What better place to sail but in the largest archipelago in the world, with over 17,000 islands sprawled across the equator?
Choosing the right time for a private charter in Raja Ampat is essential to ensure an unforgettable journey. Our personally vetted collection of private charter yachts offers an amazing way to explore Indonesia’s islands from the comfort of luxury accommodation at sea. Combining authenticity with modern conveniences, each of our yachts is fully crewed including a captain, a cruise host, a private chef and a dive guide.
Although Indonesia’s cruising destinations can be enjoyed all year round, there are optimal times to visit.
- November to April: Northern Indonesia including Raja Ampat, The Spice Islands, North Maluku, West Papua, and the Forgotten Islands.
- May to October: Southern Indonesia including Komodo, Lombok & Bali, Sumba, The Alor Archipelago, and Sumbawa.
Luckily, when it’s not the best time to cruise in Northern Indonesia, Southern Indonesia becomes ideal for sailing, and vice versa.
Private Yacht Charters in Raja Ampat
Known as the “Four Kings,” Raja Ampat is a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts. The best time to cruise to Raja Ampat is during the dry season (October to April). Water temperatures in this period, ranging from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, create optimal conditions for marine life to thrive. The stunning coral gardens will enchant divers and snorkelers alike, while the chance to encounter manta rays at Manta Point adds an extra layer of excitement to the underwater exploration.
Any time of year is good for the weather. Climate and underwater conditions are good all year. The ocean is warm year-round, too, with an average surface temperature of 29oC.
The dry season is from October to April, with an average temperature of 30°C. The weather is dry, with very little rain.
The rainy season from April to September, with most rain falling in June and July.
Ultimate Indonesian Yachts insider’s notes for Northern Indonesia
Raja Ampat:
- From October to April, plankton blooms reduce visibility but bring greater manta rays to the area. Always look for wobbegongs that lurk underneath table corals.
- Raja Ampat is also home to over 250 species of birds including the endemic Bird of Paradise, making it a heaven for any birder.
West Papua:
- Whale sharks can be observed at any time of the year in Triton Bay, which is accessible on a beautiful one-way itinerary from Kaimana to Sorong or vice-versa.
North Maluku:
- Those planning to visit North Maluku at the end of the year should include the Kora-Kora Festival in their itineraries. The festival, held in December, will allow travellers to watch a kora-kora (North Maluku’s traditional wooden boat) competition.
The Most Luxurious Yachts to Charter in Raja Ampat
Prana by Atzaro (9 cabins / 18 guests)
For the ultimate luxury private yacht charter in Bali & beyond, look no further than Prana by Atzaro. This spectacular 9-cabin yacht is one of our most popular private charter options in Indonesia for good reason. Wellness is key (with two masseuses onboard), a wealth of water toys for exploring crystalline seas spacious decks for relaxing in style.
Price: from USD$18,000+ per night.
Amandira (3 – 5 cabins / 6 – 10 guests)
This elegant 52-metre, two-masted Phinisi yacht handcrafted by shipbuilders of the Indonesian Konjo tribe. This is the second Indonesian yacht built and managed by Aman Resorts, so you can expect the same contemporary luxuries and legendary service onboard that you would get at any of the five-star Aman resorts.
Price: from USD$11,990+ per night.
Dunia Baru (7 cabins / 14 guests)
Another newcomer in our Indonesian yacht fleet, Celestia is a wonderful phinisi-style yacht that uniquely offers two equal master cabins above deck – along with five more lovely cabins below deck. With a footloose, contemporary ambiance and plenty of authentic touches, Celestia is a wonderful choice for cruising from Bali to Komodo.
Price: from USD$20,000+ per night.
Senja (1 cabins / 2 guests)
This phinisi style yacht has one cabin; ideal for a couple’s luxury cruise in Indonesia. Senja’s spacious master cabin is located on the main deck with large wraparound windows to let natural light in, and a combination of natural wood and neutral textiles.
Price: from USD$4,615+ per night.
Ultimate Indonesian Yachts offers a wide range of yachts from 1 to 15 cabins suitable for couples, multigenerational families or large groups of friends who want to bond through adventure and luxury. We’re always available to chat through any other concerns you might have, just fill out our enquiry form here.
