Raja Ampat Islands - General Info

Description:

Located off the northwest tip of Bird's Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea, in Indonesia's West Papua province, Raja Ampat, or the Four Kings, is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo, and the smaller island of Kofiau.

Raja Ampat archipelago is the part of Coral Triangle which contains the richest marine biodiversity on earth and has been described by scientists as a biological hotspot.  The geography, diving, wildlife, culture, and hospitality of the people are all legendary. Thanks to the Indonesian Throughflow, the diversity of marine life is staggering and crystal clear waters ensure the diving and snorkeling rates as among the best on the planet.

However, the incredible coral reefs here are now under threat from the Crown of Thorns Starfish and the local community needs your help. Read this news item (July 2018) to find out more.

Cruiser highlights:

There is a new marina now open at the Port of Waisai, on the west coast of the island of Waigeo.

Entrance notes or cautions:

There have been some recent near-misses with positions being taken from the paper charts for the Sorong area. Paper charts and GPS can vary up to 500m. Please take care when using paper charts for primary navigation.

Sorong and Misool Island have a reputation for boardings and robberies.

See Cruising Reports for more detailed feedback from cruisers who have spent time in this area.

Crocodile Attacks - Raja Ampat

In April 2016 a fatal saltwater crocodile attack on a snorkeller was reported, off the coast of Minyaifun island.

http://www.divernet.com/home-diving-news/p305790-crocodile-attack-in-raja-ampat.html

Weather

Sudden tropical storms (that at times can be severe) can cause problems in the Raja Ampat and Sorong area. Since December 2016 there has been an unusually high number of these (locally known as "badai"), often causing havoc in the harbour with anchors dragging, near collisions and entanglements. They normally don't last more than 20 minutes, but gusts can be as strong as 50 knots. Ground tackle and anchor winches will suffer wear and tear so be sure to arrive prepared with plenty of spares (at least a spare set of winch gears and at least two sets of winch motor brushes).

Position:  

00° 29'S, 130° 09'E (western side of the islands)