Raja Ampat Freediving Expedition

Land Based Freediving Expedition to Raja Ampat, 11 Days

Open Dates | October – May

A unique chance to freedive in the best marine destination in the world, connect with a like-minded community, and experience authentic local life.

Where is Raja Ampat and why is it the best destination for freedivers.

For any freediver, Raja Ampat was always a true dream destination. Situated on the Easter edge of West Papua, known for the richest marine biodiversity on the planet, this remote Indonesian archipelago boasts several world records regarding coral and fish species, offers unreal island landscapes, and is home to communities that still live in harmony with the ocean.

With nearly a decade of experience running freediving trips in Raja Ampat, we know all the quiet, untouched corners where almost no tourists or liveaboards ever go. Envision diving in seas of warm, crystal-clear waters with manta rays, turtles, huge schools of fish, and sometimes even dugongs, dolphins, or pilot whales.

This 11-day freediving expedition covers island-hopping, deep ocean encounters, local culture, and raw nature. If you want to experience real freediving at the best marine destination in the world, this is where you should be.

Trip Highlights

• Freediving in the world’s most biodiverse waters
• Small group (max 12 participants) with 2 freediving instructors
• Try Freediving course for complete beginners
• Freediving line training and coaching for certified freedivers
• Underwater photography and videography
• 3 islands in 9 days + Pianemo viewpoint and hidden manta points
• Accommodation in local homestays with 3 meals a day
• Available October–May | Prebook at least 1 month in advance
• Price based on group of 6 ($1650) | Minimum 4 pax to confirm

Itinerary Overview

This is a sample itinerary with a recommended route and destinations. It may be adjusted depending on availability or group requests.

Day 1 – Early morning flight Bali → Sorong → ferry to Waisai → transfer to Kri Island in Dampier Strait. First freediving sessions and settling into island life.

Days 2–4 – Explore Kri, Mansuar, and Arborek. Freedive world-class sites including Manta Sandy. Afternoon land adventures to Besser Bay caves, viewpoints, and stingless jellyfish lake.

Day 5 – Journey south to Batanta Island. Trek to a jungle waterfall, freedive mangroves, visit a traditional wooden village. Evening arrival at Dayan Island homestay.

Days 6–7 – Freedive pristine reefs around Dayan and Batanta West. Rare manta spots and untouched coral gardens, far from tourist routes.

Day 8 – Sail north to Pianemo for its epic lagoon viewpoint, then freedive around Rufus Island. Continue to Yefkabu Island (West Waigeo).

Day 9 – Remote freediving around Yefkabu’s coral gardens. Relax on white-sand beaches, dive unspoiled reefs.

Day 10 – Return journey via Waisai to Sorong. Overnight in a 4★ hotel with hot showers and city comforts.

Day 11 – Flight back Sorong → Bali (or onward destination).

Accommodation & Meals

• Double bungalows or homestays (private/shared bathrooms)
• 3 meals daily while in Raja Ampat
• Generators for evening electricity (charge gadgets at night)
• Mobile internet available during early part of trip only

What’s Included

• All transport starting Bali Airport → Sorong (cars, ferry, private boats)
• Accommodation: 7 nights homestays, 1 night hotel in Makassar, 1 night hotel in Sorong
• 3 daily meals in Raja Ampat (plus breakfasts at hotels)
• Freediving equipment rental (extra gear if needed)
• Raja Ampat Marine Park entrance ticket
• Guidance by 2 freediving instructors
• Try Coral Reef Freediving course for beginners
• Freediving line training up to 20m for certified divers
• Underwater photography/videography
• Basic freediving gear included: short fins, mask, snorkel, weights

Not Included

• Domestic flights Denpasar–Sorong–Denpasar (~$400 return)
• Travel & freediving insurance
• Extra snacks/meals not mentioned
• Unexpected emergency costs outside organizer’s control

Booking & Availability

• Open date trips available October–May
• Must be prepaid & prebooked minimum 1 month in advance
• Price: USD 1650 per person (based on group of 6)
• Trip confirmed with minimum of 4 participants

FAQ – Raja Ampat Freediving Expedition

Do I need a freediving certification?

No. Beginners are welcome. You’ll join a Try Coral Reef Freediving session early in the trip and practice throughout, supported by instructors. Certified freedivers can do line training and depth progression up to 20m.

What gear and essentials should I bring?

We provide short fins, mask, snorkel, and weights. Bring: rash guard, coral-friendly sunscreen, mosquito repellent, light sun-protective clothes, trekking sandals, and your favorite snacks.

How do I get to Sorong?

 Flights to Sorong are not included, but we’ll help arrange them. Group usually travels together from Bali. Return flights cost around USD 400. Book early for best fares.

 Is there mobile signal/Wi-Fi?

 Yes, during the first part of the trip (Kri Island area). Signal is weak or nonexistent later (Batanta, Pianemo) — the perfect chance to disconnect.

Why does a real Raja Ampat freediving trip take time — and why is it more expensive?

A real Raja Ampat freediving trip takes time — and yes, it costs more — because this is the most remote and biodiverse marine destination on the planet. To reach the best reefs, manta spots, and untouched islands, you need multiple boat days, longer travel routes, and slow movement between far-apart islands. Short, cheap tours simply stay near crowded areas and miss 90% of what makes Raja Ampat world-class.

An 11-day expedition gives you time to explore different islands, freedive multiple ecosystems, avoid tourist zones, and actually experience the real Raja Ampat, not the quick, watered-down version.