The Passage Dive Site in Raja Ampat

Dive through the jungle river of the sea

Information about The Passage

The Passage, nestled between the islands of Waigeo and Gam in Raja Ampat, offers a dive experience unlike any other. Resembling a jungle river more than a typical ocean dive, The Passage combines the lushness of rainforest with the vibrancy of coral reefs. This narrow stretch of water, only 20 to 40 meters wide and about 1.6 kilometers long, provides divers with spectacular underwater scenery.

Divers can explore limestone walls adorned with orange soft corals, tunicates, and sea squirts. The currents flowing through The Passage bring in a variety of marine life, from flatworms and nudibranchs to blue-spotted rays and reef sharks. The site’s shallow depth, averaging 5 to 10 meters, makes it accessible for all experience levels while still offering exciting encounters with larger schools of fish at the ends of the channel.

Non-divers can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding islands, with options for snorkeling, hiking, and bird-watching. The Passage is a destination that truly captures the essence of Raja Ampat’s unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Interesting facts about The Passage

Getting there: The best way to reach The Passage is by liveaboard, allowing you to fully explore this iconic site. Alternatively, you can fly into Sorong and take a boat from there.

Best time to visit The Passage: The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from October to April. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), offering excellent diving conditions.

Diving Conditions: The Passage features depths from 5 to 15 meters with variable currents that can be brisk, providing shelter behind coral bommies. The diverse topography includes caverns and overhangs perfect for photography.

Our liveaboard trips: Several of our liveaboard vessels operate in this region, offering trips that typically last 7-10 days and include visits to other renowned Raja Ampat dive sites such as Melissa’s Garden and Cape Kri.

A little known fact: The Passage is often referred to as the “Jungle River of the Sea” due to its unique blend of rainforest and coral reef ecosystems, creating an otherworldly diving experience.

Pictures of The Passage

Possible Activities in The Passage

Diving

Snorkeling

Highlights Close to The Passage

Alyui Bay

Alyui Bay, located on the stunning island of Waigeo in Raja Ampat, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene environment, Alyui Bay offers an untouched paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The bay is surrounded by lush rainforests and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

What sets Alyui Bay apart is its incredible biodiversity. The bay is home to a wide array of marine life, including vibrant corals and diverse fish species. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and diving in the bay’s pristine waters or explore the dense jungles that frame this picturesque location. Non-divers will find plenty of activities to enjoy, from bird watching and hiking to exploring the local flora and fauna.

Alyui Bay is also a perfect base for those looking to experience the best of Raja Ampat. Its remote location ensures minimal tourist traffic, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful and intimate connection with nature. Whether you're a diver or a nature lover, Alyui Bay offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Kabui Bay

Kabui Bay, located on the island of Waigeo in Raja Ampat, is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The bay is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, lush mangroves, and crystal-clear waters, creating a serene and picturesque environment. This tranquil haven is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of Indonesia’s most pristine natural areas.

Visitors to Kabui Bay can enjoy a variety of activities that showcase the area’s natural beauty. Kayaking through the mangrove forests and along the limestone karsts offers a peaceful way to observe the diverse flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the chance to spot endemic species such as the Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and the Red Bird of Paradise. Snorkeling in the bay’s clear waters reveals vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a perfect spot for both underwater and above-water exploration.

In addition to its natural attractions, Kabui Bay is steeped in cultural heritage. The bay is home to ancient rock art and historical sites that provide a glimpse into the rich history of the indigenous people of Raja Ampat. Guided tours offer insights into the local culture and traditions, allowing visitors to connect with the community and learn about their way of life. Whether you’re paddling through mangroves, snorkeling in crystal waters, or exploring cultural sites, Kabui Bay offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Waigeo.

Kali Biru river

The Kali Biru River, located in Raja Ampat, is a hidden gem known for its stunning, crystal-clear blue waters. The river's name, translating to "Blue River," perfectly captures the enchanting hues that draw visitors to its banks. Surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant tropical foliage, Kali Biru River offers a serene and picturesque retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Visitors to Kali Biru River can immerse themselves in its natural beauty through various activities. Swimming in the refreshingly cool waters is a popular choice, providing a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. For those who prefer to stay dry, the riverbanks offer excellent spots for picnicking and taking in the breathtaking scenery. The area is also ideal for photography, with the vibrant blue waters contrasting beautifully against the verdant backdrop.

Beyond its visual appeal, Kali Biru River is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The surrounding forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Kali Biru River provides an idyllic setting for a memorable escape into nature.

Mayalibit Bay

Mayalibit Bay, located in the heart of Raja Ampat, is a hidden treasure that offers divers an extraordinary underwater experience. Known for its unique marine biodiversity, this dive site is perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. The bay is surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, making it not only a diving paradise but also a scenic wonder.

What sets Mayalibit Bay apart is its remarkable biodiversity. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful coral gardens, schools of fish, and rare species such as pygmy seahorses and wobbegong sharks. The bay's relatively shallow depth and calm conditions make it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Additionally, non-divers can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the surrounding jungle trails.

One of the unique features of Mayalibit Bay is its blend of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. This convergence creates a vibrant habitat that supports a wide range of species. Dive into the bay's clear waters and witness the thriving coral reefs teeming with life, from macro critters to larger pelagics. Whether you're an avid diver or a nature enthusiast, Mayalibit Bay offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Raja Ampat's natural beauty.

Wofoh Island

Wofoh Island, located near Waigeo in Raja Ampat, offers a breathtaking dive experience that is perfect for both novice and experienced divers. This stunning island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts.

One of the key attractions of Wofoh Island is its pristine and untouched dive sites. The waters around the island are teeming with marine biodiversity, from colorful nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses to majestic manta rays and reef sharks. Divers can explore various dive sites, each offering unique underwater landscapes and thrilling encounters with marine life.

For non-divers, Wofoh Island also provides a tranquil escape with its white sandy beaches and lush tropical surroundings. Snorkeling, kayaking, and beachcombing are popular activities that allow visitors to enjoy the island's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid diver or just looking to relax in a tropical paradise, Wofoh Island has something for everyone.