Raja Ampat means “Four Kings” in the Indonesian language, and it refers to the four main islands (amongst many islets) that dot the sea in this beautiful, eastern region of Indonesia. And it is diving fit for a king – epic biodiversity, healthy and luscious hard and soft coral gardens, big animals and wonderful macro opportunities. The area around Misool can be dived from land-based operations in the region, but probably the best way to dive this part of the world is from a live-aboard vessel.

Our trip was a 10-day transition cruise. We embarked at Ambon island and dove our way across to Sorong, located in the most eastern province of Indonesia – Papua. We dove the south portion of the area of Misool on our voyage. Raja Ampat itinerary boats more typically depart and return from Sorong, and spend more time in Misool, where the diving is superb. 

There are still many more sites to the north that we didn’t have the opportunity to explore on our trip, including the infamous Blue Mangrove where crocodiles are known to lurk! Reasons to return …

Judy is an avid underwater photographer and traveller whose work has appeared in several dive publications. Judy also shares a comprehensive dive travel and photo blog.