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Diving on the Emperor Raja Laut liveaboard
Cruising around in a beautiful sailing vessel, you’ll be diving world-class sites in Indonesia. If the Banda Islands, Raja Ampat, and Komodo aren’t yet at the top of your list, here are a few reasons why they need to be there.
Raja Ampat is perfect for anyone looking to dive colorful, healthy reefs teeming with life. Spend your days underwater surrounded by schooling fish and vibrant colors. If you love fast currents, look no further than Komodo. With a dive site named “Slingshot,” you know what to expect! Aside from adrenaline, expect pelagic encounters with manta rays and perhaps even hammerhead sharks in these waters.
The Banda Sea may not be as well-known yet, but this remote destination certainly packs a punch. Current-swept seamounts, stunning walls, and coral gardens with pelagics and macro life galore are found here. On another kind of dive, you may also find yourself slowly scanning the muck looking for tiny critters. You can’t beat this destination for variety.
All diving from the Raja Laut is done from two tenders. Two expert dive guides, familiar with the local diving conditions and where to find the marine life you’re looking for, accompany every dive. Nitrox is included in your dive package, too.
In addition, Emperor Raja Laut’s rates include port, fuel, and marine park fees, so—excluding alcohol—there are no surprises when it comes to paying for your trip.
Highlights:
- Small, personal dive operation with only 12 divers onboard
- Two tenders drop divers in the right place
- Nitrox included in the liveaboard price
Onboard the Emperor Raja Laut
The Emperor Raja Laut not only looks impressive from a distance, but it also offers impressive onboard facilities and fine accommodations.
Six cabins offer space for 12 divers on the lower deck. There are three double-bed cabins and three twin-bed cabins. The twin cabins are arranged as bunk beds to make better use of the space, which might be less ideal for couples. Each cabin features en-suite facilities, with hot-water showers and individually controlled A/C with a fan. Daily housekeeping keeps everything clean.
Outside of your cabin, relax in the air-conditioned saloon, which features audio and video entertainment. It’s a great place to share images and videos or just enjoy a favorite movie. Bring your own or pick one from the media library; the choice is yours.
Or why not soak in the scenery on the stunning teak deck? You’ll find inviting sunbeds for lounging, reading a book, or sunbathing. There is plenty of shade on the deck, too, to help you stay cool in between dives.
Underwater photographers will love the dedicated camera table and charging stations that make it easy to keep your equipment in top shape.
Highlights:
- Six cabins with en-suite bathrooms and A/C
- Dedicated camera spaces
- Indoor and outdoor relaxation areas
Dining on the Emperor Raja Laut
If you’re traveling and diving in the style of a king, you should be dining like royalty, too, and the Emperor Raja Laut certainly delivers in this department.
Meals are served mostly buffet-style on deck. This dedicated al fresco dining area allows divers to enjoy their surroundings during delicious meals (there’s no indoor eating). Choose between Western and Indonesian options to get the best of both worlds and let the crew know about any dietary requirements.
The team can easily cater to requests for vegetarian food, accommodate food allergies, or cater to food requests relating to religious beliefs. The Emperor Raja Laut also offers plate service and à la carte dining.
If you feel hungry between meals, all-day snacks are always available. You can also enjoy hot and cold soft drinks as well as alcoholic beverages and spirits (an optional extra).
Highlights:
- Delicious and accommodating cuisine in a stunning environment
- Al fresco dining in a dedicated area under the vessel’s stunning sails
- Buffet-style meals and plate service are both available
Things we like:
- Smaller, more personal liveaboard experience with no more than 12 divers
- Stunning schooner dive yacht offers a serene sailing experience
- Great for single travelers with same-sex cabin share or private suites
- All-in pricing, including marine park and port fees and nitrox
- Take your pick from itineraries covering Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Banda Sea
- Snorkeling guests can be accompanied by crew members
Things we don't like:
- Bunk rooms can be a little disappointing for couples
- No indoor dining
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2005 |
| Max Divers | 12 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | Yes ($) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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