Misool and the southernmost islands of Papua’s Raja Ampat are the center of the famed “Coral Triangle,” center of marine biodiversity in the Pacific. Dozens of limestone islands lie scattered through this seldom-visited archipelago, offering dreamlike scenery, fantastic coral reefs, and an exhilarating snorkeling odyssey aboard our traditional Indonesian 100-foot yacht. From hawksbill turtles to octopus, seastars, and sponges, the extravagant array of bizarre invertebrates, fish, and reptiles is truly mind-bending in Misool’s cobalt-blue waters. With Trip Leader Ethan Daniel’s fascinating daily talks on the coral reef ecology and marine biodiversity of Misool, and evenings in the most beautiful anchorages imaginable, we enjoy a still-mysterious frontier with a staggering abundance of marine life including species yet to be cataloged. This is a true expedition to a magical world!

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Sorong, Indonesia/Wagmab Island

Arrive in Sorong and embark aboard our yacht into the Misool Archipelago, with its hundreds of tufted and craggy limestone outcrops. At Wagmab Island, we slip into the water for our first snorkeling session and explore by kayak and dinghy. Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy consider Misool to harbor the world’s richest marine ecosystems.

Days 4-7
Fiabachet Island / East Kali / Pele

We explore the coral reefs that grow off Fiabachet Island and enjoy one of the ultimate snorkeling experiences on the planet. Later we encounter the mesmerizing marine ecosystems of East Kali and tropical frontier of Pele, a small group of islands where we kayak in the calm waters near our anchorage. At Len Makana, a staggering abundance of marine life provides the backdrop for our day's adventures. This remote outpost of marine diversity will astound even the most seasoned snorkeler.

Days 8-10
Len Kafal / East Misool

Kayaking among the hidden coves and emerald bays of Len Kafal brings further insight into the geology and biological diversity of the area. Below the craggy cliffs of this island, we slip into the water to observe 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. We also have the opportunity to explore the exotic bay’s many sandy beaches. On Day 12, we awake in Sorong’s lively harbor, bid farewell to Ethan and our crew, and depart on homeward-bound flights.

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What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 3, Moderate. It is relaxed enough to allow ample time for photography, snorkeling, exploration by dinghy, and beachcombing. 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, and we also have shore excursions on various islands with optional hikes. Our shore landings are either “dry” (where there are rocks or wooden piers to step onto when you disembark from the dinghy) or “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 Indonesian and Western styles with plenty of seafood. Note: Vegetarians who do not eat seafood may find their choices somewhat limited.

Explanation of Trip Levels