Join us on an immersive expedition to Raja Ampat in January 2026! Coming back for its third year in Raja Ampat, the Manta Magic expedition will take us to a remote archipelago known for its stunning coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Join this extraordinary adventure with marine biologist, Mads St Clair, to create lasting memories in one of the world's most pristine scuba diving destinations.

Manta Ray Presentations

Through insightful presentations, Mads will share her extensive knowledge on topics such as manta ray ecology, coral reef ecology, and the importance of conservation efforts within Raja Ampat. Discover the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and gain a deeper appreciation for Raja's underwater world and the local communities who work to protect it. Whether you're an enthusiast or new to the field, Mads' presentations will inspire you to protect and preserve our precious marine environments. Join us for this incredible opportunity to learn from Mads and delve into the wonders of Raja Ampat's ecosystems!

Raja Ampat's magic lies in its diverse and breathtaking coral reefs, boasting over 540 coral species and more than 1000 fish species. As a former shark fishery turned sanctuary, we will have the opportunity to encounter fascinating marine life such as walking sharks, wobbegongs, baby blacktip reef sharks in a nursing lagoon - and both species of manta ray.

Raja Ampat is a a dream for scuba divers, but can be a challenging dive spot. The archipelago meets at the intersection of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, meaning that the diversity of life here is extraordinary, but also that the currents are very strong. For this reason we will only be accepting PADI Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) AND minimum 30 logged dives.

When creating this trip, it was important for Mads that the expedition to give back to the local community here in Raja Ampat, to support the local economy and empower the community in their efforts to preserve both their environment and their way of life. So we'll be staying in local-owned homestay accommodation, in owned and operated by the local community. This provides a unique cultural experience at an affordable price - and really is the best way to enjoy Raja.

We'll be staying in basic but comfortable huts, which look out onto stunning views over the ocean, enjoying traditional food, home cooked meals by the island "mamas".

Vegetarian and vegan options available! Please note that due to supplies, we cannot cater to gluten free.

In signing up to the trip you agree to our Cancellation Policy and our booking T&C's.

Welcome to Raja Ampat! Today we transfer to Arborek Island, our home base for the week. After settling in,  we’ll kick off with a short safety briefing to prepare you for the week ahead. You’ll then join a welcome presentation introducing the incredible biodiversity of Raja Ampat - one of the most species-rich marine ecosystems on Earth. In the afternoon, we’ll head out for a relaxed snorkel to explore the vibrant house reef. Expect your first glimpses of colourful corals, reef fish and maybe even a manta.

We’ll kick off the day with a relaxed check dive at the iconic Arborek Jetty - home to swirling schools of fish, soft coral-covered pilings and the occasional wobbegong. This site is perfect for adjusting weights, gear, and buoyancy. After that, we’ll head out for two exciting dives around Arborek’s nearby manta ray cleaning stations, keeping our eyes peeled for graceful reef mantas. These nutrient-rich channels are a manta hotspot, and with a bit of luck, you’ll witness them gliding effortlessly overhead.

Today we head to the iconic Karst islands of Pianemo - one of the most breathtaking regions in all of Raja Ampat. You’ll complete your first three dives here, exploring limestone islets that rise dramatically from turquoise lagoons. Beneath the surface, expect thriving coral gardens, overhangs teeming with life and schools of reef fish weaving through the current. This is a stunning introduction to Raja Ampat diving, with postcard views above and below the waterline.

 Today is dedicated entirely to searching for mantas around the dive sites of Arborek Island, a known hotspot for these majestic rays. Across three dives, we’ll explore cleaning stations, current-swept channels and sandy plateaus where mantas often feed and interact. If luck is on our side, this is one of the best opportunities to observe and photograph these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Today we turn our attention to the heart of Raja Ampat’s biodiversity: its coral reefs. The day begins with an engaging coral presentation where you’ll learn about local reef ecology, the importance of coral diversity and the community-led restoration efforts underway around Arborek. Then we’ll visit some of the area’s healthiest coral sites, diving through vibrant gardens that showcase the resilience and beauty of these ecosystems. It’s a chance to witness first-hand the living structures that support all life here.

Today is all about connecting with the science behind the beauty. You’ll get an inside look at some of the marine research happening right here around Arborek Island - from manta ray identification and coral monitoring to soundscape and drone-based studies. Join a short presentation introducing the current projects, then spend the day diving with purpose. You might assist with data collection, learn how to log observations or help ID mantas from underwater footage. It’s a rare chance to be part of real-time conservation science.

Our last full diving day is all about maximising manta encounters. We’ll return to known cleaning stations and feeding sites with three dedicated dives in areas where sightings are most frequent. By now, you’ll hopefully be familiar with their graceful movements and social behaviours - today offers one more chance to capture those unforgettable moments.

Today we journey north to the jaw-dropping seascapes of Wayag, where towering karst islands pierce through sapphire-blue water. After a scenic boat ride, we’ll hike up one of the limestone peaks for an unforgettable panoramic view - one of Raja Ampat’s most iconic vistas. Later, we’ll cool off with a swim or snorkel in the protected Shark Sanctuary, a tranquil lagoon home to juvenile black-tip reef sharks. It’s a wild, awe-inspiring way to close the week.

Early morning return to Sorong!