The Papua Blog
Raja Ampat by Private Yacht
Should you consider a private charter cruise? Probably. Read on to learn why.
Words by Marc Weiglein, photos by Marc Weiglein & friends
Going on a cruise in Raja Ampat is a dream. What many people don’t realise, however, is that Raja Ampat is also one of the best places in the world to charter your own traditional phinisi yacht. Few destinations offer such a strong selection of beautiful wooden sailing yachts in a comfortable, moderate size. And these are not small, improvised boats, but well-built vessels with a high level of comfort and service. For families or groups of four or more, chartering such a yacht can already be a very attractive option.
YOU PAY PER NIGHT
Charters are usually priced per night and include the entire yacht on an all-inclusive basis, as well as all activities. When divided among several guests, the price per person is often comparable to booking an individual cabin on a high-quality cruise. The advantages are privacy, flexibility, and the ability to customize the experience to your preferences, even after setting sail.
Many private charter yachts offer the same activities as larger vessels, including professional diving, guided snorkeling, kayaking, island visits, and relaxing evenings at anchor. Many have experienced cruise directors and excellent cuisine on board. However, the atmosphere is more intimate, and you have the entire yacht to yourself.
SOME YACHTS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE CHARTERS
We have several phinisi yachts in our portfolio that have 2 to 3 cabins and are ideal for 4 to 6 guests (or privacy-seeking honeymooners). Many of these yachts are operated exclusively as private charters and cannot be booked on a per-cabin basis. They are therefore particularly well suited for families or groups of friends, as both crew and operations are fully dedicated to private charters.
Here is a perfect private yacht for 4 to 6 guests
Of course, if you are travelling with a larger group of friends or a big family, exclusive charters with 5, 6 or 7 cabins are also available. In that case, you will experience another level of space, exclusivity, and style.
THE ITINERARY WILL BE TAILORED TO THE INTERESTS OF THE GROUP
Like shared cruises, charter cruises usually last from 6 to 11 nights. If you have less time, your cruise will focus on the central areas, where you can access several key sights. If you have more time, the cruise can expand to the north (Wayag) or the south (Misool), or both.
Our long-read article about cruising in Raja Ampat discusses possible routes in more detail: Cruising in Raja Ampat
Whether you are a group of dedicated scuba divers, a mix of snorkelers and divers, more leisure-focused, or a combination of all, a private charter cruise in Raja Ampat allows a tailored itinerary based on your preferences and/or diving experience. Interesting point for scuba divers: no minimum dive experience is required on a private charter cruise, and we can accommodate all levels.
Land excursions and visits can also be scheduled along the route. Whether you wish to enjoy no dives, or up to four dives per day, with or without excursions, everything can be arranged according to your wishes. Simply let us know your preferences and we will design the itinerary that suits your group best.
HOW TO CHOSE THE RIGHT CHARTER CRUISE IN RAJA AMPAT?
When chartering a yacht, you want to make sure you choose the right one. Having a matching number of cabins for your group is definitely not the only criterion! Important questions to consider include whether the crew knows how to cater to snorkelers and non-divers, or whether they can provide professional diving operations. Can a mixed group of divers and non-divers be accommodated? What is the atmosphere on board? Is the vessel more modern or traditional? What is the food and catering like on board? Which route is best suited to your group?
There are many yachts on the market, but the information available online is often inaccurate. This is where we step in. Every yacht in our carefully curated portfolio has been personally inspected and thoroughly evaluated by us. Our selection process is based on many years of direct experience in Raja Ampat. In addition to helping you choose the right yacht, we also advise on the most suitable route, the right program, as well as the highlights you can expect – and should expect – to see.
Of course, we also assist with practical matters, such as identifying the most suitable flights and collecting the necessary information and documents (for example, for Raja Ampat permits or if you wish to dive or take a diving course).
Navigating all of this can be challenging. As an on-site partner with real knowledge and experience, we ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.
If you would like to explore suitable options, simply get in touch.
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