Papua Explorers Dive Resort

Very spacious water bungalow. Professionally run dive center with well trained guids. Food of good quality & varied. The journey from Europe is long, but the destination always compensates. We were the second after 2016. Let's go. It is still a dream destination for divers. In 2016, water temperatures were around 27°C. Now it was 29°C. Climate change is also noticeable here.

An unforgettable trip to paradise – Papua Explorers Resort & Coralia dive cruise (July/August 2023* actual travel time; Tripadvisor doesn’t allow you to go further back in time) After my visits to Papua Explorers Resort in 2014 and 2016, I was curious to see if the resort and the new dive cruise on the Coralia could exceed my high expectations – and I wasn’t disappointed! My stay at the resort in July 2023 and the subsequent dive cruise in August 2023 were an absolute highlight that brought the magic of Raja Ampat to life in every way. Papua Explorers Resort – A paradise with a heart Papua Explorers Resort has evolved since my last visits without losing its unique charm. The water bungalows are still a dream: stylish, comfortable and perfectly integrated into the breathtaking natural setting. The view of the turquoise sea and the lush jungle islands is simply incomparable. I was particularly impressed by how sustainably the resort operates – from the environmentally friendly construction to the support of the local community. The staff are warm, attentive and make you feel at home. The food was a treat: fresh, local ingredients, deliciously prepared, with a perfect balance of Indonesian and international dishes. The dive center is professional as ever. The guides know the dive sites like their vest pocket and have an incredible sense of selecting the best spots depending on the conditions. The biodiversity in Raja Ampat – from manta rays to pygmy seahorses and huge schools of fish – has left me speechless again. Compared to 2014 and 2016, I found the organization even smoother, and the new boats made the excursions even more comfortable. A direct connection from Sorong to Labuan Bajo was not possible, so there was a stopover for a few days in Bali. Civilization + luxury in Sanur that I don't need, but the upgrade of Papex's stress-free idyll has been confirmed once again! Coralia Diving Cruise – A world-class adventure The dive cruise on the Coralia in August 2023 was the icing on the cake of my trip. After over 33 years back to Komodo was an indescribable feeling of happiness, but to that later in the other review. The dives themselves were spectacular. Places like the Fam Islands offered coral reefs in all colors of the rainbow and an underwater world that will amaze even experienced divers. The guides always paid attention to safety and environmental protection, which was especially important to me as a nature lover. Between dives, there was plenty of time to explore the islands, kayak through mangroves or simply enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Comparison to 2014 and 2016 Compared to my visits in 2014 and 2016, Papua Explorers Resort not only maintained its standard, but continued to improve it. The infrastructure is more modern, sustainability efforts are more pronounced, and the diving organization has become even more professional. The Coralia dive cruise was a new experience that harmonizes perfectly with the resort and shows Raja Ampat from a different, equally fascinating perspective. While my previous visits have already been unforgettable, 2023 exceeded all expectations. Conclusion Whether you're a passionate diver or a nature lover, Papua Explorers Resort and Coralia Diving Cruise offer an experience unparalleled. The combination of breathtaking nature, warm hospitality and world-class diving makes this trip an absolute must. I can't wait to come back! Many thanks to Tunc/Selen and the entire Papua Explorers team as well as the Coralia crew for an unforgettable time!

Stayed here one week, and I could have stayed forever. The most amazing resort with the most wonderful staff. Location was incredible, with a gorgeous, healthy house reef that you can snorkel right off your bungalow. Dive center was top notch, Markus did a great job organizing dives and day trips, and his dive team was professional and did a great job of keeping everyone safe and happy. Shannon was so kind, going over and above to make sure we were comfortable and taken care of. The entire staff couldn’t do enough for us, even singing me happy birthday with the chef baking me a cake. Food was tasty and plentiful. It is a truly magical place, the village next to the resort is also worth a visit if you can, the Papuans are so kind and welcoming. The resort helps the village and employs many of them. Thank you so much Suna for helping me navigate the booking process, and thank you to the entire staff for being so kind. I feel so lucky to have been able to stay here, it’s good to know places like this still exist.

We had an absolutely unforgettable experience at Papua Explorers. As avid snorkelers, we were blown away by the vibrant underwater world—every snorkel and dive was jaw-droppingly beautiful, teeming with colorful fish and pristine coral reefs. With the option to do three dives a day, we were spoiled for choice, and every site felt like something out of a dream. The over-water bungalows were straight from a fantasy—spacious, beautifully designed, and open to the ocean, with two private decks and stairs that led directly into the warm, clear water. The food was consistently delicious, with fresh, creative meals served in a relaxed communal setting. What really stood out, though, was the staff. Every single person was kind, attentive, and genuinely seemed to care about our experience. Salim, in particular, went above and beyond to help us purchase a local wood carving, coordinating with artisans in Sorong and ensuring it all went smoothly. We were also deeply impressed by the Raja Ampat SEA Centre, which Papua Explorers supports. Their work training locals in diving and conservation, and supporting nearby villages, added a meaningful layer to our stay—we felt like our visit helped, in a small way, to support this remarkable region. This was more than just a trip; it was a magical, heart-filled experience we’ll never forget.

Fantastic resort. From the moment you step off your Red Eye flight in Sorong your time with Papua Explorers begins. We immediately upon exiting the airport we were greeted by a smiling representative who quickly ushered us to a waiting car. From there we were taken to a nearby hotel for breakfast and checkin. Once everyone arrived we were taken to the boat that would drive us to the resort. Upon arrival we were greeted with music and a welcome song by many of the staff. A quick orientation and we were given the keys to our wonderful over the water cottages. The cottages are beautiful and spacious with both a covered lanai and a sun deck with lounge chairs. 3 great meals were served every day. The real treat for us as snorkelers were the 3 hour long dives a day. Every spot was different and amazing, definitely on the par with the best coral anywhere and thousands of fish. At the end of our week we didn't want to leave.