Also known as 'Pulau Batanta', Batanta is the smallest of the 4 main islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago, but it is so densely populated with lush jungles and beautiful seascapes that you won’t want to miss while chartering in Raja Ampat.
Typical of the Coral Triangle region, Batanta’s rich house reefs are home to a myriad of vibrant marine species. What sets this island apart, however, is that its large seagrass pastures on the north coast have made it a sanctuary for the endangered dugongs.
Also on the northern coast of the island is the Dampier Strait, so be sure to charter a luxury yacht with plenty of snorkeling and diving gear as this nutrient-rich stretch of clear blue water is filled with an incredible array of marine life.
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Dampier Strait
Dive Site
Thanks to its pure waters, Bantanta’s bays also support pearl farming operations. These can be visited, so do speak to your yacht charter broker for more information on arranging this.
After a morning of diving into the island’s inviting turquoise waters, dry off by venturing into the dense jungle. Although there are no established trekking routes, hiking is an absolute must as Batanta has a wide range of endemic species such as the blue spotted tree monitor, the famous birds-of-paradise, and the Waigeo cuscus which you won’t find anywhere else on the planet.
As is the case throughout the Raja Ampat, Batanta is made up of several hilly limestone karsts which have created a few waterfalls on the island. We recommend doing a short hike to the 262-foot tall waterfall where you can enjoy the sights before cooling off in the small plunge pool at the bottom.
For a more authentic experience of island life, head over to one of the few small villages on Batanta. Perhaps the most well-known is the Marandan Weser village that is commonly referred to as Yennyar where you will see charming houses built with traditional Indonesian materials and techniques.
Committed to promoting eco-tourism, the village people offer a number of homestays which you can book if you would like a guided tour of the island. Used to accommodating tourists in these homestays, the locals are very friendly and will be willing to prepare you typical local dishes and crafts since there are very few amenities available in the towns.
If you would like to incorporate a visit to this small but charming island into your next Indonesia yacht charter, then be sure to speak to your preferred charter broker.
