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Marine festival to showcase Raja Ampat's underwater paradise
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Various traveling programs have been created to boost tourism to Raja Ampat, which includes a cruise program by state owned ship operator Pelni. (Shutterstock.com/File)
From Oct. 18 to 21, Raja Ampat in West Papua will be hosting Raja Ampat Marine Festival.
“This festival is part of the region's 2017 events, which aims to introduce the marine beauty and culture of the people around Raja Ampat,” said Raja Ampat Regent Abdul Faris Umlati.
The festival is set to be held in Waigeo Island, the capital of Raja Ampat -- a three-hour trip from Sorong using a speedboat.
The event reportedly would invite other regencies in Papua to showcase their arts and cultures. It boasts a show of traditional boats and fruit-eating demo by the people of Raja Ampat. Visitors to the event can also expect to enjoy Papuan dishes for free.
Read also: What to do in Raja Ampat beyond diving, snorkeling
“There will be a variety of marine-inspired competitions such as boat decoration, swimming competition, running, seafood cooking competition and volleyball. Cultural performances will also be performed by the people of Raja Ampat and residents from other regencies,” he added.
After Raja Ampat Marine Festival, the festivity will continue with more events such as Misool Charm Festival on Nov. 8-10, Raja Trophy Soccer Tournament on Nov. 23-30 and New Year Splendor Festival on Dec. 30-31.
Raja Ampat is the heart of the Coral Triangle. Apart from whales, dolphins and dugong, its underwater is also home to five different species of turtles, Wobbegong and Kalabia walking sharks, 15 endemic fishes, 699 types of clams, 1,427 coral reef fishes and 553 types of hard corals.
“Dolphins can be seen every day, especially during the trip from Sorong to Raja Ampat,” said Abdul. (kes)
