Can I recharge my video or digital
camera onboard? The boat's voltage
is 240 V AC 50 Hertz so make sure any battery
chargers you decide to bring are suitable. The
boat's power points are 3-pin English. We have
some adaptors but it's best that you bring your
own to make sure or you have unusual plugs.
Can I be contacted on board?
Yes, satellite phone and satellite based email
is available. Rates are competitive. Incoming
calls and SMS are free. Satellite phone is US$6
per minute.
Are there any rules I need abide by while on board? Surf etiquette applies. Respect for passengers, the crew and the possessions of all those on board goes without saying.
What do I do if I have any special circumstances eg. Dietary or disability needs? Please take note when filling out our booking order the section titled 'dietary or disability needs'. Give us as much information as possible regarding this topic.
What medical coverage and services are available in the event of an emergency? The Mentawai is in a remote part of the world and there are no high quality hospitals in Padang or the nearby islands. We have phone access to an Australian Accident and Emergency Doctor who is familiar with surfing injuries and on whom we can call. In the event of an accident requiring evacuation we will coordinate with your team and your insurance firm to get to the closed airlift point.
Can I do my laundry on board? Yes, but you will be bringing aboard so little clothing it is probably not worth your time.
Does the boat have DVDs on board? Yes. You can also bring your own too.
What other activities to you have? We have DVDs, music, board games, fishing and snorkeling gear, to many to list. There is also a three-seater jet ski you can rent for $25 per hour (min 10 hrs). The emphasis however is the surf and chilling out.
Should I tip the crew? If you think they have made your holiday or trip something special and you want to recognize this then they will be stoked to receive something. You can give it to them individually or club together and give to the skipper who will share out equally between the Indonesian crew up to you.
What is your policy on illegal substances? Our operation is drug-free. If drugs are discovered by authorities in a passenger's cabin or baggage we could lose the vessel and all face imprisonment. In Indonesia possession of drugs carries a potential death sentence and the authorities have recently taken such action against Australian citizens in Bali. Please be considerate of others and the crew and not bring illicit substances on board. Those carrying special medication need to declare it to the captain before boarding to ensure there is no confusion with the authorities if they choose to board and search the boat.
Who and when can we use the Jet ski. Assuming your group has booked it then it will be on the boat. The jet ski is only to be ridden by passengers who are experienced in a 1200cc and above jet ski and cannot be ridden near the surf breaks or other surfers. Any accidents or damage is at the risk of the rider and they will be required to pay for damage. The jet ski is used by the professional photo groups more for tow-ins and photo shots. Its use for non photo groups for tow-in's is discouraged. The Skipper has the final and ultimate decision on its use and will consider other surfers, the weather and sea conditions, and the experience of the rider. At his discretion he may stop its use for a charter and will refund the unused portion of the Jet ski rental.
Can I buy souvenirs from the local islanders? During the trip we will be stopping at islands where the locals will come out and sell us their wares. Small items are easily carried back.
Are there any rules I need abide by while on board? Surf etiquette applies. Respect for passengers, the crew and the possessions of all those on board goes without saying.