The Last Paradise with Rascal Voyages: My Exceptional Trip in Raja Ampat
In February, I embarked on an extraordinary journey through the unspoiled beauty of Raja Ampat aboard a Rascal Voyages yacht. This five-night off-the-grid experience offered the perfect blend of adventure and barefoot luxury, immersing me in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. With a caring crew, breathtaking landscapes, and exquisite onboard amenities, it was an unforgettable escape into nature’s finest offerings.
The Yachts: A Floating Paradise
My home for the trip was the Rascal, a beautifully crafted handmade phinisi yacht built in Sulawesi, Indonesia. This 30-meter vessel exudes spacious elegance, accommodating up to 10 guests in five luxurious cabins. The yacht’s design seamlessly merges comfort with a laid-back luxury vibe, creating the feeling of a floating villa.
The main deck serves as the heart of the yacht, where freshly prepared meals by the talented onboard chefs are served alfresco. Guests can unwind in the indoor saloon, a cozy space perfect for pre-dinner drinks, puzzles, or relaxing with friends.
For those seeking sweeping views, the rooftop deck is a highlight. Offering panoramic 360° vistas of the islands, it’s ideal for meditation, yoga, sunbathing, or simply savoring the mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets. The deck even offers a playful twist on golf, where eco-friendly fish food golf balls add an element of fun while feeding the marine life below.
Accommodation: Comfort Above All
The yacht’s suites are designed with comfort and natural light in mind, all located above deck. Each suite offers at least 266 square feet of space, complete with en-suite bathrooms, king-sized beds, and modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs and minibars. Large panoramic windows provide stunning views, ensuring the luxury of the surroundings extends into every corner of the cabin. With only 5 cabins, Rascal can also be chartered for a private journey.
Diving: Exploring the World’s Most Biodiverse Waters
Raja Ampat has the richest marine biodiversity on Earth, which makes diving here a bucket-list experience. The Rascal makes it effortlessly accessible with an in-house PADI Dive Master and full access to scuba and snorkeling gear.
On this journey, we saw an amazing array of marine life, including manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, porcupine fish, and a kaleidoscope of colorful corals and schools of fish. For those new to diving, an introductory dive ensures everyone can partake in the magic of Raja Ampat’s waters.
Activities: Tailored Adventures
Rascal Voyages curates activities to showcase the soul of each destination. Beyond diving, guests can enjoy an array of experiences such as:
Trekking to remote viewpoints
Roof deck yoga sessions to start the day refreshed
Snorkeling, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking
Immersive village tours to connect with local communities
Idyllic beach picnics and volleyball
Tranquil birdwatching amidst the islands
Each activity is thoughtfully designed, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
Cuisine: A Culinary Delight
Chef Gusti elevated every meal into a memorable event, seamlessly blending local flavors with international favorites. Breakfasts were energizing (we even got a small breakfast before diving in the morning to be followed by a normal breakfast after), while lunches and dinners celebrated fresh, local ingredients. His signature garlic sambal was our absolute favorite at every meal.
The culinary experience extended beyond the yacht. One evening, the crew organized a magical dinner under the stars on the beach, complete with handmade decorations and live music. Another highlight was a buffet-style beach lunch, where we dined in paradise before diving into water activities.
Exceptional Service
With a dedicated crew of 11 catering to just 10 guests, the service aboard the Rascal was truly exceptional. The staff’s warmth, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm created an atmosphere of care and comfort. Every return to the yacht was met with a heartfelt “Hellooo!” that made us feel at home.
Sustainability: Luxury with a Conscience
Rascal Voyages is deeply committed to sustainability. By eliminating single-use plastics, employing local staff, sourcing ingredients regionally, and responsibly managing waste, the company minimizes its environmental footprint. They also partner with local conservation organizations to protect the fragile ecosystems of Raja Ampat, ensuring future generations can experience its unspoiled beauty.
Rascal Voyages is perfect for those who seek unique destinations, meaningful adventures, and a touch of luxury. Whether exploring nature, indulging in culinary delights, or simply relaxing in a stunning setting, the experience is tailor-made for the discerning traveler. For those chartering the entire yacht, itineraries can be customized to suit individual preferences, making every journey as unique as the destination itself.
If you’re ready to embark on an adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the comfort of a floating villa, Rascal Voyages offers an experience unlike any other.