Diving in Raja Ampat is fantastic all year round as the climate remains more or less the same with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. There are rainfalls throughout the year but nothing too heavy. Humidity is high all around the archipelago which can make it feel hotter than it really is with water temperatures ranging from 28°C to 29°C, making it ideal for diving.
There are two climates in Raja Ampat - dry season and rainy season - but again this may vary from island to island, especially the four big islands of Salawati, Batanta, Waigeo and Misool. Each island has its own microclimate that would differ from Sorong. Dry season with calm winds typically falls from October to April, which is also considered the “second wet season” with the most rainfall occurring in December & January.
Rainy season in Raja Ampat falls from June to September. This is when the waters and waves may get slightly rougher and choppier due to the south wind. Some dive operators and liveaboards may hold or suspend their diving and sailing activities at this time depending on the wind, currents and wave conditions but diving and snorkeling is still available in many locations and many dive sites throughout Raja Ampat.
Fortunately, the rainy season in Raja Ampat is not as severe as in other parts of Indonesia. The rains typically come and go quickly, there won’t be howling winds and torrential rains all day, but lots of sunshine and great visibility underwater.
