Liquid Adventures Indonesia – Complete Liveaboard FAQ

Question 1

What certification level do I need to join a trip?

Accepted Answer

A minimum of Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) is required for all trips in Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Banda Sea. This allows for diving to 30 metres and participating in night dives. Guests should bring their certification card, and valid dive insurance is strongly recommended.

Question 2

How many dives are included on each trip?

Accepted Answer

Komodo trips include approximately 17+ dives, while Banda Sea and Raja Ampat trips include 25+ dives. Final numbers may vary depending on weather and safety considerations.

Question 3

Do you accept beginner or Open Water divers?

Accepted Answer

No, due to depth profiles and conditions at many sites, a minimum of Advanced certification (or Deep Specialty) is required. We do not offer courses onboard.

Question 4

Are park fees included in the trip price?

Accepted Answer

No, Marine Park fees and transfers are additional. Park fees include park tickets, harbour and regional clearances, local village fees for reef access, and trekking permissions. They can be purchased in advance or during embarkation.

Question 5

What is the tipping policy for the crew?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is optional but appreciated. A guideline is 5–10% of the trip cost, depending on service. Tips are pooled and shared equally among the Indonesian crew.

Question 6

Do you provide rental dive equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide full rental gear including BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel. Equipment is charged per diving day. Please send your sizes in advance so we can prepare your gear.

Question 7

Can I bring my own dive gear?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bringing your own dive gear is encouraged. Please ensure everything is serviced, labelled, and in good working order.

Question 8

What is included in the trip price?

Accepted Answer

Included: accommodation onboard, all meals, snacks, tea, coffee, drinking water, diving, tanks, weights, and dive guides. Additional: Marine Park fees, equipment rental, alcohol, soft drinks, and transfers.

Question 9

Are flights included?

Accepted Answer

No, flights are not included. Guests must book their own domestic and international flights.

Question 10

How do I get to Labuan Bajo?

Accepted Answer

Labuan Bajo (LBJ) can be reached by direct flights from Bali, Jakarta, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Guests must arrange their own transfers between the airport, hotel, and harbour.

Question 11

What time should I arrive and depart?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arriving at least one day before the trip and departing one day after to allow for flight delays and no-fly times. Full boarding and disembarkation details are provided in your trip information.

Question 12

Can non-divers join the trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-divers are welcome. They can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, trekking, and relaxing onboard. Non-diver rates apply.

Question 13

What should I pack for a liveaboard trip?

Accepted Answer

Pack lightweight clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable bottle, swimwear, certification cards, insurance details, and any personal dive gear. Soft luggage is recommended for easier storage onboard.

Question 14

Do you offer private charters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both Kira Kira and Akomo Isseki can be privately chartered. Custom itineraries can be created for groups depending on dates and availability.

Question 15

What kind of food is served onboard?

Accepted Answer

Our Indonesian chef prepares a mix of Indonesian and international dishes using fresh local ingredients. Three main meals, snacks, and fruit are served daily.

Question 16

Can you cater to dietary restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can cater to most dietary requirements with advance notice. Please inform us during booking so we can prepare accordingly.

Question 17

Are the boats eco-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both boats run on solar power, use limited single-use plastics, and source food from local markets. Guests are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles.

Question 18

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no Wi-Fi onboard. Mobile signal may be available intermittently depending on the location.

Question 19

Do you provide dive insurance?

Accepted Answer

No, guests must arrange their own dive insurance. We strongly recommend DAN or an equivalent policy.

Question 20

Is there power onboard to charge devices?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 220V power is available during the day and solar power at night. Please bring a universal adapter if required.

Question 21

Do you provide towels and linen?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all cabins include towels, sheets, and bedding. We recommend bringing a quick-dry towel for deck use.

Question 22

Are night dives included?

Accepted Answer

Yes, night dives are included on most trips depending on the schedule and conditions. A torch is required; you can bring your own or rent onboard.

Question 23

What safety equipment is onboard?

Accepted Answer

Both vessels carry EPIRBs, life jackets, life rings, fire equipment, first aid kits, oxygen, and communication devices in accordance with Indonesian maritime regulations.

Question 24

Can I extend my stay before or after the trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many guests spend extra time in Labuan Bajo, Sorong, or Ambon before or after their trip. We can recommend accommodation options if needed.

Question 25

How do I book a trip?

Accepted Answer

You can book directly through our website, by emailing liquidadventuresindonesia@gmail.com, or via WhatsApp at +62 81214220426. A deposit secures your space.

Question 26

What is the best time of year to join a Komodo liveaboard?

Accepted Answer

The best time to join a Komodo liveaboard in Indonesia is from June to October, when visibility improves and the seas are generally calmer. Our 7-night itineraries run during this peak season.

Question 27

How long should I book for a liveaboard in Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

A 10-day Raja Ampat liveaboard provides enough time to explore the northern and central regions and enjoy 25+ dives in one of Indonesia’s most biodiverse marine areas.

Question 28

What marine life can I expect to see on a Banda Sea liveaboard?

Accepted Answer

A Banda Sea liveaboard offers schooling hammerhead sharks, sea snakes, beautiful coral walls, and remote reefs rarely visited by other Indonesia liveaboards.

Question 29

Are liveaboards in Indonesia suitable for budget-conscious divers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Indonesia offers several budget-friendly liveaboards, and Liquid Adventures Indonesia provides excellent value on our Komodo, Raja Ampat, and Banda Sea trips with small groups and world-class diving.

Question 30

Which airport do I fly into for Komodo and Raja Ampat liveaboards?

Accepted Answer

For Komodo liveaboards, fly into Labuan Bajo (LBJ). For Raja Ampat liveaboards, fly into Sorong (SOQ). Both are accessible via domestic flights and international connections through Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Question 31

What makes the Banda Sea a unique liveaboard destination?

Accepted Answer

The Banda Sea is one of Indonesia’s most remote liveaboard regions, known for seasonal crossings, volcanic islands, and the chance to encounter schooling hammerhead sharks.

Question 32

How do I know which Indonesian liveaboard destination is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Choose a Komodo liveaboard for manta rays and drift dives, a Raja Ampat liveaboard for coral diversity, and a Banda Sea liveaboard if you want remote reefs and hammerhead shark encounters.

Question 33

What are the best budget liveaboards in Komodo?

Accepted Answer

Several boats offer budget trips, but Liquid Adventures Indonesia is known for providing a great-value Komodo liveaboard experience with small groups, a friendly crew, and excellent food.

Question 34

What are the best budget liveaboards in Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

Budget liveaboards in Raja Ampat are limited. Liquid Adventures Indonesia offers one of the most affordable 10-day itineraries with small groups and 25+ dives.

Question 35

Is there an affordable way to dive both Komodo and Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Liquid Adventures Indonesia offers budget-friendly liveaboard trips in both Komodo and Raja Ampat, making it possible to dive both regions in the same year.

Question 36

What is the cheapest way to dive in Komodo without sacrificing quality?

Accepted Answer

Joining a small-group Indonesia liveaboard such as Liquid Adventures Indonesia is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy Komodo’s top dive sites while still having great food, safety, and comfort.

Question 37

Are there any small-group budget liveaboards in Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Liquid Adventures Indonesia operates a small-group Raja Ampat liveaboard with only eight guests, offering a personal and affordable experience.

Question 38

How can I find the most affordable liveaboard trips in the Banda Sea?

Accepted Answer

Liquid Adventures Indonesia offers one of the more budget-friendly Banda Sea liveaboards, including 25+ dives and the potential to see schooling hammerheads.

Question 39

What is the best budget-friendly Indonesian liveaboard for manta rays and sharks?

Accepted Answer

Komodo liveaboards offer manta rays, and Banda Sea liveaboards offer the chance to see hammerhead sharks. Liquid Adventures Indonesia provides affordable itineraries in both regions.

Question 40

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept bank transfers and Wise payments for all Indonesia liveaboard bookings. A deposit is required to confirm your space, with the balance due before departure.

Question 41

What is your cancellation or refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Deposits are non-refundable, and refunds depend on the timeframe before departure. We strongly recommend travel and dive insurance for all Indonesia liveaboard trips.

Question 42

Do I need a visa to visit Indonesia for a liveaboard trip?

Accepted Answer

Most travellers can enter Indonesia using a Visa on Arrival or e-VOA valid for 30 days. Requirements vary by nationality, so please check current regulations before travel.

Question 43

What is the baggage allowance for Indonesian domestic flights?

Accepted Answer

Most airlines include 20–23 kg of checked baggage, with additional fees for overweight items. Dive gear is not exempt, so please pack within your allowance.

Question 44

What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss boarding?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us immediately. Liveaboards must depart on schedule for tidal and safety reasons, which is why we always recommend arriving one day before your trip.

Question 45

What are the sea conditions like in Komodo and Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

Komodo generally has calmer seas from June to October, while Raja Ampat is calmer from November to April. Conditions vary, and our crew choose routes for safety and comfort.

Question 46

What is the water temperature during the trip?

Accepted Answer

Water temperatures are usually 26–29°C in Raja Ampat and the Banda Sea. Komodo may have cooler 22–25°C thermoclines. A 3mm wetsuit is ideal for most trips.

Question 47

How strong are the currents in Komodo and Raja Ampat?

Accepted Answer

Currents vary based on tides and moon phases. Our guides assess the conditions each day and choose sites suitable for the group’s safety and comfort.

Question 48

What wetsuit thickness should I bring?

Accepted Answer

A 3mm wetsuit is recommended. Guests who get cold easily may add a vest or hood, especially in Komodo where thermoclines can be cooler.

Question 49

Can I fly after the last dive on the trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, provided you follow the recommended 18–24 hour no-fly time. Our itineraries allow ample surface interval before disembarkation.

Question 50

Who will be my dive guide and what experience do they have?

Accepted Answer

All our guides are Indonesian and highly experienced across Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Banda Sea. They know the liveaboard routes, marine life, and conditions very well, and always prioritise safety and guest enjoyment.

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