Raja Ampat Liveaboard Recommendations

[10000psi]

This reply is a little late but maybe good info for someone. I have been on the Arenui 3 times and always use 5mm. I typically dive all 4 dives offered per day so at the end of the day I feel good using the 5mm. Some people are fine with 3/2 or 4/3 but not me. If diving on the Komodo itinerary the water can dip into the mid/high 70s so 5mm is a must. Raja Ampat itinerary never went below 80. I got the BARE Reactive 5mm, $600. The leg and arm zippers are amazing. The down side is the extra weight needed but was able to trim off a few lbs after 10 dives. I guess the suit compressed a bit and lost some buoyancy. The Arenui will feed you 5 times a day so no lack of calories to keep your core temperature in check.

 

[chillyinCanada]

I have never needed anything more than my 3mm whilst diving Raja Ampat. That said, I do add a beanie for most dives. For me, a 5mm would be too warm or certainly not worth the extra pounds or kilos weight required.

If you're sure that you want to be warmer, take along a neutral bouyancy chill guard of some sort. Bare has one style, then both Sharkskin and Lavacore have various styles, some with hoods.