Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat, off the western tip of New Guinea in Indonesia, has the highest reef biodiversity ever recorded. Hard and soft corals cover almost every surface, schools of fish crowd the reef edges, and divers regularly see manta rays and wobbegong sharks. It is remote, and that remoteness is part of why its reefs are in such good condition.

The currents that feed this richness also make the diving more demanding. Many sites have moderate to strong current, and the best action tends to happen where water flows over points and ridges. Advanced Open Water certification and a solid number of logged dives are recommended. Newer divers can still find calmer sites, but should tell their operator and expect to sit out some of the headline dives.

The main season runs from October to April, when seas are calmest and most liveaboards operate. July to September is the roughest period. Some routes are suspended and some sites close for safety, so plan around those months if you can. Water stays between about 27 and 30°C all year.

Most divers visit on a liveaboard, which reaches distant reefs that day boats can't. Land-based eco-resorts are an option too. Getting there takes several flights, typically via Jakarta or Makassar to Sorong. Medical facilities are limited and far away, so dive conservatively and make sure your insurance covers evacuation.