Raja Ampat Project Welcome Guide

WELCOME GUIDE

WELCOME GUIDE

CONGRATULATIONS!

Congratulations! We are pleased to accept your application to join the research team at our Raja Ampat Project in West Papua! Thank you for supporting us with your time and effort. Projects like this are possible because of the hard work and dedication of people like you, so thank you for making all of this possible.

In this welcome package you will find useful tips for planning your trip and for your stay with us at our research station. We are here to help you in any way so if you have any further questions please don't hesitate to ask!

Lauren Sparks Founding Director Indo Ocean Project

Conservation Activities

Workshops

Species Identification I & II

Manta Conservation

Shark Conservation

Turtle Conservation

Mola Conservation

Mangrove Conservation

Coral Ecology

Coral Identification

Coral Restoration

Nudibranch & Macro Life

Citizen Science

BRUV & BRUV Viewing

Species Sizing

Field Work

Roving Survey Dives & Species

Identification

Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUVs) - Deployments & Viewings

Benthic Survey Dives

Dive Against Debris & Community / Beach Cleanups

CoralWatch & Coral Health Surveys

Coral Restoration

Water Quality Analysis

Citizen Science Identification ProjectsManta ID, Turtle ID, Elasmobranch ID, and Macro ID

If you are using this program for university credit please contact lauren@indooceanproject org to assist with any pre-arrival administration

Divemaster & Development

Not applicable if you are registered for Package #5 Researcher

Practical

SMB Training & Practice

PPB & Fin Kicks Dive

Search & Recovery / Lift Bag Dive

Skills Development Pool / Confined

Course Assists with Students

Mapping Dives

Deep Scenario

Rescue Scenario

Night Dives

Watermanship Assessment (Stamina Test)

Equipment Exchange (Stress Test)

Leading Dives

Divemaster

Briefings & Assisting Workshop

Leading Dives & Tides Workshop

Knots / Search & Recovery Workshop

PPB / Fin Kicks & Lift Bag Workshop

Mapping Workshop

Gas Planning & Communication

Workshop

Rescue & O2 Workshop

Science of Diving / Dive Tables

Workshop

What Next Workshop

Additional courses available upon request You can book these directly through our partnering dive shop on your arrival

SCUBA REPUBLIC

Base Camp Raja AmpatWaigeo T H E D I V E S H O P

Base Camp Raja Ampat is part of the Scuba Republic family. It’s idyllic beach-side location boasts a world class house reef and is minutes from top dive sites in the Dampier Strait and Central Raja Ampat.

Scuba Republic is our partnering dive resort and hosts our project, you will be scheduled to receive any standard training courses (open water, advanced, rescue) with one of the experienced Scuba Republic instructors before you begin your divemaster training.

Scuba Republic is our host, but we are also their guests. You will be responsible for cleaning up after yourself and helping in monthly cleaning activities.

Scuba Republic (Raja Ampat)

@scubarepublicindo

Scuba Republic Raja Ampat

Welcome Home! ACCOMMODATION

Your home away from home in Raja Ampat is also located at Base Camp Raja Ampat by Scuba Republic.

All classrooms, accommodation, and project activities are onsite. This budget friendly resort is located beach front on the island of Waiego

Basic shared 6 bed-dorms exclusivly used by Indo Ocean Project team have fans, bug nets, and large storage area Western toilets and cold water showers are shared among IOP interns and staff Common areas in the classroom and outdoor seating are used throughout the day with the end of the jetty being the best seats for sunsets Scuba Republic has build a separate area for Indo Ocean Project and their regular guests to provide some extra privacy

There is a small shop right beside the resort where you can buy some basic snacks and products

Private bungalows are available at the homestays in the village, however you will need to rent a motorbike for transportation. Pending availability you are able to rent a private room at the resort short term and can be arranged directly with the resort.

Food and Meal Plan

Indonesian cuisine is delicious! There are many local dishes to discover. It is mainly rice and noodles dishes prepared with meat, veggies, soy beans and seafood. There are a variety of dishes including fried noodles, fried rice, peanut based sauces, spicy sauces, sweet and spicy curries, soups, mixed rice and more

The Raja Ampat Project is remote and there are no options to eat outside of the resort during daily activities A meal plan of 3 fresh cooked local meals per day are included in the program fees On days off you can venture into the town of Waisai to try some of the restaurants.

The meals consist of local style cooking with veggies, protein and vegetarian options. Fresh fish and seafood is a main source of protein in the region with chicken being a delecacy. Alternatively you will find a lot of soy based protein like tofu and tempe.

Complimentary coffee, tea, water and snacks are available in the common area throughout the day If you fancy a different snack there is a small kiosk beside the resort for a variety of local products For anything more you would have to go to Waisai where they have a local market There is a shared fridge for interns to use.

VISA & IMMIGRATION

Indonesian immigration can be daunting at first. That is why we work with a team of agents and lawyers to ensure all laws are followed and help monitor and ease your process. We'll reach out to you six weeks before you arrive to start confirming your visa options.

You will be responsible for covering all costs associated with obtaining an Indonesian VISA, but we are here to help!

UPDATED: June, 2024 - subject to change without notice

For independent visa processing, you can contact the Indonesian consulate in your country To avoid costly errors and get better in-country advice, we recommend using our trusted agent, eVISA Bali Mention "Indo Ocean Project" as your reference info@evisabali.com / https://www.evisabali.com

There are 2 VISA options, depending on your travel plans:

Option 1 - eVOA (Electronic Visa On Arrival)

Be worry-free and avoid a long visa-checking queue by trusting eVISA Bali to organize your 30-day eVISA On Arrival for 650,000 IDR You can extend this visa for another 30 days (a total of 60 days) once in the country If you obtained the electronic version, you can extend it through eVISA Bali After 60 days, you must leave the country Extensions cost IDR 650,000 through eVISA Bali

*This option is recommended if you are joining the 6 or 8-week program and do not plan to stay in Indonesia longer than the program's duration

Option 2 - B211a and C9 SHORT COURSE VISA

This is a 60-day OFFSHORE VISA, which can be extended ONSHORE for an additional 60 days x 2 for a maximum stay of 180 days in Indonesia. These extensions can be made directly with eVisa Bali and do not require you to take a day to visit immigration. If you choose to forgo our suggested agent and complete the process in person, you risk mandatory immigration visits, which will be scheduled at your nearest immigration office

Key Highlights:

Total price is 3,250,000 IDR + 2,750,000 IDR per 60 day extension

The process takes 10-12 business days

Once the Visa is approved, you have 90 days to enter the country before it expires

Maximum 180-day VISA (extension required every 60 days)

*VERY IMPORTANT*

Indonesia has very strict labour laws that prohibit foreigners from working in Indonesia without the proper VISA's. Please remember when you are applying for your VISA or entering the country that you DO NOT talk about working in the country. You are here to take part in a SCUBA diver and scientific diver training program VISA’s are legal agreements between an individual and a state. We will do our best to help guide you but ultimately VISA’s are your responsibility.

ARRIVAL PROCEDURES

SORONG - WEST PAPUA DOMINE EDUARD OSOK AIRPORT (SOQ)

We will contact you 4 weeks before your internship start date to confirm your travel plans, if you would like to book your flights sooner please get in touch for our latest travel advice at rajaampat@indooceanproject.org to make sure your flights are landing at the right time

Once your flights are confirmed we will help arrange your domestic incoming travel to the project headquarters Our driver in Sorong's name is Rahim He will meet you at the exit gate after baggage claim He will be wearing a blue Indo Ocean Project shirt and have a picture of you He speaks a little English and happy to make some stops in Sorong before you head to the harbor for any last minute purchases.

There are multiple daily direct flights from Indonesia’s main cities of Jakarta, Bali, and Makasar to Sorong. Most domestic flights are overnight and arrive early morning in Sorong. You may need to book two flights, one international flight into Jakarta or Bali and another separate domestic flight to Sorong.

The ferry departs from Sorong to Waisai 2 times per day, at 9am and 2pm. You must land in Sorong before 12 noon the day before your program start date. If you arrival is after 12:00 you will need to arrange accommodation in Sorong for one night and our driver will pick up the following day

The ferry to Waisai is around 2 hours in a large air conditioned ferry, one of the Scuba Republic or Indo Ocean Project team will meet you off the boat and bring you on a 20 minute drive to the project headquarters

EXTRA COSTS

Please note that Indo Ocean project is not responsible for any loss or damages due to causes outside of our control We recommend investing in travel and trip insurance to cover any unforeseen costs

Flights

International and domestic flights. Typically a domestic flight from Jakarta to Sorong is around 4,000,000 IDR return

VISA

B211A VISA costs vary depending on how long you will stay in the country. Please see the Indonesia Visa Procedures page for details

Equipment

Dive equipment can be rented from the dive centre for 1,500,000 IDR/month This covers your BCD, regulator, wetsuit, and fins You will need to purchase some of your own equipment (see equipment page)

Insurance

Dive, health, and travel insurance are all mandatory These plans vary depending on your length of travel and terms and requirements. Plans can start for as little as $65/year. See our DAN insurance page for more details

Marine Park Fees

Raja Ampat MPA fees cost 750,000 IDR + 300,000 IDR and paid on arrival

Divemaster Training Materials and Processing Fees

The price varies depending on which agency you choose PADI costs a total of around 7,350,000 IDR (depending on exchange rates) and SSI costs 3,950,000 IDR This is due when you start your divemaster course

Spending money

Things are cheap in Indonesia but Raja Ampat is remote, everything will cost a little more here as it is trickier to supply the area Expect to pay around 30% more for items in Raja Ampat then main land Indonesia.

Mandatory Equipment

The following equipment items are mandatory as part of your Divemaster and you should try arrive with them (or pre-order them for your arrival date from us):

Dive Computers

With all dive gear there’s an enormous variety to choose from. Entry level computers are absolutely fine, such as Cressi Leonardo, Suunto Zoop, and Mares Puck Pro. However for many people the preference is generally for wrist style watch computers such as Mares Smart, Suunto D4i Novo, and Aqualung i200

Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) / Reel / Noisemaker

Due to the conditions in Indonesia we encourage everyone to have a self-sealing 1 8m/6ft DSMB with oral inflation (pictured above) For the reel we recommend a basic finger reel with minimum 30m line Noisemakers can be in the form of a pointer stick, double ended clip or something you can tap against your tank to get the attention of those around you These items are all available for purchase on arrival

Mask and Snorkel

The most important part of a mask is that it fits your face properly! You should be able to hold the mask to your face without the strap over your head by just inhaling through your nose.

Other equipment items: BCD, Wetsuit, Fins and Regulator can be rented from Scuba Republic for 1,500,000 IDR Per Month.

Note: If you bring your own DIN regulators you will also need to bring a yoke adaptor.

Other Useful Items

Laptops

As we are doing a lot of theory and research work during your internship we strongly advise that you bring your own laptop with you. We have a lot of resources that we can share with you during your stay that are just too big to upload online If you are a researcher intern only it is MANDATORY for you to bring a laptop.

GoPros / Underwater Camera

Whilst we are able to provide cameras necessary for BRUV and Benthic Surveys, we are unable to lend them out for personal use - if you would like to get involved in our photo ID projects or document your experience we recommend bringing a GoPro or if you are looking to try UW photography - the Olympus TG6 is the recommended starting compact camera

Cell Phone & WiFi

WiFi connection is currently not available at the Raja Ampat Project, however there is decent cell phone connections

You can expect up to 4G connection and we typically use hot spots and pre paid data plans throughout the project.

You will need to unlock your phone at the airport in Jakarta, Makasar or Sorong before coming to Waigeo. There is a phone shop in Waisai but they are not able to unlock iPhones, only android.

Raja Ampat is remote! And with this comes internet difficulties... So be prepared to disconnect for most of the day.

The recommended cell phone provider is Telkomcel

Data Plans

Prepaid data plans are cheap and easily available and topped up

Purchase a SIM card (aprox 150,000 IDR with first month's data)

Download the MyTelkomcel app to track data usage and top up with plans using your credit card

On average expect to pay between 100,000 IDR+/month for data (depending on usage).

Diver Safety

It is mandatory that you have active dive specific insurance to take part in your program. You will be asked to present these documents on your arrival.

We STRONGLY recommend DAN (Diver's Alert N provides an extra level of cover for your diving activities Visit the DAN Insurance website for further details - for DAN you are looking at the Sport packages If you choose any other dive insurance we will need to check with our local healthcare providers that they can coordinate your evacuation directly with the insurer.

We also implement the following rules during your program to minimise the risk even further:

Refresher Workshop - All interns (regardless of certification level) take part in a confined refresher session on their first day to acclimatise you to the new equipment and refresh your memory of the basic dive skills you may have forgotten

Check Out Dive - All interns undergo a check out dive on their second day to review your diving skills in the open water and help you adjust your weighting before any dive courses begin

Dive Briefings & Buddy Checks – Plan your Dive and Dive Your Plan Full dive briefings and buddy checks will be completed before every dive

No Decompression Diving Only – We do not push the limits, we will check you know how to use your dive computer and know how to avoid exceeding these limits that keep you safe

No Touching – Don’t touch, don’t take, don’t break – you are becoming role model professionals. Take only pictures, leave only bubbles.

No Sleep / Too Much Drinking the Night Before = No Diving for You! Any of the IOP or Scuba Republic team reserve the right to remove you from activities if they do not think you are physically fit to dive.

All project staff are trained emergency first responders and certified dive professionals with up to date first aid training. All necessary emergency equipment is located on the dive boat or at project headquarters including first aid kits, and oxygen.

DIVERS ALERT NETWORK INSURANCE

THE WORLDS LEADING DIVE INSURANCE PROVIDER

Indo Ocean Project is a proud partner of DAN World All of our staff are DAN members and we have an excellent corridor of communication. DAN has consulted on all of our remote Accident Management Plans

Although it is not the only global dive insurance provider it is one of the most popular Plans are affordable (starting from $65/year) and available worldwide

SCAN ME TO REGISTER WITH INDO OCEAN PROJECT’S DAN ACCOUNT

SOME USEFUL LINKS:

Review the 2022/2023 DAN insurance packages here. Considering the medical evacuation route for serious injuries is to Bali, Manado or Jakarta, We recommend the Master Worldwide plan ($100 USD/year).

Know before you go: how to plan your dive trip. Plus, how to return to diving safely, DAN's Diving Accident Action Plan, and more...

This guide is a resource for travelers, divers, paramedics, first aid providers, physicians, and others to help prevent, recognize and manage travelrelated illnesses and injuries.

REVIEW YOUR PRE ARRIVAL RESOURCES

Once your deposit has been confirmed you will be sent an email to access our Pre-Arrival Resources page

From here you will find access to useful documents such as;

Equipment Masterclass

Webinar

Equipment Kit List

Conservation Management Plan

Our online study programs!

Prioritise the pre-arrival learning materials to maximise your time enjoying Indonesia and actively engaging as a research assistant Investing effort upfront will ensure a smoother academic journey with less time spent catching up on studies while on program.

Pre-Arrival

Species Identification Online Learning

Our brand new online learning course will guide you through the first three sections of your species identification learning

Level 1 - Sharks, Rays & Turtles

Level 2 - Fish Family Identification

Level 3 - Key Species & Species of Interest Identifcation

Manuals, videos and flashcards will help guide your learning.

You will get access to level 1 straight away, and you will be emailed a login to our online testing system 6 weeks prior to your arrival date.

Familiarising yourself with the fish identification materials prior to your arrival will give you a head start in your training week and will allow you to be certified to collect valuable data a lot quicker.

Certifications

During your internship you will receive the following certifications:

Species Identification Specialty

Manta Conservation Specialty

Shark Conservation Specialty

Turtle Conservation Specialty

Mola Conservation Specialty

Mangrove Conservation Specialty

Nudibranch & Macro Specialty

Ocean Gardener Coral Diver Specialty

Depending on your program you may also receive:

SSI / PADI Divemaster

SSI React Right Course

SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Course

SSI Advanced Adventurer Course

SSI Open Water Course

Certifications will be processed when performance requirements are met at the end of your program You will be responsible for managing your time to make sure all knowledge development is completed before you leave and will be scheduled independent study time to do so Each course has knowledge development plus practical skill evaluations, as well as a huge resource list that will boost your reference and knowledge library.

Additional Courses (Optional Extras)

If you want to do even more diving on your days off our partnering dive centre offer additional specialty courses such as:

SSI Deep Diving Specialty

SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty

SSI Night Diving Specialty

SSI Navigation Specialty

SSI Perfect Buoyancy Specialty

The cost of these courses will be sent to you when you arrive and you can decide to complete them over your days off or at the end of your internship.

These courses are arranged directly through our partnering dive centre and Indo Ocean Project does not take an responsibility for the planning of cost.

For dive professionals who are wanting to work in the industry we strongly advise you get your deep and nitrox specialties as well (plus they are a LOT of fun), however these are completely optional.

JOIN OUR FACEBOOK COMMUNITIES

Past, present, and future interns as well as staff meet and discuss the project and current related events

Feel free to post any questions you may have to your peers and follow along with the project updates!

MEET THE TEAM RAJA AMPAT GROUND TEAM

ANNE VAN DEN BOOMEN PROJECT MANAGER

Anne is originally from the Netherlands where she completed her studies in health sciences and economics. After travelling to many countries as a recreational diver, she quit her corporate job to pursue a career in diving and marine science. After completing the IOP internship in Raja Ampat she travelled around in Indonesia to dive in Sulawesi and Komodo - becoming a PADI dive instructor in Nusa Penida Her background in management and scientific research makes a perfect fit for program manager at the IOP Raja Ampat team

RICCARDO ZINI

PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR & DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Riccardo comes from Italy where he studied languages He used to work as bar manager in different countries but after the open water course he decided to quit his job and start travelling around tropical areas to improve his knowledge and passion for the ocean In 2022 he became divemaster and joined IOP as intern for the first project in Raja Ampat. After gaining quite a lot of experience travelling the world diving he chose to collaborate with IOP and start a new career as program coordinator in Raja Ampat.

SHAELYNNE TRUNK

PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR & MARINE BIOLOGIST

Coming from the United States, Shae has a degree in Biology with a focus in Marine Science from Western Washington University and has spent her last few years out of college as a naturalist. She learned to dive in high school and had always dreamed of a position where she could dive and conduct marine research Finding Indo Ocean Project and admiring their mission, Shae joined the Raja Ampat Program and completed her Divemaster & Scientific Diver in 2023 and after heading home to finish a summer in Alaska, Shae is now back and more than happy to be calling the jungle home once again.

MEET THE TEAM RAJA AMPAT GROUND TEAM

LOIS ALBERTO SITOHANG

RESEARCH ASSISTANT & MARINE BIOLOGIST

Lois graduated from IPB University in Bogor, Java in 2022 with a BSc in Marine Science and Technology with a focus on marine conservation. He joined his school’s diving club and assisted in Scientific Diving courses. He gained his Rescue Diver certification while working as a marine surveyor around Indonesia before joining the team in Raja Ampat where he works as a Research Assistant while completing his Divemaster certification Lois also enjoys music and can be found around the campfire in the evening teaching you some Indonesian songs

MEET THE TEAM HEAD OFFICE

LAUREN SPARKS FOUNDING DIRECTOR

Lauren founded Indo Ocean Project in 2017 combining her passion for teaching diving and marine research. Originally from Canada she has spent the last 10 years living in Indonesia. She become a dive professional in 2007 and her background is in biology and theatre. She has published 5 papers in marine science and policy. With over 15 years in the diving industry she has worked as a research diver and dive instructor in the Caribbean, Australia, South Pacific, and South East Asia She is also a passionate freediver and underwater photographer

SERENA STEAN PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Serena is an award-winning PADI IDC Staff Instructor & SSI Master Instructor with over 1000 certifications She has been working in diving for the last 11 years, 7 of those directly involved in marine conservation, with a focus on marine megafauna and elasmobranchs. She spent 2 years working in at the world’s greatest shark dive in Fiji. She’s a published scientist, underwater photographer and is responsible for developing and maintaining our Divemaster and Research Diver curriculum.

PASCAL SEBASTIAN SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR

Pascal comes from Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, and completed his masters degree at James Cook University in Australia, with a focus on coral and bryozoan taxonomy Before joining Indo Ocean Project he previously published 2 papers and successfully identified 6 new species of bryozoans Pascal is also an experienced dive instructor with over 6 years diving in the Penida MPA He plans to use the research at Indo Ocean Project to complete his PhD and is the driving force behind CorAlliance and all of Indo Ocean Project’s research and publications

MEET THE TEAM SCUBA REPUBLIC

DANA NALEZENCOVA OPERATIONAL MANAGER

Dana has been working all over Raja Ampat for nearly a decade as a guide, instructor, cruise director and resort operations manager There is very little this powerhouse does not understand when it comes to the best diving in the Dampier Strait, as well as the skills needed to navigate a remote lifestyle operating a business in the jungle! Her love for her dog Roman is also the most special bond you will witness

AMY KLUCKOW DIVE INSTRUCTOR

As a former Indo Ocean Project Raja Ampat researcher intern, Amy was so passionate about Raja Ampat she decided to stay and work for Scuba Republic Originally from Zimbabwe, she is responsible for teaching all the recreational courses needed up to rescue level She is always ready to help interns with their species identification after the courses are finished

ROBIN

n can only be described as “the man of y talents” due to the incredible variety of gs he does on a daily basis at the resort. m dive guiding. driving boats, fixing nes, organising diving, filling tanks, fixing pment, picking up guests, helping with truction - this man does it all!

MAN OF MANY TALENTS

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

Before getting on the plan here are some useful things to pack!

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

Blue River

Explore Raja

LEARN SOME BAHASA!

Welcome

Hello (general greeting)

How are you?

Reply to 'How are you?'

Salamat datang

What's your name?

Apa kabar?

Baik (fine)

Baik baik saja (all fine)

Sehat (Healthy)

Bagus (good)

Anda? (And you?)

Siapa nama anda?

Anda namaya siapa?

My name is....

Nama saya....

Seya bernama....

Where are you from?

Anda berasal dari mana?

Saya dari....

Selamat Pagi

Selamat Siang

Selamat Sore

Selamat Malam

LEARN SOME BAHASA!

Selamat tinggal (when leaving)

Selamat jalan (when staying)

See you later

Have a nice meal

Do you speak english?

Sampai jumpa lagi

Selamat makan

Saya mengerti

Saya tidak mengerti

Anda bisa bicara bahasa inggris?

Permisi

Berapa?

Terima kasih (Thank you)

Terima kasih banyak (thank you very much)

Makasih (thanks)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How long does it take to get from the airport to the project headquarters?

The airport to the harbor in Sorong takes only 15 minutes, however there are only 2 ferries departing per day for Waisai, at 9am and 2pm Depending on your arrival time you may need to overnight in Sorong before making your way to the island.

The ferry ride is around 2 hours inside a large air conditioned ferry

From the ferry in Waisai to the project headquarters is around a 20 minute drive.

Q: How big is Waigeo?

Waigeo is one of the largest of the 4 islands that make up Raja Ampat It is around 3,155 square kilometres From west to east the island measures around 110 km, and north to south is around 50 km.

The interior of the island has an altitude of 985 meters The local population is around 10,000 people, and 64,000 in all of Raja Ampat.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q What activities can I do on my weekend?

Several exciting adventures are possible in Raja Ampat. For the most part our interns take days off together to explore the region Hiking, island hoping, village visits, and water sports are the main activities outside of project hours

Go on a hike to see the birds of paradise, experience local culture in a village walk, snorkel and freedive around the house reef, or relax at the resort on the beach with a good book

Q: Is there a hospital/clinic/doctor on Waigeo?

There is a local hospital in Waisai which can treat minor injuries and health care needs All your basic medication is also available here For anything major you will need to be evacuated to the hospital in Sorong or further (depending on treatment needed). Helicopter and fast boat evacuation are available for an additional fee

It is mandatory you have both dive and health insurance that covers your emergency transport as the cost of these private evacuation options are high.

Q:

What is the weather like in Raja Ampat?

Raja Ampat's season's differ from the rest of Indonesia with good weather all year round. There are 2 main seasons, the northwest monsoon from October - April and southeast monsoon from June to September The southeast monsoon makes diving in the southern area of the region almost impossible and places like Misool and Triton Bay are closed during that time However in the North (where the project is) it is well protected from the winds and remains excellent diving all year round.

As it is the tropics you can expect rain anytime of the year, but there isn't a distinct "dry" and "rainy" season as the rest of the country Rainfalls are normally short and sharp and the rushing currents quickly carry away any bad visibility. Visibility can change from morning to afternoon, so if you don't like the conditions, wait a few hours

The average air temperature is between 27 C and 32 C and the average humidity is 80% all year round.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:

Should I be concerned about malaria in Raja Ampat?

Malaria is present throughout Indonesia, there is a risk to travellers staying in Raja Ampat and the surrounding area and preventative medication may be prescribed Check with your local health authority for the latest recommendations

Some basic prevention recommendation include using repellents and covering your body around sunrise and sunset. Malaria treatment medications are widely available at local hospitals in Raja Ampat, however prevention medication is not

Q:

What is the local currency?

The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Keep in mind that there are a lot of zeros in the currency and it can be confusing 1,000,000 (yes, a million!) is roughly equal to USD$70, EURO € 60, GPB £ 45, AUS$ 100

Q: Where do I get drinking water?

You can not drink the water from the tap. Water jugs and refill stations are available throughout the resort and drinking water dispensers are available at the project headquarters and the intern accommodation. We recommend for you to bring a water bottle everywhere you go.

Q:

Are there ATM machines on the island?

A: There are no ATM's around the resort however there are several in the town of Waisai that will accept international cards. Sometimes the cash can run out and it can take a few days to refill it from the offices in Sorong There are international banks in Sorong and we recommend getting some cash out when you land prior to arriving on the island.

Make sure you contact your bank before traveling to avoid any account freezes

Q: Is there internet access at the project?

WiFi is not available at the resort currently.

We strongly advise you pick up a local simcard, Telkomsel has the strongest connection on the island and is available to purchase at the airport or in Waisai. Data is very cheap in Indonesia (around 100,000 IDR/month), and the phone connection is much stronger than the WiFi Typically we hotspot our phones to other devices.

Make sure you register your SIM card when you purchase it and check to make sure your phone is unlocked The Telkomcel agent will be able to help in the airport booths. Phones cannot be unlocked in Waisai.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What kind of food is available on the island?

There is one western restaurant on the island in the town of Waisai called The Meridian. The meal plan included in your program is local dishes cooked fresh There are a few local warungs in the town of Waisai and some international restaurants in Sorong

Indonesian food is delicious! Based around mixed rice with your choice of meats, fresh fish, and vegetable There is a lot of spicy food in Indonesia but you can always ask for "tidak padas" (not spicy!)

Q: How is the electricity on the island?

This is a small island and the power comes from large solar panels and power stations. This means that island-wide rolling blackouts are very common But it is all part of the fun!

There is a generator at the resort in case of prolonged black outs but it will only be turned on from 5pm to 7am in the evenings

The plus is the 2 pronged European style outlet. We advise bringing a surge protected travel plug as well as a battery pack for such occasions

Q: Can I buy toiletries and feminine products on the island?

Yes, there are a few little shops that sell toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc in Waisai

A warning for the ladies, tampons are not widely used in Indonesian culture, although maxi pads are available Tampons are impossible to find on the island We recommend to bring a few boxes with you or invest in a Diva/Moon cup, plus it's better for the environment!

Q: What is the water temperature like?

Water temperatures are warm year-round, never varying much between 27-29 C

A 2mm shorty wetsuit is enough, although for extra comfort and warmth we recommend a full length 3mm wetsuit.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What are the major helath risks in Raja Ampat?

Dehydration: It's a hot environment You will be losing lots of water and electrolytes Drink lots of water and eat a little more salt then usual. We recommend brining along charcoal filter or dissolvable electrolytes tablets for your water bottles. Alcohol dehydrates you further, so drink responsibly and make sure to hydrate!

Sunburn: This is a high risk as you will spend a lot of time outside in the direct sun The dive boat has a cover and there is always places to hide from the sun, but some of our research activities will put you in the direct sunlight for long periods of time. Cover up, wear reef safe sunscreen (no oxybenzone) and bring a sun hat. Rash guards are also very useful for in water activities when you aren't wearing a wetsuit Indo Ocean Project has some available to purchase on your arrival

Ocean Currents: Raja Ampat's tides create extremely strong currents in some locations These can be very close to the beach and very difficult to detect The strongest currents are impossible to swim against, regardless of your ability. Always be aware of your surrounding, do not swim far from the beach, always have a buddy, and make sure people on the shore of boat know you are going in the water

Q: Are there dangerous animals in Raja Ampat?

Although your chances of encountering a truly dangerous animal on Raja Ampat is very low, poisonous snakes and spiders do inhabit many of the islands, so take care when you are exploring.

Being in the tropics you may encounter an abundance of insects capable of bites, burns or rashes, so bring repellent and long sleeve and pants If you want to go trekking on days off, we suggest partnering up with a local guide, apart from making sure you don't get lost in the thick jungle, they will also point out any hazardous plants and animals

Q: What transportation is included in my internship?

Your transfer from Sorong to base camp is included in your package and is organised by Indo Ocean Project for you when you confirm your travel details

However please be aware your return journey when you leave is not included. Additional journeys for recreational or medical reasons are also not included You are responsible for organising any transportation or trips other than your arrival.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:

Is hot water / AC available at the project?

Limited hot water showers are available at the project, but to be honest most interns prefer cool showers due to the heat and humidity.

AC is not available at the project - the classroom is open air and the dormitory rooms have personal fans for each bed If you require AC accomodation you would need to enquire about booking a private room.

Q: What dive insurance do I need?

Regular travel insurance is not sufficient for the amount of diving you will be doing, or the remote nature of the Bira Project Therefore it is mandatory that all interns purchase additional dive-specific insurance to protect yourself in case of emergency. Please see the Dive Safety page for details

If you choose any insurer other than DAN please email the project team first to check it provides the cover needed - as we need to check the local healthcare providers are able to co-ordinate directly with the insurer