiece of Indonesian craftsmanship, offers twelve days of unparalleled diving exploration. Dewi Nusantara provides a bespoke experience tailored to maximise your scuba dive experience in this underwater paradise. From the moment you step aboard, you’re enveloped in a world of refined comfort and exceptional service, knowing you’re about to embark on an adventure into one of Earth’s most pristine marine ecosystems.
North Raja Ampat, specifically, is a realm of dramatic underwater topography. Steep walls plunge into the abyss, teeming with life. Current-swept channels become highways for all kinds of pelagics, and shallow reef tops explode with colour. The biodiversity here is truly staggering. You’ll find everything from pygmy seahorses clinging to gorgonian fans to majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly through the blue.
Raja Ampat dive sites
Cape Kri, known for its record-breaking fish diversity, leaves you breathless. Imagine being surrounded by swirling schools of silversides, fusiliers, snappers, banner and surgeon fish while reef sharks, mobula rays, spadefish and trevallies patrol the perimeter. Blue Magic, another iconic site, offers the chance to witness reef and oceanic manta rays congregating at their favourite cleaning station. In Sawandarek, you’re diving with ancient, old green turtles, while at Melissa’s Garden, a vast, stunning, hard coral reef is waiting for you, teeming with brightly coloured clouds of coral fish.
The Dewi Nusantara’s experienced dive crew, with their intimate knowledge of the region, ensures that you’re always at the right place at the right time. They understand the nuances of the currents, the migratory patterns of marine life, and the subtle shifts in the underwater environment. This expertise translates into dives that are both safe and unforgettable.
Beyond the renowned sites, Dewi Nusantara opens doors to lesser-known gems. You’ll explore hidden reefs, discover secluded bays, and spot marine creatures that few have ever seen. The vessel’s stability and spacious dive deck make kitting up and entering the water seamless, allowing you to focus entirely on the wonders unfolding.
The true highlight of the North Raja Ampat diving itinerary on Dewi Nusantara is the journey to the furthest northern part of the Birds Head Seascape: the Equator (Kawe) and Wayag Islands. The Equator Islands offer a sense of remoteness that is truly special. These isolated islands provide a chance to witness the untouched beauty of Raja Ampat away from the well-trodden paths. Wayag’s iconic karst islands, rising from the turquoise sea, create a breathtaking backdrop and are among the most picturesque in Indonesia. Beneath the surface, the reefs are equally spectacular, featuring pristine corals and abundant fish life. Expect a variety of juvenile shark species and majestic manta rays. Wayag is home to conservation efforts, research, and monitoring of shark and manta ray nurseries. Cruising North Raja Ampat also offers stunning above-water scenery, from pristine rain forests atop limestone islands to secluded bays and white sandy beaches, to be explored with Dewi’s kayaks or paddleboards in between dives.
Back onboard Dewi Nusantara, between dives, you can relax in the luxurious cabins and indulge in gourmet meals prepared by our onboard chef. Identify your newly found fish or critter species with your dive guide or from our extensive Fish ID library while sharing stories with fellow divers. The spacious salon, sun, and bow decks provide ample space for relaxation, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of your ever-changing surroundings. The attentive crew ensures that your every need is met, creating an unforgettable experience.
Diving North Raja Ampat aboard Dewi Nusantara is more than just a holiday; it’s a pilgrimage for every scuba diver. It’s an opportunity to witness the pinnacle of marine biodiversity, explore remote and untouched reefs, and experience a world-class liveaboard’s unparalleled comfort and service. It’s a journey into the blue beyond that will leave you forever changed by the magic of Raja Ampat and the Dewi Nusantara Liveaboard.
Contact us at sales@dewi-nusantara.com to join us on a cruise to explore North Raja Ampat in 2025 or 2026;
Please find the detailed itinerary description at this link:
