From Lembeh to Raja Ampat: A 600-Mile Adventure Across Indonesia’s Hidden Seas

The Mermaid II just embarked on another excellent exciting adventure across 3 different seas, over 600 nautical miles of navigation over the course of 12 days. From the macro paradise of Lembeh Strait, through the adventurous territory of Halmahera, and finally concluding in the rich waters of Raja Ampat. Three amazing destinations in one go!

Starting off in Lembeh Strait, where we explore the black volcanic sands in search for rare tiny critters. We were treated to many different species of critters in the short time we were there. Colorful nudibranch, cuttlefish, coconut octopus, crustaceans, Ambon Scorpionfish, thorny seahorse and even pygmy seahorse just to name a few.

After Lembeh, we set course east towards a remote island called Tifore. This island paradise is home to the biggest school of Barracudas all of us have ever seen! Thousands of them came swirling around like a vortex from out of the blue, mixing with an equally impressive school of Bigeye Jacks. Truly an impressive sight to behold!

From Tifore, we set course towards Halmahera, enjoying the infrequently dived, pristine reefs this remote area has to offer. Beautiful shallow reefs covered in dense hard and soft corals dazzling with millions of Anthias dancing in the currents, while Blacktip Reef Sharks were seen patrolling the reefs. Our eagle-eyed dive masters were also finding tiny critters hidden among the reef such as the elusive Pontohi Pygmy Seahorse, Ornate Ghost Pipefish, Bobbit Worms and ever so tiny Ladybug Amphipods. The best part? No other boats in sight

After an overnight sail from Halmahera, we found ourselves back in Raja Ampat. Immersed in the rich marine biodiversity of the 4 Kings archipelago. From the colorful soft corals, giant sea fans and pygmy seahorses of Misool, to the dense hard coral gardens and schooling fish actions in the Dampier Strait. We concluded the trip by a little hike to the famous viewpoint overlooking beautiful turquoise lagoons dotted with limestone islands below, and also an incredible jetty dive rich in fish life and turtles.

Christopher Pen

Mermaid II
Lembeh-Halmahera-Raja Ampat
March 02-13, 2026