About this spot
Francisco, also known as Friwin Island, sits in Raja Ampat Regency in Southwest Papua Province, Indonesia. This remote spot attracts divers seeking untouched reefs and rich marine biodiversity in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. The island remains outside marine protected areas, offering access to relatively unexplored dive sites. Year-round diving is possible, making it flexible for trip planning. Local conditions vary by season, so timing your visit with current reports helps maximize visibility and safety. Marine life here reflects Raja Ampat's reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. Twelve species observations are logged from the area, with community video documentation providing real-world footage of conditions and wildlife. These resources help divers understand what to expect before arrival. The region supports healthy reef systems, though coral bleaching monitoring is active in Raja Ampat—something to check before booking. Francisco works best as part of a broader Raja Ampat itinerary. Most divers reach the area via Sorong or Manado, then arrange boats or liveaboards to access remote islands. No formal MPAs govern this site, but responsible diving practices protect these pristine reefs for future visitors. Community footage and species data make planning easier than for many Raja Ampat locations.
📖 Guide: Diving in Indonesia: 323 Sites, Mantas to Micro-critters
Best months
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 🤿 Pack: rashguard / 1mm shorty
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 230V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- 🤿 Wetsuit rashguard / 1mm shorty
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 12h · direct
- Jet-lag: 12h east · 8 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Francisco?
Francisco is diveable year-round. Conditions vary seasonally; check recent coral bleaching reports and local operator updates before booking to confirm visibility and marine health.
›What depth and skill level is Francisco suited to?
Depth and difficulty data are not documented for this site. Contact local operators or liveaboards in Raja Ampat for current site conditions and recommended experience levels.
›What marine life will I see?
Twelve species have been documented at Francisco. Check available community videos and species logs for specifics. Raja Ampat's overall biodiversity is exceptional; Francisco reflects this richness.
›How do I get there and do I need permits?
Francisco is accessed via boat from Sorong or Manado. It sits outside marine protected areas, so no specific MPA permits are required—but verify current regulations with local operators before travel.
