FAQ – SURF CHARTER
Q: Q: Where do I need to fly in order to start my trip?
A: You’ll need to fly into Padang City, Sumatra. Major hubs to reach Padang include Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity.
Q: What time should I arrive in Padang?
A: Please arrive in Padang by 3 PM on the departure day. Send your flight details, especially your arrival time, to Odysseymentawai@gmail.com
Q: Do I have to pay extra to bring my surfboards on the plane?
A: Check online for the latest surfboard baggage policies. As a guideline:
– **Lion Air:** 200,000 IDR ($15) per surfboard – frequent delays, best to avoid.
– **Garuda:** Free of charge – most reliable.
– **AirAsia:** Purchase sports equipment as check-in baggage in advance to avoid higher prices at check-in.
– **Sriwijaya Air:** Free of charge – best value airline.
– **Citilink:** 200,000 IDR ($15) for the whole board bag.
Q: Is travel insurance necessary?
A: Yes, travel insurance covering adventure sports and medivac is mandatory. We recommend World Nomads, as they offer coverage for trip cancellation, theft, emergency dental, and even hire of sporting equipment if your surfboards are delayed. The cost for 13 days ranges from $50 to $70 USD.
Q: Is there internet onboard?
A: Yes, there is! We have Starlink connection onboard. There is also cellular signal is available in some locations in Mentawai.
Q: What is the Mentawai Surfing Tax?
A: Please bring about $120 in cash to cover the Mentawai tax. This fee, introduced by the Mentawai governor, is required from each surfer visiting the region. You’ll pay it in Padang upon arrival.
Q: How strict is the no drugs policy?
A: Very strict. Foreigners caught with drugs in Indonesia may face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or capital punishment. Please do not attempt to bring any drugs with you. We are subjected to random police checks through out your trip.
Q: Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
A: Yes, we can cater to vegan, vegetarian, or other dietary requirements. About a month before departure, we’ll send you a questionnaire to gather information about your dietary needs and wave preferences.
Q: Are beers included?
A: Yes, each person gets a box of 24 beers. If you run out, there are places we can stop to get more. You can also request more in advance at cost price.
Q: What about photos and videos?
A: Professional photography services are available but not included in the trip price. Prices for all images (photos, videos, and lifestyle/landscape pictures) range from $300 to $400, and group deals are often available.
Q: Where will we be surfing?
A: There are many breaks in Mentawai, but it’s not possible to surf them all in just 11 nights. We aim for a balance between variety and the best conditions, considering the group’s preferences and abilities. In extreme weather, we may need to take shelter for safety.
Q: Is Mentawai only for professional surfers?
A: Mentawai offers waves for all skill levels, though most breaks are over reef formations. We recommend at least two years of surfing experience to fully enjoy the waves.
Q: How many cabins are there?
A: We have 4 air-conditioned cabins, 5 bathrooms, 3 decks, a living room, a kitchen, and a large surfboard room with direct access to the dinghy via a sea-level platform.
Q: What if I get hurt?
A: We have a basic first aid kit onboard, but for serious injuries, there are health centers in Mentawai with foreign doctors available. For critical situations, we can assist in transporting you to Padang and then to a bigger hospital if needed. All costs are the guest’s responsibility, which is why travel insurance is essential.
Q: Do you have safety equipment onboard?
A: Yes, we comply with all safety regulations. Our boat can host 22 people and is equipped with two 15-person life rafts, 22 life jackets, EPIRB, radios, flares, 1 tender, and a trained crew.
Q: Do I need to bring a towel? What should I bring?
A: Towels are provided. We recommend bringing at least two good-quality leashes, extra fins, wax, and other surf-related items. Not many clothes are needed.
Q: What time does the boat return to Padang on the last day?
A: We aim to return to port by 7 AM. However, due to the unpredictability of sea travel, it’s best to schedule your flight from Padang after 12 PM in case of delays.
Q: How can I pay for my trip? What are the terms and conditions?
A: To reserve your spot, a deposit of 20% is required. You can pay via direct deposit to our Indonesian bank account, by credit card or bank transfer on WiseTransfer as well. The remaining balance is due 40 days before departure. If not paid, the booking will be canceled.
No refund is offered for cancellations due to natural disasters or political instability, except for COVID-19, where trips can be rescheduled. The remaining balance, excluding the 20% deposit, can be refunded up to 60 days before departure. Solo traveler bookings are welcome, but we need a minimum of 8 guests to confirm the charter. If we don’t reach this number, we will reassign you to another date or refund you.
In emergencies or bad weather, the boat may stay in a sheltered area as necessary for safety.
Q: Can I book the whole boat for myself?
A: Yes, you can book a private charter with no minimum number of people. Contact us for a quote and to discuss your requirements. We can adjust dates if needed, provided it doesn’t conflict with other bookings.
