Based in the small town of Waisai on Waigeo Island, the Meridian Dive Resort lies at the gateway to the spectacular Raja Ampat archipelago. The surrounding waters boast the highest marine diversity in the world and unforgettable encounters with wobbegong sharks, fascinating macro critters and a stunning array of coral.

Designed as a boutique hotel and surrounded by jungle, the Meridian Dive Resort provides an ideal base for those wanting a modern and comfortable Indonesian dive vacation while maintaining sustainable practices. Waste reduction and beach clean-ups are all part of the resort’s commitment to conserving the surrounding waters and ensuring the long-term health of Raja Ampat’s biodiversity.

Accomodations

There are 30 air-conditioned, modern rooms to select from at the Meridian Dive Resort, with the option for double or twin beds on request. All of the rooms boast custom-made Lintea Mare linen and private bathrooms, together with LCD televisions (equipped with 42 local and international TV channels) and writing desks.

Amenities

This Indonesian dive resort features an attractive swimming pool where you can relax in between dives, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and there’s a laundry service if you require garments to be cleaned during your stay.

Food

The Meridian Dive Resort features its own fusion restaurant, which serves an enticing variety of international dishes and local Indonesian specialties. Begin the day with a delicious buffet breakfast, including both hot and cold dishes, then grab a gourmet packed lunch to take with you on your dives or island hopping excursion.

The dinner menu at the Ketapang Restaurant and Bar features entrees such as salads, ceviche and fishcakes, with main dishes that include pasta, noodles and Rendang curry. A range of hot beverages and sodas are also available, as well as a full bar menu.

Diving

Boasting the highest concentration and diversity of marine life on Earth, including more than 1,300 species of fish and 80% of the world’s coral species, Raja Ampat is one of Indonesia’s most exciting dive vacation destinations. The pristine waters of the archipelago and its wide selection of dive sites are easily accessed by high-speed, low-emission boats from the Meridian Dive Resort, allowing you to get up-close to manta rays, turtles and a dazzling array of tropical fish.

Daily dive trips access the famed sites of Melissa’s Garden, Cape Kri and the Arborek Jetty where pygmy seahorses can be seen alongside giant tuna in the healthy coral reefs. Enjoy surface intervals on pristine white beaches and visit remote villages where you can sip on fresh coconuts.

The PADI 5-star dive shop at Meridian Dive Resort is staffed by professionally trained instructors and dive masters, with a full line of high-quality Aqualung gear available throughout your stay. Dive packages at the resort include state-of-the-art gear rental for those who don’t want to bring their own, while unlimited air tanks, weights and belts are provided complimentary. Full GoPro coverage of your dives is also available from the Meridian Dive Resort’s photo pro.

Raja Ampat has a warm year-round climate, with temperatures ranging from around 70°F (21°C) to 90°F (33°C). Water temperatures vary between 82-86°F (28-30°C) throughout the year and most divers prefer a 3mm wetsuit with an optional hood. The peak dive season in the region extends from November to May, with schooling barracuda and wobbegong sharks often seen.

Other Activities

In addition to daily dive trips, the Meridian Dive Resort can also arrange snorkeling and island-hopping excursions to explore the natural beauty of Raja Ampat at Blue River and the Pianemo viewpoint. Rent a paddleboard to discover pristine beaches and lush jungle trails at your leisure or opt for a local village tour to learn about the unique culture of West Papua.