Coralia Liveaboard overview

By
Ashley Meara
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Ashley is an underwater photographer, scientist, writer, and PADI MSDT Instructor. In 2022, she graduated with a degree in Marine Ecology from the University of San...
Rebecca Strauss
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...

A standout player in the realm of diving liveaboards is the Coralia, a unique vessel that combines incredible diving experiences with a steadfast commitment to conservation, sustainability, and marine science education.

Situated in the epicenter of the Coral Triangle, itineraries on the Coralia explore the most biodiverse marine oasis on Earth, home to 75% of all coral species. The diving itinerary puts the magnificent reefs of Raja Ampat on center stage. Known for their remarkable marine biodiversity, these waters are home to manta rays, whale sharks, elusive dugongs, and the vibrantly hued mandarinfish.

The Coralia stands out for its dedication to preserving the environment, fostering local communities, and imparting valuable educational lessons to its guests. From waste reduction and energy-efficient technologies to water conservation efforts, this liveaboard exemplifies how businesses can be proactive stewards of the environment.

Let’s dive into our review of Coralia.

About this review

To help you find a that will fit your needs, we’ve tested, researched, and reviewed the best ones available today.
We test both in the water, diving in various conditions - and in our lab - so we can give you accurate answers on quality, performance, and the overall value.

Read about our test of s

Things we like:

  • Diverse dive sites
  • Marine science education
  • Abundant photography resources
  • Engagement with local communities
  • Sustainability focus
  • Nitrox included daily

Things we don't like:

  • High price point
  • Strong current diving
  • Limited passenger capacity

Diving on the Coralia liveaboard

Diving aboard the Coralia will be a journey into some of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems of the Indonesian Archipelago. You will find yourself surrounded by colorful coral gardens, massive gorgonian sea fans, and an array of fascinating macro critters.

Weather during your trip depends on the specific destination, but Coralia itineraries are thoughtfully designed to coincide with the prevailing weather patterns in different Indonesian regions. The water temperature throughout the region remains steady year-round at about 81 to 84 F (27 to 29 C).

Beginning dive courses are offered on the Coralia, so guests can arrive with no previous experience. However, due to the typically strong currents in much of Indonesia, prior certification up to Advanced Open Water is recommended. Dive groups are divided based on certification level, experience, and other interests. Nitrox is included free of charge.

Briefings all take place in the dining hall and the crew takes care of your gear set up. Divers are transported by two tenders to the prime dive sites, along with your experienced local dive guides.

Highlights:

  • Biodiversity hotspot with pristine coral and large pelagics
  • PADI dive courses and specialties offered
  • Nitrox free of charge
  • Hot chocolate and warm towels provided after night dives

Onboard the Coralia

This 157-foot (48 m) liveaboard accommodates a limited number of divers, with a 1:1 staff- to-guest-ratio and eight spacious cabins, all named after coral species. You will retreat to well-appointed staterooms after a day of underwater marvels, where comfort meets rustic charm.

All eight staterooms feature air-conditioning, a sofa, working desk, closet, and private bathroom. The four master cabins have an added private balcony with a sofa and chairs, where guests can enjoy every sunset and sunrise from the comfort of their own room.

But it’s not just about the luxurious quarters—Coralia is a haven for photographers, featuring an air-conditioned photography center on the main deck and state-of-the-art facilities to capture the underwater realm at its best.

Inside, the air-conditioned salon, lounge, and restaurant offer a relaxing retreat, with ample seating for divers to unwind. In this communal space, guests can also find entertainment options such as free WiFi, a fish ID library, and audio/video entertainment.

The expansive sun deck beckons with loungers and shaded areas, inviting guests to bask in the sun. From the top deck, guests can indulge in a soothing massage at the spa as an additional service after a full day of diving.

The shaded dive deck ensures convenience and efficiency with convenient gear storage and hangers. Rinse tanks are readily available to clean gear and camera equipment. There are warm showers, changing areas, and towels to ensure comfort for every diver.

Highlights:

  • Massage area onboard
  • Air-conditioned photo and editing center
  • Two warm, freshwater showers and towels offered after dives

Dining onboard the Coralia

Begin the day with an early breakfast before the first dive, followed by a large morning meal, lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner all prepared by the skilled Ambonese chef. Dishes are always freshly prepared and irresistibly flavorful.

Vegetarian and vegan choices are readily accessible, and you’ll also discover delightful extras like cookies and a fruit bowl available throughout the day. All meals are served buffet-style and, once during the journey, there’s an unforgettable barbecue night.

Highlights:

  • Readily available vegan and vegetarian dishes
  • Chef professionally trained in Bali
  • Wonderful local and international cuisine

Things we like:

  • Diverse dive sites
  • Marine science education
  • Abundant photography resources
  • Engagement with local communities
  • Sustainability focus
  • Nitrox included daily

Things we don't like:

  • High price point
  • Strong current diving
  • Limited passenger capacity
Key Facts
Year Built 2018
Max Divers 16
Price Range Luxury
Trip Length 5-7 Nights
Internet Yes (free)
Nitrox Yes (free)
Equipment Rental Yes ($)
Camera Station Yes
Air Conditioning Yes
Min. Logged Dives No minimum
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