La Galigo

Destination: Indonesia

Komodo, Wakatobi, and Raja Ampat (5-11 Nights) | From $410++/night

La Galigo Quick Pitch

Built by traditional South Sulawesi craftsmen in 2012, the 33m La Galigo dive liveaboard is a traditional two-mast Phinisi sailing boat. It was designed by an avid diver built with liveaboard diving lifestyle and comfort in mind. La Galigo offers year-round diving in Indonesia, including Raja Ampat, Komodo and beyond, offering divers some of the most bio-diverse rich waters available.

Location

Excursions originate in various areas depending on the destination.

Dive Overview

Indonesia is a diving gem, featuring volcanic geography, wrecks, and vibrant marine life. See modern era dragons in Komodo or dive into the region with the highest marine biodiversity in the world in Raja Ampat.

[See: Komodo Dive Travel Guide, Raja Ampat Dive Travel Guide & Wakatobi Dive Travel Guide]

Check Out These Great Videos!

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Accommodations

Types of Cabins, Amenities and Photos

La Galigo Accommodation Overview

La Galigo has 7 privately controlled air-conditioned, en-suite cabins each with an American-style deep spring mattress. Cabins are either twin or double bed.

Deluxe Cabin

Master Cabin

The Suite

La Galigo Cabin Details

• Deluxe Cabins
• The roomy lower deck cabins feature an American style deep-sprung double mattress. 2 of the cabins remain doubles, to can be converted into twin beds. Every room has its own private ensuite with hot fresh water showers, climate control. 
• Master Cabins
• Room with a view, the upper deck master cabins gives you direct access to the sun deck. This cabin also features an American style deep sprung double mattress, both cabins have the option to convert from a double to twin beds. Every room has its own private ensuite with hot fresh water showers, climate control.
• Suite
• The grand suite is the premium accommodation, everything you need for your ultimate liveaboard experience. This huge room has a double bed, extra large ensuite, private balcony with table and chairs to maximize your panoramic views of the Archipelago, own private lounge rooms with couches and a state of the art 48” high definition flat screen TV, own private fridge, balcony with 270-degree views.

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General Facilities

Roof Area

Lounge Area

Dive Deck & Dive Tender

La Galigo Boat Features

• Homey lounge area
• Many power points for charging and preparing your laptop, camera, and video equipment
• Large TV and a well-stocked bookcase for your entertainment
• Outdoor living areas

La Galigo Dive Facilities

• Broad dive deck with twin curved staircases
• Well equipped preparation deck
• Dedicated camera room
• Nitrox (32%)
• Dive courses available
• 2 x 6m dive tenders

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Food & Drinks Aboard La Galigo

The head chef prepares International and Indonesian dishes. Vegetarian and vegan requests can easily be accommodated with advance notice.

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La Galigo Liveaboard Deck Plan

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Schedule, Rates & Availability

La Galigo Schedule & Rates

Prices are in USD, per person and include taxes. Park and port fees are not included. 

[See also: Inclusions & Exclusions]

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additional fee costs

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Inclusions

• VAT
• Transfers/ pickups from airport
• All meals and post dive treats, Tea, coffee, water and juice
• Accommodation
• Complimentary toiletries
• Tanks
• Weights/ Weight belts
• DSMB with reel rental
• Reef hook rental
• Dive computer rental
• Dive guide services

Exclusions

• Flight tickets / travel & airport to hotel transfers
• Dive and repatriation insurance – can be arranged
• Visas and fees / Airport taxes and extra baggage fees
• Ranger and Marine Park fees/ Rangers fees (on-land activity):
• Raja Ampat North: $190 per person, Raja Ampat South: $220 per person, Ultimate Raja Ampat: $285 per person, Jurassic Komodo: $160 per person, Ultimate Komodo: $190 per person
• Dive rental equipment $35UD pppd / Nitrox $25USD pppd, payable onboard
• Dive courses and certification, (price on application)
• Beer, soft drinks and packaged snacks
• Fuel surcharges**(may fluctuate with markets, you may be asked to pay an extra fuel allowance up to 60 days prior to departure, of no more than $150USD per person)
• Gratuities (preferred in local currency)
• La Galigo Merchandise

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RATES &  AVAILABILITY

For more information on rates and availability email us at info@bluewaterdivetravel.com or call us at +1-310-915-6677 and we will gladly help you plan your dream dive vacation!

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Dive Information & Destinations

Raja Ampat North Itinerary – 8 days/ 7 nights

• DAY 1: SORONG TO WAISAI
• Day one starts with your pickup from either your hotel or the airport. If we are picking you up from your hotel, it is generally around 06:00 – 06:45, if you are arriving on the day of departure, it is important that your arrival time is before 06:30. We will then head directly to Sorong Port, where you will be taken to the vessel.
• Once onboard you will be met by the Cruise Director and a welcome drink. After you have been shown to your rooms and unpacked your luggage, itʼs time for a welcome briefing before we have some lunch, then you have some time to relax and soak up the amazing surroundings en route to our clearance point, and then onwards to our first dive of the trip.
• Our ‘welcome diveʼ is usually conducted at the nearby island of Saonek Kecil. The waters are generally calm, and is a perfect spot to get the diving going. After the sun sets over the eastern Indonesian sky, we will go looking for unusual critters in Saonek Besar, where you might also make your very first encounter with the iconic Tasselled Wobbegong Shark.
• DAY 2: DAMPIER STRAIT
• Whilst in the central Dampier Strait we will conduct 4 dives. The top dive sites in this area are Blue Magic, home to majestic Oceanic Manta Rays, and other large pelagics such as Spanish Mackerel and Bigeye Trevally. Cape Kri, arguably the top house reef in the world, was made famous by Raja Ampat pioneer Max Ammer, and is next on the itinerary.
• Sawandarek Jetty, further down the southern coast of Kri island, is where you will probably feel like youʼre in an aquarium - only the fish are incredibly numerous, wild and free. And just to top off this (fish) action packed day, we will take you for a night dive on Kriʼs south coast, in Yenbuba Villageʼs Jetty after you soak in the stunning sunset views with the islands of Waigeo and Gam in the distant, fiery horizon.
• DAY 3: PIANEMO (A.K.A. PENEMU) 
• The iconic limestone pinnacles have become synonymous with the Raja Ampat experience and Pianemo lagoon/lookout is just one of many such stunning formations. The best time to hike this hill is early morning, before temperatures rise, but the rewards for climbing are well worth it. Melissaʼs Garden is undoubtedly the top dive in this area, with a staggering number of coral and fish species packed into this small piece of marine real estate. Its beauty needs to be seen to be believed.
• Keruo Channel and My Reef are among the top choices for the next dive... plenty of amazing coral reefs and lots of schooling fish! Raja Ampat is also known for its macro critters, and a night dive in the Penemu area might result in an unexpected encounter with an unusual Frogfish species or even Blue-Ringed Octopus. As you enjoy a great nightʼs sleep, we will set sail for the northern islands of Raja Ampat.
• DAY 4: WAYAG
• Awake bright and early to witness sunrise on the equator, cruising between the limestone formations that make up the island of Wayag, in preparation for the morningʼs hike. These limestone islands and pinnacles have become synonymous with Raja Ampat and the bay is also home to a Manta breeding station.
• The best time to hike this hill is early morning before temperatures rise, but the rewards for climbing are well worth it. The beaches here are also pristine, with fine white sand and turquoise waters surrounding the limestone cliffs of the islands. After trekking, we will endeavor to dive Figure 8 Rock, a submerged pinnacle home to large pelagic fish, and the occasional passing Manta.
• While you have lunch, the boat will cruise to the eastern side of Wayag. Here is where we plan to dive the legendary dive site, Cathedral, which is renowned for its spectacular topography and swim-throughs. Following the dive, we take a short trip to the Wayag Ranger Station, which is also a Black Tip Reef Shark breeding area. Here we will get the chance to do some snorkeling with these baby sharks under the ranger jetty, and also conduct a night dive on the same stretch of reef.
• DAY 5: KAWE + ALJUY BAY
• Kawe is an island located exactly on the equator and is one of our favourite islands to dive in north of Raja Ampat. Dive sites visited here are very heavily dependent on day-to-day unpredictable conditions such as swell, but one of our favourite sites in the area is a very colourful coral reef (somewhat ironically) known as Black Rock. Eagle Rock (which comprises 3 separate dive sites) is well known for its Pygmy Seahorse as well as its Manta populations, and we will dive these sites late morning and early afternoon.
• Around 4 pm, La Galigo will move into Aljui Bay, one of the worldʼs most spectacular bays to watch the sunset, and also do some great muck diving at arguably the best night dive site in all of Raja Ampat, the Cendana Pearl Farm Jetty.
• DAY 6: GAM & THE WESTERN DAMPIER STRAIT
• We wake up just off the coast in Gam Island. There are some great dive sites around this area with vibrant fish covered reefs and plenty of stunning macro subjects. Two sites we regularly visit in Gam are Citrus Ridge and Mayhem. As we have lunch we will cruise down to the Western Dampier Strait, to a dive site named Manta Ridge, for an opportunity to dive with the Manta Ray population often located here.
• In the late afternoon, we take a land tour of the peaceful Arborek Island. The village itself is tranquil and surrounded by beautiful beaches. Arborek is also home to what we consider to be a fantastic night dive, Arborek Jetty, for a chance to find Walking Sharks, Blue- ringed octopus, and many other critters.
• DAY 7: THE CENTRAL DAMPIER STRAIT
• We will be making our way back to the central part of the Dampier Strait, and this is a great opportunity to dive Mikeʼs Point. Legend has it that it was mistaken for a battleship during WWII, and was heavily bombed by enemy aircraft. It has a stunning overhang, as well as gentle-swim throughs in addition to its magnificent coral reef.
• We will then take you on a land trip to one of Raja Ampatʼs hidden natural wonders, Kali Biru, a river with cool, clear blue waters surrounded by lush tropical jungle. A wondrous sight to simply take in, it also makes a great spot for a swim in an unspoiled, remote plot of paradise.
• After an incredible trip, our crew will make sure youʼre comfortable, while they prepare a night of food, song and dance to party the night away with you on a pristine Raja Ampat beach before we set sail for Sorong.
• DAY 8: DISEMBARK IN SORONG
• La Galigo will be anchored up in the morning around 5:00 A.M. in Sorong, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel.
• Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 A.M., and our staff will assist you with transportation to your desired location.
• After breakfast, guests may also take the time to exchange photos and swap contact details to keep in touch with new friends and dive buddies

Raja Ampat South Itinerary – 9 days/ 8 nights

• DAY 1: SORONG TO WAISAI
• Day one starts with your pickup from either your hotel or the airport. If we are picking
• you up from your hotel, it is generally around 07:30 – 08:00, if you are arriving on the day of departure, it is important that your arrival time is before 07:30. We will then head directly to Sorong Port, where you will be taken to the vessel.
• Once onboard you will be met by the Cruise Director and a welcome drink. After you have been shown to your rooms and unpacked your luggage, itʼs time for a welcome briefing before we have some lunch, then you have some time to relax and soak up the amazing surroundings en route to our clearance point, and then onwards to our first dive of the trip.
• Our ‘welcome diveʼ is usually conducted at the nearby island of Saonek Kecil. The waters are generally calm, and is a perfect spot to get the diving going. After the sun sets over the eastern Indonesian sky, we will go looking for unusual critters in Saonek Besar, where you might also make your very first encounter with the iconic Tasselled Wobbegong Shark.
• DAY 2: DAMPIER STRAIT
• Whilst in the central Dampier Strait we will conduct 4 dives. The top dive sites in this area are Blue Magic, home to majestic Oceanic Manta Rays, and other large pelagics such as Spanish Mackerel and Bigeye Trevally. Cape Kri, arguably the top house reef in the world, was made famous by Raja Ampat pioneer Max Ammer, and is next on the itinerary.
• Sawandarek Jetty, further down the southern coast of Kri island, is where you will probably feel like youʼre in an aquarium - only the fish are incredibly numerous, wild and free. And just to top off this (fish) action packed day, we will take you for a night dive on Kriʼs south coast, in Yenbuba Villageʼs Jetty after you soak in the stunning sunset views with the islands of Waigeo and Gam in the distant, fiery horizon.
• DAY 3: PIANEMO (A.K.A. PENEMU)
• The iconic limestone pinnacles have become synonymous with the Raja Ampat experience and Pianemo lagoon/lookout is just one of many such stunning formations. The best time to hike this hill is early morning, before temperatures rise, but the rewards for climbing are well worth it. Melissaʼs Garden is undoubtedly the top dive in this area, with a staggering number of coral and fish species packed into this small piece of marine real estate. Its beauty needs to be seen to be believed.
• We will then head to a lesser-known corner of Raja Ampat, an area known as Dayang, at the western end of Batanta island. The dive in Dayang takes place over a shallow, sandy reef which is actually a magnet for Manta Rays, which come to this area to feed as well as conduct routine visits to their “cleaning stations” or “manta spa” (ask our Cruise Director to tell you about this fascinating aspect of their behaviour). As you relax and later enjoy a great nightʼs sleep, we will set sail for the southern islands of Raja Ampat.
• DAY 4: GOA FARONDI - MISOOL
• We begin the diving in Misool at No Contest, a ridge that is home to an abundance of marine life, soft corals and overhangs. The second dive can be done at many sites located in the vicinity, including Pet Rock, Plateau, and Love Potion. For the third dive we will visit a popular site named Goa Farondi, where there is a chance to do some swim-throughs and meet the Bumphead Parrotfish population.
• Misool is a huge island, with an overwhelming multitude of smaller, satellite island clusters. There are in fact numerous “regions” within this area itself. If being surrounded by limestone pinnacles does not instill in you a sense of awe, doing a night dive amongst these towering peaks surely will!
• DAY 5: WAYIL - MISOOL
• Next up we will show you the dive sites around Wayil, where you will undoubtedly experience the feeling of being far, far away from the rest of civilization ... An outstanding selection of dive sites are located fairly close to each other in Wayil, and we will start with the blockbuster – Four Kings, a group of towering pinnacles which are almost too large to circumnavigate in a single dive, which also happens to attract giant Oceanic Manta Rays. Giant Trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, and large Snapper are all often found here.
• The oddly shaped Wedding Cake is up next (you will see why itʼs called as such), which is home to some of Misoolʼs Pygmy Seahorse community.
• Finally we will dive into Barracuda Rock, a pinnacle with an unusual underwater cavern, which is also home to a patrolling tribe of schooling Barracuda. In the afternoon we will visit the famous “Love Lagoon”, a calm, isolated body of water which has been incredibly shaped by the hands of Mother Nature into the form of a heart.
• DAY 6: FIABACET - MISOOL
• The diving in this part of Misool is filled with the pristine coral life in the heart of Misool and Giant Manta Rays, close to the Eco Resort. Whale rock, Tank Rock and Nudi Rock are both abundant in beautiful soft coral and schools of fish, and conditions and logistics with Misool Eco Resort will decide which of the sites are dived.
• The afternoon dive is at the dive site Boo West. Unique in topography, the reef is not to be missed, with excellent sea fan growth and stunning sloping reefs to explore while you anticipate the arrival of Oceanic Manta Rays. Yilliet Kecil is the night dive around here that is not to be missed, with excellent sea fan growth and stunning bommies to explore. There are also hidden beaches in this area if you fancy an evening beachwalk all by yourself.
• DAY 7: WARAKARAKET - MISOOL
• Eagleʼs Nest is a large, unusual pinnacle which is often visited by Manta Rays as well as schooling Barracuda. Shadow Reef(a.k.a. Karang Bayangan/Magic Mountain) is undoubtedly the blockbuster dive site in this remote corner of Raja Ampat, located in the unprotected southern waters of Misool, but you can often find huge Manta Rays gliding across this incredibly ‘hard to beatʼ dive site.
• The afternoon dive is at the iconic dive site Boo Window. Unique in topography, the reef has window-like swim-throughs, and a great chance for some wide-angle photos. Secret: the sea fans here often conceal Pygmy Seahorses! Romeo is the night dive around here where you will have a chance to meet the much-talked-about endemic species, the Raja Ampat walking shark!
• DAY 8: NORTH FIABACET - MISOOL
• On the penultimate day of the trip, we start the day by diving Anchovy, a submerged reef surrounded by a host of towering pinnacles. Anchovy is often a colourful experience as it is home to many varieties of reef fish and it is also a prowling ground for schools of Devil Rays, which come here to feed. You might be in for a devilish feeding frenzy!
• Our journey to Sorong may take around 18 hours depending on currents and prevailing weather conditions. But after an incredible trip, our crew will make sure youʼre comfortable while they prepare a night of food, song and dance to party the night away with you while we set sail for Sorong.
• DAY 9: DISEMBARK IN SORONG
• La Galigo will be anchored up in the morning around 5:00 A.M. in Sorong, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel.
• Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 A.M., and our staff will assist you with transportation to your desired location.
• After breakfast, guests may also take the time to exchange photos and swap contact details to keep in touch with new friends and dive buddies!

jurassic komodo itinerary - 6 days / 5 nights

• DAY 1: LABUAN BAJO
• We will collect you from your hotel or Labuan Bajo airport between 8:00 – 9:00 A.M. on the day of departure to welcome you onboard La Galigo. After a refreshing welcome drink, a quick breakfast, and a safety briefing of our vessel, we aim to anchor up around 10:00 A.M. from Labuan Bajo.
• After around 2 hours of sailing, we will arrive at our first destination, the islands of Sebayur Kecil and Sebayur Besar, where we will conduct 2 dives after lunch. We have identified Sebayur as a fantastic, calm introduction for your first day in the park.
• These two great little islands are well sheltered from the infamous currents around Komodo, allowing you a great opportunity to practice using your SMB, cameras, dive computers, or just to get back into the swing of things after a lengthy layoff from diving.
• DAY 2: WEST KOMODO
• After a morning dive at stunning Tatawa Besar, we go in search of Manta rays at the world-class dive site Manta Point (known to the locals as Karang Makassar). After lunch, we will head to one of the highlights of Komodo diving - Batu Bolong, which presents us a chance to see large pelagic species such as Giant Trevally and Barracuda, as well as sharks and Napoleon Maori Wrasse.
• Later that afternoon, we set sail for the northwest part of Komodo, for a light trek on the island of Gili Lawa Darat, to witness an amazing Komodo sunset, dipping behind the nearby active volcano of Sangeang. For the night dive, we will stay in the bay close to the trekking area, and dive at the site Stranger Things, for a chance to get your first glimpse of macro life in the national park.
• DAY 3: NORTHWEST KOMODO
• Day three is our personal favorite in terms of diving, and all three of the dives normally conducted on this day are what we would consider unforgettable.
• The morning is spent on both Crystal Rock and Castle Rock, two submerged pinnacles that are home to an abundance of marine life. Teams of hunting Giant and Big-Eye Trevally patrol the blue waters of the reefs, chasing large schools of smaller fish. Eagle Rays glide effortlessly in the currents whilst the reef sharks hunt for their next meal.
• The afternoon sees us visit the legendary dive site known as The Cauldron (a.k.a The Shotgun). Famous for its rip-roaring drift dive, it is akin to an underwater rollercoaster that needs to be experienced to be believed, and a ‘bucket listʼ dive site for divers from across the world. Hold on until the end of the dive for a big surprise
• The night dive will be spent diving on Komodo Bay, depending on mooring conditions.
• DAY 4: SOUTHWEST KOMODO
• We wake early in the morning to take in one of Komodoʼs world-class golden sunrises, followed by one of its best dive sites, the Golden Passage which is a drift dive that offers outstanding coral reef topography, as well as encounters with schools of Sweetlips and Snappers, White Tip Reef Sharks and the occasional passing Manta Ray.
• During breakfast, La Galigo will anchor up
• and head south into the centre of the park, where we will endeavour to dive Police Corner if conditions are favourable, one of the less-known sites in central Komodo.
• In the afternoon we plan to visit the island of Mauan, where mantas come to visit its cleaning station.
• Up next is Siaba Besar, a fantastic night dive for the macro photographer, where it is possible to encounter Flamboyant Cuttlefish, Ghost Pipefish, various types of Nudibranchs, as well as the elusive Wunderpus and Blue-Ringed Octopus!
• DAY 5: KOMODO ON FOOT
• The final dive of your trip will be at Pink Beach, a gorgeous, shallow coral garden with schools of sweetlips and other colourful reef fish.
• After the morningʼs diving and a hearty breakfast, we head on foot to The Island of Komodo, home to the legendary Komodo Dragons in the park.
• Later that afternoon La Galigo anchors up and sets sail east to Pulau Kalong, where at sunset an epic number of fruit bats leave this island in search of their sustenance on the mainland of Flores.
• The nighttime sees our crew arrange a fancy BBQ banquet on the top deck as you take in your final Komodo sunset.
• DAY 6: DISEMBARK IN LABUAN BAJO
• *La Galigo does not guarantee this outlined itinerary, and it is to be considered as a rough guideline. Information compiled here is based on past trips we have conducted, and includes common dive sites and routes we often visit. Weather and sea conditions in the area can be unpredictable, and La Galigo retains the right to alter an itinerary from advice of the shipʼs captain, cruise director, or owner for the safety of the vessel, its passenger and crew.
• La Galigo will be anchored up in the morning around 2:00 A.M. in Labuan Bajo, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel.
• Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 A.M., during which we have the chance to exchange trip images, and contacts so you can keep in touch with newfound dive buddies while we assist you with transportation to your desired location.

ULTIMATE KOMODO ITINERARY - 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

• DAY 1: LABUAN BAJO
• We will collect you from your hotel or Labuan Bajo airport between 8:00 – 9:00 A.M. on the day of departure to welcome you onboard La Galigo.
• After a refreshing welcome drink, a quick breakfast, and a safety briefing of our vessel, we aim to anchor up around 10:00 am from Labuan Bajo.
• After around two hours of sailing, we will arrive at our first destination, the islands of Sebayur Kecil and Sebayur Besar, where we will conduct two dives after lunch. We have identified Sebayur as a fantastic, calm introduction for your first day in the park.
• These two great little islands are well sheltered from the infamous currents around Komodo, allowing you a great opportunity to practice using your SMB, cameras, dive computers, or just to get back into the swing of things after a lengthy layoff from diving.
• DAY 2: WEST KOMODO
• After a morning dive at stunning Tatawa Besar, we go in search of Manta rays at the world-class dive site Manta Point (known to the locals as Karang Makassar).
• After lunch, we will head to one of the highlights of Komodo diving the Golden Passage which is a drift dive that offers outstanding coral reef topography, as well as encounters with schools of Sweetlips and Snappers, White Tip Reef Sharks and the occasional passing Manta Ray.
• Later that afternoon, we set sail for the northwest part of Komodo, for a light trek on the island of Gili Lawa Darat, to witness an amazing Komodo sunset, dipping behind the nearby active volcano of Sangeang.
• For the night dive, we will stay in the bay close to the trekking area, and dive at the site Stranger Things, for a chance to get your first glimpse of macro life in the national park.
• DAY 3: NORTHWEST KOMODO
• Day three is our personal favourite in terms of diving, and all three of the dives normally conducted on this day are what we would consider unforgettable.
• The morning is spent on both Crystal Rock and Castle Rock, two submerged pinnacles that are home to an abundance of marine life. Teams of hunting Giant and Big-Eye Trevally patrol the blue waters of the reefs, chasing large schools of smaller fish. Eagle Rays glide effortlessly in the currents whilst the reef sharks hunt for their next meal.
• The afternoon sees us visit the legendary dive site known as The Cauldron (a.k.a The Shotgun). Famous for its rip-roaring drift dive, it is akin to an underwater rollercoaster that needs to be experienced to be believed, and
• a ‘bucket listʼ dive site for divers from across the world. Hold on until the end of the dive for a big surprise
• The night dive will be spent diving on Komodo Bay, depending on mooring conditions.
• DAY 4: SOUTHWEST KOMODO
• We wake early in the morning to take in one of Komodoʼs world-class golden sunrises, followed by one of its best dive sites, Batu Bolong, which presents us a chance to see large pelagic species such as Giant Trevally and Barracuda, as well as sharks and Napoleon Maori Wrasse.
• During breakfast, La Galigo will anchor up and head south into the centre of the park, where we will endeavour to dive Tatawa Kecil with itʼs strong currents and curious rock formations and swim throughs, this dive site is a high action topographical wonder.
• Up next is Siaba Besar, a fantastic night dive for the macro photographer, where it is possible to encounter Flamboyant Cuttlefish, Ghost Pipefish, various types of Nudibranchs, as well as the elusive Wunderpus and Blue-Ringed Octopus!
• DAY 5: SOUTHWEST KOMODO
• Staying around the Southwest Komodo area, we will dive Police Corner if conditions are favourable, one of the less-known but utterly amazing sites in Komodo.
• In the late morning we plan to visit the island of Mauan, where Mantas come to visit its cleaning station, although shallow there is strong currents here that bring the Mantas in to play.
• The afternoon will see us travel to Pink Beach, a gorgeous, shallow coral garden with schools of sweetlips and other colourful reef fish.
• We then sail on to Soro Lia Bay for our exciting night dive.
• DAY 6: SOUTH KOMODO AND PADAR
• Undisputedly, Manta Alley is among the top draws of southern Komodo diving, where sizable aggregations of Manta Rays often come to feed and clean in the splendid reef among these peculiar-looking rocks. We will dive into this incredible site before heading to Padar Island, the location of the spectacular views you may associate with the national park after an online search for ‘Komodoʼ.
• Padar is also home to some great south Komodo dive sites including Pillarsteen, which is the best wall dive in this region. Do note that it is difficult for us to confirm individual dive sites in advance due to changing ocean conditions in the south. However, the area is vast enough for us to be able to plan ahead and identify sites closer to the time (that are slightly more sheltered from any southerly conditions if they are unsteady during your trip).
• In the afternoon we will make the trek up this unique-looking island for some stunning views over the park, followed by our night dive, which is regularly conducted at Padar Wreck, where we often encounter a population of Giant and other species of frogfish.
• DAY 7: KOMODO ON FOOT
• The final dive of your trip will be at Wainilu, a gorgeous, easy, shallow sandy slope with the chance to see macro critters such as Bobtailed Squid amongst the sand and fleshy marine vegetation.
• After the morningʼs diving and a hearty breakfast, we head on foot to Rinca Island, home to the legendary Komodo Dragons in the park.
• Later that afternoon La Galigo anchors up and sets sail east to Pulau Kalong, where at sunset an epic number of fruit bats leave this island in search of their sustenance on the mainland of Flores.
• The night time sees our crew arrange a fancy BBQ banquet on the top deck as you take in your final Komodo sunset.
• DAY 8: DISEMBARK IN LABUAN BAJO
• La Galigo will be anchored up in the morning around 2:00 A.M. in Labuan Bajo, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel.
• Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 A.M., during which we have the chance to exchange trip images, and contacts so you can keep in touch with newfound dive buddies while we assist you with transportation to your desired location.

ULTIMATE RAJA AMPAT ITINERARY - 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

• DAY 1: SORONG TO WAISAI
• Day one starts with your pickup from either your hotel or the airport. If we are picking you up from your hotel, it is generally around 07:30 – 08:00, if you are arriving on the day of departure, it is important that your arrival time is before 07:30. We will then head directly to Sorong Port, where you will be taken to the vessel.
• Once onboard you will be met by the Cruise Director and a welcome drink. After you have been shown to your rooms and unpacked your luggage, itʼs time for a welcome briefing before we have some lunch, then you have some time to relax and soak up the amazing surroundings en route to our clearance point, and then onwards to our first dive of the trip.
• Our ‘welcome diveʼ is usually conducted at the nearby island of Saonek Kecil. The waters are generally calm, and is a perfect spot to get the diving going. After the sun sets over the eastern Indonesian sky, we will go looking for unusual critters in Saonek Besar, where you might also make your very first encounter with the iconic Tasselled Wobbegong Shark.
• DAY 2: DAMPIER STRAIT
• Whilst in the central Dampier Strait we will conduct 4 dives. The top dive sites in this area are Blue Magic, home to majestic Oceanic Manta Rays, and other large pelagics such as Spanish Mackerel and Bigeye Trevally. Next up is one of the Dampier Straitʼs highlights, Sardine Reef (or simply Sardine), where armies of various fish species take the coral reef by storm on a falling tide.
• After a hearty lunch, we will head to the nearby island of Mioskon, to dive its spectacularly colourful reef with an assortment of large bommies encrusted with hard and soft corals. In the evening we may get a chance to see nocturnal flying foxes leave Mioskon in large numbers as they begin their day, after which we will dive Mioskon once the sun has set, to look for the nocturnal Raja Ampat walking shark!
• DAY 3: DAMPIER STRAIT
• Cape Kri, arguably the top house reef in the world, was made famous by Raja Ampat pioneer Max Ammer, and is next on the itinerary. Sawandarek Jetty, further down the southern coast of Kri island, is where you will probably feel like youʼre in an aquarium – only the fish are incredibly numerous, wild and free. After a hearty lunch, we will take you for another afternoon dive on Kriʼs south coast, in Yenbuba Villageʼs Jetty.
• And just to top off this (fish) action packed day, we will look for nocturnal marine critters on a night dive under Yenbuba Villageʼs Jetty after you soak in the stunning sunset views with the islands of Waigeo and Gam in the distant, fiery horizon.
• DAY 4: GAM
• Our morning kicks off at a thrilling dive site named Manta Ridge, for an opportunity to dive with the Manta Ray population often located here. We then head to Gam Island. There are some great dive sites around this area with vibrant fish covered reefs and plenty of stunning macro subjects. Two sites we regularly visit in Gam are Citrus Ridge and Mayhem.
• In the late afternoon, we will take a land tour of the peaceful Arborek Island. The village itself is tranquil and surrounded by beautiful beaches. Arborek is also home to what we consider to be a fantastic night dive, Arborek Jetty*, where we have a chance to find Walking Sharks, Blue- ringed octopuses, and many other critters. As you enjoy a great nightʼs sleep, we will set sail for the northern islands of Raja Ampat.
• DAY 5: WAYAG
• Awake bright and early to witness sunrise on the equator, cruising between the limestone formations that make up the island of Wayag,
• in preparation for the morningʼs hike. These limestone islands and pinnacles have become synonymous with Raja Ampat, and the bay is also home to a Manta breeding station. The best time to hike this hill is early morning before temperatures rise, the rewards for climbing are well worth it. The beaches here are also pristine, with fine white sand and turquoise waters surrounding the limestone cliffs of the islands.
• After trekking, we will endeavour to dive Figure 8 Rock, a submerged pinnacle home to large pelagic fish, and the occasional passing Manta. While you have lunch, the boat will cruise to the eastern side of Wayag. Here is where we plan to dive the legendary dive site, Cathedral, which is renowned for its spectacular topography and swim-throughs. Following the dive, we take a short trip to the Wayag Ranger station, which is also a Black Tip Reef Shark breeding area. Here we will get the chance to do some snorkelling with these baby sharks under the ranger jetty, and also conduct a night dive on the same stretch of reef.
• DAY 6: KAWE + ALJUY BAY
• Kawe is an island located exactly on the equator and is one of our favourite islands to dive in north of Raja Ampat. Dive sites visited here are very heavily dependent on day-to-day unpredictable conditions such as swell, but one of our favourite sites in the area is a very colourful coral reef (somewhat ironically) known as Black Rock. Eagle Rock (which comprises 3 separate dive sites) is well known for its Pygmy Seahorse as well as its Manta populations, and we will dive these sites late morning and early afternoon.
• Around 4 pm, La Galigo will move into Aljui Bay, one of the worldʼs most spectacular bays to watch the sunset, and also do some great muck diving at arguably the best night dive site in all of Raja Ampat, the Cendana Pearl Farm Jetty.
• DAY 7: PIANEMO (A.K.A. PENEMU)
• The iconic limestone pinnacles have become synonymous with the Raja Ampat experience and Pianemo lagoon/lookout is just one of many such stunning formations. The best time to hike this hill is early morning, before temperatures rise, but the rewards for climbing are well worth it. Melissaʼs Garden is undoubtedly the top dive in this area, with a staggering number of coral and fish species packed into this small piece of marine real estate. Its beauty needs to be seen to be believed.
• We will then head to a lesser-known corner of Raja Ampat, an area known as Dayang, at the western end of Batanta island. The dive in Dayang takes place over a shallow, sandy reef which is actually a magnet for Manta Rays, which come to this area to feed as well as conduct routine visits to their “cleaning stations” or “manta spa” (ask our Cruise Director to tell you about this fascinating aspect of their behaviour). As you relax and later enjoy a great nightʼs sleep, we will set sail for the southern islands of Raja Ampat.
• DAY 8: GOA FARONDI - MISOOL
• We begin the diving in Misool at No Contest, a ridge that is home to an abundance of marine life, soft corals and overhangs. The second dive can be done at many sites located in the vicinity, including Pet Rock, Plateau, and Love Potion. For the third dive we will visit a popular site named Goa Farondi, where there is a chance to do some swim-throughs and meet the Bumphead Parrotfish population.
• Misool is a huge island, with an overwhelming multitude of smaller, satellite island clusters. There are in fact numerous “regions” within this area itself. If being surrounded by limestone pinnacles does not instill in you a sense of awe, doing a night dive amongst these towering peaks surely will!
• DAY 9: WAYIL - MISOOL
• Next up we will show you the dive sites around Wayil, where you will undoubtedly experience the feeling of being far, far away from the rest of civilization ... An outstanding selection of dive sites are located fairly close to each other in Wayil, and we will start with the blockbuster – Four Kings, a group of towering pinnacles which are almost too large to circumnavigate in a single dive, which also happens to attract giant Oceanic Manta Rays. Giant Trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, and large Snapper are all often found here.
• The oddly shaped Wedding Cake is up next (you will see why itʼs called as such), which is home to some of Misoolʼs Pygmy Seahorse community.
• Finally we will dive into Barracuda Rock, a pinnacle with an unusual underwater cavern, which is also home to a patrolling tribe of schooling Barracuda. In the afternoon we will visit the famous “Love Lagoon”, a calm, isolated body of water which has been incredibly shaped by the hands of Mother Nature into the form of a heart.
• DAY 10: FIABACET/BOO - MISOOL
• The diving in this part of Misool is filled with the pristine coral life in the heart of Misool and Giant Manta Rays, close to the Eco Resort. Whale rock, Tank Rock and Nudi Rock are both abundant in beautiful soft coral and schools of fish, and conditions and logistics with Misool Eco Resort will decide which of the sites are dived.
• The afternoon dive is at the dive site Boo West. Unique in topography, the reef is not to be missed, with excellent sea fan growth and stunning sloping reefs to explore while you anticipate the arrival of Oceanic Manta Rays. Yilliet Kecil is the night dive around here that is not to be missed, with excellent sea fan growth and stunning bommies to explore. There are also hidden beaches in this area if you fancy an evening beachwalk all by yourself.
• DAY 11: WARAKARAKET - MISOOL
• On the penultimate day of the trip, we will dive Shadow Reef (a.k.a. Karang Bayangan/Magic Mountain), undoubtedly the blockbuster dive site in this remote corner of Raja Ampat, located in the unprotected southern waters of Misool. You can often find huge Manta Rays gliding across this incredibly ‘hard to beatʼ dive site. The late morning dive is at the iconic dive site Boo Window. Unique in topography, the reef has window-like swim-throughs and a great chance for some wide-angle photos. Secret: the sea fans here often conceal Pygmy Seahorses!
• Our journey to Sorong may take around 18 hours depending on currents and prevailing weather conditions. But after an incredible trip, our crew will make sure youʼre comfortable while they prepare a night of food, song and dance to party the night away with you while we set sail for Sorong.
• DAY 12: DISEMBARK IN SORONG
• La Galigo will be anchored up in the morning around 5:00 A.M. in Sorong, in preparation for you to catch your flight, or check in to your hotel.
• Guests are welcome to stay onboard until 11:00 A.M., and our staff will assist you with transportation to your desired location.
• After breakfast, guests may also take the time to exchange photos and swap contact details to keep in touch with new friends and dive buddies!

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Other Information

Boat Specifications

• Year built: 2012
• Length: 33 m 
• Width: 7.96m 
• Draft: 3.35m 
• Displacement: 169 tons 
• Engine: Mitsubishi 8M22 450HP V8 
• Generators: 3x 55 KVA Mitsubishi 220-380 V, all power on board is surge protected and available 24 hours per day 
• Speed: 5 - 9knots 
• Water Capacity: 11,000 liters of fresh water onboard. We have a seawater desalination plant which produces 2500L fresh water per day. Fuel capacity: 5.5tons of diesel
• Fuel Capacity: 5.5 tons of diesel
• Maximum guests: 14 
• Number of crew: 17
• Climate Control: All cabins and guest areas 
• Photography: Dry cabinet for cameras inside, wet area camera drying zone on dive deck, expert professional photographer guides on board, ample charging and downloading space inside
• Entertainment: DVD, TV, books, iMac computer, Turntable mixer sound system with premium quality speakers 
• Dinghies: 2 x 6m tenders, each with 40Hp outboard engines for 8 diving guests 
• Radio and communications: EPIRB emergency locator, long-range emergency radio, Satellite Phone, FM & SW Radio, 4 VHF and SSB radio, EPIRB, CCTV in engine room and dive deck 
• Navigation: Furuno Radar, GPS and plotter, 2x Depth sounder, extensive navigation charts 
• Safety Equipment: 2 life rafts (Maximum 40 people), 30 life jackets, 25 lifebuoys, fire alarm, fire extinguisher, searchlights, oxygen, First Aid kits onboard, nearest decompression chamber in Denpasar, Makassar, Manado, and Jakarta 
• Compressor: Onboard production Nitrox compressor, 1 x Coltri and 1 x L&W 280 air compressors with all aluminum 12-liter tanks with DIN and YOKE fittings 
• Nitrox: Available onboard

Practical Information

• Time Zone: GMT+9
• Local Currency: IDR (Indonesian Rupiah)
• Language Spoken: English & Indonesian
• Payment Onboard: Cash, Visa & MasterCard

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Underwater Gallery 

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