9 replies to this topic

[WreckWench]

I will be working very hard to set up a trip to Raj Ampat for 2013. Suggested operators and timing would be greatly appreciated! Also should we do liveaboard or land based?

[Diver Ed]

I will do some research, but my initial response is LIVEABOARD. Ed

I will be working very hard to set up a trip to Raj Ampat for 2013. Suggested operators and timing would be greatly appreciated! Also should we do liveaboard or land based?

[ScubaTex]

Kamala, I would be happy to help you with this, as I've made a land based trip in Oct 2008, after Wakatobi. Let me warn those who are interested, it's not cheap for a first class land or liveaboard, count on about $3,500-$5,000 for the week, plus an additional $2,000-$2500 for airfare. Second, all travel to Raj Ampat is through Sorong, which is only serviced by domestic Indonesian airlines, I used an Indonesian travel agent to obtain ticketing. I believe there is a connection through Manado, which would allow those so inclined to add-on some muck diving at Lembeh. The resort I went to, Misool Eco Resort, & most liveaboards do not operate from June through September or October, when the winds and weather are not favorable for sailing nor ocean resupply. I think there are 2 Dancer boats and a Siren boat which reposition for the prime diving season. Having been to their websites, it appears they are booked well in advance.

It will be long, It will be hard - There will be no withdrawal [except upon the realization of your return to a 'normal' life]. Definitely put me on the 'interested' list.

Bill

Edited by ScubaTex, 02 April 2011 - 06:23 PM.

[Landlocked Dive Nut]

Ouch. That would be my dive budget for the entire year.....for just one week of diving? Don't know if I could do that to myself.

[WreckWench]

I think I can find better pricing or I too would not be able to swing this.

Anymore feedback?

[Diver Ed]

My initial 30 second search was of the SMY Ondina. Their 2011 rate is about $3500.00 for an 11 day trip. My mom is in town, so I am not spending much time online, and will put in some research time next week. Ed

I think I can find better pricing or I too would not be able to swing this.

Anymore feedback?

[ScubaTex]

You may be able to get a better rate. Below are the rates listed for the vendors I mentioned in my original post. Remember for rates quoted in Euros, multiply by 1.41, the current exchange rate

Misool Eco Resort - http://www.misooleco...hedule.2011.pdf

Indo Siren - http://worldwidedive....html#indosiren

Paradise Dancer - http://www.dancerfle...s/_RateCard.pdf

Bill

[ScubaTex]

Here's my trip report from Oct. 2008

http://www.singlediv...ool-eco-resort/

Bill

[WreckWench]

ALL!!!

I really appreciate the input! kamala