How To Do Raja Ampat Budget Diving: The Ultimate Cost Breakdown For 2026  

BY  Sibashree Sep 3, 2025

Whenever people think of Bali, they think of crowded places full of tourists. However, many travellers often wish to escape from the rat race of getting the ideal accommodation, the ideal selfie, and the most cliché food items to experience, where they have to compete with a bunch of other tourists.  Munduk Bali, a small village in Northern Bali, is an exception among all of these things. It is a slow-paced town in Bali, offering a proper laid-back, sleepy vibe. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will talk about a complete tour plan in Munduk Bali.  A Complete Tour Plan For Munduk Bali  Serene temples, gurgling waterfalls, natural waterslides, immersive lakes, rice fields, and coffee plantations make Munduk Bali an ideal place for agrotourism and ecotourism.  Here are the details about how to reach Munduk, where to stay, and things to do.  1. How To Reach Munduk Bali? Bali is not very big. Hence, renting a motorcycle can help people travel conveniently.  The place is located approximately an hour and a half's drive from the cities of Canguu and Ubud.  The road takes you through rice terraces, villages full of vibrant Balinese culture, and through the exceptionally beautiful mountains. However, the air provides you with a mild chill as the Sun sets. Thus, riders should take warm clothes when traveling to places like Munduk, Bali.  Many travellers do not feel comfortable while riding a bike. They can always take Go-Jek (Local Bike Taxi) rides to different places. Even buses are available. Moreover, the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar is the nearest airport to Munduk. It is located at a distance of 81 km, and you can arrange a private ride or a shared-ride by road to reach Munduk from the airport in more than two hours.  2. Accommodation In Munduk, Bali Munduk provides two main places to live. Travellers either stay in the Twin Lake area or the town area in Munduk. However, people who stay near the Twin Lakes do not find any small shops or amenities around them. But they can get proper peace of mind away from the crowd. The area is situated in close proximity to the local waterfalls and the temple. Staying Near The Town In Munduk  The town offers a mesmerizing view of the ocean and the beaches of Lovina, situated below. The travelers find better food and lodging options that are conveniently located near basic amenities, such as ATMs, Petrol Pumps, and other services. The area offers a variety of restaurants serving Western cuisine, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Most accommodation facilities here do not have air conditioners or various other amenities. However, you can find places like Puri Lumbung Cottage with air conditioning and other amenities. The approximate cost of staying in Munduk Bali should be around $20-100 per night, based on the type of hotel you choose.  3. What Are The Things To Do In Munduk, Bali? Bali's Munduk provides tourists with some of the most incredible travel destinations and spots that offer wonderful adventures. Visiting Different Waterfalls The place is like the land of Waterfalls, where people get to see multiple types of waterfalls.  The travellers should visit waterfalls like Banyulama Twin Waterfalls, which is one of the most famous ones in the region. Apart from that, they should visit waterfalls like Banyu Wana Amertha, Labuhan Kebo, Golden Valley, and Air Terjun. Exploring The Rice Terraces Travellers know about Bali Munduk for its rice terraces and the fields. Therefore, the tourists should visit the rice terraces and enjoy the view of the mountains from there. Reach the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, spanning over 600 hectares, after a one-hour ride from Munduk. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest in Bali.  Praying At The Ulun Danu Beratan Water Temple The Ullu Danu Bayan Temple in Bali is one of the most incredible temples in the region. It is located in the middle of a lake, and it looks stunning with the backdrop of the mountains.  The temple also has a well-manicured garden, and it worships the supreme god, Sang Hyang Widhi. It is the representative of Brahman or the universe in Hindu Philosophy. The temple also worships Goddess Laxmi for protecting the lake.  Visiting The Twin Lake At Munduk Bali  While people drive to Munduk Bali, they will find the twin lakes once they climb up the mountain. Tamblingan and Buyan Lakes are referred to as Twin Lakes. The Twin Lake area is peaceful, and you will find amazing viewpoints such as Wanagiri Hidden Hills here. You can even go for jungle trekking or just soak in the spirituality in silence. In the jungle, you will find ancient temples such as Pura Dalem Tamblingan.  Moreover, if you are an adventurous soul, you can enjoy canoeing in the lake or explore the hidden waterfalls.  Enjoying The Beauty Of The Incredible Pesiraman Natural Waterslide  The Pesiraman natural waterslide is one of the hidden gems of North Bali. It is located near the Aling-Aling Waterfall.  Smooth natural rocks in the river and the natural current of the river water have formed this natural waterslide.  Why Visit Munduk Bali? Is Munduk Bali Worth It? Munduk Bali has everything serene. However, it is slowly emerging as a luxurious ecotourism hub, offering boutique hotel experiences, such as Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort.  Moreover, the terraced rice fields and coffee plantations here are important for the agricultural landscape, natural preservation, and cultural heritage of Bali. Sampé jumpa, Munduk! Munduk Bali: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about Munduk Bali 1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Munduk Bali? April to October is the best time to visit Munduk Bali. It is the dry season with moderate weather conditions. So, it is the ideal time for hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. The wet season in Bali starts in November. 2. How Long Does It Take To Stay In Munduk? The ideal duration of staying in Munduk Bali depends on the kind of experience you want. You can touch the major attractions in two days. However, if you have a jungle safari and hiking in your itinerary, you will need at least 5 days to visit Munduk.  3. Are There Monkeys In Munduk? Yes, there are monkeys in Munduk. You will especially spot these mischievous animals near the Munduk Viewpoint overlooking the Twin Lake area. It is their natural habitat. So, be respectful to them and maintain a safe distance.  4. What Is The Cost Of A Trip To Munduk Bali?  The cost of visiting Munduk Bali is around $500-600 per person. It is less expensive than other popular tourist attractions of Bali, such as Nusa Penida.  5. Is Munduk A Jungle? Many tourists mistake Munduk for a lush jungle area. However, in reality, it is an important agricultural hub of the country with coffee and spice plantations and rice fields. So, despite being a highland area surrounded by lush vegetation, Munduk is more than wilderness. It is a unique destination where nature, spirituality, unique livelihood, and adventure meet.  Read Also: Is Amed Bali Worth Visiting? (Location, How To Reach, Things To Do, Nightlife, And More) Bali Beyond The Beaches: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of The Island Planning a Vacation to Bali? Read This Blog!

BY  Sibashree Aug 27, 2025

The recent demolition of over 40 business settlements at Bingin Beach of the Uluwatu region may apparently seem a disturbance for a region that caters to global tourists. However, the demolition has happened for a greater good, as it will eventually protect this important coastal region. In other words, the declaration of demolition by the House of Representatives will help Bingin Beach and the Uluwatu region to protect them from the perils of overtourism and overdevelopment. If you see the larger picture, it is only a boon for the surfing heritage of Bali.  Along with the Uluwatu Beach, Uluwatu is home to many other beautiful beaches. The stunning cliffs, awe-inspiring sunsets, and world-class surf breaks here make it a safe haven for travelers who seek the perfect fusion of tranquility and adventure.  On the other hand, the Uluwatu Temple, with its unique architecture and spiritual ambiance, is a place for introspection.  Overall, Uluwatu is a place where nature, spirituality, adventure, and wildlife co-exist to ensure a wholesome experience for every traveler.  What’s more? Let’s have a close encounter with the Uluwatu Beach in this Tour and Travel Blog.  In this blog, I will cover the following key topics.  Table of contentsWhy Is Uluwatu Beach The Prettiest Beach In Bali?Why Is The Uluwatu Beach So Famous?1. A World-Class Surfing Destination2. Uluwatu Temple3. A Hub Of Serenity4. Unbeatable Sunset ViewsHow To Reach Uluwatu Beach?What Are The Things To Do At Uluwatu Beach?1. Surfing And Swimming2. Visiting The Uluwatu Temple3. Have Good Food And Enjoy A Great Time At The Beach Clubs4. Explore The Secret Beaches Of UluwatuWhat Are The Best Beaches In Uluwatu?Where To Stay In Uluwatu Beach?Itinerary For Uluwatu Beach: Make The Most Of Your Time At Uluwatu Beach Why Is Uluwatu Beach The Prettiest Beach In Bali? Uluwatu, a part of the Bukit Peninsula in Southern Bali, is the prettiest with its stunning cliffs, coastlines, and crystal-clear waters.  In the truest sense, you can call Uluwatu a hidden gem, as you can only access it through a steep set of stairs. These stairs descend the grand limestone cliffs.  As you climb down the stairs, you will see the most amazing views of the ocean and the coastline.  Moreover, as you reach the beach, the soft golden sands will kiss your feet, and the stretches of turquoise water before your eyes will almost feel transcendental.  Amidst this natural beauty and a true juxtaposition of cliffs and the sea, Uluwatu also promises a luxurious experience, as the cliffs surrounding the beaches have luxurious resorts and beach clubs.  Moreover, the Uluwatu Temple is the crown jewel of this dreamy destination. It is the spiritual hub of this beach paradise, and from here, you will get a panoramic view of the ocean and the surroundings. Why Is The Uluwatu Beach So Famous?  From being a bustling surfing hub to being a space for finding tranquility amidst the chaos of Bali, Uluwatu remains one of the most sought-after beach destinations in the country.  Furthermore, the Uluwatu Temple and amazing sunset views offer you more reasons to visit Uluwatu.  1. A World-Class Surfing Destination  With powerful and consistent waves and reef breaks, Uluwatu is an iconic surf spot. The left-hand reef breaks are especially ideal for beginners and experienced surfers.  2. Uluwatu Temple Pura Luhur Uluwatu, or Uluwatu Temple, is a powerful spiritual center of Uluwatu, and it is even one of the most prominent temples of Bali, protecting the island from evil spirits.  The temple has also emerged as an important cultural destination, with Kecak Fire Dance being performed here at sunset every day. The dance performance highlights the story of the Ramayana in which Lord Rama kills Ravana and announces the triumph of good over evil.  Brahma, Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, the holy trinity of Hinduism, are the presiding deities of the temple.  Moreover, you will be able to spot long-tailed macaque monkeys here.  3. A Hub Of Serenity  Uluwatu continues to maintain its serene charm when other parts of Bali, such as Seminyak and Kuta, struggle with the perils of overcrowding and overtourism.  The place is less commercialized, and thanks to the decision of the House of Representatives to demolish illegal constructions here, the beach will continue to maintain its pristine charm.  4. Unbeatable Sunset Views  Uluwatu is also one of the most photogenic and Instagrammable places in Bali. It has the most beautiful sunset, with the Sun dipping below the horizon and spreading the most vibrant colors over the cliffs and the ocean water.  How To Reach Uluwatu Beach?  You can take a rental car or scooter to reach Uluwatu from the Denpasar airport or various other parts of Bali, such as Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta.  From the airport, it is a one-hour ride to Uluwatu Beach, and from the other three places, the journey will take around 45-60 minutes.  What Are The Things To Do At Uluwatu Beach? Uluwatu promises the most unique experience with water activities, temple visits and the most vibrant nightclub experience.  1. Surfing And Swimming  Uluwatu beach is ideal for surfers of all expertise levels. It has many surf schools that guide the beginners.  Furthermore, if you are an experienced surfer, you can visit the reef breaks to see the power of the waves.  2. Visiting The Uluwatu Temple  As I mentioned, for an amazing spiritual and cultural experience, you can visit the Uluwatu Temple. You will love the fire dance and the unique architecture of the place.  Furthermore, it is located on top of a cliff. So, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the surroundings. 3. Have Good Food And Enjoy A Great Time At The Beach Clubs Uluwatu is the place to find the most stylish beach clubs in Bali. You will find comfortable daybeds here.  Also, you can enjoy some amazing cocktails and local cuisine while soaking in the ocean vibe.  El Kabron and Single Fin are some noted beach clubs here.  4. Explore The Secret Beaches Of Uluwatu Are you ready to explore beyond the main Uluwatu beach? You will love exploring the following secret beaches.  Padang Padang Beach Pantai Bingin Dreamland Beach Enjoy the beauty of crystal clear waters, soft sun, and beautiful coastal views.  What Are The Best Beaches In Uluwatu?  Padang Padang, Bingin, and Suluban are my favorite beaches in Uluwatu.  Further, among these three, my silent favorite is Suluban. It is a rocky beach, and with the waves consistently hitting a height of 4-5 meters, it is a surfer's paradise.  Also, swimming here feels like swimming in a big cavern. Moreover, it is the Suluban beach, which is alternatively called the Uluwatu Beach.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Uluwatu Beach? The dry season of Balu, from April to October, is the best time to visit Uluwatu. The warm and sunny weather in these months makes the situation ideal for surfing and other beach activities.  November to March is also a decent time to visit the Uluwatu Beach. Despite the rain, these months remain suitable for surfing and swimming.  However, July to August is the peak tourist season in Uluwatu. Early mornings and late afternoons are the ideal times of the day to explore the Uluwatu Beach. Where To Stay In Uluwatu Beach? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort (@anantarauluwatu) You will get budget, mid-budget, and luxury accommodations in Uluwatu Beach. The most luxurious accommodations here are Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort and Banyan Tree Ungasan.  From Infinity pools to private villas, these luxurious accommodations offer the best hospitality.  Courtyard by Marriott Nusa Dua is a popular mid-budget accommodation in Uluwatu. Moreover, you can choose budget-friendly options such as Padang Padang Breeze. Itinerary For Uluwatu Beach: Make The Most Of Your Time At Uluwatu Beach Let’s have a look at this 2-day itinerary at the Uluwatu Beach.  Days at the Uluwatu BeachThings to DoDay 1 • Morning: Arrive in Uluwatu and take in the beach views. Start your day with a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters or sign up for a surf lesson if you’re keen to try your hand at surfing.• Afternoon: After lunch at a nearby café, head to the Uluwatu Temple to enjoy the stunning views and explore the temple grounds.• Evening: End your day by watching the Kecak Fire Dance performance at the temple. Afterward, enjoy dinner at one of the nearby beach clubs, like Single Fin, where you can catch the sunset while enjoying delicious food and drinks.Day 2• Morning: Head to Bingin Beach or Padang Padang Beach for a quieter, more secluded beach experience. Spend your morning lounging on the sand or swimming in the clear waters.• Afternoon: Take a leisurely lunch at one of the seaside cafés. Spend the afternoon enjoying the serenity or take part in a yoga session at one of the nearby resorts.• Evening: For your final evening, visit one of Uluwatu’s upscale cliffside restaurants for an unforgettable dinner with panoramic views of the ocean. Uluwatu Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Uluwatu Beach.  1. Is Uluwatu Beach Safe For Swimming? Uluwatu Beach has strong waves and currents. So, it is more suitable for surfers than traditional swimmers. Furthermore, you must only stick to the designated surfing zones and follow the instructions of the guides for a safe surfing experience.  2. What Should I Wear To Uluwatu? Beachwear is ideal for Uluwatu. However, you have to dress modestly when visiting the Uluwatu Temple. Your knees and shoulders need to be covered. You will even get a sarong at the temple entrance.  3. Does Uluwatu Have A Great Nightlife? Yes, Uluwatu offers you an amazing nightlife. You will find many sophisticated cliffside bars and beach clubs. Also, there are many live music and dance venues in Uluwatu. El Kabron, Single Fin, Ulu Cliffhouse, and Savaya Bali are some popular destinations to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Uluwatu.  Read Also: Where Is Nusa Penida Island? (With Location, Direction, Why Is Nusa Penida Famous, And What’s Going On) Bali Beyond The Beaches: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of The Island Planning a Vacation to Bali? Read This Blog!

BY  Sibashree Dec 27, 2025

Suzanne, a corporate professional and my colleague, all of 26, was back from what she called a “Trip to Paradise.” I knew that she was not exaggerating, as Raja Ampat is indeed called “The Last Paradise.” It also has the nickname, “The Amazon of the Seas.” What else would you call a place that has close to 75% of the total coral and fish found in the world? Also, this massive archipelago, with a network of nine protected areas, has diving sites, which are around 100s of miles apart from each other.  The nine protected areas here are: Dampier Strait MPA Misool Islands MPA Fam Islands MPA West Waigeo MPA Asia & Ayau Islands MPA Mayalibit Bay MPA Batanta Marine Park Kofiau & Boo Islands MPA Raja Ampat Islands and Surrounding Seas National MPA Also, the main diving zones in Raja Ampat are Dampier Strait in the central region, Misool in the south, and the sites in the north. The diving resorts are mainly in and around the Dampier Strait, and Misool has one, the Misool Resort.  However, staying at a diving resort will never help create a diving route or itinerary between the northern and southern diving sites. That means, if you are staying in the central region near the Dampier Strait, you cannot practically travel to Misool in the south.  So, choosing a Raja Ampat liveaboard is not a luxury. It is a necessity to explore the full spectrum of diving fun Raja Ampat has to offer. And this guide will cut through the noise of booking aggregators and give you the practical Raja Ampat liveaboard tips you need to choose the right boat, the right season, and the right cabin. Why You Must Choose The Liveaboards To See The “Real” Raja Ampat?  As I was saying, when you stay in a land-based diving resort in the central region and near the Dampier Strait, you can visit the iconic sites such as Cape Kri, but your access remains limited to a small radius.  However, with a liveaboard as your accommodation, you will get a moving diving platform, taking you to all corners of Raja Ampat.  1. Access To Misool Misool, or the southern region of Raja Ampat, is home to the most beautiful soft corals in the world. Also, the Magic Mountain in Misool is the main Manta Ray site in Raja Ampat.  If you want to keep your activities limited to Misool, you can choose Misool Eco Resort as your accommodation. However, a liveaboard is a more feasible option here, and it will give you better mobility.  2. Access To Wayag If you want to see the most dramatic limestone formations in Raja Ampat, you will have to dive at Wayag and other sites in the north.  Now, the northern diving sites of Raja Ampat are strictly liveaboard territories.  Furthermore, with a liveaboard as your accommodation, you can complete at least 3 to 4 dives in a day. For example, have your breakfast early in the morning, wait for 2 to 3 hours, and go for a dive. Then, have your lunch, wait for two hours, and go for the afternoon dive. You can even go for a night dive.  What Are The Best Liveaboard Diving Trips In Raja Ampat? Choosing The Route And Three Main Itineraries  As a diver, I often get confused about the route. Will I go north? Will I go south? Or, should I go for a combined route with the north, central, and south routes?  Now, the best choice for the route of your diving trips in Raja Ampat will depend on the season and the kind of open ocean experience you are looking for.  1. The Best Of Everything: North And South Combined  Duration: 10 – 12 Nights If you are a devoted and advanced diver who wants to tick off all the diving experiences, you must choose a combination of the north and south diving routes. This route comprises: The Mantas of Misool The Currents of Dampier And The Lagoons of Wayag However, if you are planning such an itinerary, you must be prepared to travel for and spend many nights in the open ocean. Moving between regions will not be an easy task. 2. The North & Central Route (Wayag & Dampier) Duration: 7 – 9 Nights The central route is accessible throughout the year. However, October to May is the ideal season if you want to combine the north and central routes. In the north, you can go for a combined Wayag lagoon hike and a pelagic-heavy diving below.  As you dive deeper, expect drift dives at The Passage. Furthermore, Blue Magic is the site where you will experience high current.  Also, the Dampier Strait is the hub of diving in Raja Ampat and Indonesia. However, if you want to avoid the crowd, Wayag will be your go-to destination. The water here is the most cinematic, with the sunlight changing the color of the water throughout the day.  3. The South Route (Misool) Duration: 7-9 Nights Protected by the Misool Islands MPA, Misool remains the “Photographer’s Route.” You will find large sea fans, huge schools of fish, and orange soft corals here.  However, Misool is only accessible during the dry season, and despite the presence of the Misool Eco Resort, liveaboards are the main accommodation here.  Misool is also an NTZ or No-Take Zone. As a result, it has helped in the revitalization of coral health and fish biomass.  Boo Windows and Magic Mountain are some of the iconic diving sites in Misool. Also, the Jellyfish Lake is a unique, secluded lagoon here. You can swim with non-stinging jellyfish here.  Choose Your Favorite Diving Route In Raja Ampat: A Quick Decision Matrix  Still confused about the best diving route to choose? Have a quick look at this decision matrix.  FeatureNorth (Wayag/Kawe)Central (Dampier)South (Misool)Primary Attraction• Topography• Lagoons• Pelagics• Fish Biomass• Currents• Soft and Colorful Corals • MantasTopside Scenery10/10 (Iconic Views)8/10 (Jungle Islands)9/10 (Karst Peaks)Water TemperatureWarm (28-30°C)Warm (28-30°C)Warm (28-30°C)Best ForAdventure & ViewsAdrenaline & Fish ActionPhotography & Color Raja Ampat Liveaboard Tips: A Quick 5-Day Itinerary (Central And North Zones) If you don’t have the time or budget to do a best-of-everything tour, you can choose a quick 5-Day central and north tour with the central and north zones in focus. DaysLocation/RouteFocusDiving PlanKey Notes and Pro TipsDay 1Arrival in Sorong (SOQ)Logistics & RecoveryN/A• Arrival in Sorong via Jakarta (CGK) or Makassar (UPG).• Transfer to Swiss-Belhotel Sorong or A Similar Accommodation.• Assemble dive gear, test strobes, charge batteries.Day 2Sorong to Central Raja Ampat (Dampier Strait)Orientation and Easy Diving Two Dives and Optional Night Dive • Harbor Transfer in the Morning.• Board the Liveaboard and Get Done with Cabin Assignment and Safety Briefing.• Light Lunch Onboard.• Check Dives on Gentle Slopes and Bommies.• Conditions: Mild Current, Warm Water (28–29°C). • Night Dive on a Sheltered Reef or Jetty.Day 3Dampier StraitHigh-energy Fish & Currents. 3-4 Dives• Cape Kri (World-Record Fish Biomass)• Sardine Reef (Snapper & Barracuda Tornadoes)• Blue Magic (Manta Rays, Strong Current)• Optional Night Dive• Skills Required:Negative Entries and Reef Hook Proficiency.Day 4Dampier Strait to Kawe (North)Transition North and Scenery3 Dives• The Passage (Mangroves & Surreal Lighting).• Citrus Ridge (Soft Corals & Macro)• Afternoon Dive en Route North. • Evening Scenic Sail toward Kawe with Jungle Islands and Limestone Cliffs at Sunset. • Short, Comfortable Crossing.Day 5North Raja Ampat (Kawe & Wayag) to SorongIconic Raja Ampat Finale2 Dives• Black Rock (Sharks, Jacks, Heavy current).• Eagle Rock (Fish Explosions). • Optional Short Wayag Lagoon Viewpoint Visit if Weather Permits• Afternoon Return to Sorong. • No Same-Day International Flights.• Overnight stay recommended. If You Are Going From The Central Zone To The South: A Reality Check  Remember that a journey from the diving sites in the central zone to the south is going to be logistically challenging. Exploring the south route itself takes around 7-9 days.  You have to cross the Seram Sea if you are traveling from the dive sites in the central zone to the south. I have not come across any guide that talks about this challenge.  Here, crossing the open sea is a 10-12-hour journey. You have to make a journey overnight.  October to March is the best time for diving in the central and south zones of Raja Ampat. However, there can be sudden storms or strong winds causing occasional disturbance in your diving sessions or during transitions.  Also, consider that there will be a 10-12-hour journey in the Open Sea. So, there can be sea sickness. So, you must start taking the medication before the captain announces the crossing. You don’t need to wait until you feel nauseous.  Budget Vs. Luxury Raja Ampat Liveaboard Tips: What Do You Actually Get?  Liveaboards in Raja Ampat can be converted from traditional boats. These can also function as 5-star hotels. A student or a young professional, traveling solo, will, of course, opt for the budget-friendly converted boats.  On the other hand, the luxury liveaboards offer free satellite internet connection and free Nitrox. Here are the things you need to know about these liveaboards.  1. Budget Phinisis ($250 - $350/Night) These are traditional Indonesian wooden schooners. You will get bunk beds in small cabins, and sometimes the bathroom facility will be shared. Also, you will get tasty but simple local food such as Nasi Goreng and fish.  However, these boats might have the dive deck at the front of the boat. Moreover, there is no dedicated camera room in these boats.  2. Mid-Range ($350 - $550/Night) Boats such as The Mermaid or Black Manta fall into the mid-range liveaboard categories. Along with the amenities offered by the traditional and budget-friendly boats, these boats also have the following. Nitrox Availability En-suite Bathrooms with Hot Water Western and Indonesian Buffet 3. Luxury Yachts ($600+/Night) These luxury yachts have big master suites with ocean views. It also has jacuzzis on deck, massage therapists, and a 1:1 or 2:1 diver-to-guide ratio. Furthermore, it often includes free Nitrox and satellite internet.  However, you must remember that the engine room is almost always at the back of these luxury boats. To avoid this “Engine Room Trap,” you must choose a forward cabin and enjoy a quiet sleep.  You must avoid the lower decks and rear cabins. Otherwise, you will hear the noise of the engine, and you may even feel uncomfortable with the smell of the exhaust fumes.  Our Top 3 Liveaboards In Raja Ampat By Budget Have a look at the table below to know about our pick of the top 3 liveaboards by budget.  Budget LevelBoat RecommendationWhy We Love It Budget FriendlyRaja Ampat Aggressor• Reputable Standard• Great Safety Record• Special RunsMid-Range ValueThe Mermaid II• Steel Hull, More Stable than Wood• Huge Dive Deck• Great FoodLuxuryDamai I or II• Choose Your Dive ItineraryHuge Cabins Essential Practical Tips For Liveaboard Life Managing the currents of the Indonesian water, the use of Nitrox, and camera table etiquette are the things you need to keep in mind for the ultimate liveaboard trips in Raja Ampat. 1. Manage The "Indonesian Throughflow" (Currents) The current in the Raja Ampat waters is what brings the schools of fish. However, because of the current, diving in the water of Raja Ampat is a challenge.  Furthermore, in sites such as Blue Magic, you cannot float on the surface, adjusting your mask. You must roll back and descend immediately to grab the reef before the current sweeps you away. In addition, you must have a reef hook when you are diving in the waters of Raja Ampat. You hook the reef hook into a dead rock and then float in the Raja Ampat water.  2. Nitrox: Luxury Or Necessity? Don’t listen to anyone who says that Nitrox is a luxury. If you are attempting 3-4 dives for around 7-10 days, you will need nitrox, for sure.  Most diving spots in Raja Ampat have square profiles, meaning you have to remain deep in the water for a long time. So, you have to manage the nitrogen loading to reduce fatigue.  Unless you have boarded a luxury liveaboard, you may have to pay $150-$200 extra (per trip) to the boat for nitrox. So, consider this expense in your budget.  3. Camera Table Etiquette Raja Ampat is the international hub for serious and professional photographers. The rigs and accessories they use are sometimes more expensive than cars.  So, you cannot keep anything wet on the photography table as it will have dry towels, o-rings, and expensive electronics.  The Logistics: Arrival, Departure, And Hidden Costs Have a look at the table below to understand the “flight,” “airport chaos,” and more.  Arriving in Sorong (SOQ)• Sorong is the Gateway City. • It is a gritty industrial port.• It is not a tourist destination.Flights• Most flights arrive via Jakarta (CGK) or Makassar (UPG).The "Buffer Day" Rule• Domestic flights in Indonesia are notoriously delayed. • Do not fly in on the morning of your boat's departure. • Arrive one day early and stay at a hotel.Airport Chaos• You will have to say a lot of “No, thank you" and be firm to avoid the porters at the airport. • They will aggressively grab your bag.  The Hidden Costs: Raja Ampat Liveaboard Tips  When you are comparing the prices of Raja Ampat liveaboards, you have to consider the hidden costs. Otherwise, your budgeting will be in a soup.  Hidden CostsExpenses Marine Park & Harbor FeesAround $200 - $250 USD Per PersonYou will have to pay the amount in cash or by credit card on the boat. Fuel SurchargeThe Rise in fuel costs has led to a $150 - $200 USD surcharge.Crew TipsThis is the divers' salary. The standard is 10-15% of the charter price, paid in cash at the end of the trip. That’s it! Get ready with your gear and budget your trip right, and enjoy an unforgettable diveaboard experience in Raja Ampat, Indonesia.  Raja Ampat Liveaboard Tips: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Raja Ampat liveaboard tips.  1. What Is The Best House Reef In Raja Ampat? Find a rich house reef at the front of the Raja Ampat Biodiversity Eco Resorts. This site is accessible by boats only, and based on the current, you will get to see the tip of the reef between two and five meters. Along with reef sharks, you will also find moray eels and turtles. Also, you can snorkel at this site at night to spot the walking shark or the Raja Ampat epaulette shark.  2. How Many Days Are Enough In Raja Ampat? You need at least 8-12 days for a trip to Raja Ampat. However, if you want, you can also do a quick 5-6-day diving expedition in the northern or central sections. Still, if you want to explore the entire south or a combination of the Dampier Strait diving and diving in the north zone (Wayag/Kawe), you will need at least 10 days. However, if you want to dive at the best sites of Raja Ampat, you will need more than 15 days. 3. Is Raja Ampat Okay For Beginner Divers?  Yes, Raja Ampat has many diving sites for beginners and intermediate-level divers. The central Damier Strait region, especially, offers excellent visibility, but with a low current. Furthermore, the water here has many shallow reefs. So, you don’t need to get deep into the water.Also, at facilities such as At Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort, beginners can get personalized training. Thus, you will feel confident and safe in the water, even if you are a beginner.  Read Also: Is Amed Bali Worth Visiting? (Location, How To Reach, Things To Do, Nightlife, And More) Is Munduk Bali Worth Visiting? (Direction, Things To Do, Unique Attractions, And More) Bali vs Thailand: Which Place is Better?