RAJA AMPAT – Heart of the ocean
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Where:
Suitable for:Heart of the Ocean – PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 2027
Located at the western tip of Indonesian Papua, Raja Ampat is regarded by marine biologists and underwater photographers as the epicenter of marine biodiversity on Earth.
An archipelago of more than 1,500 islands, atolls, and lagoons, rising like limestone sculptures from a sea of unreal blue — shaped over millennia by the forces of time, currents, and coral growth.
The name Raja Ampat means “The Four Kings”, a reference to its four main islands formed from ancient coral reefs lifted by tectonic movements. The result is a landscape of towering pinnacles, hidden lagoons, and untouched beachesunlike anywhere else on Earth.
Beneath the surface, the world transforms: this is home to the highest concentration of marine life on the planet.
From oceanic mantas and schools of barracuda to batfish, wobbegongs, and walking sharks, every dive is a journey into a vibrant microcosm of color and motion that takes your breath away.
An experience for those who love photography and nature
On board the stunning DAMAI1, one of the most renowned liveaboards in all of Indonesia, we will enjoy an exclusive 7-night experience, exploring a new corner of paradise every day.
My goal will be to create a carefully selected group of enthusiasts to share not only an extraordinary journey, but also a path of photographic growth.
During the expedition, I will lead a dedicated photography workshop:
- for those approaching underwater photography for the first time, providing the technical and compositional foundations;
- for more experienced photographers, diving deeper into technique, lighting, storytelling, and an ethical approach to marine life.
It will be an experience designed to learn, create, and truly connect with the sea, immersed in the magic of one of the last untouched ecosystems in the world.
Highlights of the DAMAI 1 Expedition
During our cruise, we’ll enjoy the perfect rhythm between exploration, photography, and relaxation:
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Three dives per day, each lasting a minimum of one hour
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One sunset or night dive, unless a long overnight crossing is required
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Surface interval activities, such as:
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Scenic tender rides through lagoons and hidden bays
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Treks to breathtaking viewpoints
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Moments of relaxation and photo sharing onboard
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Useful information
The full program and all the technical details of the boat are available on the official M/Y DAMAI 1 website, accessible directly at THIS LINK.
Duration: 7 nights on board
Join us
Raja Ampat is not just a destination — it’s an experience that changes the way you see the ocean, the light, and life itself.
A journey designed for those who seek authenticity, silence, and wonder, where each day becomes an opportunity to learn, observe, and be inspired.
Welcome to Raja Ampat — the heart of the ocean awaits you.
If you feel this tour is the right one for you, write to me to get all the info or to reserve your spot.
See you on the other side of the lens.
Ho avuto il piacere di salire a bordo della bellissima Samambaia per un liveboard nella parte centrale e sud di Raja Ampat. Lo staff a bordo e superlativo e la barca decisamente categoria luxury con stanze molto spaziose e spazi esterni peretti per ogni tipo di attività. La parte clue sono state chiaramente le immersioni {alla fine del viaggio circa 40} che consistevano in tre immersioni di giorno e una immersione notturna ogni giorno. Gian Paolo ci ha portato in un sogno, un pezzo di oceano indescrivibile dove non bisogna essere fotografi per apprezzarne i colori, la vastità di pesci, le numerose specie, e i magici incontri con mante sia durante sessioni di mangianza che di pulizia- feeding vs cleaning stations. Tartarughe indisturbate mentre mangiano coralli o nuotano libere nell’oceano con i suoi colori turchesi fino al profondo blu, i delfini giocherelloni che ti salutano in immersione fino alle bellissime gorgonie che coprono questo mare di mille colori e lo rendono cosi unico. Un’ ecosistema unico nel suo genere un vero ultimo paradiso per chi e’ appassionato di subacquea e della vita marina. Gian Paolo insieme al resto del team della barca ci ha portato quasi ogni giorno a fare un escursione stupenda. Siamo passati da una laguna cristallina a forma di cuore, ad altri view point bellissimi, al villaggio con bambini che giocano con il poco che hanno con un sorriso che apre il cuore. Ci sono stati anche incredibili passaggi in mezzo alle mangrovie (anche facendo immersioni), a finire con lagune meravigliose e ampie con formazioni rocciose strepitose. Un viaggio per gli appassionati di natura, rispetto della vita marina e di questi paesaggi mozzafiato. Grazie Gian di tutto e alla prossima come al solito!