The best liveaboards in Raja Ampat

Want to know which of the many dive liveaboards sailing in Raja Ampat is right for you? To help you decide, we’ve combined our first-hand knowledge with feedback from our guests to identify Raja Ampat’s leading liveaboards, including those that are best for luxury itineraries, for groups, and for photographers.

Said to be the epicentre of marine biodiversity, the vast network of islands and reefs that make up Raja Ampat is easily one of the most revered liveaboard dive destinations in the world. To keep up with the demand for dive travel in the region, an selection of safari vessels now traverse these waters throughout the year. Keep reading to find the one that is right for you.

The team aboard MV Pindito have been cruising Indonesia’s remote regions for over 25-years, earning unparalleled experience along the way. In fact, Pindito pioneered many of the now-famous diving destinations, including Raja Ampat itself. This recently refurbished vessel features updated amenities throughout, as well as professional-standard diving facilities, a modern camera room and technical diving support.

It’s safe to say Pindito is renowned for delivering some of Indonesia’s most exciting voyages, including citizen science-themed trips, family-friendly cruises, and other unique expeditions focused on specific marine life. In Raja Ampat, Pindito’s 12-day trips provide an unparalleled insight into this diverse diving region, with some trips also including activities such as whale and dolphin watching.

Our expert opinion: Pindito’s expeditions go above and beyond the typical Raja Ampat itinerary to provide truly unique experiences.

Designed for cruising in some of Indonesia’s most remote regions, La Galigo is a purpose-built phinisi liveaboard offering adventurous voyages in Raja Ampat and other iconic dive destinations. Accommodating up to 14 guests, this vessel harbours a relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming, family-style vibe, making it perfect for getting to know your fellow divers. 

La Galigo was purposefully-created as an alternative to higher priced vessels. The passionate crew boast decades of experience in the archipelago, providing high levels of service at great value for money. Plus, this is one of the only wooden liveaboards in the region with a dedicated sea-level dive platform, providing ample space to kit-up, prepare camera gear, and access the tenders.

Our expert opinion: Despite the lower price tag, guests will find no shortage of facilities onboard La Galigo.

Dive Damai is redefining the concept of remote liveaboard expeditions with their twin vessels, Damai I and Damai II. With over 25-years of experience, these boats proudly offer some of Raja Ampat’s most diverse and dependable liveaboard diving experiences. Custom built for scuba exploration, these striking vessels guarantee outstanding service both above and below the water, combined with modern camera facilities and unlimited dive packages.

Damai I and Damai II are luxurious yet unfussy, showcasing a sharp attention to detail alongside spacious facilities, superb cuisine, and stylish interior design. The vessels’ tailor-made itineraries cater to small, intimate groups of just 12 guests, allowing all passengers to immerse themselves in the fleet’s signature all-inclusive service.

Our expert opinion: Both Damai I and Damai II are perfect for dedicated divers looking for a little extra luxury and elegance.

Seahorse is a traditional Indonesian phinisi that has been recently renovated for scuba diving. Experienced divers can make the most of premium facilities such as complementary nitrox fills and a dedicated camera room, while watersports such as paddleboarding and water skiing can be enjoyed during surface intervals. And, conveniently, Seahorse’s seasonal itineraries are perfectly timed for exciting wildlife encounters and the best possible conditions underwater.

If you're hoping to explore the remote corners of Raja Ampat in luxurious comfort, Seahorse is the boat for you. This eye-catching liveaboard vessel features all the style of a boutique hotel, complete with light and airy social spaces, attractive interior design, and high standards of service from an accommodating crew. 

Our expert opinion: This vessel’s subtle splendour will have every guest in a state of heightened relaxation. 

With its state-of-the-art facilities, the Coralia easily navigates the most sought-after areas of Raja Ampat, offering tailored routes in search of the best conditions, whatever the season. Complementary nitrox fills, possible night dives, and an air-conditioned camera room will keep dedicated divers happy, while sumptuous social spaces and onboard spa services will satisfy the most discerning of guests.

Coralia is operated by Papua Explorers – one of Raja Ampat’s leading resorts, with a reputation for superior service and unwavering sustainability. As a result, it’s super easy to combine a trip aboard Coralia with a stay at this highly-regarded resort. The liveaboard also collaborates closely with the resort’s Raja Ampat SEA Centre and is dedicated to protecting local reefs and communities. 

Our expert opinion: Our guests absolutely love Papua Explorers, and its partner liveaboard is every bit as impressive.

Akomo Isseki is a beautiful phinisi outfitted specifically for diving expeditions, including seasonal trips to Raja Ampat. The vessel combines rustic charm with 21st-century technology, creating a comfortable setting from which to enjoy superb scuba experiences. Though only 27-metres in length, Akomo Isseki still feels spacious, incorporating individual equipment areas, a convenient charging table, and a breezy outdoor saloon.

Accommodating just eight guests, Akomo Isseki is one of the region's most intimate boats, making it perfect for families or small circles of friends. And, with so few people on board, this cosy liveaboard is sure to deliver the highly-personal Raja Ampat dive trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Our expert opinion: With so few divers on board, Akomo Isseki feels more like a family vacation than a high-end holiday – and that's the whole idea!

New White Manta is an impressive, custom-designed liveaboard vessel offering adventurous and fuss-free itineraries in Raja Ampat. This spacious and stable boat boasts an amazing mix of facilities and services – including a high staff to guest ratio, fine dining, and massage services – creating an all-round hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Underwater photographers are sure to be wowed by this vessel's premium facilities, spacious camera room, wide outdoor work table, and blow-dry stations. Group sizes are also kept small, as well as being organised by air-consumption, and nitrox fills are available for certified divers, ensuring each buddy team can maximise their bottom time. 

Our expert opinion: New White Manta’s extensive photography facilities make the quest for that perfect photo a whole lot easier. 

Jakare is one of the region's most impressive vessels, offering a modern twist on the classic phinisi. Relax in spacious, perfectly appointed cabins, and enjoy fine dining and optional extras like yoga and massage. Or, focus on the underwater world with up to four dives a day, as well as nitrox and modern camera facilities.

Features inspired interior design and charming contemporary details, Jakare’s welcoming social spaces are both luxurious and homely, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax amongst family or friends. What’s more, this vessel can cater to guests of all kinds – including children and non-divers – thanks to cabins that can be set up as doubles or twins and array of additional activities.

Our expert opinion: Jakare represents a perfect home-away-from-home, making it ideal for families and friends. 

Aurora is a traditional phinisi embarking on adventurous voyages through Raja Ampat and beyond. The vessel seamlessly combines modern amenities with an old-world aesthetic, establishing a comfortable yet charming environment on board. And, when it comes to diving, guests have access to a range of high quality facilities, including a photography room and nitrox fills.

Operated by the world-renowned Dune Fleet, this vessel is a Green Fins Digital Member meaning guests can expect high standards of sustainability based on current best practices. It even offers marine biologist-led presentations on board, as well as a range of specialty trips including wildlife-themed experiences and citizen science expeditions. 

Our expert opinion: Aurora’s commitment to sustainable practices ensures guests can enjoy their trip with a clean-conscience.