Raja Ampat | Misool & Central Region | January Expedition
January began in the very best way possible aboard Mermaid II, with an unforgettable 9-day
liveaboard expedition through the breathtaking regions of Misool and central Raja Ampat. From the moment guests stepped onboard, it was clear that this journey would be something special. Over the course of the trip, divers completed 25 dives across some of the most celebrated sites in the Coral Triangle, enjoying exceptional conditions, rich marine life, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere both above and below the surface.
Exceptional Diving Conditions
Raja Ampat is known worldwide for its biodiversity, but this trip was truly blessed with some of the best conditions imaginable. Visibility was consistently clear, often stretching far into the blue, allowing divers to fully appreciate the scale and complexity of the reefs. Currents were kind and manageable, providing exhilarating drifts without being overwhelming, ideal for both experienced divers and those continuing their training.
These conditions meant that every dive offered something for everyone. From dramatic reef walls and vibrant coral gardens to macro-filled slopes and fish-packed channels, the underwater world delivered time and time again. Schools of reef fish shimmered in the sunlight, while turtles, reef sharks, and countless species of smaller marine life kept divers constantly engaged.
Exploring Misool and Central Raja Ampat
The itinerary took guests through Misool’s iconic southern reefs before heading north into central Raja Ampat, offering a diverse range of dive environments. Misool’s reefs impressed with their dramatic topography, dense coral coverage, and sense of untouched wilderness. Soft corals bloomed in vivid reds, pinks, and purples, while hard corals formed intricate structures teeming with life.
As the journey continued into central Raja Ampat, divers encountered bustling reefs alive with movement. Massive schools of fusiliers and snapper swept across the sites, while reef sharks patrolled calmly in the background. Each dive felt unique, showcasing a different side of this extraordinary region.
Learning and Progressing at Sea
In addition to recreational diving, the trip also hosted multiple dive courses, including Advanced Open Water and Nitrox certifications. Conducting training onboard a liveaboard in Raja Ampat provides a perfect learning environment, students gain experience across varied dive sites while being supported by experienced instructors and crew.
Participants not only expanded their knowledge and skills but also gained confidence as divers, applying what they learned immediately in real-world conditions. Completing certifications in such a pristine and inspiring location made the achievement even more meaningful.
Celebrations and Special Moments
Beyond the diving, this trip was filled with personal milestones and memorable celebrations. One guest celebrated her birthday onboard, marked by smiles, laughter, and a shared moment with fellow travellers and crew. Celebrating a birthday at sea, surrounded by new friends and stunning scenery, created a memory that will last a lifetime.
Another highlight was hosting a honeymooning couple, who chose Mermaid II as the setting for their post-wedding adventure. Exploring exquisite reefs by day and enjoying peaceful eveningstogether on deck made for a truly romantic and unique honeymoon experience. Sharing such specialmoments with guests is always one of the most rewarding aspects of liveaboard life.
Sunrises, Sunsets, and Life on Deck
Life aboard Mermaid II was just as magical above the water as below it. Sunny days and calm seas set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable journey. Guests rose early to witness spectacular sunrises, where soft light painted the sky and reflected off glassy waters. Evenings were equally special, with golden sunsets marking the end of each day’s adventures.
Between dives, guests relaxed on deck, shared stories, reviewed photos, or simply took in the beauty of their surroundings. The rhythm of liveaboard life: dive, eat, rest, repeat, created a sense of calm and immersion that allowed everyone to fully disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.
A Truly International Group
One of the most beautiful aspects of this trip was the sense of community that formed so quickly. Guests came from all over the world, bringing different backgrounds, cultures, and stories with them. Friendships formed almost immediately, united by a shared passion for the ocean.
By the end of the trip, the group had become a tight-knit community, laughing together, supporting one another, and sharing unforgettable experiences. These connections are often what guests remember most, new friendships forged in extraordinary places.
Snorkeling the Shallow Reefs
While many guests were busy diving, others chose to snorkel, discovering that Raja Ampat’s
shallow reefs are just as spectacular. Sunlight danced across vibrant corals, illuminating schools of fish in crystal-clear water. The shallow reefs offered incredible opportunities for photography, with colors appearing even more vivid near the surface.
Snorkelers were rewarded with close encounters and long, peaceful explorations, proving that Raja Ampat truly offers something for everyone, regardless of how deep they choose to go.
A Perfect Beginning to the Year
As the trip came to an end, there was a shared feeling among guests and crew alike: this was a truly special expedition. Incredible diving, perfect conditions, meaningful celebrations, and genuine connections made January aboard Mermaid II an unforgettable experience.
Starting the year immersed in the natural beauty of Raja Ampat, surrounded by like-minded people and guided by an experienced and passionate crew, set the tone for what promises to be an exceptional diving season ahead.
For everyone onboard, this journey was more than just a trip, it was a collection of moments, memories, and experiences that will be carried long after leaving the turquoise waters of Raja Ampat behind.
Natalie Turner-Blackman
Mermaid II
Raja Ampat
January 10-18, 2026