Epica, Indonesia

Name: Best of Dampier (Waisai - Waisai)
Start: 2026-10-10
End: 2026-10-16
Location: Indonesia

9.2 Superb

Aircon Cabins
Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly

from $ 236 / day Check dates

“The crew is incredible: a mix of experienced western and local dive instructors. ”
Tobias Z, Germany

Highlights

Budget-friendly liveaboard to explore Raja Ampat
Maximum 4 divers per guide for a personalized experience
Visit famous panoramic viewpoints in Raja Ampat

The Epica liveaboard offers a budget-friendly way to explore Raja Ampat. She is simple but comfortable, catering to 12 guests in 6 basic twin cabins. Cabins are above deck to catch the ocean breeze and share 2 bathrooms with fresh-water showers. Meals are freshly prepared, offer a mix of local and international cuisine, and are served 'family-style' on the upper deck. The large upper deck is also kitted out with hammocks and bean bags, making it a great place to relax between dives and enjoy the incredible sunset at the end of the day.

Groups are kept to a maximum of 4 divers per guide and split according to experience levels so everyone can make the most of their diving. Enjoy the rich, diverse underwater world with a chance to see amazing marine life, from cool critters to large pelagic life such as manta rays and various species of sharks. You will also have the chance to visit one of the famous panoramic viewpoints in Raja Ampat. The trips on Epica are designed to make the most out of your experience in Raja Ampat when traveling on a budget.

Book online today to reserve your space.

Choose your departure date

Date

Itinerary

Price

Select

06 Jul

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

FULL

14 Jul

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

FULL

22 Jul

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

FULL

30 Jul

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

FULL

07 Aug

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

FULL

15 Aug

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

Select Cabin available

23 Aug

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

Select Cabin available

31 Aug

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,650

Select Cabin available

08 Sep

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

Select Cabin available

16 Sep

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

Select Cabin available

24 Sep

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

Select Cabin available

02 Oct

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

Select Cabin available

Included: VAT, Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Diving Package, Land Excursions, Cabin Towels.

Required Extras: Environment Tax, National Park Fees (1,700,000 IDR), Port Fees (100 USD).

Optional Extras: Gratuities, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer, Local Transfers, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks, Private Dive Guide, Rental Gear, Scuba Diving Courses (30-190 USD), Snorkeling Guide.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

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Boat features

Aircon Cabins
Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly
Sun Deck
Non-Smoking Rooms
Custom built for diving
Charging stations
Outdoor Dining
Available for Charter
Local & International Crew
Leisure Deck

Food & Drinks

Vegan Options
Vegetarian Options
Beer available
Full-board Option
Snacks All Day
Buffet style
Western Food
Local Food
Set Menu Dinner

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Diving

Shaded Diving Area
DIN Adaptors
Rinse Hoses
Dive deck
Tenders for diving

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English.

Gear Rental

Equipment is available for rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. If the rental gear is not included in the price, you will need to pay for it on board the boat. Show prices

Cabin Types

Boat Specifications

Year built: 2016

Length: 24 meters

Engines: Mitsubishi 200p

Max guests: 12

Number of cabins: 6

Number of bathrooms: 2

Tenders: 3.5 meters with 15hp Yamaha

Water capacity: 3600 liters

Boat navigation and safety

GPS
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
Oxygen
First Aid Kits

Epica Reviews

9.2 Superb

Vessel

7.8
Crew

9.3
Food

9.8
Diving

9.7
Value

9.3

10 Exceptional
Lando E
Germany

Amazing time in Raja Ampat
It was my first liveaboard and it was such a great experience. The dives were amazing and the crew was so friendly and always had a smile on their face, I enjoyed it so much. Food was amazing, too, everything was well planned and prepared, I can't recommend it more.
Recommended for
Corals. Crew. Diving.
22 Jun, 2026

9.6 Exceptional
Denis G
Germany

A week in paradise
We stayed at Epica for a week.The personal highlight was the dive site "Melissas Garden".A great variety of fish and great intact reefs.We were more than satisfied with the professional crew and with Karin as our guide!She found even the smallest seahorses and thus fulfilled a dream of my friend to see them in the water.
Recommended for
The professional crew, especially Karin our guide. The dive sites with the intact reefs. The food on board.
02 Jun, 2026

Translated from German

9.6 Exceptional
Amélie S
France

Memorable
This trip was memorable and it is thanks in part to the team! A big thank you for this whole adventure.
Recommended for
The atmosphere. Security. The dives.
26 May, 2026

Translated from French

10 Exceptional
Justin G
Canada

HUGE Manta Rays
Absolutely incredible Melanistic Manta Ray sightings. I highly recommend the Epica.
Recommended for
The nature. The instructors. The staff.
13 Mar, 2026

10 Exceptional
Oliver S
United States

Great!
Two Americans on epica for the week, 19 dives, great food but lots of fried food. Always rice, veggies and protein, we are vegan and always had tofu or tempeh. Easy accommodations with AC! 12 people on board plus staff, two bathrooms. Great staff, always excited to see you! Diving with groups of 3-4. Great experience! Top dives in raja Ampat!
Recommended for
Staff excitement, locations, evening trips
19 Mar, 2024

9.6 Exceptional
Paula J
Canada

Worth every penny!
The diving was incredible. The food was delicious. An excellent dive, eat, sleep, repeat experience. The two shore excursions were absolutely lovely. Manta cleaning stations. Amazing coral. Fish doing fish stuff in multitudes. Can't ask for much more.
Recommended for
Experienced guides & crew. Quality food. Quality of dive briefings.
11 May, 2026

9.2 Superb
bryan A
Spain

The best dives!
Highly recommended epic, if you are not very demanding with luxuries and comforts, it has the basics but what is really important are the dives and they were incredible I recommend going a day before and staying in the center of scuba republic because if you arrive on the day the ferry starts it may be delayed and you have to get the cards and permits... This way you will leave as soon as possible, you are picked up at the port of Waisai on arrival, dinner and breakfast are included. There are more luxurious and more expensive boats, it depends on what you want, but honestly, in terms of value for money, epic has been a great success.
Recommended for
The crew. The food. The guides.
24 Dec, 2024

Translated from Spanish

9.2 Superb
Alexandra M
France

Best liveaboard ever :)
The night dives are incredible (encounter with all kinds of creatures)Some sites where we are completely surrounded by huge schools of fish The exchange continues with our dive guides always present both underwater and on the boat, always ready to answer our slightest question and ask us if everything is okay. The excursion At sunset of the fabulous pianemo.The young and dynamic atmosphere of all the staff.
Recommended for
The biodiversity of the sites, the quality of the organization, the professionalism and the friendliness of the crew
07 Nov, 2019

Translated from French

8.8 Fabulous
John H
United Kingdom

Wonderful Dive site unique to the Raja Ampat
Rare opportunity to see Raja Ampat special creatures and fish in fantastic locations.
Recommended for
The guides were very knowledgeable, Unique locations and the wonderful guests
21 Nov, 2022

9.2 Superb
Amparo D
Spain

Diving in Paradise
From each dive I have a lot of wonderful memories. This place so far from everything is a paradise. And our Dive Masters who accompanied us on each dive and know the area perfectly made this an unforgettable trip.
Recommended for
The dive guides. The travelling companions. The paradise that is Raja Ampat.
24 Apr, 2025

Translated from Spanish

76 reviews

9.2 Superb
76 Verified Reviews

Sort reviews by:

10 Exceptional
Rivkah J
United States

MAGIC!!!
The boat was very well organized and comfortable. The atmosphere was great and crew was friendly and professional. Food was great. The dive sites were above and beyond my imagination. Definitely one of the best experiences I've ever had!!! Highly recommended!!
Recommended for
Crew, food, comfort
31 May, 2019

8.4 Very good
Tobias Z
Germany

Basic boat paired with very professional diving
The boat is really basic, but this is what we expected. Surprisingly, the cabins have an AC though. The crew is incredible: a mix of experienced western and local dive instructors. One night the local instructors even played music for us.
Recommended for
The crew (especially the cruise director). The non-diving activities (e.g. snorkeling in mangroves). The selected dive sites (e.g. mud diving).
06 Apr, 2025

10 Exceptional
Laura V
Spain

Amazing
Diving spots, food.. everything!
Recommended for
Diving instructors and crew!
08 May, 2023

9.2 Superb
Jinliang Z
Hong Kong

Marvelous trip in Raja Ampat
Diving is Raja Ampat is next level experience. Doing this with Epica is an extraordinary memory that will never be forgotten, especially for those with limited budgets and wild spirits!
Recommended for
People on board are really nice.. Diving experience was amazing.. The schedule was well organized and everyone has enjoyed themselves fo the 7 days..
10 Apr, 2026

8.4 Very good
Bastian S
Germany

Very enjoyable dive cruise
Manta Ridge, followed by many other fantastic dives during the week. Crew is a highlight on its own - thanks for an unforgettable week 🙏
Recommended for
Diving, Crew and Food
08 Mar, 2023

10 Exceptional
katie P
United Kingdom

Amazing week on the Epica
Every day was a highlight, sardine reef was the best dive and so exciting to do a night dive for the first time!
Recommended for
The diverse marine life, the staff on the Epica and the food! a
08 Oct, 2019

9.2 Superb
Olivier P
France

Don't hesitate, you have to go!
Very satisfied with this liveaboard. Very friendly participants and a perfect, dynamic and attentive supervision. Just like the crew and the chef who delighted us throughout the stay A bit of aging diving equipment as far as the one I got is concerned, but sufficient. The cabins that had put me off at the registration are finally pleasant thanks to their direct access to the deck. Eric is a really efficient organizer and guide. It was great
Recommended for
Dives and guide. Meals. Crew service.
23 Nov, 2025

10 Exceptional
Maik R
Germany

Great time on Epica
I had a great tim on Epica Liveaboard… everything was good organized and the cruise director mad a fantastic job! He talked with the dive guides about the dive sides and always looked for safety and great dives! The food was fantastic thank you TaTa, the Girl with the loud voice 😊. The crew always helps us at revelry situation and was amazing friendly! The boot is a budget boot but have everything you need for having a great time! I liked the Jung guests how just want to have fun and great dives. Erroneous was happy and wi had a great time with Mantas, Sharks Nudies, Pygmy’s ….. I will come back!!!
Recommended for
Great Team. Amazing Dives. Very good organized.
04 Nov, 2024

10 Exceptional
Ines B
Germany

Unforgettable time, loved it!
Loved my time on board of the Epica! It‘s not my first liveaboard and some of them were fancier, but I never had a better time than here. Staff is always friendly and helpful, the boat was very clean, food was great too (good choices for vegetarians!) and diving was amazing. Schedule is awesome and great mix between diving and land excursions. If you‘re looking for a budget option to dive Raja Ampat, look no further. Big thanks to Josh and his amazing crew!
Recommended for
Friendliness Vibe Diving
14 Jan, 2020

8.0 Very good
Barbara H
Switzerland

Diving in a easy going boot in Raja Ampat mpat
Well organizerd, safety First, very good food. Good group.
Recommended for
The briefing of Erik, 6 stars. Nice and lovely crew. Good Air condition in the cabine.
01 Dec, 2025

9.2 Superb
Diana K
United States

An Epic-a Experience
The Epica liveaboard was a wonderful experience! I went in July and got to see some amazing marine animals, the most beautiful corals, and most of the dive sites were only our group or very few other people since it was off season. The reefs were amazing and we even got to see a manta (despite time of year)! The trip had 18 dives and they were all so wonderful, I can't pick one as my favorite. Raja Ampat does not disappoint and totally lives up to the hype. I came here as a new diver and was nervous that I wouldn't be able to hold up but Josh and Stefan quickly helped and guided me to becoming an advanced diver. They're both extremely knowledgeable about the area - both on land and under water. Josh and Stefan went above and beyond to make sure that the trip was amazing and that everyone was having a great experience. In fact, the entire crew of the Epica were amazing and wonderful. The crew were so kind, keep the boat running smoothly, made sure all the gear was good to go, tanks filled, and the chef is amazing. The food was always great and they are accommodating to any food allergies. I feel like 7 days wasn't enough, I could have gone for a few more.
Recommended for
Dive location, guides, food
21 Aug, 2019

9.2 Superb
Antoine F
Canada

Amazing trip
Wonderful experience onboard Epica. Raja Ampat diving is really something else and the crew and dive guides made the trip great. The boat is really basic you get what you pay for. I definitely recommend Epica for divers looking for an affordable way to dive in Raja Ampat.
Recommended for
Dives. Crew friendliness. Activities.
20 Nov, 2024

9.6 Exceptional
Guylaine F
France

Great cruise for a first experience in Raja Ampat
All the dives were superb, especially the one at Manta Reef but far too many divers at the same time: the price of success
Recommended for
Choice of sites, attention of the crews, experienced dive guideAll
01 Feb, 2023

10 Exceptional
Sofía B
Uruguay

The best trip
The diving spots I enjoyed the most were chicken reef and Melissa’s garden, was absolutely magical. What made the trip so amazing was the good vibes from the manager and the kind hearts of the crew ❤️
Recommended for
The diving, the crew and the experience
16 Aug, 2023

9.2 Superb
Heike C
Germany

We were only with 5 people on the boat, so we had a lot of space and the lack of comfort was well compensated.
The dive sites are awesome, also the shore excursions were super nice and brought a great change, with only 5 people on the boat everyone was super relaxed
Recommended for
The crew is outstanding, great guys, always in a good mood + 100% service-oriented, really take care of everything and always provide fun and a good mood
07 Jun, 2023

9.2 Superb
Issie A
New Zealand

Best experience of my life so far
Seeing the underwater wonders Meeting new friends Being in such a beautiful natural environment
Recommended for
Amazing dive guides, fantastic staff and a great atmosphere on board
07 May, 2020

8.8 Fabulous
Michaël J
France

If budget is your main constraint, this LA is definitely worth the price for the Raja Ampat experience
This is probably the cheapest liveaboard you can have in Raja Ampat, but then still "not cheap". The comfort on the boat is minimal, but the truth is when diving 3 or 4 times a day, this is really not an issue. Everybody during the week loved the experience. The diving is absolutely amazing, the staff was extremely nice, and I also enjoyed the extra activities (local village visit, islands, last evening beach bonfire). Because of the cheap price and no nitrox, the general level was skewered toward beginners, but that didn't impact my experience cause we had a nice group of more experienced divers. The dives were relatively easy all week along anyway.
Recommended for
Diving. Islands. Staff.
09 Mar, 2026

7.6 Good
Kristin H
United States

Amazing diving and wonderful guides
By far, the quality of the diving was the highlight of the trip. All the central Raja Ampat dives were gorgeous. The guides were knowledgeable and safe. Another highlight was the short hike up to the look out in pianemo geo.
Recommended for
The guides were great, food was good and the diving was fantastic.
18 Oct, 2019

9.6 Exceptional
Tjaž K
Slovenia

Best liveaboard we ever had.
When we came on the I thought that we booked wrong trip since the boat didn’t look nice at all. But after few hours we got used to it and we had the best liveaboard we ever had. Honestly the rooms are not comfortable, but everything else is perfect. Its perfect for young people, solo travelers, you wont get rich old people on that boat. They costumize the trip regarding your wishes, avoid going on crowded places, food is amazing, crew is amazing, guides are amazing. If i come back to raja ampat i will definitely choose Epica again. No need for luxury if you’re having time of your life ;))) Thank you Epica, thank you Brad for making this trip awsome!!! 🤗
Recommended for
Brad - instructor. Boat. Destination.
15 Nov, 2024

10 Exceptional
Nicolas C
France

Amazing crew and dive guides for the friendliest liveaboard of Raja Ampat
Our liveaboard on Epica with the Scuba Republic team was perfect! The young spirit of the crew and dive guides is really appreciated as well as their professionalism about the dive sites we visit throughout the 10 days. Dive sites are the best we have encountered seeing many wonderful species such as manta rays, 5-6 shark species, lots of macro and beautiful coral gardens very healthy and colourful. Food is amazing and always served as soon as you need it and the "chill area" and sundeck is a great plus to relax between dives ! Even if the boat is not the biggest you will find, it is good for 14 divers + crew. I highly recommend this trip if you are looking for a younger and funnier alternative to more "experienced and serious dive groups" on liveaboard..!
Recommended for
Wonderful dive sites, great atmosphere on the boat, professional equipment
28 Nov, 2019