Lembeh strait before or after Raja Ampat?

[newlbs]

I’m planning to combine a trip to Lembeh Strait with my upcoming Raja Ampat liveaboard over the Christmas–New Year period. I’m trying to decide whether to visit Lembeh Strait before or after the liveaboard trip and how long to stay.

My initial plan is to spend 4 nights in Lembeh Strait first, then head to Sorong. However, the only direct flight is early in the morning, and since I’ll be staying on the island, it may take a while to reach the airport. To be safe in case of delays or cancellations, I’m considering spending two buffer days between the trips. Traveling in the opposite direction would be less stressful.

Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Darnold9999]

My preference is before. Allows you to get over jet lag before getting on a liveaboard. Easy diving as well to get your gear dialed in and discover you left some essential bit at home before the liveaboard where you can’t replace it.

 

[Darnold9999]

I wouldn’t worry too much about the airport transfer to Sorong. The trip to the airport from the island is one the resorts do regularly and the toll road is fast. A boat transfer and a fairly quick drive and you are there. If you want to minimize the worry spend the last night in a hotel near the airport. Have never done this but many do.

 

[newlbs]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Yea, that's what I'm thinking as well. I can reach out to the resort since they probably have coordinated it before. How long/how many dives would you recommend spending there to see a good variety of critters?

 

[Darnold9999]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Yea, that's what I'm thinking as well. I can reach out to the resort since they probably have coordinated it before. How long/how many dives would you recommend spending there to see a good variety of critters?

Four days of diving would be my recommendation for the first time you are there. Will give you a good feel for what is possible.

 

[Manuel Sam]

Just to offer a bit more reassurance. I did Lembeh before Raja in 2009 when the road wasn't as good as it is today. We made it to Manado Airport with plenty of time to spare. And on at least one subsequent trip to Lembeh in which I stayed on the island, I also had no issues making my flight even with the boat transfer across the strait. On both occasions, we arrived when it was still dark out.

 

[chillyinCanada]

I'd go to Lembeh beforehand and don't worry about getting to the airport on time.

My personal plan is to always arrive in Sorong at least a full day before the lob departs.

 

[dirtfarmer]

Definitely go to Lembeh before RA. 4 days of diving will give you a good idea of what Lembeh is all about and see a bunch of critters. If your not a photographer bring a magnifying glass to see the small macro better. If you turn out to hate muck diving 4 days of Lembeh won't kill you.

Arriving the day before your LOB departure is always a good decision not only for your peace of mind and you dont want to be one of those people holding the entire boat from its departure.

 

[newlbs]

Thank you all! I just heard back from NAD that they can do pickup and dropoff at anytime! That definitely helps with the trip planning.

 

[chillyinCanada]

Thank you all! I just heard back from NAD that they can do pickup and dropoff at anytime! That definitely helps with the trip planning.

Yes, NAD does indeed do that.