Raja Ampat liveaboard boat tours are one of the best ways to see as much of Raja Ampat as possible in a short amount of time. We’re not talking about the many liveaboard dive boats that cruise the Raja Ampat archipelago: We want to introduce you to local operators who provide affordable Raja Ampat marine adventures to travellers interested in more than just diving.
Locally owned liveaboard boats provide an opportunity to visit far more than Raja Ampat’s best dive sites. In addition to their regular dive, snorkelling and sight-seeing itineraries, local liveaboard operators can provide affordable private charters to groups wanting a Raja Ampat adventure of their own design.
Using diesel powered traditional wooden boats and large outboard powered longboats, Raja Ampat liveaboard boat tours are designed for small groups of four to eight people and include land excursions and all meals. Sleeping arrangements include being able to sleep onshore under the stars on deserted island beaches. In addition to diving, snorkelling and remote island village visits, locally operated liveaboard tours provide the opportunity to hike to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints in hidden island seascapes, Bird of Paradise display sites and Raja Ampat’s many culturally significant sites.
Here are some local Raja Ampat liveaboard boat tour operators and experienced, English speaking guides who can deliver the ultimate Raja Ampat sea gypsy experience and some great Raja Ampat land based adventures...
KLM Insos Raja Ampat Liveaboard
Owned by Grace Sauyai (the proprietor of Yenkoranu Homestay), KLM Insos Raja Ampat is Raja Ampat’s only 100% locally owned and operated liveaboard. The Insos is permanently based in Raja Ampat, operates throughout the year, and caters to both divers and snorkellers.
Trips are available in both Dampier Strait/Wayag and Misool regions.
See the Insos website for more information.
Koryau Kayem Expeditions
Koryau Kayem Expeditions are operated by Freddy Sauyai, the owner of Koryau Kayem Homestay. While not strictly “liveaboard”, Koryau Kayem’s 6 day/5 night expeditions are true adventures which will see you sleeping under the stars and eating local food cooked over an open fire. You need to bring whatever bedding and camping gear you need to sleep comfortably, as well as your snorkelling gear. To quote from Koryau Kayem’s website: “You will spend the next five nights at a secluded beach or within proximity local village depending where the current and weather takes us”…
| KORYAU KAYEM EXPEDITIONS – RAJA AMPAT BOAT TOURS | |
|---|---|
| Tour length | 6 days, 5 nights |
| Group size | Min 4, Max 6 |
| Boat Type | See photo in gallery at top of page. |
| Boat engines | 40HP outboard |
| Price | IDR 6,500,000 per person |
| Diving available? | By prior arrangement for private charter tours only |
| Private charter available? | Yes |
| Further tour information | Contact Freddy |
| Contact details | Freddy Sauyai, +6285243248461 or fredisauyai2@gmail.com |
Raja Ampat Adventures
Deni Malingkas’ Raja Ampat Adventures is an established business with a great reputation and offers liveaboard adventures on large and comfortable boats.
If you’re passionate about photography, Deni’s an excellent guide with a good eye for great photos – see his work in the gallery above. (Main image by Claudia P, courtesy of Raja Ampat Adventures.) Thanks for letting us repost them Deni!
See Raja Ampat Adventures’ website, or contact Deni on facebook for more information.