West Sumatra
West Sumatra – Situated almost directly on the equator, their travels in this region take you to various groups of islands, the Mentawai Islands, the Telo Islands, Nias and the Banyaks and the coast line of Banda Aceh, all of which are located off the west coast of Sumatra.

The region provides an unmatched water paradise with empty beaches, dive spots and fishing, all available in complete privacy if you wish.

West Sumatra charter passengers fly into Padang (PDG) via Jakarta (on Garuda, Lion Air or Tiger Air), Kuala Lumpur (on Air Asia) or Batam (on Citilink).  Upon arrival in Padang, the ground crew will be waiting for you and arrange luggage collection on your behalf and escort you to an air conditioned mini-van or vehicle (depending on group numbers arriving at any one time).  As they prefer afternoon arrival, the transfer is direct to the Harbour where after about an hour’s drive through the region (subject to traffic) you will be welcomed aboard Ratu Motu.

West Papua
Off the coast of Indonesia’s sparsely populated West Papua province lies the Raja Ampat archipelago.  This seemingly endless maze of nearly 1,500 islands, signified by sheer–sided mushroom–shaped formations scattered across azure seas, were first explored in the mid-19th century by Alfred Russell Wallace, contemporary of Darwin and co–founder of the theory of natural selection.

The region was not explored in detail until a 2001 survey, when a team of Conservation International marine biologists catalogued 500 species of coral and more than 1,300 species of fish. Designated a marine sanctuary by the Indonesian government, efforts are underway to protect the area further through designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

West Papua bound passengers can transit through Jakarta, Bali or Singapore on a variety of domestic Indonesian carriers to Sorong (SOQ). Transfer to the Ratu Motu from the airport is a seamless 20-minute private car transfer. Hotel accommodation can be arranged if flight schedules do not align.

What is Included?

• Transfers to and from the airport
• Use of tender for fishing and exploratory trips ashore
• Use of fishing and snorkling equipment
• Three gourmet meals per day
• Snacks and fruit
• Non-alcoholic refreshments such as bottled water, hot drinks soft drinks and juices
• 24 cans of Bintang per passenger
• Use of onboard entertainment systems including DVD video and stereo
• Use of all onboard equipment and amenities.

What is Not Included?

• Photo Service
• Mentawai Surfer Tax – 100US$ per surfer
• Airline tickets
• Travel Insurance (compulsory for all guests, including medivac coverage and coverage for lost charter days)
• Alcoholic Drinks other than Bintang described above, (Passengers are welcome to stock up on beer at local prices prior to departure). If requested a wine list can be forwarded for passengers wishing to purchase specific wines and spirits before departure. A minimum of 90 days notice is required for specific orders.
• Tips for the crew. Tips typically start around US$50 and up. If you’ve had a really good time and the crew’s been outstanding, let them know! Please give all tips to the captain for dispersal to the crew.

1. HOW DO I GET TO INDONESIA?
We recommend that you travel to Padang in Sumatra (port of departure) via Jakarta. World Wave Expeditions can coordinate all flights on your behalf.

2. WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST I PACK FOR MY TRIP?
The best advice when packing for a surf trip is to pack as light as possible. This fundamental rule of travel is especially true on a surf charter through the Mentawai Islands – when most of your time is spent in the water.

3. WHAT KIND AND HOW MANY BOARDS SHOULD I TAKE?
Most people bring 2-4 boards. Most people will ride their standard shortboards most of the time but a good idea to follow is  to track the swell forecast before your trip and plan accordingly.

4. WHAT TYPE OF HEALTH PRE- CAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE?
A. Most travelers usually update their tetanus and hepatitis shots before traveling to any remote region of the world. B. Malaria is a reality in some parts of Indonesia including the Mentawai Islands; consult your doctor for more information. C. If you take a prescription medication make sure you bring the necessary paperwork that goes with it in case of an emergency. D. If you are prone to seasickness please bring some- thing to counteract its effects such as dramamine or bonine. E. For more information please consult your doctor.

5. DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
Travel Insurance is mandatory for your personal safety. A decent travel insurance package will provide coverage for the following: trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay, baggage coverage, travel delay, emergency medical and dental, emergency, medical transport and evacuation, and travel accident insurance.

6. WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO TAKE?
Citizens of the United States or Australia need a passport with at least six months of validity left and one other form of identification.

7. CAN I BE CONTACTED WHILE I’M ON THE BOAT?
The boat currently carries a satellite phone for emergencies and cell phone coverage is available in some areas. WiFi is also available onboard.

8. WHAT IS YOUR POLICY ON ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES?
Our policy is simple – no drugs allowed.

9. WHAT HAPPENS IF MY FLIGHT IS DELAYED OR MY BOARDS DON’T MAKE IT?
Fortunately we rarely encounter problems with our guests boards. In the rare instance that your boards do not make it we still send the trip out on schedule and potentially make arrangements with another boat to rendezvous with us and drop off your boards. If your flight is delayed we react accordingly. Whatever time you arrive in Padang we’ll be there to pick you up at the airport and take you to the boat.

10. HOW LONG CAN I STAY IN INDONESIA?
Most travelers coming from the US, Australia, and Europe are issued tourist visas upon arrival, but if you carry a passport from other countries it is worthwhile checking to see if you need a visa. The standard tourist VISA is applicable for up to 30 days. If you plan on staying longer in Indonesia you must apply for an extended stay VISA at your local Indonesian Embassy prior to departure or in Singapore.

11. WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO TAKE?
Citizens of the United States need a passport  with  at  least  six months of validity left  and  one  other  form  of  identification. We require that you send us your passport information including the number, date of issue, and place of issue prior to your departure so we can arrange the necessary harbor permits for your travel through the Mentawais. In case you misplace any vital documents you should also carry a back-up photocopy of your passport, id, and airline ticket with you at all times. It doesn’t hurt to leave another copy at home as well.

When you are in Indonesia you will be issued an immigration form that you must keep until your departure. When you leave they will ask to see it to determine how long you were in Indonesia. Please take care of that form once they give it to you.

The most important thing to remember on this list is to make sure that you have an updated passport and a valid VISA. You will not be permitted to enter Indonesia if your passport is going to expire within six months of your departure or if you are from a country that requires a special VISA to enter. Most people can take care of their VISA upon entering Indonesia including citizens of the United States and Australia but before you purchase your airline tickets please check with your local authorities to make sure you’re covered…

12. HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED TO TAKE?
Once you get to the boat all you have to focus on is getting as many good waves as possible. Most of our guests bring extra money for the following reasons: A. Traveling Money: $150US B. Souvenir money: $50US C. VISA money: $25US D. Money for tipping the staff: $75 – $? Please bring crisp,   new bills if you plan to use spending money inside Indonesia.

13. IS THERE A PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE FOR MY TRIP?
Please contact us for details about photography on your trip and updated availability

14. WHAT IS THE VOLTAGE ON THE BOAT?
Boats voltage is 240V AC 50 Hertz so make sure any battery chargers etc you have are suitable. Electrical sockets on board are the 3 pin Australian type. We have some adapters on board but bring your own if you want to be sure.

15. DO YOU HAVE FISHING AND/ OR DIVING GEAR ON THE BOATS? There is plenty of fishing and diving equipment on board, but if you are a keen fisherman bring some of your own lures and maybe your own casting rod. If you’d like to snorkel there is gear available please bring your own equipment for sanitary reasons. If you must bring a spear gun there is a risk of it being confiscated by customs. We suggest you break it into it’s components and separate them in your baggage.

Salon lounge
The Salon lounge is the main inside hang out area. There are two large wrap around couches that you can take a comfortable break from the heat reading, playing board games or watching movies on the flat screen plasma TV. With large windows on either side of the lounge you can still take in the breathtaking scenery without compromising your view.

Fine Dining
The dining and the salon lounge is open plan, creating a large inside area that creates a sense of luxury with the amount of space.  You can sit in the dining area for your lunch and dinner meals. There is full wait-staff to tend to your every need while you sit back and relax in the comfortable executive dining chairs.

Sun deck
The sundeck is the perfect place to sit outside whilst on the move.  With the wind in your hair and your skin lightly protected by some shade you can sit and take in the views on the way to your next destination.  This is the prime outside viewing area on the boat and somewhere you’ll never forget long after your trip has finished.

Observation deck
This area is fully undercover with lounge chairs as well as coffee tables and a standing bar. The observation area is the outside place to be if you want to take a break from the sun and play board games, read a book or watch the surf when you feel you’ve had a bit too much sun but still want to take in all that your destination has to offer.  This also can transform into a little raging party area, the crew are always eager to help set up for a themed dress up party!

Swim platform
The large swim platform at the stern of the vessel makes it extremely easy to access the water if you don’t want to jump off the roof every time you want to go for a swim. The platform is flush with the water level so you can get in and out of the tenders and kayaks easily as well as walk directly onto your stand up paddle board or just slip in for a swim.

Room Choices

Platinum State Rooms (2)

• Queen-size island bed under three large windows offering panoramic views
• Ensuite with shower and two hand basins facing large windows
• Desk
• TV and DVD player
• Email access
• Phone
• Air conditioning
• Laundry service
• 2 x daily housekeeping

Gold State Rooms (2)

• Double bed under large picture window
• Ensuite with shower
• Desk
• TV and DVD player
• Email access
• Phone
• Air conditioning
• Laundry service
• 2 x daily housekeeping

Silver Cabins (4)

• Double bed with pull-down bunk
• Ensuite with shower
• TV and DVD player
• Phone
• Air conditioning
• Laundry service
• 2 x daily housekeeping

Bronze Cabin (1) (with en-suite)

• Two bunk beds
• Air conditioning
• Laundry service
• 2 x daily housekeeping

What is the experience like on a boat trip? For most people it consists of three things, surfing, eating, and sleeping! This section answers a multitude of questions we hear from our guests about “Life Onboard.

1. WHAT ARE THE WAVES LIKE IN THE MENTAWAI ISLANDS?
The Mentawai Islands are blessed with some of the most consistent, user friendly surf in the world. Waves range from friendly and rippable to downright scary.

2. IS THERE A GENERAL CODE OF CONDUCT I SHOULD FOL- LOW DURING MY STAY?
They work hard to give you the best experience possible. The following list offers a quick glance at the do’s and don’ts of boat living in the Mentawais

• Feel free to ask our staff any questions at anytime or for anything you need.
• If you’re hungry tell someone.
• Please smoke in designated areas only – outside only.
• Do your best to keep wet clothes outside.
• Point out problems or potential problems to the staff.
• No drugs allowed.
• Keep your belongings in designated areas. Always use proper surf etiquette.
• Conserve as much water as possible – please take short showers.
• Always look out for other people. Put trash where it belongs.
• Housecleaning is everyday unless you request otherwise.
• If your towels are dirty, please leave them on the floor and we will give you fresh ones.
• When you arrive we will give you one big bottle of water, please refill it as much as you’d like.
• Please use sunscreen, nothing can ruin your vacation more than a sunburn.
• Please share waves with the guests from the charter boats.

3. CAN I MAKE A PHONE CALLS AT THE ON THE BOATS?
The boat currently use a variety of ways to stay in touch with the outside world. They offer a satellite phones for emergencies and cell phone coverage is available at some anchorages. There is also an internet connection with WiFi.

4. WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN CASE OF AN EARTHQUAKE OR TSUNAMI?
The boat only anchors in areas they deem to be safe in case of a significant earthquake. If you feel an earth- quake please alert the members of our staff onboard.

5. WHAT IS THE DINING EXPERIENCE LIKE ONBOARD?
They offer full meals ranging from local Indonesian dishes to pasta plates, pizza, chicken and of course fresh fish. We consider every meal extremely important to give you the energy you need to surf all day.

6. WHAT TIME ARE MEALS SERVED?
For early-birds, there is cereal, fruit salad, and toasts available in the main galley.

BREAKFAST – 6:00am – 8:00am
LUNCH – 12:30pm – 2:30pm
DINNER – 7:30pm – 8:30 pm

7. WHAT TYPES OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE AVAILABLE?
Beer is available for all guests.

8. WHAT OTHER TYPES OF ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE ONBOARD?
We’ve got dvd’s, boardgames, books, diving gear, fishing gear, snorkeling gear, a ton of great extras to keep you occupied. The primary emphasis is on surfing, eating, and sleeping.

9. HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP THE STAFF WHEN MY TRIP FINISHES?
This is entirely up to you. The average tip starts at around  $50US and goes up from there; if you’ve had a great time, the staff did a wonderful job and were accommo- dating, let them know how you feel

10. CAN I CELEBRATE A SPECIAL OCCASION ON THE BOAT?
Hopefully with enough advanced notice we can accommodate any and all requests.

There are a range of activities on the Ratu Motu that you can take part in, in a group or on your own, for children or adults.

They’re very proud of the food and beverage offering on-board Ratu Motu and have invested a lot of time and energy to ensure that the meals are both healthy and satisfying. The Food and Beverage team are on point from dawn ’til late at night delivering everything from traditional feasts to a quick snack.

Fresh fruit such as bananas, watermelon, mandarins, apples or papaya are available for you to help yourself at all times while aboard. As is tea, coffee, fruit juice and bottled water.  All you need to do is ask one of the staff.

Breakfast
Breakfast is typically served in the open air of our Observation Deck area from 7.00am to 9.00 am and includes everything from fresh fruit salad, various cereals, bacon and eggs, French toast, banana pancakes and omelettes. There’s always plenty of fresh toast and all the various spreads.

Lunch
A sit-down affair served after guests return from the morning surf session and activities. Lunch times vary from 11.00am to 2.00pm and are served in the Main Cabin dining area.  The lunch menu changes daily and you will generally not eat the same meal twice during your stay. Some of the lunch offerings may include fresh salads and cold meats, sandwich selections, burgers & fries, pastas, Mexican buffets or a traditional lunch of Indonesian “Nasi Champur”.

Evening Bar Snacks
They have built a tradition across the years of serving antipasto plates or a fresh seafood snack around sunset drinks, or when guests return from the day of activities. The type of sashimi varies depending on what fresh fish has been caught that day. Nothing tastes better than a snack and a cold beer after a day on the ocean.

Dinner
Dinner is the pride & joy of theStaff and is certainly a no-holds-barred affair. Whole grilled fresh reef fish, roasted meats, traditional Indonesian banquets, mud crabs, curries, crumbed or grilled fish, pasta dishes, a variety of fresh salads including green salads, exotic fruits, the list goes on.

Dessert
Usually a hand-prepared dessert from ice cream to cakes, pies, and traditional desserts.

Wine
Wines can be selected from our suppliers list pre-charter and delivered directly to Ratu Motu for your arrival (delivery costs on-charged).  Consumption can be managed by our bar staff and charged accordingly, or guests can divide up the order and cost on arrival.  Any remaining wine can be taken with you on departure (Indonesian customs limit of 1L per passenger), or Ratu Motu may purchase remaining bottles at cost.  Wines are purchased at the risk of the guests, but assured of refrigerated transport and immediate air-conditioned storage (NB. insurance can be arranged with the supplier at an additional charge).  Alternatively, they have a selection of wines available on board and charged to guests on consumption.

The local climate is considered tropical, hot, and humid with a temperature range between 70 – 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 21 – 32 degrees Celsius.

THE WATER temperature is always around 85 degrees (29 degrees Celsius) no matter what time of year you visit.

THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE is dense, tropical forest with four main islands and dozens of auxil- iary islands – sprinkled with a few main coastal villages throughout.

THE DRY SEASON in this area spans from February to September and the wet season typically occurs between October – January. At any time of the year however expect regular rainfall in short intervals – heavy at times.

LOCAL WINDS surrounding this region are variable throughout most of the year but occasion- ally go through intermittent periods of storminess, called “Badai’s”. Mentawais lies exactly 1 degree below the Equator and as a result is not influenced by the steady easterly trade winds often associ- ated with the rest of Indonesia – that’s what makes this area so unique!

Ratu Motu’s hull is single chine mono displacement. The vessel is a twin screw ocean passenger cruising vessel constructed of welded aluminium with a raked stem, full keel, stepped transom stern, raised two deck accommodation with bridge located forward.

• Builder – Image Marine
• Built – February 1999
• Upgraded – March 2005
• Port of Registry – Jakarta
• Classification – Lloyds Register 100 A1 SSC PASS, MONO, HS
• Gross Tonnage – 273
• Net Tonnage – 107
• Service Speed – 21 knots (MAX)

Dimensions

• Length (OA) 34.0 m
• Depth (MLD) 3.3 m
• Breadth (EXT) 9.11 m
• Draft (LOADED) 2.25 m

Main Engines

• Two (2) MTU 16 cylinder
• 4 cycle turbocharged diesel engines

Auxiliary Machinery

• Two (2) Perkins 6TG24M/Stamford 112.5 kVA Generators
• Two (2) Drager dive compressors 0.6 cubic metres, manual 15 kW
• Three (3) 2.2 kW reverse osmosis freshwater generation systems
• Two (2) Palfinger hydraulic telescoping boom cranes 2,140 kg
• Helideck to support Bell 206B helicopter or equivalent

Capacities

• Fuel – 24,428 litres
• Aviation Fuel – 6,000 litres
• Freshwater – 9,258 litres
• Outboard Fuel – 1,960 litres

Charter Passenger and Crew Capacities

• Passengers – 18 max
• Crew – 12
• Cabins – 10

• Deposit required to confirm your whole boat booking is 50% of the total charter price
• The standard trip price is for any number of guests up to 18 people.
• Final balance is due 90 days before sailing
• No refunds of deposits or payments unless boat does not sail. In the case of cancellation payments may be refunded at the discretion of the Ratu Motu
• Travel insurance with inclusion for Medivac is MANDATORY; details of Policy- Insurance Company and contact details to be forward to World Wave Expeditions 30 days before departure.
• A current passport with 6 months validity from date of entry to Indonesia required.
• Absolutely no drugs of any kind tolerated. Foreigners caught with drugs may face capital punishment or life imprisonment.