Emperor Raja Laut

Emperor Raja Laut is a 31-metre schooner-style Indonesian liveaboard built from tropical hardwood for small-group dive expeditions. It accommodates 12 guests in six lower-deck cabins, supported by two dive guides, two RIB tenders and a dive setup designed for experienced itineraries across Komodo, Raja Ampat, Banda Sea, Alor and Sumbawa.

Emperor Raja Laut overview

The six-cabin layout is split evenly between three double-bed cabins and three twin cabins with two single bunk-style beds. Every cabin has a private ensuite bathroom, individually controlled air conditioning, a fan and a mini-safe. The twin cabins are approximately 12 square metres and include portholes, towels and access to hairdryers on request.

The vessel’s intimate 12-guest capacity is a practical advantage for divers who prefer smaller groups. Scheduled departures are guaranteed by the operator regardless of how many guests are booked, while exact cabin sharing and any private-use request should be confirmed before payment.

Diving setup

Emperor Raja Laut is a dedicated dive liveaboard. Two large RIBs transfer guests between the vessel and dive sites, and two dive guides coordinate the programme. Standard tanks are 12-litre aluminium, with 15-litre tanks available by advance request. Free Nitrox up to 32 percent is included for qualified divers, and rental equipment must be reserved before arrival.

The camera station includes charging points, an air gun, rinse tanks and a camera table. Emergency oxygen, comprehensive first aid and an AED are carried onboard. Every diver is required to use a dive computer and surface marker buoy, with a torch required for night dives.

Cabins and life onboard

All six cabins are located on the lower deck. The three double cabins suit couples, while the three twin cabins use separate bunk-style beds. Both categories share the same core comfort standard: air conditioning, fan, ensuite shower, porthole and mini-safe.

The lower-deck lounge is fully air-conditioned and includes a refrigerator, a 49-inch full-HD screen, movie and music libraries, books and board games. Outside, guests can relax or dine on the teak deck, with shaded and open sun-lounger areas plus a small internationally stocked bar. Free Starlink Wi-Fi is available, although offshore performance can vary.

Indonesia routes

The operator’s current Indonesia programme includes Komodo National Park, Alor, Banda Sea, Raja Ampat, Triton Bay, Cenderawasih Bay and selected Lombok–Sumbawa–Komodo crossings. Some Alor, Cenderawasih Bay and Lombok–Sumbawa–Komodo routes operate on request rather than as regular scheduled departures.

Komodo programmes can include Gili Lawa, Tatawa, Makassar Reef, Batu Bolong, Padar, Nusa Kode and Manta Alley. Crossings can also reach Moyo, Saleh Bay, Satonda, Sangeang Volcano, Gili Banta, Siaba Besar and other sites. Weather, currents, diver experience and operational decisions always determine the final site plan.

Diver experience and safety

Emperor recommends Advanced Open Water or Deep Diver certification and at least 50 logged dives for most Indonesia itineraries. Strong and unpredictable currents occur in parts of Komodo, Raja Ampat, Banda Sea, Flores and Alor. The cruise director can restrict a guest from dives that do not match their experience.

Technical, solo and decompression diving are not permitted. The first dive is normally a mandatory check dive. Guests should bring proof of certification and recent dive experience, confirm insurance depth coverage and complete a skills review before travel if required by their training agency.

Included fees and booking notes

Emperor’s current no-hidden-extras policy includes port fees, park fees, fuel surcharges and Nitrox. Accommodation, diving and the onboard meal programme are packaged with scheduled departures, while rental equipment, courses and personal purchases may cost extra.

A 20 percent deposit can secure bookings made at least two months before departure, and the final balance is due 60 days before departure. This describes the payment schedule, not the cancellation policy. Request the applicable cancellation terms, full inclusions and travel logistics in writing before paying.

Who Emperor Raja Laut suits

This vessel is best suited to certified divers who want an intimate, dive-focused liveaboard with small guest numbers, free Nitrox and wide-ranging Indonesian itineraries. Non-divers and less experienced divers should discuss route suitability with the operator before booking.