Papua Explorers Dive Resort Raja Ampat Reviews & Specials - Bluewater Dive Travel

Papua Explorers Dive Resort

4.9166666666667
(3 REVIEWS)
Raja Ampat Diving
Papua Explorers
Papua Explorers Raja Ampat

 

Papua Explorers, Raja Ampat

Pantai Pinsilim, Kamp. Yenwaupnor, Kec. Meos Mansar, Kab. Raja Ampat, Prop. Papua Barat, Indonesia| Full-board + 3 dives from $382++/ppn

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Papua Explorers Dive Resort in A NUTSHELL

Papua Explorers is an eco-friendly dive resort in a traditional Indonesian setting with quick access to some of the best dive sites in Raja Ampat, especially the world-famous Dampier Strait. Papua Explorers' multinational team is one of the most experienced dive crew in Raja Ampat, with more than 12 years experience in Raja Ampat combined.

 

Quick Information 

  • No of Rooms: 15
  • Dive Center: On-site
  • Amenities: Ceiling fans, laundry service, spa, sundeck with lounge chairs, restaurant, airport transfers, computer, WiFi, activities
  • WiFi: Yes, free
  • Airport shuttle: Yes (surcharge)

 

How to Get There

Departures to/from Sorong, West Papua, are done on Sundays and Wednesdays. The resort boat leaves Sorong at latest at 12 pm (noon) and we strongly recommend guests arrange their flights to arrive in Sorong earlier than this on the designated date. For assistance booking flights to/from Sorong on transfer days please contact a Bluewater Travel advisor.  

 

Diving with Papua Explorers

Papua Explorers is located near the Dampier Strait, where many of Raja Ampat's best dive spots are located. The dive resort is located within around 10-30 mins to Dampier Strait's best dive sites. Ther are over 50 dive sites accessible from the resort. Some of the best dive sites are:

  • Manta Point: 20 min
  • Mike’s Point: 10 min
  • Cape Kri: 15 min
  • Sardines Reef: 25 min
  • Blue Magic: 25 min
  • The Passage: 45 min

The Dampier Strait is known for its nutrient-rich waters and fast-moving currents, which attract a high density of stunning marine life. 

Learn more about Raja Ampat Diving or see the full info on Papua Explorer's Dive Sites

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Accommodations

Types of Rooms, Amenities and Photos

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Papua Explorers Accommodation Overview

The water bungalows blend traditional Papuan style with the comfort of modern design features. They are built by using local natural materials collected from the surrounding villages.

There are two types of bungalows. The Deluxe Water Bungalows are very spacious with their 72 m2 total area, which includes a 40 m2 room, WC, shower and hot water, and a 20 m2 veranda. These bungalows can accommodate 1 to 3 people.

The Superior Water Bungalows are slightly smaller, suitable for up to 2 people, but have the same design and facilities.

 

Room Features

All bungalows are equipped with:

  • En-suite toilet and shower, hot water
  • Ceiling fan
  • Mosquito net
  • Working desk
  • Comfortable seating area
  • Spacious private veranda with direct access to the sea allows our guests
  • 220 V electricity with European type plugs
  • In-room tea and coffee facilities
  • Drinking water
  • Environmentally friendly and natural toiletries
  • Safety deposit box

 

Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

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Resort Facilities

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Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

 

Papua Explorers Features

  • Resort WiFi
  • On-site restaurant and lounge area
  • Resort spa
  • Transfer services (€200p/p)
  • Laundry services

 

Papua Explorers Food & Drinks

Papua Explorers Resort has an incredible on-site restaurant overlooking the beauty of Raja Ampat. Here guests can sample traditional Indonesian cuisine as well as international comfort foods, and re-energize with snacks between dives, chilling out in the restaurant lounge area. The restaurant can easily accommodate dietary restrictions with at least 60 days notice prior to arrival.

 

Papua Explorers Resort Activities

  • Diving
  • Bird watching
  • Day trips
  • Special trips
  • Kayaks and paddle boards available free of charge
  • Snorkeling

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DIVE Packages & Rates

The actual rates are based in EUR. The starting price indicated above may vary based on the current exchange rate.

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Accommodation Packages

We have two types of accommodations: the Deluxe Water Cottages and the Superior Water Cottages. The cottages are identical in design and facilities, but the rates are different for the Superior Water Cottages, since they are slightly smaller, being suitable for 1 or 2 persons.

All rates shown below are per person in EUR for travel through Sept 30th, 2024.

 

DELUXE WATER BUNGALOW RATES

Divers' Package Rates. Rates include full-board accommodation + 3 boat dives/day and unlimited house reef dives.

DurationSingle RoomDouble RoomTriple Room
7 Nights€3,152€2,585€2,360
10 Nights (Sun-Wed)€4,373€3,581€3,262
11 Nights (Wed-Sun)€4,807€3,938€3,581
14 Nights€5,863€4,807€4,384
17 Nights€7,117€5,836€5,324
21 Nights€8,327€6,826€6,221

Non-Diver's Package Rates (per person in EUR. Valid through Sept 30th, 2024)

*Short-Stay Non-Diver Packages: 3-night (Sun to Wed) and 4-night (Wed to Sun) non-diver packages are available. Please ask us for rates and availability.  Short stays can only be confirmed 45 days prior to arrival date, subject to availability. 

DurationSingle RoomDouble RoomTriple Room
7 Nights€2,316€1,815€1,546
10 Nights (Sun-Wed)€3,300€2,591€2,211
11 Nights (Wed-Sun)€3,630€2,844€2,437
14 Nights€4,301€3,366€2,877
17 Nights€5,225€4,092€3,498
21 Nights€6,105€4,780€4,092

  

SUPERIOR WATER BUNGALOW RATES 

Diver's Package Rates. Rates include full-board accommodation + 3 boat dives/day and unlimited house reef dives.

If you are a diver, and you want to dive at 3 to 4 times per day, then this package is the perfect choice for you.

DurationSingle RoomDouble Room
7 Nights€2,943€2,415
10 Nights (Sun-Wed)€4,087€3,344
11 Nights (Wed-Sun)€4,488€3,680
14 Nights€5,478€4,488
17 Nights€6,650€5,451
21 Nights€7,777€6,375

Non-Divers' Package Rates (per person in EUR. Valid through Sept 30th, 2024)

Whether you're a snorkeler or a diver who doesn't dive much, this is the right package for you. Dives and snorkeling sessions are not included but can be paid à-la-carte at the end of your stay. Unguided snorkeling at the house reef is free of charge. 

*Short-Stay Non-Diver Packages: 3-night (Sun to Wed) and 4-night (Wed to Sun) non-diver packages are available. Please ask us for rates and availability.  Short stays can only be confirmed 45 days prior to arrival date, subject to availability. 

DurationSingle RoomDouble Room
7 Nights€2,162€1,694
10 Nights (Sun-Wed)€3,080€2,420
11 Nights (Wed-Sun)€3,388€2,657
14 Nights€4,015€3,146
17 Nights€4,879€3,823
21 Nights€5,704€4,466

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Package Inclusions 

All packages (diver and non-diver) include:

  • Accommodation with en-suite bathroom & hot water.
  • Full-board meals: international buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Water, tea, coffee & afternoon snack
  • Internet service & WiFi
  • Laundry service
  • 50% off for children <10 years old in parent’s room
  • “The Passage” day trip free of charge for both diver and non-diver packages (dives/snorkeling sessions on the day trip are charged extra; not applicable for short stays of 3/4 nights; not exchangeable with other day trips; other day trips are chargeable)

 

DIVERS' PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

All divers' packages include:

  • 3 boat dives per day (excluding arrival and departure day) at iconic Raja Ampat dive sites
  • Guided House Reef dives (up to 4 dives a day,
    unused dives are not refundable)
  • Scuba tanks, weight belts, guide, beach towel, water & fruits, hot tea, 
  • Free Nitrox (excluding night dives)


Package Exclusions

Not included in both diver & non-diver packages:

  • Alcoholic and soft drinks – can be paid at the resort during checkout.
  • Mandatory: Raja Ampat National Park Fee (Rp 1.000.000 per person - about €80).
  • Return transfers from Sorong airport to the resort and back on scheduled transfer days (Sunday & Wednesday) - €200 adult.
  • Dives/snorkeling sessions on the Passage day trip included in the non-diver package.
  • Extra transfers from/to Sorong on other days than Wednesday or Sunday
  • Hotels before and after your stay with Papua Explorers
  • Dive insurance and travel insurance
  • Extra purchases at the resort, such as spa treatments or souvenirs, extra excursions etc.
  • Dive and/or snorkel equipment rental

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NON-DIVER PACKAGE ADD-ONS 

If you opt for a non-diver package these add-on activities could be paid a-la-carte at the end of your stay. The rates indicated are subject to change without prior notice.

A La Carte Diving Packages 

  • 1-5 dives - €60/dive
  • 6-10 dives - €55/dive
  • 11 or more - €50/dive


Snorkeling By Boat 

  • 1-5 sessions -  €28/session
  • 6-10 sessions  -  €22/session
  • 11 or more -  €20/session

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OTHER ADD-ONS & ACTIVITIES 

The following are available at Papua Explorers at an additional charge: 

  • PADI Diving Courses
  • Full Dive equipment Rental
  • Red Bird of Paradise Tours 
  • Full Day Tours to other areas in Raja Ampat including Wayag, Fam and Batanta, and the Passage
  • Domestic flight tickets (+20% booking fee) 
  • Mayalibit Bay Exploration 
  • Romantic Dinner

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Can't find the information you need?

Drop us an email at bookings@bluewaterdivetravel.com or call us at 310-915-6677 and we will gladly help you plan your dream dive vacation!

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Dive Information

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Papua Explorers Dive Resort

 

Papua Explorers raJa AMPAT DIVING OVERVIEW

What is the diving like at Papua Explorers 

The waters of Raja Ampat are highly rich in nutrients, especially in the Dampier Strait due to its fast-moving currents (the resort itself is located on the Dampier Strait). These currents attract a wide variety of species including migrating mammals and pelagic species. However, nutrient-rich often means lower visibility (typically 15-20 meters, or 50-65 feet) and the saying goes, “no current, no fish”.

The high marine diversity in Raja Ampat is strongly influenced by its position between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, as coral and fish larvae are more easily shared between the two oceans. Raja Ampat has (recorded) 1,309 fish species, 537 coral species - a remarkable 96% of all scleractinia recorded from Indonesia are likely to occur in these islands and 75% of all species that exist in the world - and 699 mollusk species: the variety of marine life is staggering. Areas boast enormous schools of fish and regular sightings of sharks, such as wobbegongs.

World-renowned dive sites close to Papua Explorers include: Manta Point, Mike’s Point, Cape Kri, Sardines Reef, Mioskon, Blue Magic, Odtima, and Hidden Bay (all within 30 minutes by dive boat).

Papua Explorers distributes reef hooks to all divers. All divers are required to bring their safety buoys and whistles with them when coming to the resort. It is also mandatory for all divers to have DAN insurance to be able to dive with Papua Explorers; the closest hyperbaric chamber is in Waisai (45 minutes from the resort’s location) and just recently opened. Please contact us if you have more questions on dive insurance and emergency medical facilities in Raja Ampat.

Please note that all dives are planned and executed without deco stops and it is mandatory for all divers to use a dive computer. Since the resort does not have a huge stock of rental equipment, most divers prefer to bring their own equipment. If you’d like to rent any equipment, please contact a travel advisor so that we can alert the resort at least 60 days prior to your arrival.


 

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Dive Center Information

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Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

 

Papua Explorers Dive Team

The dive team at the PADI 5 Star Dive Center consists of: 

  • 11 skilled Indonesian dive guides, which are trained to up-to-date standards
  • 4 dive guide trainees from surrounding villages
  • 5 multinational PADI instructors, with various specialties
  • 1 free-diving instructor
  • 10 highly trained and experienced boat drivers
  • 10 helpful and attentive boat crew members
  • 2 compressor technicians

 

Dive Boats

The diving fleet is currently composed as follows: there are 8 daily diving boats (with a capacity of 6 divers per boat) and 2 diving-and-transfer boats (for 8 divers or 14 guests during transfer), all of which are equipped with DAN emergency oxygen sets, 2-way-marine-radios, emergency first response medical sets. In addition, the guest transfer boats are equipped with GPS, life jackets, fire extinguishers. On full day trips, the boats are equipped with satellite phones to provide extra safety.

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Raja ampat sea center

The Raja Ampat SEA Center is a conservation initiative from the Papua Explorers Resort. Their mission is  to protect and preserve the pristine nature and high marine biodiversity that exists within Raja Ampat. Learn more about the Raja Ampat SEA Center here.

 

 

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Practical Information 

  • Electricity: 220 V
  • Time zone: UTC+9
  • Languages: Indonesian, English, German, French and Turkish
  • Accept Credit Cards?: No

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Got Questions? Ready to Book?

Call us today at +1-310-915-6677 or email us bookings@bluewaterdivetravel.com

And let us book your dream vacation!

 

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Underwater IMAGES

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Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort

Papua Explorers Dive Resort Papua Explorers Dive Resort 

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Reviews (3)

5
5
5
5

Papua Explorers is one of the most beautiful places you can want to visit. Well off of the beaten path, you must take a 2-3 hour boat ride from the mainland to get there. The small islands in the area are dotted with little villages. Upon arrival we were greeted with music and song as the staff welcomed us to the resort, escorting us to the main building for a welcome drink served in a coconut shell. The staff continued to be amazing for our entire stay.

All of the bungalows are over the house reef which is accessible from the front porch. Here these is a hammock and loungers for enjoying the sea and the sun. The bungalows are very spacious and comfortable. Water is provided in each bungalow as is wifi. Meals are served buffet style in the main building. There are plenty of meal options with meals consisting of soup, salad, entree, sides, and dessert. There is a small gift shop here as well.

The resort is the homebase for the Raja Ampat Sea Center. Here they focus on education and preservation. The center is clearing making a difference in the lives of the local community as well as assisting in the protection of the reefs around them.

Diving in this area is spectacular. The corals are stunning and the fish amazing. We saw wobbegongs, dugongs, napoleon wrasse, bumpheads and giant sweetlips. There were plenty of rays and shark which can be found on the house reef too. We did not have the opportunity to see the walking shark but they can be seen here too. The dive staff were wonderful. Very helpful and extremely knowledgeable. Safety was of primary importance and the staff paid a great deal of attention to handling our gear. very well.

I cannot say enough about Papua Explorers Resort. I would recommend it to anyone who, especially those who enjoy the simplicity of life and the beauty of nature. And of course, great diving.

Visited on 10/2023 - Submitted on 01/06/2024
5
5
5
4

My stay at Papua Explorers for my dive trip in Raja Ampat was just amazing. The staff is very helpful and all the gear is put in place for you. The accommodation is beautiful and clean. The diving in Raja Ampat and the surroundings are outstanding. Also I enjoyed 4 night dives at the house reef and wasn't even charged for them because they were complimentary! The food was good but not amazing.

Visited on 10/2022 - Submitted on 10/08/2022
  • Reviewer
Los Angeles, CA
United States
5
5
5
5

I stayed in Papua Paradise in March 2016 and loved it! You are within minutes of the best dive sites in the Dampier Strait. The family who owns and runs the resort are lovely people and will make you feel right at home.

Keep in mind that you're in a remote location and in the middle of nature. This place is nice, but it's not the Four Seasons. There's no AC in the bungalows and the shower water is brackish. But that's what should be expected of an eco resort. All bungalows are overwater and quite large, with wonderful verandas looking out to the water.

The food is good, and plentiful. It's buffet style and most of the tables are communal style, which is nice for solo travelers. My only complaint from my whole stay is that my severe food allergy (Celiac/gluten) wasn't accommodated well. I can't fault the kitchen staff too much though because most people don't really understand what it means to be 100% gluten free (with no cross contamination.) I was told they understood and could accommodate gluten free, and at my first meal I was offered pasta. Then I was offered something with soy sauce. Once we figured out that I would need someone to read and translate all the food labels, it wasn't an issue. I should emphasize that this won't affect the majority of people, but for someone with a serious allergy, it's a little frustrating.

I would not hesitate to recommend Papua Explorers, and if I went back to Raja Ampat I would stay here again.

Visited on 03/2016 - Submitted on 11/02/2016

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