Raja Ampat yacht charter in December
December in Raja Ampat: the festive season at sea with calm water and mantas
Quick answer
Is December a good time for a yacht charter in Raja Ampat?
December is an excellent month for a Raja Ampat yacht charter. Seas are typically calm, the water is warm and manta season is under way, making it ideal for Christmas or New Year at sea. It is the most in demand period of the Raja Ampat season, so book the best yachts well in advance, ideally nine to twelve months ahead.
- Air
- 24 to 31°C
- Water
- 28 to 30°C
- Rain
- Moderate, 12 to 18 days
- Sea
- Calm
- Visibility
- 15 to 30 m
- Crowds
- High
Wind: Light northwest monsoon
Why go in December
What December does best in Raja Ampat
- Christmas and New Year at anchor in remote lagoons
- Manta season under way in the Dampier Strait and Misool
- Calm conditions for Wayag and Misool
- Warm, clear water for snorkelling and diving
- Long, peaceful evenings with no other boats in sight
Honest caveats
What to plan around
- Festive dates book out early and flights to Sorong fill up
- Holiday rates apply over Christmas and New Year
- Occasional heavy showers
Wildlife
Reef mantas are frequent at cleaning stations, and reef life is at its most active. Birds of paradise dance at dawn in the forests of Gam and Waigeo.
Demand and booking
Peak demand around Christmas and New Year, with festive rates. Book nine to twelve months ahead for larger yachts.
Fleet in December
The full larger fleet is based in Raja Ampat in December, but festive dates are usually the first to be reserved.
Holidays and events
Christmas and New Year are the busiest holiday period in Indonesia. Australian summer school holidays also begin in mid December.
Fleet
36 yachts sail Raja Ampat in December
Private charters from US$1,900 per night for the whole yacht, crew and meals included. Availability is confirmed directly with each yacht.
Same month, other sea
Komodo in December: fair
December in Komodo: rainy season, festive demand and a smaller fleet
FAQ
Raja Ampat in December: your questions
Is Raja Ampat good for Christmas and New Year?
Yes, it is one of the best places in Indonesia for a festive yacht charter. December has calm seas, warm water and manta activity, and most of the larger luxury fleet is in the region. Because demand peaks, secure the yacht and your flights to Sorong many months ahead.
What is the weather like in Raja Ampat in December?
Warm and humid, with temperatures around 24 to 31°C and short tropical showers that usually pass quickly. Winds are light and the sea is generally calm, which is ideal for crossings to Misool and Wayag. December is part of the calmest season, which runs from November to March.
How far ahead should I book Raja Ampat for December?
For Christmas and New Year, ideally nine to twelve months ahead, especially for larger yachts or groups with fixed dates. Early December is easier. Book connecting flights to Sorong early as well, because domestic seats are in high demand during the festive season.
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