Cruises
Raja Ampat
Welcome to diving paradise
BIODIVERSITY HITS THE HIGH POINT
Let us show you around Pindito’s gigantic playground, made up of hundreds (if not thousands!) of dive sites. Edi is one of the real pioneers of Raja Ampat, having not only discovered numerous sites but also must hold some kind of record for the highest amount of dives around here. And still counting!
Raja Ampat, which means “4 Kings” lies in the Coral Triangle. The four main islands are Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo. This expanse of 40,000 square kilometers of marine territory and pristine reefs make these waters a diving haven second to none. Reputed to be the most biodiverse marine habitat on Earth, Raja Ampat is home to many species not found anywhere else. Spectacular, is a word often used to describe this region and is irresistible to divers.
Imagine descending into the big blue, encountering a rainbow of colors in the vibrant, thriving reefs. Then the marine life comes alive, as if they know how special they are and want to share their secret. Schools of fusiliers and jacks duck and sway in the currents, bump head parrot fish chomp away on the corals, shy Denise’s pygmy seahorses hide among gorgonian coral, frogfish try to keep themselves expertly camouflaged and white/black/grey tip reef sharks patrol effortlessly through the sea. Majestic mantas, rare wobbegong and epaulette sharks (walking shark) guarantee plenty of variety, schools of big-eyed trevally and barracudas, they put on a spectacular show.
Pindito never has a set itinerary. We plan our trips and water activities based on weather, tides and currents. From our expertise and experience, we know the ideal sea conditions for all the best and famous sites and when to dive them. And we of course have the not so famous, and even secret, equally spectacular sites that only a few of us know about.
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Click on the marks to see frequently visited stop overs
Misool
Diving in the endless maze of the islands of Misool is a very special treat for any diving career. It is paradise for macro enthusiasts, but encounters with larger fish such as manta rays are often possible. Misool is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world with fish, corals, sponges, soft corals, shrimps, crabs and countless nudibranchs and other invertebrates. Huge shoals of sardines are a definite highlight. Soft corals and sea fans (diameter of 3-4 meters) in all sizes and colors dominate the underwater landscape.
One of Pindito’s special places is called “Vrenelies Gärtli”. It is a legendary dive site that has it all, because of its very diverse landscape. Overhangs, huge caverns with swim throughs, lush steep walls with all kinds of corals are found here.
There is also plenty to do on land. With a unique speedboat ride you will explore the beautiful scenery. Crystal clear, turquoise water awaits you as well as a variety of exotic tropical plants such as orchids and even carnivorous plants.
Waigeo
A special feature of this tour is the crossing of the equator. This area has a fascinating landscape. Many famous Raja Ampat landscape photographs were shot here. On the north, on the island of Wayag, is the famous “Mount Pindito”. From here you get a fantastic view of the many islands. Pindito on anchor in the middle of the Bay, completes the beautiful landscape. “Sele Pele” offers the opportunity to look at a pearl farm up close. Depending on the production stage you will be invited to witness the fertilization or harvest! A unique opportunity you cannot afford to miss.
Jef Fam
“Jef Fam” is the name of a group of karst islands with great diving, lots of fish and colorful corals. Night dives at the “Red Wall” are always a special experience. In the sand under the pearl diving pier, a lot of special and peculiar creatures, especially wobbegongs and epaulette sharks (walking sharks) can be found. Countless nudibranchs, pipefish, seahorses, frogfish, scorpion fish cannot escape the well trained eye. A great highlight is the manta cleaning station near Mansuar.
DAMPIER STRAIGHT
The Dampier Straight separates the “Birdshead” Peninsula from Waigeo and Mansuar. The name comes from Dutch colonial times. It refers to the shape of the peninsula on the map, but it is also a paradise for many rare bird species.
Here the Pacific Ocean meets the Halmahera Sea, with an explosion of marine life as consequence. With regular strong currents, big fish feel especially comfortable. Manta rays, reef sharks, different schools of mackerel, tuna and barracuda are seen again and again.
Even dolphins and whales (Bryde’s whales, pilot whales) keep spending time in the Dampier straight. Since May 2011, we offer a special Whale-Macro tour that combines the macro-diving with whale and dolphin watching. This tour is accompanied by a marine expert in whale and dolphin behavior.
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