Misool is one of the most remote dive resorts on the planet, located in pristine surroundings on the island Batbitim in the southern region of Raja Ampat, West Papua. Misool is located on a private island, nestled deep in a vast archipelago of mostly uninhabited islands, widely considered the richest, most bio-diverse dive region in the world. They are surrounded by our own 1220 sq km Marine Protected Area. All of their dive sites are within their own patrolled No-Take Zone.
Accommodation
Misool features eight rustically luxurious Water Cottages which are are located in the North Lagoon, just steps from the Dive Centre and restaurant. The Water Cottages are built on stilts over the water. For lazy afternoons with a good book, there is a hammock built right into the veranda. The view from your veranda is framed by a traditional grass roof, offering a high degree of privacy as well as shade. Stairs lead down from your veranda to the North Lagoon, and the House Reef is just a few fin kicks away.
The Water Cottages are very spacious, however, for those seeking even more space and seclusion, we suggest one of the resort's nine Deluxe Villas:
South Beach Villas:
Villa Kalanme is located on the secluded South Beach. This Villa, named after one of the island's most important spirits, is a complex of three separate en suite bedroom units, with a shared round-roofed living area and huge outdoor living space. This Villa is particularly well-suited to those who enjoy greater privacy and gorgeous white-sand beaches. Access to this Villa is either by water taxi (on call and reachable by radio), or by a scenic but steep paved path.
Villa Santai and Villa Tenang are located at the far end of the South Beach. Two stunning en suite bedroom units are built under the shady coconut palms, with expansive views over the Southern horizon from the huge terraces. Access to Villa Santai and Villa Tenang is either by water taxi (on call and reachable by radio), or by a scenic but steep paved path.
Moro Laiyn & Waya Biru Residences, are tucked under the jungle canopy on the South Beach. Just a stones throw from the beach, these villas feature a separate 'pod' which can be used as a reading area, meditation nook, or lounge. It's great for couples who want a little more privacy.
North Lagoon Villas:
Villa Utara, also built on stilts on the western edge of the North Lagoon, overlooks the House Reef and the spectacular dive sites of Fiabacet beyond. This Villa features two en-suite bedrooms, a shared common area with a half bath, a loft, and a massive veranda. We especially recommend this Villa for families or groups of friends.
Villa Tabisasu is located on the eastern edge of the North Lagoon. This Villa, named after the local word for 'orchid,' features an en-suite bedroom and conjoining living area. The outdoor living-area face east and enjoys glorious sunrise views, all your own. Villa Tabisasu has steps leading into the water, located at the back of the Villa along the walkway. This Villa is perfect for couples who appreciate a bit more space.
Villa Nasnoos & Villa Wakachom are the newest addition to the resort. They are located just past Villa Utara on the north-western tip of the north lagoon. Each Villa have an additional living room. Nasnoos has a queen bed, with the option of a single bed plus roll-away in the living room (so perfect for a family of 4). Wakachom has a queen bed, with the option of an additional double fold-out bed in the living room (so perfect for 2 couples or 2 adults & 2 children). There are stairs from the deck down into the water from both villas, so easy access for snorkelling on the house reef.
The electrical voltage is 220V. 110V transformers are available at the dive centre. The power points require plugs with two round prongs (European).
The owners are a dedicated group of divers, conservationists, and adventurers. The local staff working in the restaurant, driving the speed boats, and making up the rooms come from villages on nearby islands, and all helped in the construction of the resort, which is mostly furnished with handcrafted items made from driftwood materials.
Facilities
The resort features its own dive centre. The dive centre is located in the North Bay, on the eastern side of the lagoon, built on stilts over the water. It is spacious and airy, with dedicated wet and dry areas to suit professional videographers, photographers and recreational divers alike.
The beachfront restaurant is also located on North Bay, overlooking the shallow turquoise lagoon. The airy, round-roofed structure is tucked back under the trees, offering a perfect respite from the mid-day heat. The restaurant terrace is the ideal place to enjoy a sunset drink while watching the world go by. The menu is tasty and nutritious and offers some organic ingredients from local sources.
Misool has a fantastic SPA where you can indulge in a variety of massage and beauty treatments, enjoying Misool Eco Resort’s signature range of natural products.
House Reef
Misool's house reef is a shore dive, easily accessed at any time from either the end of the jetty, the dive centre, or the steps leading down from your Water Cottage accommodation. On a rising tide, jump off the end of the jetty and enjoy an easy drift North through the channel, which is exposed to variable current. Schooling horse-eyed jacks congregate under the pier, joined by massive schools of fusiliers and shoals of passing anchovies. Several very large groupers make their home in the depths under the jetty, and they often appear to inspect visitors to their reef. Larger black tip reef sharks are regularly patrolling the deeper areas, as well as the occasional grey reef shark.
Activities
For non-divers there is plenty of fantastic snorkelling around Misool. Other activities, like excursions to ancient rock paintings nearby, lagoon and river cruises, bird-watching tours and visits to the local village can also be arranged. Paddleboards and kayaks are available.
Transfers
Guests get to Misool by speedboat transfer from Sorong in about 4-5 hours, depending on sea conditions. The first third is a scenic passage between the Papuan mainland and small islands of the Salawati group, fringed by mangroves. The second third of the journey is an open crossing over generally calm seas. During the final leg of the journey, you enter the breathtakingly beautiful island chain to which Misool belongs. You'll cruise between sheer cliffs and innumerable small islands, often escorted by dolphins.
You will travel on a comfortable, private 16m speed boat purposely built for cruising Raja Ampat's waters. It is equipped with 4x 200hp engines, air conditioning and fitted with comfortable seating and toilet for max. 20 guests. The boat is fully equipped with safety and navigation equipment.
The resort operates on pre-scheduled dates for 7, 9 or 12 night stays. Guests must ensure to arrive in Sorong before 8.00am on the scheduled departure day. There is only one boat departure to Misool on departure day which departs latest at 9.00am. All guests return to Sorong after 7, 9 or 12 nights and stay 1 additional night at a local hotel (inclusive in accommodation package incl. breakfast). Guests can then depart at any time the following day.
Packages:
7 night packages is 8 nights altogether: 7+1 night in Sorong
9 night packages is 10 nights altogether: 9+1 night in Sorong
12 night packages is 13 nights altogether: 12+1 night in Sorong
Note: The resort is closed during the windy season from mid June to mid September each year.
Staying Connected
Misool has wireless internet connection is available in common areas. The resort also provides a guest computer in the common area for internet access. No mobile phone coverage is available.
We think...
Misool is a fabulous dive resort - from the stunning beauty of the location to the terrific staff and the fantastic diving. All your dreams will come true when staying at this remote location. Even the long travelling times to get to/from the resort are well worth it!
