8 days. 7 nights. Raja Ampat’s most biodiverse waters — with a National Geographic shark scientist on board. This is not a standard dive trip. It’s a working scientific expedition where you’ll dive alongside blacktip reef sharks, contribute to real conservation research, and help a team of marine biologists understand one of the ocean’s most misunderstood species.
Led by Gibbs Kuguru — National Geographic Wayfinder Award recipient, shark geneticist, and founder of the Shark Genographic Project — and Walker Nambu, expedition manager and marine biologist, this 8-day voyage aboard the Tiaré takes you deep into Raja Ampat’s remotest reefs.
“Shark DNA tells us a story — one of survival, stress, and urgent need. Overfishing has pushed some species so far that they are now showing signs of inbreeding. We’ve shattered the delicate mosaic of their DNA. Now, we’re working to restore it — before it’s too late.” — Gibbs Kuguru
The Science: What You’ll Be Part Of
Sharks are essential to healthy reef ecosystems — and they’re under serious pressure. Overfishing and habitat loss have pushed populations into genetic bottlenecks, reducing the diversity that allows species to adapt and survive.
Gibbs Kuguru’s research focuses on the Blacktip Reef Sharks of Indonesia, using non-invasive genetic sampling to map population health, migration patterns, and stress indicators. During this expedition, you’ll be part of that data collection — not as a passive observer, but as an active contributor.
How You’ll Contribute
- Observe and document shark behavior during dives, contributing to daily sighting logs
- Attend evening science lectures and interactive workshops on shark biology, genetics, and conservation
- On Shark Science Field Day (Day 5, conditions permitting): observe or assist with shark tagging and DNA sample collection under expert supervision
- Receive a Certificate of Participation in the Shark Monitoring Program at journey’s end
Note: All research activities are conducted under scientific permit. Participation in hands-on procedures depends on conditions, shark behavior, and permit scope.
The Route: 8 Days Through Raja Ampat
The expedition departs from Sorong and loops through the heart of Raja Ampat — from the shark-patrolled shallows of Waisai to the legendary currents of Yanggefo, the iconic karst views of Piaynemo, and the manta channels off Batanta.
Day 1 — Arrival in Sorong & Embarkation
Transfer from Sorong Airport to Tiaré at Sorong Port. Welcome ceremony, safety briefing, and dive gear preparation. Meet expedition leads Gibbs Kuguru and Walker Nambu for an introduction to the shark research mission. Afternoon crossing to Waisai (6 hours).
Evening lecture: “Sharks of Raja Ampat: Apex Guardians of the Coral Triangle”
Day 2 — Waisai: Coral Reefs & Shark Realms
Dive sites: Mioskon, Blue Magic, Friwinbonda, Oh Yes!
Mioskon Reef’s shallow corals are regular hunting grounds for blacktip reef sharks. Blue Magic delivers strong currents, schooling fish, grey reef sharks, and occasional oceanic mantas. Night dive at “Oh Yes!” — epaulette (walking) sharks and bamboo sharks frequent these waters after dark.
Mini Talk: “Shark Superpowers: Senses, Speed, and Survival”
Day 3 — East Mansuar: Biodiversity & Behavior
Dive sites: Cape Kri, Otdima Reef, Yenbuba Jetty
Cape Kri holds the world record for species diversity — 374 species documented in a single dive — and reliably delivers encounters with blacktip and grey reef sharks. Dives are paired with structured shark behavior observations contributing directly to the research dataset.
Workshop: “Shark Identification 101”
Day 4 — West Mansuar: Drift with Predators
Dive sites: Manta Ridge, Lalosi, Sawandarek Jetty, Arborek Jetty
Manta Ridge is exactly what it sounds like: a high-current ridge where manta rays and sharks share the same water column. Arborek Jetty at dusk brings out wobbegong sharks, nurse sharks, and the rare epaulette shark.
Lecture: “Genetics & Conservation — Gibbs Kuguru’s Work with Sharks”
Day 5 — Yanggefo: Mayhem, Currents & Science
Dive sites: Mayhem, Citrus Ridge, Gam Ridge, Batu Rufus
The expedition’s most significant research day. Subject to conditions, permits, and shark behavior, today may include a shark tagging demonstration and the opportunity to observe or assist with DNA sample collection — led by the science team using Gibbs Kuguru’s methods and tools.
Interactive Briefing: “How Shark Tagging Works: Tools, Ethics & Goals”
Day 6 — Piaynemo: Science Meets Beauty
Dive sites: My Reef, Melissa’s Garden, Keruo Channel
Melissa’s Garden — lush coral beds with regular blacktip reef shark presence — is among the most visually striking dive sites in the archipelago. Afternoon trek to the Piaynemo viewpoint: the classic Raja Ampat panorama of karst islands rising from turquoise water.
Evening Talk: “Why Shark Conservation Needs You”
Day 7 — Batanta: Waterfalls, Mantas & Memories
Dive sites: Manta Way
Final dives at Manta Way, where reef sharks and mantas move through the same channels. Trek through jungle to Batanta’s waterfalls. Sunset picnic on Tapok Sandbank. Farewell celebration: expedition recap, conservation pledge, and Certificate of Participation in the Shark Monitoring Program. Evening crossing back to Sorong (5 hours).
Day 8 — Sorong: Disembarkation
09:00 AM disembarkation. Airport transfer. End of expedition.
Meet the Expedition Leaders
Gibbs Kuguru — Shark Scientist & National Geographic Explorer
Born and raised in Kenya, Gibbs Kuguru is a world-renowned shark scientist whose work spans from shark cage fieldwork to genomics labs. A National Geographic Wayfinder Award recipient, he leads the Shark Genographic Project, using genetic tools to understand and protect shark populations globally. Currently completing his PhD at Wageningen University, his current research focuses on a skin disorder affecting blacktip reef sharks in the Maldives — work that may reveal how apex predators adapt under changing ocean conditions.
Equal parts scientist and storyteller, Gibbs uses his platform to connect people directly with the ocean’s most pressing conservation challenges.
Walker Nambu — Expedition Leader & Marine Biologist
Walker Nambu holds a Master’s in Marine Science and has collaborated with Gibbs Kuguru on shark research expeditions across South Africa and the Maldives. A former research lab director in the Caribbean, his field experience covers great hammerheads, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and lemon sharks. As a USCG-licensed captain and expert fishing guide, he has led expeditions from Alaska’s glacier-fed rivers to the Florida Keys.
Walker manages expedition logistics, diver safety, and ensures every activity runs smoothly — so you can focus on the experience.
The Vessel: Tiaré
Tiaré is purpose-built for expedition and adventure voyages — comfortable enough for extended liveaboard life, equipped for serious dive operations. She serves as your floating research base and home for the duration of the expedition.
Available Expedition Dates & Pricing
Two departures are available for April 2026. Spaces are strictly limited — this is a small-group research expedition, not a mass-market liveaboard.
- Expedition 1: 14 April – 21 April 2026
- Expedition 2: 23 April – 30 April 2026
From USD 5,500 per person (cabin-based pricing — contact us for availability and cabin category options).
- Includes: All dives, accommodation aboard Tiaré, all meals, airport transfers (Sorong), science program participation, Certificate of Participation
- Excludes: International / domestic flights, dive equipment rental, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, Raja Ampat entry fees
Disclaimer
Shark Research Expedition activities involving tagging, DNA collection, or direct interaction with sharks are subject to scientific permit availability, prevailing sea conditions, and shark behavior. Ocean Earth Travels and expedition leaders reserve the right to modify or cancel specific research activities for safety or scientific reasons. All conservation research is conducted in full compliance with Indonesian marine regulation and international ethical standards.
