Epica Itinerary

Dampier Misool

 Welcome to the “4 Kings”—as you get on your Phinisi Schooner, your adventure will start directly in the heart of Raja Ampat. Meet the crew, listen to a safety briefing, get a tour of the boat, and get settled on board as we start our journey. Just a short navigation away lies Mioskon island – this small island is located between the larger islands of Gam, Waigeo and Kri, and the waters surrounding it are perfect for your first diving sessions in Raja Ampat. Get your first feeling of the amazing waters of the region and be prepared to be stunned by the biodiversity of marine life that will greet you as you enter the water. 

Welcome to Misool—this chain of tiny islands in the southeast of the main island creates a network of hidden coves, thriving lagoons, impressive cliffs, striking caves, photogenic limestone overhangs, mangrove corridors and stretches of sparkling beaches.

The area is also a controlled MPA of 1220 Square kilometers and a role model for conservation in partnership with the local community.

The islands around Misool are grouped into several island clusters: Balbulol, Daram Wayilbatan, and Yilliet –each satellite island group offers a full-day itinerary with several sites, so the places mentioned in this itinerary are only a few examples and there are plenty of alternatives – regardless of the exact sites chosen, Misool is sure to leave you with a lasting impression. 

A cluster of rocky limestone domes makes up the Penemu Islands. Draped with tiers of green vegetation, the islets encircle a shallow green bay and a walking trail along the rocky hills leads to a lookout with magnificent views of the lagoon, its outlying islands, and the ocean beyond. Take out the dinghy to discover the lagoons and limestone scenery at sunset nearby, or take to a paddleboard or a kayak and enjoy the waters at your own pace.

Here we also have Melissa’s Garden—an extraordinary site famous for its amazing display of hard coral fields. This place is home to one of the largest populations of fish in the area. Especially during a brisk current, you can see an enormous parade of fish and marine animals. After, venture out to some of the most celebrated snorkeling and diving sites in the area, where turtles float over intricate coral gardens and meet large schools of game fish congregating in nutrient-rich currents. 

Dampier Strait is a true beauty with its white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, iridescent reefs, and a backdrop of lush rainforest. The strait that flows between Waigeo and Batanta is rapidly becoming known as having some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling in Raja Ampat as a result of the nutrient-rich ocean currents passing through. 

The area also offers various land excursions into the jungle and mangroves and the chance to get up early to see the Birds of Paradise perform their morning ritual. Other bird sightings in this area include Cockatoos, Huge Hornbills, Frigates, Eagles and Colorful Parrots. 

Day 9:
Check-out time is 12:00, just after lunch. Last dive is done the morning of the last day. If you are remaining in Raja Ampat after any of the trips, we will drop you and your bags back at the Marine Park office. If you are returning to Sorong the same day, we can transfer your bags onto the ferry and arrange tickets for you on Epica. We will arrange to have you at the dock early for the ferry departure time. Please remember to leave a no-fly time of 24 hours after your last dive.

Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.