TRAVELSPECIAL
A peacock angelfish swims through a gap in the reef
Above the waterline
Above water, the coastline of West Papua is just as breathtaking. One of the must-see locations above the water is a renowned UNESCO Geopark, called Piaynemo. Located in the Misool region, it is a visually stunning network of limestone islets, a bit like the famous rock islands of Palau. After a short Zodiac ride and jungle hike, we reached the viewpoint,
Check out the whip corals for tiny whip coral gobies
to be greeted by a panoramic vista of jewel-like limestone islands scattered across turquoise waters. There are also opportunities to spot some of the region’ s diverse birdlife from this lofty vantage point. The trip also offers paddleboarding around some of the sheltered bays, a trip to a remote sandy beach to enjoy the sunset and the wonderfully refreshing Kiti-Kiti Waterfall.
Essentials
TOUR OPERATOR: The trip was organised by Diverse Travel. The itinerary was Raja Ampat and Triton Bay, with 12 nights aboard the luxurious liveaboard Emperor Harmoni, departing from Sorong and ending in Kaimana in Triton Bay, approximately 640 miles. For more details go to diversetravel. co. uk and search under the liveaboards section.
GETTING THERE AND BACK: Holly from Diverse Travel organised a journey from Manchester to Sorong, almost three days of travelling from door to ship. Jake flew Emirates to Dubai, then Jakarta in Indonesia where he had a day room to relax at the airport hotel FM7( fm7hotel. com) before a connecting flight to Sorong on Garuda airlines. He then had a night in the Sorong Hotel, a five minute taxi ride from the airport. Some itineraries return to Soring, but this voyage concluded at Kaimana in Triton Bay. Jake had to catch a short flight from there back to Sorong with Wings Air. Budget around £ 2,000 for your flights.
IN SORONG: It’ s worth visiting the harbour front, a 10-minute taxi ride from the hotel, and where you’ ll find a smattering of restaurants. If you have time, consider visiting the Santa Ratna Pagoda, located on a hill with views over Sorong Bay. Your liveaboard operator will look after you once you’ re in Sorong, overseeing your transfer by Zodiac or tender to your vessel of choice.
LIVEABOARD: Emperor Harmoni is a 48-metre liveaboard accommodating up to 24 guests across eight cabins and four staterooms. Diving is carried out from a pair of RIBs. There are a number of itineraries available, at an average cost of around £ 4,500 for 10-night voyages.
WHEN TO GO: The best time for diving in Raja Ampat is generally held to be during the dry season, from October to April. During these months you get calmer seas, better viz and... oceanic manta rays! �
Many breathtaking locations to anchor up
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