Overview: Raja Ampat is a destination like no other, known for its unmatched marine biodiversity and remote, untouched beauty. While most travelers reach this archipelago via flights and speedboats from Sorong, a more immersive and adventurous way to explore Raja Ampat is by setting sail from Bali on a traditional Indonesian schooner. This journey not only offers unparalleled access to some of the world’s best dive sites but also supports crucial conservation efforts in one of the planet’s most biodiverse marine regions.
Setting Sail from Bali: Starting your journey in Bali, several operators offer extended liveaboard diving trips aboard beautifully crafted wooden schooners. These expeditions take you through the Nusa Tenggara region, past the Komodo Islands, and onward to the remote, less-travelled waters of Raja Ampat. The multi-day journey itself is a mesmerizing experience, as you sail through some of Indonesia’s most stunning seascapes.
Island Hopping and Diving: Once in Raja Ampat, the real adventure begins. Schooners allow access to dive sites that are often inaccessible to day-trippers, offering a unique opportunity to explore places like the Dampier Strait, where nutrient-rich currents attract a dazzling array of marine life, including manta rays and wobbegong sharks. You might also visit the Fam Islands, where karst formations rise dramatically from the sea, providing not just incredible diving opportunities but also scenic kayaking and trekking adventures.
One of the most magical experiences is night diving in the Passage—a narrow channel where bioluminescent plankton light up the waters. During the day, explore hidden lagoons and encounter rare marine species, adding layers of discovery to your journey.
Conservation and Community Engagement: Many schooner operators in Raja Ampat are actively involved in conservation efforts, working alongside local communities to protect the region’s delicate ecosystems. Guests are often invited to participate in activities such as coral restoration and beach cleanups, contributing directly to the preservation of this marine paradise.
Join us at BBTF 2025: BBTF 2025 will showcase how sustainable tourism supports conservation in regions like Raja Ampat. An idea to participate in a schooner expedition contributes to local economies and helps fund conservation projects, aligning perfectly with the goals of BBTF 2025 to promote responsible tourism that protects Indonesia’s natural heritage.
