Diving in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat, off the northwest tip of West Papua, is at the centre of the Coral Triangle and is widely regarded as having the greatest marine biodiversity on the planet. Hundreds of species of hard coral and over a thousand reef fish have been recorded, and a single dive can mix reef sharks, schools of fish, manta rays and tiny macro life.

The area is made up of four main islands and hundreds of smaller ones, spread over a large area, so most divers explore it on a liveaboard. Trips usually start and end in Sorong and move between regions such as Dampier Strait, Misool and the northern islands depending on the season and weather.

Raja Ampat offers something for most levels: calm, coral-covered reefs and walls, plus drift dives and current-swept channels for experienced divers. A marine park permit is required and is normally arranged by your operator.

Diving here is as much about the scenery as the marine life: limestone islands covered in jungle, quiet lagoons and, above and below water, very few other people. Bring a good camera, a reef-safe sunscreen and some patience, as this is a remote area where weather and logistics decide the schedule.