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Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Raja Ampat, the ocean's crown jewel of marine biodiversity. Join us for an all-inclusive liveaboard adventure aboard The Pindito, limited to an exclusive group of only 12 guests, ensuring a personal and intimate experience. Secure your spot today for an unforgettable exploration of Raja Ampat's underwater wonders in West Papua.
Our voyage sets sail from Sorong, West Papua, aboard our magnificent vessel, The Pindito, your home away from home. We'll head south towards the vibrant Triton Bay, where colourful reefs thrive, nourished by nutrient-rich waters. Here, amidst vast fields of soft corals and giant sea fans, you might even encounter the majestic whale shark—a truly remarkable highlight.
Venturing northwest to Misool, we'll dive into some of the planet's most spectacular reef walls and sea mounts, adorned with colourful giant sea fans, soft corals, and teeming with life both large and small. The journey concludes in the heart of Raja Ampat, navigating through the Dampier Strait's wonders.
This 12-day liveaboard experience is designed to showcase the breathtaking diversity of Raja Ampat's reefs, fostering a deep connection with the marine world. Through the lens of underwater photography, guided by Brooke Pyke, open your eyes to new perspectives and gain a profound understanding of our relationship with the ocean.
Get ready to dive deep into underwater photography and photo editing, all while having a blast with Brooke Pyke as your guide. Plus, with our exclusive marine life presentations, you'll get up close and personal with the amazing creatures of Raja Ampat. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a passionate diver, this trip promises an immersive and comprehensive marine wildlife experience.
Brooke Pyke is an award-winning underwater photographer whose camera reveals the wild beauty of Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. Her story is a journey from witnessing the ocean's overwhelming force to uncovering its most secretive beauties, showcasing the profound impact nature can have.
Once wary of the ocean's vast waves, Brooke found her calling beneath the surface. Snorkeling transformed the sea from a place of intimidation to a realm of wonder and discovery. This shift led her from graphic design studies to becoming a dive instructor in Thailand and Indonesia, immersing herself fully in marine conservation and the captivating life underwater.
Brooke's journey into underwater photography started in 2014 with a simple camera. Driven by a quest for perfection, she made Ningaloo Reef her home and professional focus. Her photography, more than a career, is a passionate commitment to showcasing and safeguarding marine life, bringing the ocean's stories to the surface through her vivid imagery.
Her achievements, highlighted by an international photography award in 2022, attest to her skill and unwavering dedication. But it's Brooke's talent for storytelling, featured in prestigious publications like Oceanographic Mag and EzDive, that bridges the gap between us and the underwater world. Through her lens, Brooke invites us to dive into the ocean's mysteries, making her the perfect guide for those eager to explore and protect its wonders.
Welcome to 'The Last Paradise'
Your West Papua adventure kicks off when our driver greets you at the airport. Luggage handled, you're off to your accommodation to settle in.
Then, meet Brooke Pyke, your Expedition Leader, and your fellow adventurers, setting the stage for your journey.
The journey truly begins with a dinner Q&A with Brooke. Delve into what drives her passion for underwater photography and marine conservation, and hear about her future ambitions. It's the perfect time for group questions.
Spend the afternoon unwinding—whether that's chilling at the resort, exploring around, or taking a dip in the ocean.
As the sun sets, we gather for a traditional welcome feast, a first taste of West Papua's delicious culinary traditions.
Post-dinner, Brooke leads her first Masterclass. Get ready for an in-depth look at marine life, conservation efforts, and the unique ecosystems of Raja Ampat and the Coral Triangle.
Finally, it's time to rest up in your accommodation, recharging for the adventures that await.
Aboard the Pindito
Together, we'll greet the Pindito's crew and get settled into our cabins—a cozy start before we set sail. As we journey 4 hours to the enchanting Triton Bay, get ready to feel at home on the water.
Brooke isn't wasting any time—dive into her second Masterclass on the fundamentals of photography during our voyage. It's a unique chance to sharpen those shooting skills with the endless sea as your backdrop.
No. of Dives: 1
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Daily Encounters with Magical Coral Gardens
Triton Bay, nestled in currents-rich straits, is a diver's paradise. We'll explore the vibrant dive sites around Aiduma and Namatote islands, celebrated for their breathtaking colours at signature sites like Little Komodo.
Prepare to be amazed by endemic species such as the Flasher Wrasse at Flasher Beach, Leopard Anemone Shrimp at Namatote Wall, and the elusive Thin Line Wobbegong tucked under table corals. Macro enthusiasts will delight in newly discovered sites brimming with unique nudibranchs. Whale shark encounters are also a thrilling possibility in this region.
Don't miss the mesmerising swim-through at Boo's Rainbow, adorned with soft corals, or the teeming schools of fish and vivid reefs at Larry's Dive Heaven on the outside of Aiduma island.
No. of Dives:
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Turning Your Experiences Into Lasting Captures
Day 5: Our journey takes us up Papua's coast to Momon. We kick off with dives around the Channel Islands, followed by an exceptional macro dive at Tanjung Wap. Look out for decorated dartfish in the shallows, pygmy seahorses, and a large swim-through ripe for exploration.
A bit northward, we'll explore a grand seamount, then head to Momon's waterfall, where the sea meets cascading fresh water. Tender boats bring us close for that perfect shot—don't miss swimming behind the waterfall for an unforgettable experience.
Day 6: Before entering Raja Ampat, we stop at Pulau Pisang. Here, 'the Dome' dive site awaits—a seamount bustling with bannerfish, snappers, and batfish, plus macro treasures. T-Bone, a hammerhead-shaped reef, dazzles with large sponges and the chance to spot sharks and eagle rays cruising by.
No. of Dives: 6
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Stunning Reef Walls and Sea Mounts
Day 7: Dive into a world where small islands string together to form a diver's paradise.
Explore signature sites like Boo Windows, Nudi Rock, Tank Rock, and Whale Rock, each offering a visual feast of vibrant marine life.
Day 8: "The Four Kings" brings you face-to-face with a series of underwater pinnacles bursting with colours and bustling fish life.
Later, find serenity in sheltered spots perfect for diving: drift through Neptune Fan Sea, marvel at the wall at Wedding Cake, or witness the dynamic fish action at Barracuda Rock.
No. of Dives: 8
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Hard-Coral Plateau and Keruo Channel
Day 9: Begin with a snorkeling adventure in the spacious Tamulol cave, accessible to all ages. We'll also try to peek into the jellyfish lake, weather and local conditions permitting. The afternoon promises a dive at 3 Sisters, showcasing soft corals and potential mobula ray sightings. The day wraps up with a serene sunset lagoon tour via tender boats.
Day 10: Dive into Penemu's renowned sites: Barracuda Point for thrilling fish action, Melissa’s Garden showcasing a stunning hard-coral plateau, and the Keruo Channel for a vibrant drift dive.
The highlight of Penemu is a tender boat tour through breathtaking turquoise waters and limestone bays. The adventure is capped with a hilltop walk for unforgettable lagoon views, with the Damai moored in the backdrop.
No. of Dives: 5 (with cave visit / 7 without cave visit)
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Manta Magic
Day 11: The day begins at Manta Sandy, a prime spot to witness the elegance of Reef Mantas at their cleaning stations. While waiting for their grand appearance, keep an eye on the sandy bottom for small, hidden critters.
Next, explore Arborek Jetty, with its sloping reef teeming with fish schools, offering perfect wide-angle photo ops and critter hunting along its slopes.
Cap off the afternoon with a leisurely village stroll on Arborek Island. Maybe join a local soccer game or pick up a handmade sunhat as a souvenir.
Day 12: Heading to the Dampier Strait's eastern end, we're spoiled for choice with iconic dive sites. Cape Kri boasts a vibrant sloping reef. Blue Magic and Sardine Reef offer seamounts alive with schooling fish, sharks, and rays. Don't miss Mioskon for a chance to see the endemic Wobbegong shark and Pontohi pygmy seahorses.
No. of Dives: 6
Accommodation aboard Pindito
Farewell to Paradise
As every great story has its closing chapter, today we bid farewell to our epic journey. We'll ensure a smooth transfer to the airport, not just with luggage but with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories and bonds forged in the depths of the ocean.
Before parting ways, Brooke is hosting her final Masterclass on photo editing, giving us all a chance to refine our captured moments. It's the perfect wrap-up, ensuring our incredible experiences are mirrored in the photos we take home.
"As a wildlife photographer, my aim is to capture the ocean's unique inhabitants with the perfection they deserve. I firmly believe that photography and art have the power to ignite a passion for conservation in the next generation. Through sharing my imagery, I aspire to contribute to the protection of our planet's last remaining wild places. Join me on this journey to celebrate and safeguard our oceans".
*For assistance in booking your flights or if you have any other inquiries, please get in touch and we can help.
For our trip in Raja Ampat, participants are advised to have at least an Advanced Open Water Certification (30m), as many dive sites extend below 18m. Dive conditions vary greatly, ranging from relaxed, shallow dives to exhilarating drift dives.
For those who prefer, there's the option to freedive or snorkel. However, please note that as our trips are all-inclusive, opting out of scuba diving does not affect the trip cost.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a significant part of the income for our boat staff, who work hard to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. We recommend a standard gratuity of 10% of the trip price. It's appreciated if you could have USD available for this purpose at the end of your trip, to acknowledge the dedication and service provided by the staff.
Visitors from eligible countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA), which is valid for 30 days. This can be acquired upon arrival in Indonesia for a fee of 500,000 IDR. Please ensure you have your passport and proof of a return flight to obtain your VOA. Got any questions or need a hand with it? Our team is here to help.
Your adventure will be guided by a seasoned Airguides Trip Leader, who's an experienced travel guide and your primary contact for any needs or questions during the trip. What sets our trips apart? We'll be joined by a 'Storyteller Guide,' a true expert with deep knowledge and a genuine passion for the destination, adding authentic insights and stories to your journey.
For our ocean adventures, a moderate level of fitness is ideal to fully enjoy water-based activities like swimming, snorkelling, or diving, often lasting several hours. Being comfortable in the ocean is essential. If you have concerns about your fitness level or abilities in the water, please don't hesitate to contact us for advice.
Our trips are intimate and immersive experiences, accommodating 8-12 guests. Along with a knowledgeable Storyteller Guide and an Airguides Trip Leader, you'll join a diverse group of like-minded adventurers. Our guests come from various countries and backgrounds, including solo travellers, couples, and friends. This adventure is designed for travellers aged 18 and above.
Solo travellers can opt for a private room, which incurs a single-supplement fee. Please contact us for specific pricing details. Alternatively, we may offer a roommate pairing option on a limited, first-come, first-served basis. Reach out to us for availability and more information.
Certainly! If you need help finding the best flights or planning your travel routes, we're here to help. Just reach out to us, and our team will be more than happy to provide guidance and support.
We'd love to speak with you about this trip and answer any questions you have! Feel free to call, text or WhatsApp our friendly team at +61 402 552 918. You'll be connected with a real, knowledgeable person from Airguides, ready to assist. We take great pride in our personal service, ensuring we're with you every step of the way, from planning your adventure to your journey back home.
“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono Allen is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"
"The Airguides trip to Tonga to swim with humpback whales was the experience of a lifetime. I have traveled all over the world, and nothing compares to being in the wild, rustic, deep blue waters of the South Pacific while interacting with whales and their calves. A wonderful and caring team made our adventures stress free. Absolutely amazing, so much so, that I am doing it again this year! Thanks a million Paul, Jono, Al, Alistair, Christian and Polly!"
"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."
"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."
"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."
"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."
“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“
“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “