News & articles

Stories from the Dampier Strait

News from our partner villages, guides to caring for the sea, education on growing a tourism business, and stories from the team's visits. Written for villagers, local owners, schools, and guests who care about Raja Ampat.

LatestGuest guide

The 5 most popular dive sites in the Dampier Strait, and how the strait got its name

Cape Kri, Sardines Reef, Blue Magic, Manta Sandy and Mike's Point are the five most sought after dive sites in Raja Ampat's Dampier Strait. The story of each site, where the name Dampier comes from, and the DAMPIER partner dive centres that can take you there.

DAMPIER team · October 18, 2026 · 7 min read

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Guest guide

October 18, 2026 · 8 min read

Raja Ampat travel guide 2027, flights, the Sorong–Waisai ferry and the latest entry fees

What does a trip to Raja Ampat cost in 2027? Flights to Sorong, the Sorong–Waisai return ferry, the regency levy and the provincial marine park PIN that are paid separately, and a sample budget per person.

Guest guide

October 5, 2026 · 3 min read

Why homestays keep Raja Ampat's tourism money local

Raja Ampat's homestays are run by Papuan families in their own villages. When you stay with them, the money for your room, meals, boat and guide stays in the village.

Guest guide

October 5, 2026 · 3 min read

Manta season in the Dampier Strait, Manta Sandy, Cape Kri and Blue Magic

When to see manta rays in Raja Ampat's Dampier Strait, how Manta Sandy, Cape Kri and Blue Magic differ, and how to dive responsibly around mantas.

Guest guide

October 5, 2026 · 2 min read

Raja Ampat entry fee 2026, what you pay and how to pay online

Since 2026, foreign visitors pay a Raja Ampat tourism levy of IDR 1,000,000 and Indonesians IDR 300,000, paid online on SIPARI before arrival. Here is how it works.