Traveling to Raja Ampat- questions on logistics

[Hintermann]

Am I right in saying you have to wait nearer the time to book express air? I am looking at logistics for a raja trip in October and the website doesn't let you see or book flights after April.

Correct. It used to be 30-days before the flight, but maybe it is 45 now.

The locals say that after Garuda, SriWijaya is probably the most reliable, but in Indonesia that only means fewer delays than rest of the competition. Express Air and Lion Air were the next best (or worst, depending on how you look at it) with Merpati Nusantara being condemned by just about everyone.

 

[SEEKER646]

Looking to make first trip to Raja Ampat
Can anyone recommend a good dive operation there?
Live aboard vs. shoreside comments?
Best time of year to go
And any recommendations re travel arrangements from US East Coast?

Last - What are the surprises with travel logistics - and extra expenses that we won't know before but will encounter?
Thx in advance