Epica, Indonesia

Name: Best of Dampier (Waisai - Waisai)
Start: 2027-01-17
End: 2027-01-23
Location: Indonesia

9.2 Superb

Aircon Cabins
Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly

from $ 224 / day Check dates

“We saw so many incredible things like Pygmy seahorses, tons of reef mantas swimming above us, 2 oceanic rays (this was rare!), oct…”
sheana M, United States

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.

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Date

Itinerary

Price

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10 Oct

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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18 Oct

9 Days / 8 Nights

$ 2,395

FULL

28 Oct

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

FULL

05 Nov

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

FULL

13 Nov

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

FULL

21 Nov

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

FULL

29 Nov

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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07 Dec

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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15 Dec

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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22 Dec

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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30 Dec

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

Select Cabin only 1 space left

09 Jan

7 Days / 6 Nights

$ 1,750

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

Required Extras: National Park Fees (Rp2,000,000), Port Fees ($140).

Optional Extras: Gratuities, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks, Private Dive Guide (Rp750,000 / day), Rental Gear, Scuba Diving Courses ($30-190), Snorkeling Guide (Rp750,000 / day).

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

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
Mathilde C
France

Amazing Diving Week on EPICA – Highly Recommended!
I had an amazing week diving on the EPICA liveaboard, and I highly recommend it! The crew and Brad, the captain, were fantastic, super professional and friendly, creating such a great atmosphere on board. I also completed my Advanced Open Water certification during the trip, which was a great way to learn and improve step by step throughout the week. The food was Incredible! Tata is an amazing chef, every meal was delicious. Great dives, an awesome team, and an unforgettable experience. Don’t hesitate to book!
Recommended for
The dive sites. The crew. The food.
21 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

Translated from French

10 Exceptional
Theodore O
United States

Good for snorkelers as well
Excellent trip. I went as a snorkeler not a diver but also had a great experience. Brad and Rikson always arranged a good drop point or different approach for dive sites for me. Boat driver, Donny, was attentive and kept track of my location as well as the divers even if they were a bit different. Very safe. Side excursions added a lot.The crew were great.
Recommended for
Well organized and on schedule. Sites! Many of the "big ones" but some less-traveled as well. Food.
12 Feb, 2025

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

9.2 Superb
Laurence N
France

Almost perfect
The dive sites superb.Manta rays.Sunrises and sunsets.
Recommended for
Professionalism of the staff, the outings on land, the food.
18 Oct, 2023

Translated from French

9.6 Exceptional
Venkitaraman R
India

Excellent guides and staffs. great service . awesome food.
Excellent guides and staffs. great service . awesome food. Had loads of fun diving . The Director , Rachael made sure that we dive in right dive sites . Our Dive guides - Erica, Fenly and ED were top notch . made our divinhg really comfortable and exiting at t'he same time.
Recommended for
D
13 Dec, 2023

9.2 Superb
Johannes B
United States

Great value for money, friendly and knowledgeable staff
Highlights of the trip were the epic dives followed by great food and vibe above water. No luxury here but great diving with great people for a budget price.
Recommended for
Amazing dive sites, value for money and friendly staff
03 Dec, 2017

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

76 reviews

9.2 Superb
76 Verified Reviews

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8.4 Very good
Angus K
United Kingdom

Excellent Raja Ampat
Amazing diving and other excursions. The group dynamic 5 different types of shark, 5 different types of ray. Thousands of fish and stunningly beautiful coral!
Recommended for
The group, the crew, the diving
29 Jan, 2020

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

9.6 Exceptional
chris C
Australia

Amazing
The diving in raja ampat is amazing, so much life and variety of species to see. The dive and boat crew were fantastic, went above and beyond to look after all the divers. The amount of work they all put in was seriously impressive. My Seven days on the Epica was filled with moments of laughter, and a relaxing vibe. Thanks to all involved for a memorable trip.
Recommended for
Exellent dive masters and boat crew, fantastic food
30 Dec, 2022

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
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

9.2 Superb
david T
Australia

great budget option to see amazing Raja Ampat
great budget option. cabins above deck are nice and airy (with a/c if needed). Good common area upstairs. Local Papuan dive guides very experienced.
Recommended for
great group atmosphere with small bunk rooms encouraging everyone to spend time together in the common area rather than in their cabin. very experienced local Papuan guides. good boat leader trying hard to time dives so we had sites to ourselves rather than when multiple other boats visiting.
06 Apr, 2025

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

9.6 Exceptional
Genis C
Spain

Amazing liveaboard for a very reasonable price
All the dives have been incredible, the divemasters know the area perfectly. In addition, their experience and patience allow both beginner and experienced divers to enjoy a 10 trip!
Recommended for
Dive sites, experience and proximity of the divemasters and food
29 Jan, 2020

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

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

8.8 Fabulous
Edward H
United Kingdom

Amazing trip with world-class diving on a budget boat
Amazing trip with world-class diving on a budget boat
Recommended for
value for money. Quality and Diversity of diving. Friendly crew.
28 Aug, 2025

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
INHEE J
South Korea

Make myself at home
I earned confidence of diving through this trip, thanks to Josh, who is my diving guide. Under the sea world is different from in Maldives, which was my previous trip. Here I could see more coral reefs and fish friends in and around them.the bottom line is I fully enjoyed being part of the sea world for 1300 hours.
Recommended for
Dive sites, dive guide, staff attitude
30 Sep, 2019

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

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

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
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

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

9.6 Exceptional
sheana M
United States

Incredible trip!
We saw so many incredible things like Pygmy seahorses, tons of reef mantas swimming above us, 2 oceanic rays (this was rare!), octopuses, sharks like black and white tip reefs and wobbegongs. Our dive master Rolly was awesome, the food was good, things happened on schedule (I love the punctuality!) and the weather was superb. I’ll remember this forever
Recommended for
Oceanic mantas rays, octopuses, and wobbegongs
25 Feb, 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