Misool, an idyllic realm in the southern reaches of Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago, is a world far beyond the path of most travelers. This long string of countless limestone islands with fringing reefs supports astonishing biodiversity—pink pygmy seahorses, technicolor soft corals, ghost pipefish, hawksbill turtles, octopus, eight different species of anemonefish—the abundance is truly mind-bending. Aboard our comfortable 100-foot traditional Indonesian schooner, we set out for world-class snorkeling and sea kayaking adventures with an expert marine biologist Trip Leader. Our days are spent immersed in an impossibly vivid marine ecosystem, and evenings find us in exquisite remote anchorages. This exceptional outpost of marine diversity will astound even the most seasoned snorkeler!

Itinerary at a Glance

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Day 1
Sorong, Indonesia

Arrive in Sorong and embark aboard our traditional schooner into the Misool Archipelago. Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy consider Misool to shelter the world’s richest coral ecosystems.

Days 2-3
Wagmab Island

In the paradisaical setting of Wagmab Island, we slip into the water for our first snorkeling sessions, encircled by schools of bright blue-green damselfish and paired bannerfish, and explore hidden niches among shallow bays that are home to rare shrimp gobies, octopus, nudibranchs, and “twilight zone” critters.

Days 4-7
Fiabachet Island / East Kali / Pele

We explore the coral reefs off Fiabachet Island, drift-snorkeling through a marine habitat of luminous fish to enjoy one of the ultimate experiences on the planet. Later we encounter the kaleidoscopic reefs of East Kali and the tropical frontier of Pele, a small group of islands where we can kayak in the calm waters near our anchorage. At Len Makana, a staggering diversity of marine life provides the setting for our day’s adventures.

Days 8-10
Hornbill Bay / East Misool

Snorkeling among the hidden coves and emerald waters of Hornbill Bay brings further insight into the geology and biological expanse of the area. Below the craggy cliffs of this island, we find vivid soft corals in shades of purple, pink, and red. We also explore the East Misool passage amid a maze of mushroom-shaped islands and visit a fantastic cavern that opens into a jungle-topped island.

Days 11-12
Kabui Bay / Waigeo

At the northernmost point of our trip, in Kabui Bay off Waigeo Island, we drift-snorkel through a wonderland of giant sea fans and soft corals with lush forest overhead. On Day 12, we awake in Sorong’s lively harbor, bid farewell, and depart on homeward-bound flights.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 3, Moderate. It is relaxed enough to allow ample time for photography, snorkeling, and exploration by dinghy. On any trip of this nature, however, it is impossible to predict what the weather will have in store and activities often vary with each day. Because the primary focus of the trip is snorkeling, we require that trip members know how to swim, and we strongly recommend you bring your own good quality, well-fitted equipment with you, including mask, snorkel, and fins. Try out your gear in a swimming pool before you go to make sure that it works for you and is comfortable. There is ample time for both scheduled snorkels and free snorkeling, and for the most part the water time is “at your own pace.” We will have a “refresher” snorkel in calm waters at the beginning of the trip, and there will be several drift snorkels (with some current) during the trip. We usually have two to three snorkeling adventures each day. Our shore landings are “wet” (which involves stepping out of the dinghy and wading to shore). Kayaking experience is not necessary, and we have the option to use our inflatable kayaks on a few occasions throughout the trip. The cook on board prepares simple and tasty meals, a mix of Asian and Western styles with plenty of seafood. Note: Vegetarians who do not eat seafood may find their choices somewhat limited.

Explanation of Trip Levels