Le Pirate Raja Ampat Liveaboard FAQ

Planning a Raja Ampat liveaboard cruise from Sorong? Explore our 6D5N Central Raja Ampat, 7D6N Misool, and 7D6N Wayag itineraries, boat facilities, activities, inclusions, booking terms, and practical travel information for your Indonesia sailing adventure.

General Information

What is Le Pirate Raja Ampat?

Le Pirate Raja Ampat is an extended liveaboard sailing experience exploring the islands, beaches, lagoons, and marine life of Raja Ampat aboard Explorer 1. The cruise combines remote island exploration, snorkeling, and time at sea, offering guests an opportunity to discover the natural beauty of Raja Ampat.

Where does the Raja Ampat cruise depart from and return to?

All Raja Ampat cruises depart from and return to Sorong, West Papua, Indonesia. Guests should arrive in Sorong at least one day before the scheduled departure. Pickup and drop-off services to and from Sorong Airport or hotels in Sorong are included.

What Raja Ampat itineraries are available?

All Raja Ampat cruises depart on Mondays and offer different ways to explore one of Indonesia’s most remarkable island regions, from the sheltered bays and coral gardens of Central Raja Ampat to the remote limestone landscapes of Misool and the iconic lagoons of Wayag.

• 6 Days 5 Nights (6D5N) Central Raja Ampat: Explore island scenery, sheltered bays, vibrant coral gardens, and well-known snorkeling areas across Central Raja Ampat.
• 7 Days 6 Nights (7D6N) Misool: Venture south to Misool, known for its dramatic limestone formations, secluded lagoons, and rich marine life.
• 7 Days 6 Nights (7D6N) Wayag: Discover the spectacular karst islands and turquoise lagoons of Wayag, alongside other highlights of Raja Ampat.

The 6D5N Central Raja Ampat cruise is available as a shared or private cruise. The 7D6N Misool and Wayag itineraries are currently available as private cruises.

How do I book a Raja Ampat cruise?

You can book your Raja Ampat liveaboard cruise directly through the Le Pirate website: Book a Raja Ampat boat trip

For booking enquiries, you can contact our team by email at cruise@lepirate.com or via WhatsApp at +62 813 3838 9360. Our operational hours are 09:00-17:00 Bali Time, Monday to Sunday.

For the best availability, we recommend contacting us as early as possible, especially if you are planning a private cruise or travelling during a busy season.

Choosing Your Itinerary

What destinations are included in the 6D5N Raja Ampat Central itinerary?

The planned 6D5N Central Raja Ampat itinerary may include:

• Friwend Island
• Fam Island / Piaynemo
• Melissa’s Garden
• The Passage
• Kabui Bay
• Manta Sandy
• Arborek Island
• Yenbuba Jetty
• Kri Island
• Cape Kri

This route combines iconic island scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and visits to some of Central Raja Ampat’s best-known marine and coastal areas.

What destinations are included in the 7D6N Misool itinerary?

The planned 7D6N Misool itinerary may include:

• Matan
• Farondi
• Yiliet
• Sabenibnu Island
• Whale Rock
• Kalig
• Kalig Beach
• Love Lagoon
• Gorgonian Passage
• Wayil
• Yellu
• Dafalen
• Goa Keramat

This longer southern expedition offers more time to explore Misool’s secluded lagoons, limestone formations, beaches, and reefs, with opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and island exploration. Please note that this route is only available for private cruise only.

What destinations are included in the 7D6N Wayag itinerary?

The planned 7D6N Wayag itinerary may include:

• Friwend Island
• Piaynemo / Fam Island
• Wayag
• Aljui Bay
• Arborek Island or Manta Sandy
• Cape Kri

This route combines the iconic landscapes of Wayag with island exploration and opportunities to experience Raja Ampat’s rich underwater world. Please note that this route is only available for private cruise only.

Can the itinerary change?

Yes. The route may be adjusted due to weather, tides, sea conditions, safety considerations, operational requirements, and local regulations. The final itinerary is determined by the captain and crew based on the conditions during the cruise. Changes to the route do not automatically entitle guests to a refund or compensation.

Boat and Cabins

Which boat is used for Raja Ampat?

Raja Ampat cruises operate aboard Explorer 1, a boutique liveaboard built in 2026.

Explorer 1 is approximately 21 metres long and features:

• Four guest cabins
• Maximum capacity of eight guests
• Air-conditioned cabins
• Private ensuite bathrooms
• Solar-powered energy system
• Starlink internet
• Reverse osmosis water system
• A six-person crew

How many guests can stay onboard?

Explorer 1 accommodates a maximum of eight guests in four cabins. Its limited capacity creates a more intimate and personalised liveaboard experience.

What’s the difference between a Shared and Private cruise?

• Shared Cruise: you book by the cabin and share the boat with other travellers who’ve booked their own cabins for the same departure.
• Private Cruise: you charter the whole boat exclusively for your own group, up to eight guests across all four cabins.

Do the cabins have air conditioning and private bathrooms?

Yes. All guest cabins are air-conditioned and include private ensuite bathrooms.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?

Explorer 1 is equipped with Starlink internet. Connection quality may vary depending on location, weather, and satellite coverage.

Is electricity available throughout the cruise?

Electricity is supported by the boat’s solar-powered energy system and onboard generator. As the cruise operates in remote areas, electricity use is limited, and we ask guests not to bring or use high-draw electrical devices such as hair dryers or hair straighteners, as these put excessive strain on the solar system. We appreciate guests using power responsibly so the system can keep up for everyone onboard.

Activities and Daily Experience

What activities are available during the Raja Ampat cruise?

Depending on the itinerary and local conditions, activities may include:

• Inland trekking
• Guided snorkeling
• Paddleboarding
• Free diving
• Beach visits
• Movie nights
• Board games
• Bonfires where permitted
• Beach barbecues where permitted

All activities are subject to weather, sea conditions, safety considerations, and local regulations.

Will we visit beaches and remote islands?

Yes. Our Raja Ampat itineraries explore remote islands, beaches, lagoons, and coastal landscapes, offering opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Can I go snorkeling during the cruise?

Yes. Guided snorkeling is included, and snorkeling equipment is available onboard. Snorkeling locations depend on the itinerary and current sea conditions.

Can I go free diving?

Free diving may be possible in suitable locations and conditions. Guests must follow the crew’s safety instructions and local regulations.

Are bonfires and beach barbecues always available?

No. Bonfires and beach barbecues are only conducted where permitted by local authorities and environmental regulations. They may be cancelled due to weather, location restrictions, or safety concerns.

Can I use a drone during the cruise?

Drone use in protected areas may require the appropriate permits. Guests are responsible for complying with applicable regulations and should confirm the requirements before bringing or operating a drone.

Food and Inclusions

What is included in the Raja Ampat cruise price?

The cruise price includes:

• Accommodation in your selected cabin
• Meals and snacks
• Tea, coffee, and drinking water
• Snorkeling equipment
• Paddleboards
• Swim jackets
• Towels and bed linen
• Soap and shampoo
• National Park entrance fees
• Pick-up and drop-off from/to Sorong Airport or hotels in Sorong

What is not included?

The following are not included:

• Flights
• Accommodation before or after the cruise
• Travel insurance
• Tips
• Paid drinks
• Personal expenses

Please check the booking information for the most current details on inclusions and exclusions.

Are drinks included?

Tea, coffee, and drinking water are included. Other drinks may be available at an additional charge.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Please inform us of any dietary requirements or food allergies when making your booking so that the crew can review what can be accommodated onboard.

Should I tip the crew?

Tips are not included in the cruise price, and while entirely at your discretion, they’re genuinely appreciated. Our crew works hard around the clock sailing, cooking, guiding activities, and looking after guests to make sure your time onboard is enjoyable, and a tip is a meaningful way to recognise that effort.

Booking and Payment

How much is the deposit?

A 25% non-refundable deposit is required upon booking to confirm your reservation.

When is the balance payment due?

The remaining 75% final payment is due 21 days before departure. For some bookings, full payment may be required at the time of booking. The 75% final payment is refundable if the cancellation is made 22 days or more before departure, provided that the final payment was made before its due date. Applicable bank fees will be deducted from the refund. Cancellations made 21 days or less before departure are non-refundable.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended and should include coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, delays, and other travel-related risks.

What happens if the cruise route changes?

The itinerary may be changed due to weather, tides, sea conditions, safety considerations, or local regulations. Changes to the route do not automatically entitle guests to a refund.

Children, Safety, and Suitability

Are children allowed on Raja Ampat cruises?

Children under 16 years old are not permitted on shared cruises. Guests under 16 may be accepted on a private cruise only, subject to the applicable conditions and adult supervision.

Is Raja Ampat suitable for families?

Raja Ampat is primarily designed for guests who enjoy remote travel, outdoor activities, and life at sea. Families travelling with children should consider a private cruise and discuss the arrangements with the Le Pirate team before booking.

Is the cruise suitable for guests with limited mobility?

The cruise includes boat transfers, uneven surfaces, stairs, swimming, snorkeling, and inland activities. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the team before booking to discuss suitability.

What safety equipment is available onboard?

Explorer 1 carries safety equipment required for its operations, including:

• Life raft
• Life jackets
• Flares
• GPS navigation
• VHF radio
• Radar
• SSB radio
• Tracking equipment

The vessel is operated by a professional crew, and guests must follow all safety instructions given by the Captain and crew.

Are marine animals and coral protected?

Yes. Guests must not touch marine life or coral, collect coral or sand, feed wildlife, or leave rubbish in the sea or on islands. Guests must follow local conservation rules and the crew’s instructions when visiting protected areas.

Meeting Point and Schedule

When should I arrive in Sorong?

Guests should arrive in Sorong one day before departure to allow sufficient time for flight delays, transfers, and check-in preparations.

What time does the Raja Ampat trip start and end?

Pickup and departure arrangements will be communicated to guests before the cruise. Return times are estimates and may change due to weather, sea conditions, operational requirements, or harbour authority instructions. Guests should avoid booking flights or onward travel too close to the expected return time.

Protecting the Places We Visit

How can I help protect the places we visit?

Raja Ampat is home to sensitive marine ecosystems and local communities. Guests are expected to respect wildlife, coral reefs, local communities, and applicable conservation regulations.

Please help protect the destinations by:

• Avoiding single-use plastic where possible
• Not touching marine life or coral
• Not collecting coral, shells, sand, or other natural materials
• Not feeding wildlife
• Taking rubbish back to the boat
• Following crew instructions
• Respecting local customs and regulations

Protecting these places is part of our culture at Le Pirate, not just a rule for guests.

Is Explorer 1 powered by solar energy?

Explorer 1 is equipped with a 10 KWp solar power system, including solar panels, batteries, and an inverter. Under suitable weather conditions, the system can reduce the amount of time the generator needs to operate, helping to reduce diesel consumption and associated carbon emissions during the cruise.

Before You Go

What should I pack for the Raja Ampat cruise?

Guests should bring:

• Lightweight and comfortable clothing
• Swimwear
• Sun protection
• Hat and sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Comfortable footwear
• A windbreaker or long-sleeve layer for cooler, windy nights the swing from sun during the day to wind and cooler air at night is often what catches guests off guard
• Personal medication
• A reusable water bottle
• Waterproof bags for valuables
• A small daypack
• Travel documents and insurance details

Because the cruise visits remote destinations, guests should pack thoughtfully and avoid bringing unnecessary items.

Where can I find more information or ask additional questions?

For availability, booking assistance, itinerary details, or questions about whether Raja Ampat is suitable for your travel plans, please contact the Le Pirate team before making your reservation.

Ready to explore Raja Ampat? Check availability and book your preferred Raja Ampat itinerary through the booking page.