FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
OVERVIEW
RAJA AMPAT
Q: Where is Raja Ampat?A: Raja Ampat, which means "The Four Kings", is part of the province of West Papua in Indonesia. It is located on the northwestern tip of an area known as Bird's Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea. Raja Ampat is in fact an archipelago comprising the main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Wiageo plus an additional 1,500 smaller islands and cays.
Q: What kind of diving is there in Raja Ampat?A: Raja Ampat can boast of immaculate stunning beauty both above and below the water. It is located in the heart of the Coral Triangle which is reputed for possibly having the richest seas in the world. The marine biodiversity is simply staggering. Surveys estimate this archipelago is home to 75% of the world's coral species and 1,500+ fish species, many endemic to the region. There are many drift dives due to the moderate currents prevalent in the area, which provide nutrients for the myriad of fish and coral. There are walls, reef flats, slopes, sea mounts, lagoons and pinnacles. The reefs are in pristine condition and offer endless views of perfectly formed hard corals and a wide variety of species of colourful soft corals.
Q: In what time zone is Raja Ampat located?A: Raja Ampat follows Eastern Indonesia Standard Time which is GMT+9.
Q: When is the best time of year to visit Raja Ampat?A: Most dive liveaboards stick to an October through April calendar even though this can be the wettest season in Raja Ampat. However, as it is generally sunny and warm year-round, this just means that there can be short tropical showers. In fact, the seas are usually calmer during these months, with the winds blowing from the northeast.
KOMODO
Q: Where is Komodo?A: Komodo National Park is also considered part of the Coral Triangle and the area with the world's highest marine biodiversity. Its actual location is around 200 nautical miles to the east of Bali in the Lesser Sunda Islands, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. It has a total land area of 75,000 hectares and encompasses a number of islands, the largest of which is Komodo (34,000 hectares), numerous smaller islands, and the Wae Wuul sanctuary on Flores. A total of 112,500 hectares of the surrounding waters is also under the jurisdiction of the park rangers, allowing for the protection of over 1,000 species of fish and hundreds of different corals.
Q: What kind of diving is there in Komodo?A: The sea around Komodo Island offers vibrant colours and exotic marine life which will enchant divers and snorkelers alike. They will be able to see endless schools offish in every direction, drawn by the waterways rushing up from deep sea vents. Below, the seabed is covered with a thick carpet of richly coloured corals and marine invertebrates, the ultimate paradise for underwater photographers. Komodo National Park is an important natural refuge and is known worldwide for the overwhelming amount of flawless corals that can be found there, not to mention the mantas, sharks, turtles, dolphins, dugong and many other pelagic. Yet it is also home to different kinds of pygmy seahorses, a wide variety of gorgeous nudibranchs and frogfish. Its sites stretch from the warm waters of the Flores Sea in the north to the chillier waters down south in the Indian Ocean and vary from gentle coral slopes to heart-pounding adrenaline thrill rides. The underwater terrain presents many contrasts as well, with sheer cliff walls, pinnacles, sandy flat bottoms, underwater plateaus, slopes, caves, swim - throughs, channels, all with differing colours, sizes and types of both hard and soft corals.
Q: In what time zone is Komodo located?A: Komodo adheres to Central Indonesia Standard Time which is GMT+8.
Q: When is the best time of year for diving in Komodo?A: Although there is diving year-round in Komodo, the best period is considered to be April through November.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Q: Can you also help with any accommodation and transportation needs in Indonesia prior to or after the cruise?A: Of course! We would be delighted to assist you in organising your accommodation, transport, tours and/or activities anywhere in Indonesia during your stay. Arenui offers a number of tours and excursions that may be taken either before or after the cruise. For further details, please contact siska@thearenui.com.
Q: What about my flights within Indonesia?A: Arenui can help make all the reservations for your domestic flights should you so wish. Travel to Raja Ampat is through one of three Indonesian cities: Manado, Bali or Jakarta. We will also organise the airport transfers to take you to and from your cruise.
Q: How do I get to and from the airport and the Arenui?A: Your cruise includes a return transfer from the airport to the Arenui. Once you have claimed your luggage, please look for an agent holding an Arenui sign.
Q: Is there an airport departure tax?A: Yes. For domestic flights, the departure tax varies from island to island but is generally around Rupiah 25,000. If you leave Indonesia from Bali, an international departure tax of Rupiah 150,000 must be paid at the airport; however, if you leave the country from Manado, it is Rupiah 75,000.
Q: Do I need to be concerned about any luggage restrictions?A: For international flights, please check with your carrier for their baggage allowance policy. We encourage our guests to pack as light as possible since domestic airlines typically impose a weight restriction of 20kg (44 lbs.) per person. Excess luggage is charged by the kilo (2.2 lb) and is payable in Rupiah at the airport.
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Indonesia?A: Yes. With the exception of nationals from certain exempted countries, a tourist visa is required but, for most nationalities, one valid for 30 days can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival and have at least two blank pages in it. A visa on arrival in Bali costs US$25 and is valid for 30 days. Clean, new and crisp $20 and $5 bills will help expedite processing at the airport (Rupiah are also accepted). Alternatively, you may apply for a visa before your departure by contacting the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your country. For further up-to-date information on this and other matters or to find the embassy or consulate nearest to you, please visit Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website: www.deplu.go.id. For those who decide after their arrival to change their plans and stay longer in Indonesia a 30-day visa extension may be obtained upon payment of fees. However, the application for the extension must be made no later than one week prior to the expiration of the existing visa. A fine of Rp.200,000 per day or other penalties will be charged if you overstay your visa and/or extension.
Q: Do I need travel insurance?A: We strongly recommend that each guest purchase comprehensive accident, medical, baggage and trip cancellation insurance. In the event where it is necessary to cancel or cut short a trip due to weather or any other unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the Arenui, there will be no refund or issuing of credit.
Q: Do I need vaccinations before I travel to Indonesia?A: When travelling in tropical areas, it is always a good idea to make sure that you are up-to-date with your typhoid, tetanus/diphtheria, hepatitis and polio vaccinations. Please check with your doctor for the latest recommendations.
Q: Is there malaria and dengue fever in the areas we will be visiting?A: This is usually not a problem while you are on the boat. However, on land, many parts of Indonesia are generally humid, which means mosquitoes and cases of malaria and dengue fever. However, we simply recommend that you bring plenty of repellent and consult your doctor beforehand for the most up-to-date advice on anti-malarial medication.
Q: How should I bring money?A: The Arenui accepts payment by Visa or Mastercard and in cash in Indonesian Rupiah, Euro or US Dollar. Please be informed that foreign notes should be clean, new and crisp . Indonesian banks and money changers will not accept old notes or ones which are marked or damaged in any way. Before embarking, you can also use your credit or debit card to withdraw cash from an ATM in town as it is better to have Rupiah for making smaller purchases or for tips. It is advisable to inform your bank or credit card company that you will be visiting Indonesia prior to your departure, as it is not uncommon for banks to decline payment on foreign transactions as a precautionary measure to prevent possible fraudulent use.
ONBOARD INFORMATION
Q: Do I need to send any documents before the cruise?A: Along with your booking confirmation, you will receive an enrolment form. Both must be completed, signed and sent, along with a copy of your passport, via fax or email to our office BEFORE the start of the cruise. Please note that, under Indonesian law, without these forms, we will not be able to let you go aboard! You may fax these documents to +62 3614 730 159 or send them by email to siska@thearenui.com.
Q: What documents do I need to bring with me?A: Please bring with you the original duly completed Cruise Enrolment Form, the signed Release of Liability and a copy of the photo page of your passport as well as your dive certification cards and logbook.
Q: What is included and excluded in the overall price of an Arenui cruise?A: Included:
- - Full board accommodation in double/twin cabins
- - Shore activities/excursions in accordance with the cruise program
- - Soft drinks and all meals on board
- - Diving activities including tanks, weights and weight belt
- - Airport/boat transfers
- - Government taxes
Exclusions:
- - All flights and airport taxes
- - Hotels and meals before and after the cruise
- - Alcoholic drinks
- - Dive equipment rental (excluding tanks, weights and weight belt)
- - Nitrox refills
- - Fuel surcharge
- - Administration/port clearance fee
- - Parks fee
- - Massages and spa treatments
- - Travel insurance
- - On-board purchases
- - Private tours
- - Laundry
- - On-board telecommunications
- - Crew gratuities
A: Fresh meals are prepared by our on-board chef and consist of a delicious mix of international and local dishes. Dine in our indoor restaurant or al fresco on our sky deck. The food is always plentiful and fresh. Most days begin with a small breakfast, then a full buffet breakfast after the morning dive. Lunch is also a buffet style but the evening meal is served a-la-carte with a number of choices. Snacks are available throughout the day, plus special afternoon savoury or sweet bites on offer. Please advise us as soon as possible if you have any special dietary requirements. However, it should be noted that certain special dietary and/or beverage requests may not be available on a consistent basis due to the remote nature of the sites. Please also bear in mind that we spend most of our cruise within protected waters, so local seafood is not always available due to restrictions on fishing.
Q: What shall I pack? Is there any specific rule about clothing/dress code?A: Please plan to travel light as storage space on any liveaboard is always limited. We recommend that you pack your gear in soft-sided luggage, such as a duffel bag, for easy stowage and added comfort in your cabin. There is no need for a large, rigid suitcase as bathing suits and t-shirts are the order of the day. Please avoid any unnecessary packing. It is entirely acceptable to dress in casual shorts and a shirt or t-shirt. Sandals are fine as shoes. Bring comfortable clothes suited to the tropical climate, which is generally hot and humid during the day although it can get a bit chilly at night in the summer (May to October). Cotton clothing is highly recommended. Remember that a sarong or a pair of flip-flops can be purchased for very little money all over Indonesia and make a nice souvenir!
Q: Is it possible to do laundry onboard?A: Yes. We have a wash-and-dry service available at extra cost.
Q: Does the boat provide any toiletries?A: We provide high-quality customized Arenui amenities, which include natural handmade shampoo, soap and shower gel as well as towels. Hair dryers are also available on request.
Q: What if I am prone to seasickness?A: If you are predisposed to seasickness, we strongly urge you to bring some motion sickness medication.
Q: Is smoking permitted?A: There is a designated area for smoking on the upper deck. Smoking is not permitted at any time in any other area.
Q: What type of electricity and plug adapters are available on the boat?A: Each cabin is equipped with twin, round plug sockets with 220 volts. Although we do have universal power strips available which, in theory, do accept plugs from most countries, divers are encouraged to bring their own plug adapters. For added convenience, the diving area has both 220v and 110v sockets.
Q: Do you have batteries on the boat?A: We have local AA, AAA, C and D cell batteries. Long-lasting batteries are difficult to find in some parts of Indonesia. We therefore recommend that you bring batteries with you, preferably rechargeable ones with a charger to minimize weight. International battery chargers are available onboard.
Q: Are there first-aid facilities onboard?A: On the Arenui, the safety and well-being of our guests is always a top priority which is why there is a full-time nurse on the crew. This crew member manages the boat's extensive first-aid kit and will provide you with medical attention and care if necessary.
Q: Are souvenirs and gifts available on the boat?A: The Arenui proposes a nice collection of souvenirs and other gifts which can be purchased at the end of each cruise.
Q: What time does the cruise embark and disembark?A: Unfortunately, there is no hard and fast rule here. The actual schedule will depend on domestic flight times, check dive requirements and cruise itinerary.
Q: Will I have to share a cabin if I am travelling alone?A: All rates are quoted on a shared basis. Therefore, unless you require a guaranteed single room and pay an additional supplement (80% of the cabin rate), you might have to share a cabin with one other guest depending on cabin availability.
Q: Is there entertainment onboard?A: The Arenui's main lounge is equipped with television sets, a DVD player and a system for music. There is also a small library of books for exchange as well as fish identification books for reference.
Q: Will there be any opportunities to go ashore during the cruise?A: Many different land excursions are available depending on the schedule and guest preferences at the time. The following are some of the land excursions proposed: beach visits, a tour of the village, a trek to see the Birds of Paradise, a visit to a pearl farm, a trek up the limestone cliffs in Wayag and kayaking on the lagoon at Fam.
Q: Can I bring something for the villagers for when we visit?A: Gifts for local villagers are always welcome. However, please consider that plastics and non-biodegradable products can pollute the environment. We can suggest gifts such as educational materials, pens and notebooks for the schools and/or children or decent quality hard-wearing second-hand clothes.
Q: How can my family contact me in the event of an emergency?A: The boat is equipped with a satellite phone. Depending on the location of the ship, it is possible to make (USD 5/min) or receive calls (USD 2.5/min). There is email service on the Arenui whenever the GPRS connection can be established. We are also happy to relay messages for you to/from the boat via our office if necessary. In the case of an emergency, please email siska@thearenui.com and she will assist in any way possible. Or contact our Bali office at +62 3614 730 159 during business hours (9:30am - 6:30pm local time GMT+9).
Q: What about crew gratuities?A: Gratuities for the crew are not included in your trip price. If you appreciate the service provided by the crew, we suggest a gratuity of approximately 10%-15% of the published package price per person, what is considered the standard amount aboard a dive liveaboard. All tips are split equally among the boat's crew (around 21 employees). We do not encourage personal tipping. The giving of gratuities can be done in cash or by credit card.
DIVING INFORMATION
Q: What diver certification level is required for joining the Arenui?A: Everyone is welcome on board, regardless of the level of certification. The forming of dive groups and selecting of sites are determined in accordance with safety, comfort and diving ability considerations and remain at the discretion of the Cruise Director. Our professional dive crew can lead you to more relaxing sites if you are not too fond of currents for example. Of course, if you want, we can also take you into the heart of the action to experience the full thrill of a site!
Q: How many dives can we do each day?A: There will be up to 4 dives per day with 2-3 dives on the first and last diving days.
Q: How is the diving done off of the Arenui?A: Everything has been set up for the greatest convenience of our divers. Kitting up for dives is done on the port and starboard sides of the vessel's dive deck. The crew takes care of transporting and stowing the tanks and BCDs in the tenders for you. There are sturdy ladders to allow divers to safely board the tenders. Once over the dive site, divers simply gear up and roll backwards!
Q: What dive equipment do I need?A: Tanks, weights and weight belts are provided onboard. Divers will need to bring a BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel and dive light. We have SMBs available for use.
Q: Do you use INT or DIN valves?A: We have tanks with INT and DIN valves.
Q: What can I expect in terms of water temperature and what type of wetsuit do you recommend?A: This is always a difficult question to answer because people have different sensibilities to temperature. Typically, average temperatures in Raja Ampat range from 25-30C (80-86F) which mean that a 3mm wetsuit or even a skinsuit is usually fine. The southern waters of Komodo can be colder, from 20-25C (70-75F); therefore, a 5mm wetsuit with a hood is recommended.
Q: Is there dive equipment available for rent?A: There is a limited amount of diving equipment for rent so it is important that you notify us in advance if you want to rent equipment. We offer Scubapro BCDs, regulators and wetsuits. Snorkeling sets wit h Aqualung fins and a selection of masks and snorkels are available. We have UK C4 eLED dive lights for rent.
Q: What facilities are available for photographers?A: Guests who are shooting digital photography may view their images on one of the two computers (MAC or PC) provided for their use in the lounge. There are ample camera tables located at the front of the lounge for handling and setting up equipment. There are individual cubby holes in the diving area with 110V and 220V sockets conveniently located just above your dive gear. We also provide 'camera only' rinse buckets for the exclusive use of the photographers onboard.
Q: Are there any limitations or restrictions on the diving?A: You should respect the standards and stay within the limits of your qualifying certification. All dives should be no-decompression dives. Solo diving is not permitted.
Q: Is enriched air nitrox available?A: Nitrox fills of up to 32% are available for an additional charge. As we recommend diving with nitrox on all dives, we offer great packages to allow you unlimited nitrox throughout the cruise. Please consult our price list for more details. If you are not yet Nitrox-certified, you can take the course onboard with one of our qualified PADI instructors.
Q: Can I take a specialty course onboard?A: As well as Enriched Air Nitrox, we offer several dive specialty courses onboard. Please let us know beforehand if you are interested in taking one so that we may ensure that the necessary academic material will be made available.
Q: Can I fish or spear fish?A: Fishing and spear fishing are not available onboard. We will be diving in protected marine areas where all fishing is prohibited.
Q: Can I drink alcohol and dive?A: No. Drinking alcohol and diving is not allowed as this can increase your risk of decompression. You are free to drink alcohol once you have completed your last dive of the day.
Q: Do I need evacuation/dive insurance?A: We strongly recommend that each guest purchase comprehensive evacuation and dive accident insurance. We will be operating in extremely remote areas. Emergency evacuations from remote locations can cost in excess of USD $100,000. We recommend Divers Alert Network (DAN): www.DiversAlertNetwork.org (in the U.S.) or www.daneurope.org (in Europe).
