Why Discover the Raja Ampat Islands with a Private Luxury Yacht

Indonesia’s Raja Ampat Islands are world renowned for their incredible marine life, phenomenal scuba diving, snorkeling, birding, and endemic species. With the highest level of marine biodiversity on the planet, there is no better way to explore this region than by a private luxury yacht to ensure you enjoy all that is on offer – in absolute comfort with no compromises.

Where are the Raja Ampat Islands?

The Raja Ampat Islands are an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, rocky outcroppings, and islets surrounding four main islands (Raja Ampat literally translates to English as the “Four Kings”).

The main islands of Raja Ampat include Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo (the four kings). Although they are a province of the Republic of Indonesia, they are located off the northwest tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea.

When is the best time to visit the Raja Ampat Islands?

This is a year round destination, but for divers, the best time to visit the Raja Ampat Islands is September to end of May or early April, when large numbers of manta rays are present at the cleaning stations. For the very calmest waters and best visibility, visit during the main diving season which is between November and March. Water temperature remains constant throughout the year at around 28°C-30°C.

Why Discover the Raja Ampat Islands by Private Yacht?

The archipelagic nature of the Raja Ampat Islands makes them a perfect destination to explore from the water.
Why stay on land and limit yourself to one area when you can cruise and explore so much more? Raja Ampat is the trip of a lifetime so choose a luxury private yacht that is worthy of this world-class region.

Onboard el Aleph our experienced crew are dedicated to ensuring that your expectations are not only met but that they are exceeded. You’ll be able to create your own itinerary instead of needing to take into account the requests of others – this is your adventure and so you choose where to go, when to go, and what to do.

Dining on board el Aleph is an experience in itself and we are able to cater to any special dietary requirements. We will also ensure that the galley is stocked with items of your preference in advance of your boarding. Our crew is always on hand to assist you from the moment you step aboard.

Highlights of the Raja Ampat Islands

The Raja Ampat Islands are part of the Coral Triangle which is a geo-biology defined area that contains the richest marine biodiversity on earth. The triangle includes the waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste and the Solomon Islands – with Raja Ampat sitting at the heart.

Seventy-five percent of the world’s coral species are found here—nearly 600 different species. Over 2,000 different types of reef fish find refuge in these crystal clear waters. Whales, dolphins, dugongs and whale sharks feed, breed and migrate in these waters. And the Coral Triangle is home to six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles.

Highlights of the Raja Ampat Islands are not just underwater. This incredible region offers secret beaches and hidden covers that are just waiting to be discovered. The rocky islets offer impressive views for those who choose to climb them, and there are extensive areas of mangroves and primary rainforest which is home to a vast array of wildlife and birds (see flora and fauna section below).

Scuba Diving in Raja Ampat

Imagine pristine coral reefs, phenomenal biomass, endemic species, pelagics and diverse underwater reef scapes. Picture tropical islands in one of the most stunning areas of natural beauty on earth.  These are the Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia – a scuba diving paradise.

Raja Ampat has something to offer everyone from beginners to seasoned divers with walls, slopes, canyons, sea mounts drifts and calm lagoons. The quality of the coral and the sheer volume of fish are difficult to match. Gorgonian fans grow to be meters across, soft corals provide kaleidoscope colors and when looking up, it feels as though you are underneath a fish expressway. Pelagics such as sharks, tunas, trevally, and barracudas cruising by are a common sight on every dive.

If Raja Ampat is on your diving bucket list there is no better way to explore the region than by private yacht. On board El Aleph you’ll enjoy 5 star service which is usually only associated with the most luxurious of hotels. Your private charter will allow you to explore the dive sites which you want to explore, when you want to explore them.

Snorkeling around the Raja Ampat Islands

For those who prefer a Raja Ampat snorkeling tour to scuba diving, there are incredible shallow water coral gardens that are stunning to explore from the surface. Snorkeling in Raja Ampat is a breathtaking experience and you’ll see reefs that are bursting with color and teeming with life.

Other Watersports Available Onboard El Aleph

For those who would like to take part in a more active cruise experience, we have a number of other water sports opportunities, including water skiing, a banana boat, donut ring and wakeboards. Of course, our tender is always available to take you to secluded beaches, or to the shore should you wish to explore on land too.

Flora and Fauna of Raja Ampat

For nature enthusiasts taking a private charter, Raja Ampat is an epi-center of unique flora and fauna. It is home to endemic terrestrial species and it is also a mecca for bird lovers. Cruise around the islands of Batanta and Salawati and you’ll be able to see 3 birds of paradise: Wilson’s Bird of Paradise, the Red Bird of Paradise and the King Bird of Paradise. As you paddleboard or sea kayak through the jungle you’ll see the unique sight of the rainforest melting into the coral reef, occasional lazing lizards and even cuscus bear in the trees.

The Benefits of Cruising Raja Ampat by Private Luxury Yacht

Private liveaboard charters in Raja Ampat mean that you can enjoy this incredible region and absorb the natural beauty both top-side and underwater at a leisurely pace. Cruise around the myriad of islands, stroll along virgin white sand beaches or venture into the mangrove forests with our stand-up paddleboards and sea kayaks. Kick back and relax while enjoying a cocktail at sunset from the deck at the end of the day. This is the ultimate Raja Ampat adventure – unhurried and completely on your terms.

El Aleph is much more than just a liveaboard, she is a unique 5 star vessel built to be enjoyed by her owner who has a keen eye for detail, an appreciation of the finer things in life and who wanted to enjoy unprecedented luxury, space and comfort. As a result, El Aleph was built to the highest specifications possible, with no expense being spared.

To enquire about our rates and availability or to book your private charter Raja Ampat cruise on board El Aleph please contact us at: info@elalephcruising.com.

Please note that to ensure your privacy and an exclusive experience we only offer full charters and do not take bookings for individual cabins.