When I first set foot on this boat I was still carrying my laptop bag – but when Nic offered to take it from me upon I politely said something like “Oh no worries I’ve got it”. She gave me a look and cocked her head and said “No you are on the Arenui now” – I’ll never forget that look on her face. It is unfortunate that I didn’t get to meet and spent as much time with the entire crew that worked so unbelievably hard behind the scenes, but those that I had the most contact with were phenomenal, Ronald was truly truly amazing! He read the minds of all 4 of us anticipated every move and need. Nic is the sweetest person and her knowledge of diving the world is amazing. Waking to her voice every morning was a perfect way to start the day. What can I say about Edu? He is truly a master of craft. He perfectly divided his time between educating us, chatting with the guests about anything under the sun, keeping us safe, choosing the best sites based on 100 factors that he calculates in his head – yet keeping both the crew and clients on a schedule. He and Nic both made themselves available all day and night long, which is difficult to be on call every day. They never seemed burdened and actually truly interested in conversing, teaching and learning from all the guests. The personalization of each client was amazing! The crew completely in tune with different guests needs and desires. The boat: amazing vessel! Diving: Of course everything was amazing but if anything it was the diving that superseded all of that! The crew; please disregard my comments on the diving section as the crew was easily the highlight of the trip. Food; amazing selection, quality and presentation. I’ve never been a foodie but I might be now!
Archives: Testimonials
Anon
Appreciated that despite the uncertainty of a new itinerary, Cruise Directors, Captain and DMs went out of their way to scout out currents, anchorage, safety and “entertainment value” of islands and dives sites. This was well reflected in dive briefings and daily briefings, as well as changes to planned itinerary. Despite travelling in such a remote area I always felt safe with the Arenui and its crew. The boat: Everything was beautiful and extremely well maintained as on previous trips on Arenui. Crew were unobtrusive but constantly going about cleaning after us, straightening pillows and cushions, laying out towels, etc. The diving: Really enjoyed exploring the “Forgotten Islands” itinerary with the Cruise Directors and DMs. Briefings were realistic about new sites and potential for current etc, but DMs were careful in looking out for divers and ensuring safety. Site on Nus Leur and Dawera were exceptional! DMs Wawan and Ronald had exceptional eyes and were patient with photographers. Tender drivers were attentive to detail and helped execute start/finish of dives. The crew: Absolutely exceptional! Thrilled to have Debbie, Jerry, Wawan and Putu from previous trips. Everyone went out of their way to be friendly, helpful and courteous from start to finish. Captain was extremely conscientious of ship in new locales but also conscious of effect of best motion for guest comfort. Stewards, DMs and therapists rapidly found our names, cabins, equipment and preferences. I mentioned to Debbie that I had reached a landmark (number of dives) and Putu created a carved fruit/vegetable centerpiece in honour of the landmark. It felt so special! Every time I dive on Arenui I feel like I’m coming back to my Indonesian family. The food: Always plentiful and excellent quality/taste. Appreciated the fresh fruit/vegetables throughout the trip.
Mike
The diving: Superb! Great staff The crew: All were outstanding – CAPTAIN and CHEF were among the best I have ever encountered. The food: Very creative menu, especially the vegetarian alternatives.
Peter
The boat: All in all the best facilities in any liveaboard I have been. The entire crew was friendly, helpful, funny, knowledgeable.
Rosemary
See you in May 2016. The boat: In awe with the Captains focus and decision making. Had some rough crossings but always felt safe. Thank you El Capitano. The crew: Jerry and Debbie are an excellent team. We will book excursion in the future with them for their friendly and competent leadership. Jerry my dive master had understanding and ability to read his divers. Thank you, thank you. The food: Always superior, choices to please all.
Kathy
Great dive trip and fabulous boat. The crew and service was spectacular. The boat: Best boat we’ve ever been on. The diving: Beautiful reefs. The crew: Outstanding service. The food: Fantastic.
Sheryl
My favourite liveaboard. The diving: Despite unchartered dive sites this itinerary has so much to offer. The crew: An outstanding crew, not surpassed by any other liveaboard. They can’t do enough and are always smiling. The food: I don’t believe I ever experienced a more accommodating menu, something for everyone.
Roz
I have nothing bad to say about the crew, the boat or the diving. Outstanding job all around – expensive but worth every cent. I will be back! The diving: The trip was exploratory in some areas and the crew all did a great job. The crew: This is the best and most team-orientated crew I have ever seen. Everyone works hard and is a pleasure to be around and are first-rate in their own right. FANTASTIC.
Phil
Great crew – thanks! The diving; tender drivers are excellent. The crew; outstanding top to bottom. The food; outstanding!
Bill
Debbie and Jerry are the best Cruise Directors I’ve even met and had the pleasure to dive with. The entire crew has always been the most attentive, caring crew I’ve experienced. Thank you for the amazingly high standards that the crew always aspires to and achieves. I experienced the most exciting, adrenaline filled dive of my life on “A Bit Far Rock”, a new dive site to the “Forgotten Islands”. Dive master Ungke and I hit the top of the rock in a swarm of trevallies, dogfish tuna, pyramid butterflyfish, fusiliers, eagle rays and gray reef sharks. The schools were actually streaming around us, almost touching us for an amazing several minutes. I will remember this dive always. Thank you Ungke! The crew; outstanding stewards, dive masters and Cruise Directors. I always appreciate Jerry’s advice and encouragement in my photography.