RA North or South in Dec?

[k1mmay]

Ocean Lovers,

Been roaming around forums for some time now and hoping you can help me...

I am planning a liveaboard in Dec (i know iam a little late but there still seems to be quite a few boats available). This is my first time in RA and iam trying to decide whether i should focus on the North or South.

I know i will have a amazing time which ever route i choose. Looking to spend 7 -10 nights only. i dont have time for the 14 night tours. I would prefer to see larger pelagics from my research the north might be a better option.

1 - is the north better for pelagics
2 - any boat recommendations for the north is this is the case - its hard to tell which boats go where..
3 if i opt for a 7 night liveaboard will i be comprising i.e. visiting the easily accessible dive sites which tend to be busier and missing out the best because ive reduced the time or can i still enjoy a quality tour in the north in 7 nights?

any advice appreciated.

 

[Divebooker.com]

Hi k1mmay!

It’s true that Raja Ampat is an amazing diving destination regardless the itinerary and longer trip provides more chances to discover it better, but still even 7-night trip won’t disappoint you.

The area of the Four Kings (Central and North Raja Ampat) is comprised of over 1500 islands and home to 600 types of corals, 1,500 fish species and over 600 types of mollusks, giant manta rays, and colossal schools of pelagic fish.

We can offer you two trips for December:
1. 7-night trip on Raja Ampat Agressor (12 Dec - 19 Dec) → https://divebooker.com/raja-ampat-7-nights-hcz56733
2. 7-night trip on La Galigo Liveaboard (07 Dec - 14 Dec) → https://divebooker.com/raja-north-7-nights-hcz59402

 

[Andreni]

I've only dived the north of Raja Ampat. It was stunning! I was told that visibility in the south tends to be a bit less good and yes, there seems to be more pelagics in the northern parth. I don't think you can do something wrong with Raja Ampat, either way. And December is a good season. Had lots of Mantas, Mobula rays, barrakudas, white and black tip sharks and grey reef sharks. Depends on your budget: Waow, Amira, Dewi Nusantara and all the other boats are very good and surely you find one which suits your needs.

 

[AlMitch]

Ferrari vs Lambo!!
If you are going all the way to RA then just do a 10 day trip that hits both.
We saw manta and a few sharks down south. The south has incredibly colorful soft corals that you dont get up N. BUT the N does seem to have more fish..... just do both!

 

[Mike Veitch]

8 nights with Mermaid II and you will do both North and South. Personally I prefer the south (Misool area) as there are less divers around. Both north and south are good in Dec, do expect some rain though.