Raja Ampat has been documented as one of the last frontiers of unspoilt diving. The archipelago’s pristine reefs are not only rich but the region also proves to have the greatest coral reef biodiversity for its size in the world. Raja Ampat holds: 600 islands and reefs, 1,320 fish species, 550 coral species and all that is yet to be discovered.

Raja Ampat is the seascape’s crown jewel. Fittingly, the name means “four kings.” The four main islands or “Kings” of the archipelago: Waigeo in the north, Salawati west of Sorong, Batanta north of Salawati, and Misool in the south.

Visit Waigeo and dive the famous Dampier Strait, some of Raja Ampat´s most action-packed dive sites. Exhilarating current dives and reliable manta cleaning stations where you can experience these majestic giant pelagics dance for hours along with many other treasures such as the tasselled wobbegong shark.

Dive the beautiful and unique mangrove areas of Yanggefo and Gam islands where the tips of healthy acropora corals contrast with the lush green of the mangroves making excellent split images, while just beneath the surface schools of archerfish hunt among the forest of mangrove roots.

Batanta Island, known for its excellent muck diving and amazing variety of nudibranchs including the endemic Thecacera sp. Black sand slopes full of wonderful critters and frequent sightings of the rare mimic octopus.

Misool area in southern Raja Ampat is a must for those who enjoy radiant coloured soft corals. There are stunning walls, pinnacles and reefs with masses of huge gorgonian fans and sea fans hosting an array of the famous pygmy seahorses. The vast area and variety of dive sites makes it the ideal location to be discovered via liveaboard.

MERMAID I

Our luxurious liveaboard Mermaid I is a 28 meter, twin engine steel motor yacht, built with your diving comfort in mind. Our professionalism, reliability, awesome crews offering amazing diving, plus our attention-to-detail maintenance each year, has proudly brought Mermaid I the award winning reputation as one of the world’s leading liveaboard vessels.

Boat Specifications

Length overall: 28 m / 94 ft
Maximum speed: 8,5 kt
Beam: 7 m / 21 ft
Cruising speed: 8 kt
Draft: 2.5 m / 8 ft
Fresh water capacity: 30,000 L
Fuel capacity: 23,000 L
Water makers: 5,000 L / day

General Specifications

8 cabins, indoor TV lounge, 9 toilets/8 bathrooms, indoor dining area, 15 guests maximum, outdoor lounge, 2 dive deck showers, sun deck with sun beds.

Machinery

Twin Hino engines 450 HP
3 Compresor bauer 200 PE
Twin generators 135 kw
Nitrox membrane
Hino Central unit air-conditioning
2 x 4.3m RIBs with ladders
4 X 40 HP Yamaha engines

Safety and Communication

Crew first aid trained, oxygen, EPIRB distress system, emergency flares, bilge pump alarm, smoke alarms, life jackets, first aid kit, Nautilus Lifelines carried by each dive guide, 2 life rafts for 20 passengers, search light, fire extinguishers.

Satellite phone, DSC radio, mobile phones, WHF radio, SSB radio, Starlink Satellite Internet.

Navigation Systems

Radar, GPS, computer navigation, plotters, depth sounder, fish finder.

Accomodation and Facilities

She comfortably holds 15 guests in 1 master state room(king size bed),1 single and 4 deluxe cabins (king size or twin beds) and 2 lower deck cabins (double/twin beds). All main deck cabins have ensuite bathrooms, panoramic sea view windows with doors opening onto the gangway. The lower deck cabins are very comfortable offering ensuite bathrooms and unhindered, direct access to main deck gangways. All cabins are air conditioned, iPads for TV, toiletries and loads of fluffy towels.

Mermaid I Amenities include: body wash, facial tissue, bathrobe, diving towels, hand soap, shampoo, life jackets & smoke alarms, hangers, hairdryer, conditioner, en suite bathroom with hot shower, sundeck towels, wardrobe, personal reading lights and air-conditioning.

Our huge purpose built dive deck and wide stern dive platform with two exit ladders and fresh water showers area diver’s dream. 6 camera rinse tanks mean your valuable equipment is well looked after. Delicious Asian and western meals are served in our “Sawasdee Restaurant” with large windows to enjoy the views or how about trying our delicious BBQs! After meals relax in our saloon with our multimedia entertainment center, or select from our extensive reading library complete with a full range of marine life books. Mermaid I offers two outside decks, one shaded with comfortable lounge seating and the fabulous sundeck with sunshade and loads of cushioned sun beds –a great place to relax or enjoy a massage. NITROX is available on every cruise.

MERMAID II

The M/V Mermaid II is a 33-meter, twin-engine steel motor yacht, widely regarded as one of the most comfortable dive boats in Asia, designed with your diving comfort in mind. With a focus on professionalism, reliability, and exceptional service, our friendly and experienced crew ensures amazing diving experiences while maintaining the yacht to the highest standards year after year. Combining top-notch safety, luxurious comfort, and seamless service, the M/V Mermaid II promises a memorable and effortless diving adventure, blending exploration with relaxation. 

Boat Specifications

Length overall: 33 m / 104 ft
Maximum speed: 10 kt
Beam: 7 m / 21 ft
Cruising speed: 9 kt
Draft: 2.5 m / 8 ft
Fresh water capacity: 40,000 L
Fuel capacity: 13,000 L
Water makers: 5,000 L / day

General Specifications

10 cabins, indoor TV lounge, 11 toilets, indoor dining area, 18/20 guests maximum, outdoor lounge, 2 dive deck showers, sun deck.

Machinery

Twin Hino engines 450 HP
3 Compresor bauer 200 PE
Twin generators 130 kw
Nitrox membrane
Individually controlled air-conditioning
2 x 5m RIBs with ladders
4 X 40 HP Yamaha engines

Safety and Communication

Crew first aid trained, oxygen, EPIRB distress system, emergency flares, bilge pump alarm, smoke alarms, life jackets, first aid kit, Nautilus Lifelines carried by each dive guide, 3 life rafts for 20 passengers, search light, fire extinguishers.

Satellite phone, DSC radio, mobile phones, WHF radio, SSB radio, Starlink Satellite Internet.

Navigation Systems

Radar, GPS, computer navigation, plotters, depth sounder, fish finder.

Accommodation and Facilities

Mermaid II easily accommodates 18 guests in 8 deluxe cabins and 2 guests in a lower deck budget cabin. All deluxe cabins are located on the main deck and offer a choice of either double bed only or twin bed configuration. Each deluxe cabin offers large panoramic sea view windows. individually controlled air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. Below deck the budget cabins have twin bunks, vanity sink, air conditioning and share a bathroom with one other cabin via adjoining doors.

Mermaid II Amenities include: body wash, facial tissue, bathrobe, diving towels, hand soap, shampoo, life jackets & smoke alarms, hangers, hairdryer, conditioner, en suite bathroom with hot shower, sundeck towels, wardrobe, personal reading lights and individual air-conditioning.

There is a wide stern dive platform with two exit ladders and fresh warm water showers. The dive deck is huge with plenty of room to gear up, individual boxes for your dive gear, camera tables and loads of rinse tanks.

The dining room is at the front of the main deck where delicious buffet style Asian and western meals are served. The saloon is large and spacious with comfortable lounges, big windows, bar fridge, and complimentary fresh roast coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices. Multimedia entertainment centre including large flat screen TV for briefing and movies, large library and a full selection of marine life books.

There are two outside decks–the shade covered party deck with its comfy cushioned lounge suite around nearly the whole deck and the sun platform in front of the wheelhouse. NITROX is available on every cruise.

MISOOL

Misool, a hidden gem in Raja Ampat, is a diver’s paradise teeming with vibrant marine life and pristine coral gardens. Nestled within the heart of the Coral Triangle, this untouched oasis boasts an astonishing diversity of over 1,500 species of fish and 600 species of coral, creating an underwater wonderland unlike anywhere else.

Here, you can glide alongside graceful manta rays, witness sleek reef sharks patrolling the deep, and marvel at the tiny, delicate pygmy seahorses camouflaged in coral fans. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the elusive walking shark, a fascinating species found only in these waters.

With crystal-clear visibility reaching up to 40 meters, the warm, inviting waters of 27-30°C make for a dreamlike diving experience year-round. While some sites have gentle currents perfect for relaxed exploration, others offer exhilarating drift dives for the adventurous spirit.

Misool isn’t just breathtaking—it’s also a marine sanctuary. The 300,000-acre Misool Marine Reserve is one of the world’s most successful conservation areas, ensuring that its reefs remain brimming with life. Thanks to strict protection efforts, you’ll find some of the healthiest, most untouched coral ecosystems on the planet.

BALBULOL ISLAND

Balbulol is a hidden gem in the Misool archipelago, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes. The island's charm lies in its breathtaking coral reefs, which are teeming with vibrant marine life.

As you dive or snorkel through the waters, schools of sweetlips and triggerfish dart playfully around vibrant hard and soft corals, while the occasional reef shark glides by. Balbulol’s underwater world is rich and colorful, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful yet captivating underwater experience.

The island’s pristine condition and relatively untouched reefs provide divers with an opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of Raja Ampat’s marine ecosystem.

SAGOF ISLAND

Sagof is a serene and secluded paradise, located southeast of Misool. Its rugged, limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the sea, adding to its untamed beauty. The surrounding waters are a marine wonderland, home to schools of snapper and large groupers that swim in synchrony with the currents.The coral reefs are exceptionally diverse, showcasing a palette of colors, with nudibranchs and sea cucumbers adding to the intricate beauty of the underwater world.

Sagof’s isolation ensures that its reefs are remarkably intact, offering divers a peaceful and rewarding dive into a flourishing marine habitat. Its clear, warm waters make for a perfect snorkeling experience, where the underwater world feels like a dream of soft coral gardens and exotic fish.

WAGMAB ISLAND

Wagmab is a small, enchanting island in the Misool region, known for its dramatic topography and pristine marine life. The waters around Wagmab are an underwater haven, home to giant trevally, surgeonfish, and parrotfish, each more vibrant than the last.

As you dive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an explosion of color, with schools of fusiliers darting through the water, and majestic coral formations that stretch as far as the eye can see. The island’s underwater landscapes are varied, with both shallow reefs and deeper dive sites, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to explore different marine environments. Occasionally, manta rays glide elegantly through the water, adding a magical touch to the already captivating underwater world.

Wagmab offers both the serenity of seclusion and the excitement of an underwater adventure.

FARONDI ISLAND

Farondi is often considered one of the top diving destinations in Raja Ampat, and for good reason. Its crystal-clear waters are brimming with marine life, from the tiniest clownfish to large schools of barracuda that gracefully move in the current. The coral reefs here are some of the healthiest in the region, with soft and hard corals forming stunning underwater landscapes.

Farondi is a true paradise for divers, who can explore the vibrant coral gardens that are home to an astonishing variety of fish species. The occasional manta ray passes through, its massive wings unfolding majestically in the current, while sea turtles and reef sharks move through the reef with calm precision.

This island is a testament to the raw beauty of Raja Ampat, offering both beginner and experienced divers the chance to immerse themselves in one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet.

WAYILBATAN ISLAND

Wayilbatan is an intriguing and mysterious destination, renowned for its unique underwater topography. Beneath its tranquil surface, divers are greeted with fascinating rock formations, underwater caves, and overhangs that provide refuge for a myriad of marine species. Schools of butterflyfish and angelfish swim through the clear waters, while large groups of snapper congregate around the coral-covered rock structures. The water is rich with life, and occasional encounters with reef sharks or manta rays elevate the experience.

For those who love to explore the secrets of the ocean, Wayilbatan’s combination of pristine coral reefs and dramatic underwater landscapes makes it an exceptional destination. The island itself offers a sense of seclusion, creating the perfect environment for both relaxation and discovery.

WARAKARAKET ISLAND

Warakaraket offers a sense of untouched wilderness, where its secluded reefs provide an unspoiled haven for marine life. The waters surrounding the island are a kaleidoscope of colors, with healthy coral reefs flourishing in the crystal-clear depths.

As you dive, you’re likely to encounter schools of fusiliers and triggerfish, their colors glowing in the sunlight. The reefs are also home to larger predators, such as reef sharks, adding an element of excitement to the dive. The pristine state of the island's underwater world offers an incredible opportunity for both experienced divers and beginners to explore vibrant coral gardens and observe the diverse marine creatures that call Warakaraket home.

The island is largely uninhabited, providing a sense of peace and seclusion. The peaceful environment makes this site perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and experience a more tranquil side of Raja Ampat. Last but not least, Warakaraket is part of a conservation area, making it a great spot for those interested in ecotourism and environmental preservation efforts.

FIABACET ISLAND

Fiabacet is one of the most celebrated locations in Raja Ampat for diving, and it’s easy to see why. The island’s surrounding waters are a haven for marine biodiversity, with an abundance of fish species, from parrotfish and wrasses to schools of snapper that swirl in the current. The coral reefs are particularly stunning, with both hard and soft corals forming intricate, vibrant ecosystems that support a wide array of marine life.

Fiabacet is also renowned for its manta rays, which frequent the area, and divers are often treated to breathtaking encounters with these graceful giants. Sea turtles glide through the water, while reef sharks patrol the deep blue. This island is a prime example of Raja Ampat’s unparalleled underwater beauty, where every dive brings new wonders to discover.

YILLET ISLAND

Yillet is a peaceful and idyllic retreat in the Misool group, offering a quiet sanctuary for those seeking a more private experience in Raja Ampat. The island is surrounded by calm, clear waters that are home to an abundance of tropical fish, including clownfish and vibrant wrasses. The coral reefs here are rich and diverse, providing a vibrant backdrop to the underwater life.The shallow waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, where the coral gardens are filled with colorful marine life, and schools of small fish weave in and out of the coral formations.

Yillet offers a more intimate and serene dive experience, allowing visitors to feel truly immersed in the natural beauty of Raja Ampat’s marine environment. Last but not least, it offers a tranquil environment for birdwatching, with a mix of tropical forest and coastal ecosystems that attract a diverse range of avian species. While the island is less developed compared to other areas, its undisturbed natural habitat provides a safe haven for both migratory and resident birds. Whether you're looking for vibrant tropical parrots or graceful seabirds soaring above the waters, Yillet Island is a birdwatcher's paradise.

KALIG ISLAND

Kalig is a hidden treasure, offering visitors a serene and picturesque experience, both above and below the water. The island’s pristine beaches and lush vegetation provide a tranquil setting, while the surrounding waters are teeming with life.

Schools of fusiliers and butterflyfish flit through the coral gardens, and the vibrant soft corals are a testament to the health of the underwater ecosystem. Reef sharks and manta rays can occasionally be spotted, gliding gracefully through the water. Kalig Island is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway, with its unspoiled coral reefs and diverse marine species providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The serene waters and secluded atmosphere make it a perfect spot for divers and snorkelers alike.

PELE ISLAND

Pele is a true paradise, with its breathtaking scenery and pristine coral reefs drawing visitors from all over the world. The island’s crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of fish species, from parrotfish to snappers, all swimming amongst vibrant coral formations.

The underwater landscape is a visual feast, with soft and hard corals creating a mesmerizing patchwork of colors. Manta rays and reef sharks glide through the waters, adding an element of awe to every dive. Pele’s combination of stunning coral reefs and its peaceful, secluded atmosphere makes it an ideal location for both relaxation and underwater exploration.

The island’s untouched beauty, both above and below the water, makes it a must-visit destination in Raja Ampat.

DAMPIER STRAIT

Dampier Strait, the body of water between the islands of Waigeo and Batanta to the north and the islands of Misool to the south, is a critical marine corridor in Raja Ampat, renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity. Famous for its vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, and sea turtles, the strait has become one of the most important areas for diving in the region.

The manta rays here are particularly captivating, often seen at their cleaning stations, accompanied by a variety of schooling fish that make the area even more spectacular. At some sites in the Dampier Strait, the macro marine life is equally incredible, with unique critters like the seamoth, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, and pipefish, among many others.

The Strait is also known for its vast schools of fish, with several pinnacles hosting zillions of fish, and the tips of many islands teeming with barracudas, bigeye jacks, snappers, fusiliers, surgeonfish, and much more. As if that weren't enough, Dampier Strait is also home to wobbegong sharks, making it an unparalleled destination for both large and small marine life encounters.

The islands of Raja Ampat, such as Penemu, Kawe, Ela Yanggefo, Arborek, and Sawanderek, are an underwater paradise of incredible biodiversity. Located in the province of West Papua, Indonesia, these islands offer an unparalleled natural spectacle, both in their seascapes and terrestrial ecosystems. Pristine reefs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life make every dive a unique experience. From manta rays and sea turtles to colorful corals and tropical fish, these destinations are designed for divers looking to explore some of the richest and most pristine marine environments on the planet. With excellent visibility and warm waters, Raja Ampat is a true treasure for ocean adventurers.

PENEMU ISLAND

Known for its breathtaking panoramic views, Penemu is also an underwater paradise. This place stands out for its vibrant coral reefs, home to a wide variety of species. Divers can encounter humphead wrasse, reef sharks, manta rays, and huge schools of horse mackerel. Moderate currents make Penemu an ideal place to explore the marine diversity of its vertical walls and coral formations, where nudibranchs and butterflyfish hide among the crevices.

KAWE ISLAND

Kawe is a quieter haven, ideal for those looking to dive away from the crowds. With crystal-clear water and unspoiled reefs, the marine life here is spectacular yet serene. It's the perfect place to find manta rays, sea turtles, and schools of parrotfish. The relaxed atmosphere and gentle currents make Kawe an excellent site for both novice and experienced divers, offering a more personal and up-close experience with the sea's inhabitants.

ELA YANGGEFO

More remote and lesser-known, Ela Yanggefo is an island that still maintains its pristine charm. Beneath its waters, divers can explore healthy coral reefs, home to species such as reef sharks, rays, and vibrantly colored nudibranchs. Its low tourist influx allows for a peaceful diving experience, with the opportunity to encounter rare species and explore reefs untouched by human activity.

ARBOREK

Arborek is famous for its floating reef island and is an ideal spot for divers seeking close encounters with manta rays. Large formations of hard and soft corals can be observed in its waters, home to a wealth of marine life, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and reef sharks. It is also an excellent spot for macro divers, as nudibranchs and other small species can be discovered in the deeper recesses of its reefs.

SAWANDEREK

Finally, Sawanderek is a quiet village off the coast of Waigeo Island, known for its serene waters and spectacular coral walls. Diving here is breathtaking, with excellent visibility and abundant marine life, including schools of fish, blacktip reef sharks, and a fascinating variety of soft and hard corals. Sawanderek offers a unique experience for those looking to explore the most secret corners of Raja Ampat, away from the main tourist routes.

BORNEO

- The Harmony between Human Happiness and Wildlife -

Borneo is the largest island in Indonesia and the third largest in the world, shared with Malaysia and Brunei. It has one of the largest expanses of tropical rainforest in the world, a unique place where you can fully enjoy nature in its wildest state, with flora and fauna that will leave you breathless. There, in the heart of the jungle, orangutans share their habitat with gibbons, probistus monkeys, macaques, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and a wide variety of endemic birds.

I would describe the people, not only of Borneo, but of Malaysia in general, as happy. They are happy with what they have. They are also very attentive and kind, as in most of Southeast Asia, but above all, they are happy. In Borneo, people don't need much more than what they have, nor do they ask for it.

Borneo is not a first-time trip. The traveler who goes to Borneo is a traveler who has already visited many places in the world, so it is a country with few tourists. Bali, another of Indonesia's islands, receives, for example, the same number of visitors in one week as Borneo receives in a year.

Carlos Monforte, our Borneo specialist, recommends traveling there primarily to discover its nature. Other interesting features include its ethnic diversity, which has adapted to the 21st century while leaving the country's natural beauty intact, something difficult to find anywhere else in the world.

The essential places in Borneo are Gunung Mulu National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site); the Kinabantangan River, which is one of the best places to see wildlife because the river, where the jungle ends and palm plantations are located, is home to a large concentration of animals; the Danum Valley, where you can also see many animals, but here on foot safaris instead of by boat (although this is not included in all trips due to its high price); and the islands, which, although spectacular, like the Maldives, are a unique place for snorkeling and scuba diving, are still largely unknown. There, you can see turtles nesting. This occurs year-round, although July through September is when the largest number of turtles arrive. Watching the nesting is a unique spectacle.

We'll most likely see orangutans in the Kinabantangan. Unlike gorillas, orangutans are territorial animals that live alone. Babies spend their first eight years of life with their mothers, learning from her. Therefore, the largest group of orangutans we can see is three, meaning the mother with one or two babies. We'll see them at a distance of approximately 80 meters and a height of 40 meters.

However, we can really see them at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, a place where orangutans are actually rehabilitated. They are rescued mainly after being abandoned as pets, after being shot, or after their mother's death. One of the hardest things orangutans have to be taught in rehabilitation centers is that humans are not their friends, so that they can survive when they are released into the jungle after being rehabilitated.

At the rehabilitation center, you climb onto an open platform, and the orangutans arrive from various feeding sites, allowing you to see them up close. After they've eaten, they leave. Sepilok is a secondary rainforest where many plants and trees have been replanted to help the orangutans survive. There are more than 800 orangutans in this center.

Visiting Borneo is not only a journey into the heart of nature, but also an opportunity to reflect on the impact our actions have on the world. It is a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems and how our decisions affect species like orangutans, who struggle to regain their freedom in such a complex environment. By traveling to this special place, we not only immerse ourselves in unique landscapes and experiences, but we also contribute to the conservation of these wonderful beings and their habitat. It is an invitation to enjoy, but also to become aware that the beauty of the natural world needs our care and respect more than ever.