The questions divers ask most when planning their first Raja Ampat liveaboard voyage — answered by our voyage directors with combined 50+ years in the region.
Browse by topic. For deeper-tier questions on advanced diving, photography, and conservation, see our Advanced FAQ. For the comprehensive set, our 52-Question Master FAQ covers everything.
Planning Basics
When is the best time to visit Raja Ampat?
October through April is the primary dive season. Calm seas, 20–40m visibility, manta peak Dec–Mar. See our Best Time guide.
How long should my voyage be?
For first-time visitors, 7–10 nights is ideal. 5-night trips suit repeat visitors. 11+ nights required for Wayag or multi-region.
How far in advance should I book?
For peak season (Oct–Apr), 9–18 months ahead. Specific holiday periods (Christmas, New Year, Easter) often 2 years out.
What's included in the price?
Vessel charter, crew, all meals, 3–4 dives/day, tanks/weights, SOQ transfers. Excludes: flights, Marine Park permit, gratuities, insurance. Full breakdown.
Diving Requirements
What certification do I need?
Advanced Open Water (AOW) or equivalent. Minimum 50 logged dives with recent currency.
Can Open Water divers join?
Yes, but with restricted site access. Open Water divers cannot dive high-current sites like Blue Magic or Cape Kri.
Are the currents really 1–4 knots?
Yes, at iconic Dampier sites. Reef hook is mandatory equipment. Negative entries standard. Drift dive proficiency required.
What wetsuit do I need?
Water temp 27–30°C year-round. 3mm full is standard. Some divers prefer 5mm if doing 4 dives/day.
Travel & Logistics
How do I get to Raja Ampat?
Fly to Jakarta (CGK), then domestic flight to Sorong (SOQ). Garuda Indonesia or Batik Air. We arrange airport transfer. See travel guide.
What is the Marine Park permit?
IDR 1,000,000 (~USD 65) per diver, valid 12 months. We pre-arrange before arrival.
Is insurance mandatory?
Yes — comprehensive dive + travel insurance covering medical evacuation. DAN or equivalent. Proof required before boarding.
Do I need a visa for Indonesia?
Most nationalities receive 30-day Visa-on-Arrival (USD 35 cash) at any major airport. Verify current rules for your passport.
Onboard Experience
What are the cabins like?
En-suite, air-conditioned, with ocean view portholes or windows. Master suites on upper decks; standard cabins lower deck.
How is the food?
Gourmet — onboard chef preparing fresh Indonesian + international. Dietary restrictions accommodated with advance notice.
Is alcohol available?
Premium vessels include house wine + beer; spirits and premium wines are a la carte. Some operators are dry — confirm with us.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Limited satellite Wi-Fi on some vessels. Treat the voyage as a digital detox. No cellular signal in most areas.
Have a Specific Question?
These are the most-asked. Send us anything else — typically a 24-hour response from a voyage director.
