Last paradise: Raja Ampat
Imagine gliding through turquoise waters, surrounded by towering karst islands and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. This is Raja Ampat, Indonesia’s untouched gem and the ultimate destination for nature lovers and luxury seekers alike. With Rascal Voyages, this dream transforms into reality. Combining the freedom of the open sea with the elegance of a boutique yacht, Rascal offers an unparalleled journey through one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. From hidden lagoons to thriving marine ecosystems, every moment promises discovery, relaxation, and adventure. Join us as we set sail into this tropical wonderland.
Raja Ampat is remote and challenging to reach, but the reward is a truly untouched paradise. The region is accessible via well-connected flights from Jakarta or Bali to Sorong, followed by a car and boat transfer to your floating home for the next few days. For larger groups, private charters are ideal, while solo travelers and couples may prefer shared departures.
The best time to visit is November through April, making it easy to include Raja Ampat in a longer Indonesian adventure or a trip through neighboring countries.
Settle into your cabin and sail to Wayag, an iconic atoll known for its pristine beaches and stunning mushroom-shaped islands—your first glimpse of Raja Ampat’s breathtaking beauty.
Wayag offers endless activities to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Snorkeling and diving are the stars of the region, with vibrant marine life making it a diver’s paradise. If you’re not a certified diver, you can still try scuba with a “discovery dive,” where an instructor guides you through the basics. For non-divers, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are fantastic ways to explore the crystal-clear waters.
Don’t miss the hike to Pindito Hill for panoramic views of Wayag’s iconic landscape. In the afternoon, take a motorboat to the lagoon and visit Shark Beach, where you can swim with small sharks. Cap off your day with cocktails and appetizers on a serene beach as the sun sets over this tropical paradise.
Rascal Voyages takes dining to a whole new level with their talented crew crafting gourmet dishes tailored to your preferences. Every meal is unique, maintaining the highest standards, and special setups can be arranged for honeymoons or celebrations.
Spend a day at a private white-sand beach, perfect for relaxation or adventure. Enjoy snorkeling around vibrant corals, kayaking, water tubing, or even a friendly volleyball match with the crew. Later, trek to Piaynemo for stunning sunset views over Raja Ampat’s magical landscape.
Mornings aboard the yacht often begin with an adrenaline-filled jump into the crystal waters—a thrilling start to the day! Dive or snorkel to encounter mantas, turtles, and colorful marine life, and in the afternoon, visit a local village to connect with the community. Before dinner, try the quirky fish food golf challenge right off the yacht.
Nighttime brings a whole new adventure: dive or snorkel to spot octopus, lobsters, and even whale sharks, while the bioluminescent waters glow with every movement. It’s a breathtaking end to a day in paradise.
On your final day in Raja Ampat, journey to Kali Biru, a stunning turquoise river surrounded by a Jurassic-like landscape. After a short walk, dive into the river and float your way back in an exhilarating adventure. Spend the afternoon unwinding on the yacht or enjoying the water toys one last time.
As the sun sets, watch thousands of bats take flight in a dramatic search for food, then savor a private dinner under the stars on a secluded beach—a magical end to your journey.
This truly unique experience is best enjoyed over at least 7 nights, though a 14-night adventure reveals even more of Raja Ampat’s untouched beauty and takes you closer to one of the world’s last great frontiers.
