Reef Dreams: Exploring the Jewels of the Sea
Raja Ampat
February 18 to March 05, 2027
Safari Overview
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Embark on a 12-day luxury snorkeling expedition through Raja Ampat and Triton Bay, Indonesia, where you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter mythical Birds of Paradise and majestic whale sharks, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled marine biodiversity of West Papua. Starting in Sorong, this unforgettable liveaboard journey takes you through iconic snorkel sites like Cape Kri, Blue Magic, and Sardine Reef, where colorful fish, Wobbegong sharks, and graceful reef manta rays abound. Discover lush landscapes on Waigeo and Penemu Islands, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and visit Arborek Village to experience local culture. Search for the Red and the Great Bird of Paradise in the forested islands of Gam and Batanta. Dive into the hidden wonders of Triton Bay, where nutrient-rich waters attract diverse marine life and towering limestone cliffs frame secluded beaches. End your adventure in Kaimana, carrying memories of pristine underwater habitats and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters.
WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPEDITION?
- Unparalleled Marine Biodiversity: Snorkel some of the world’s most vibrant coral reefs in Raja Ampat and Triton Bay, teeming with colorful fish, manta rays, and whale sharks.
- Bucket-List Whale Shark Encounters: Experience intimate, awe-inspiring moments with these gentle giants gathering around traditional fishing platforms (bagans).
- Birds of Paradise: Watch the mesmerizing behaviors of three different Birds of Paradise (Red, Great, and Wilson’s).
- Explore Remote, Pristine Islands: Visit iconic destinations like Waigeo, Gam, Batanta, and Penemu Islands, each offering unique wildlife, lush jungles, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Luxury Liveaboard Experience: Travel in comfort aboard a spacious liveaboard vessel, complete with top-notch amenities and expertly guided snorkeling adventures.
- Cultural and Natural Immersion: Engage with local communities at Arborek Village and soak in the tranquil beauty of hidden lagoons and jungle waterfalls.
TRIP MAP
NOTABLE EXPERIENCES
Wildlife Safari Coordinator Stefanie Plein
Updated: April 2025
Ship Info
| Date | Description | Lodge | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 18–20 | Travel to Sorong, Indonesia. Begin your journey to the remote islands of Raja Ampat. | ||
| Feb 21 | Set Sail! Settle into your cabin and embark on your 12-day snorkeling expedition, beginning with exploration of Matan’s vibrant reefs. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 22 | Kri & Dampier Straits. Snorkel world-famous sites like Cape Kri, Blue Magic, and Sardine Reef, encountering schools of fish, Wobbegong sharks, and majestic manta rays. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 23 | Bird of Paradise, Manta Sandy, & Arborek. Trek through Gam Island’s jungle to witness Red and Great Birds of Paradise, then snorkel at Manta Sandy and experience local culture at Arborek Village. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 24 | Batanta. Explore the island, searching for the elusive Wilson’s Bird of Paradise, followed by a refreshing swim beneath a hidden jungle waterfall. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 25 | Penemu. Snorkel the breathtaking Melissa’s Garden coral reef, cruise through turquoise lagoons, and hike to a panoramic viewpoint of Raja Ampat’s limestone islands. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 26 | Farondi. Discover the Tamulol Cave, snorkel through its sunlit waters and experience the magic of a jellyfish lake. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 27 | Boo & Fiabacet. Snorkel vibrant coral gardens where colorful reef fish, baby blacktip reef sharks, and hidden nudibranchs thrive. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Feb 28 | Pulau Pisang. Relax on secluded beaches and snorkel in calm coral bays. Unwind as the sun sets over these idyllic islands. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Mar 1 | Momon. Visit a unique waterfall that cascades into the sea, taking a refreshing swim before beginning your southward journey to Triton Bay. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Mar 2-3 | Triton Bay. Snorkel this nutrient-rich hidden paradise renowned for its diverse marine life and unforgettable whale shark encounters. | Aboard our boat | B, L, D |
| Mar 4 | Disembark & Fly Home. Disembark in Kaimana for your flight to Sorong and then onward towards home. | B | |
| Mar 5 | Arrive home. |
Get the Full Daily Itinerary
Our Trip Leaders
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Charlie Ryan
Charlie RyanAfter signing up for a volunteer program in Indonesia in 2008, Charlie was re-routed to Sabah, Borneo where he helped set up community initiative programs for the Abai village. He has resided in Sabah ever since. Charlie guides for the National Geographic Adventure groups in Borneo and helps train nature guides, providing them with first-hand knowledge and experience. He is also an avid photographer, which compliments his passion for wildlife, culture, and travel.
Ship Information
Damai 2
Step aboard our 131-foot Raja Ampat liveaboard and discover unmatched luxury in one of the world’s top dive destinations. This elegant vessel is designed for discerning travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.
Every detail reflects thoughtful design. The ship features spacious decks, plush lounges, and sleek modern architecture. With just a few guests on board, your experience remains personal and unrushed.
Each suite offers a private balcony, allowing you to enjoy sunrise coffee or sunset views in peaceful seclusion. Inside, enjoy refined furnishings, climate control, and en suite bathrooms with full amenities.
Diving is the highlight of your voyage. State-of-the-art facilities include a custom dive deck, camera stations, and gear rinsing areas. A remarkable 4-to-1 diver-to-guide ratio means more personalized underwater adventures.
Whether you’re exploring coral gardens or searching for rare macro life, your guide is never far, helping you spot Raja Ampat’s treasures. From pygmy seahorses to manta rays, every dive brings surprises.
When you're not diving, relax with onboard spa treatments or enjoy the shaded sundeck and jacuzzi. The staff is always available, offering warm towels, fresh drinks, or helpful service.
Meals are a gourmet experience. Enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily, plus snacks and refreshments between dives. Menus feature fresh seafood, local flavors, and international favorites. Dietary needs are gladly accommodated.
Evenings bring optional presentations on marine life, photography, or local culture. Or, simply unwind under the stars with a nightcap in hand.
This liveaboard is your floating resort, sailing through Indonesia’s most biodiverse marine ecosystem. From luxurious surroundings to thrilling underwater encounters, this is more than a dive trip—it’s the experience of a lifetime.
More Information
- Cost & Payments
- Included
- Not Included
- Climate
- Fitness Level
- Motion Sickness
- Flights
Conservation- Conditions
Cost & Payments
Costs (in US$)
| Type | Description | Cost Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Cabin | Double occupancy, queen-sized bed, single bed, private bath, air-conditioned, a desk, and wardrobe for storage. On the lower deck. | $9,500 |
| Master Cabin 5 | Double occupancy, king-sized bed, single bed, private enclosed balcony with loungers, air-conditioned, private bathroom, two desks, and wardrobe for storage. On the lower deck. | $9,900 |
| Master Cabin 6 | Double occupancy, king-sized bed, single bed, private open-air balcony with loungers, air-conditioned, private bathroom, two desks, and wardrobe for storage. On the main deck. | $10,600 |
Share the Experience – Earn Travel Credit
Know someone who would love this trip? Refer a friend and you’ll both benefit—you get credit toward a future adventure, and they receive a discount on their first trip with us. See how our Referral Program works ›
Costs are per person, depending on cabin type, double occupancy, not including airfare, singles extra. See Included and Not Included sections for more details.
If you are a single traveler, we will try to find a roommate for you, but if we cannot pair you with a roommate, we may charge you a single supplement. If space is available, some cabins can be booked as a single by adding 90% over the listed cabin cost.
We cannot guarantee a specific cabin number, but if changes occur, we will assign a cabin of equal or greater value.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Due Date | Amount Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | Due now to reserve your space | $1,500 |
| Final | August 17, 2026 | Remaining Balance |
Payments are due based on the schedule above. All reservations require a deposit to confirm reservation of your space.
Cancellations
Refunds are given depending on the time left before departure according to the following table. Through June 16, 2026, the cancellation fee of $300 per person can be applied toward another trip if reserved within six months of the canceled trip’s departure date. Cancellations are non-transferable.
| Dates | Forfeited Amount per Person |
|---|---|
| On or before June 16, 2026 | $300 (see terms above) |
| June 17 to July 16, 2026 | 10% of trip cost |
| July 17 to August 16, 2026 | 40% of trip cost |
| On or after August 17, 2026 | 100% of trip cost |
Included
- Carbon offsets for the duration of this trip.
- All leaders, transport, park entry fees, harbor fees, and permits for all activities unless described as optional.
- Assorted snorkeling gear including masks, fins, and wetsuits.
- Massage and laundry while onboard the boat.
- One-way flight from Kaimana to Sorong on March 4.
- Eleven nights on board the boat.
- Meals from breakfast on February 21 through breakfast on March 4.
- All non-alcoholic drinks while on board.
- One glass of wine per person during dinner and unlimited beer.
- Transfers from Sorong Airport to the ship on February 21, and from the ship to the Kaimana Airport on March 4.
- Trip Planning Materials – information about entry requirements, flights, packing, gratuities, etc.
Not Included
- Carbon offsets for your flights to/from this trip.
- All airfare, airport and departure taxes, and excess baggage fees.
- Passport and visa fees.
- Divergent airport transfers (arranged by us) and extra hotel nights.
- Gratuities – tipping is always discretionary. However, we suggest budgeting about $50 to $80 per participant per day for 12 days for your leader and ship crew (about $600 to $960 total per participant).
- Optional trip cancellation insurance.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry (excluding while on the boat), telephone calls, medical costs or hospitalization, room service, alcoholic beverages (except those listed as included), items not on the regular menu, etc. If you have special dietary needs, please indicate them on your Traveler Form.
Climate
The dry season typically runs from October to May. During this time, the weather is generally warm and humid, with temperatures averaging between 81°F (27°C) to 86°F (30°C). You can expect mostly clear skies and calm seas, making it an excellent period for snorkeling.
Rainfall is relatively low compared to the wet season, though brief tropical showers can still occur, often clearing up quickly. Humidity remains high (around 75-85%), but the pleasant sea breeze helps make it more comfortable. Underwater visibility is usually excellent in February, ranging from 65 to 100ft, allowing for spectacular marine life viewing.
Fitness Level
The fitness level required is moderate. You should be comfortable swimming and snorkeling for extended periods, typically 30 to 60 minutes per session, often multiple times per day. Basic swimming ability and good stamina are essential to fully enjoy the snorkeling activities, as you’ll be exploring vibrant marine habitats and pristine coral gardens.
In addition to snorkeling, some days include short treks and hikes, such as bird-watching excursions to spot the iconic Birds of Paradise or scenic hikes to panoramic viewpoints. These treks can involve uneven terrain, muddy paths, or steep inclines, requiring moderate physical fitness to navigate comfortably. Onboard, moving around the vessel demands good balance, especially during rougher seas, so being steady on your feet is important.
Moreover, the tropical climate of Raja Ampat and Triton Bay can be hot and humid, making physical activities feel more strenuous than usual. Staying hydrated and prepared for the weather will help ensure a more enjoyable experience. Overall, the trip is suitable for reasonably fit individuals with basic swimming abilities and the capacity to handle moderate physical exertion. No specialized skills are required, but being in good health will significantly enhance comfort and enjoyment throughout the journey. Please contact us if you have any health concerns that may make this trip challenging.
Flights
Detailed logistical information is included in the Trip Planning Materials we will send you.
Flights you book
- Arrive in Sorong, Indonesia (SOQ) by 10:00am on February 21.
- Depart from Sorong, Indonesia (SOQ) after 3:00pm on March 4.
Flights we book
- The one-way flight from Kaimana to Sorong on March 4 is included in the trip cost.
FAQ
Accommodations
Motion Sickness
Don’t let a fear of motion sickness keep you away! Even those who have experienced seasickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort. If you are susceptible to seasickness or are concerned that you might be, please come prepared! The key to avoiding seasickness is to act before you experience nausea. Do your own research and consult your doctor before taking any medications. A good night of sleep, eating well, limiting alcohol, and using your favorite seasickness remedy is sufficient for most travelers. Find more information on our Coping with Seasickness webpage (this information is applicable to any form of motion sickness) and contact us if you have any questions.
Transportation
Conservation
Our company ethos has always regarded conservation as inseparable from responsible tourism. We struggle with the dilemma that traveling worldwide expends climate-changing carbon. However, we wholeheartedly believe that traveling with us will cultivate your passion for conserving our beautiful world while stimulating each destination’s local economy. We encourage you to explore the various ways in which Cheesemans’ operates within this context:
- Cheesemans’ Trips are Carbon Neutral.
- Offsetting your Travel to/from our Trip: We ask you to pledge to offset the carbon emissions for your travel to and from our trips. You can purchase offsets with most airlines (Delta includes them automatically), use our handy carbon calculator and donate to Sustainable Travel International, or contribute to your favorite offsetting organization.
- Local Conservation: Check out our Conservation pages to learn how we support conservation efforts through meaningful partnerships and responsible tourism practices.
Conditions
Read our current Terms and Conditions.