FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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Labuan Bajo is where you will find the airport on Flores Island. Flights to Labuan Bajo are available from Bali International Airport (Ngurah Rai) and Jakarta Airport.
We understand that booking domestic flights within Indonesia can be frustrating and are happy to help! Let us know the dates that you are interested in, which airport you will be departing from and the full passport names of any passengers and we’ll have it sorted for you. Please note that all bookings do incur a 10% service charge.
When you book own flights please consider the timing for your departure flight. For safety reasons, you should consider 24 hrs before your flight home.
We understand that booking domestic flights within Indonesia can be frustrating and are happy to help! Let us know the dates that you are interested in, which airport you will be departing from and the full passport names of any passengers and we’ll have it sorted for you. Please note that all bookings do incur a 10% service charge.
When you book own flights please consider the timing for your departure flight. For safety reasons, you should consider 24 hrs before your flight home.
When you arrive at Labuan Bajo Airport. Please take a taxi to Blue Marlin Dive they are readily available
Blue Marlin is located in the main harbour.
You can leave any dive gear here for your boat trip if you are staying elsewhere.
If you would like to stay at Blue Marlin before departure on Ikan Biru we have a restaurant and bar available.
Blue Marlin is located in the main harbour.
You can leave any dive gear here for your boat trip if you are staying elsewhere.
If you would like to stay at Blue Marlin before departure on Ikan Biru we have a restaurant and bar available.
Do not hold or chase the marine animals
Do not touch and step on the reef
Do not feed the animals
Do not use gloves, hooks, and underwater scooters
Do not leave trash at Komodo National Park
Do not take marine biota both alive and dead, including sand
Do not touch and step on the reef
Do not feed the animals
Do not use gloves, hooks, and underwater scooters
Do not leave trash at Komodo National Park
Do not take marine biota both alive and dead, including sand
Our staff do not expect to receive tips from guests. As in most countries it shows recognition for good work and service and is always appreciated by our staff.
For advice on how much to give please consult our liveaboard director.
For advice on how much to give please consult our liveaboard director.
The liveaboard director and guides speak English. The Indonesian staff on board may speak some English.
Unfortunately internet is not available on Ikan Biru. In certain areas of the park you are able to get a telephone signal which will enable you to access email. However this is not guaranteed and your trip should be taken with the view that you will be taking a break from technology!
We do not take any payment on board Ikan Biru. All food and non alcoholic drinks are included. Any alcoholic drinks are paid for at the end of the boat trip at the dive centre.
Payment at the dive centre by credit /debit card has a 3% surcharge on the bill.
ATM's are readily available in Labuan Bajo if you prefer to pay in cash.
Payment at the dive centre by credit /debit card has a 3% surcharge on the bill.
ATM's are readily available in Labuan Bajo if you prefer to pay in cash.
We advise that you do not take any unnecessary valuables on board Ikan Biru.
If you would like us to look after any valuables at Blue Marlin while you are on the liveaboard we would be happy to put them in our safe.
If you would like us to look after any valuables at Blue Marlin while you are on the liveaboard we would be happy to put them in our safe.
The order of the dive sites is variable. Our captain will drive you safely, dependent on the weather, to your dive sites.
ATTENTION: The tour description is merely our suggestion. Which diving places on tour are dived is determined by many factors including the wind and weather. This decision is taken by the liveaboard director.
ATTENTION: The tour description is merely our suggestion. Which diving places on tour are dived is determined by many factors including the wind and weather. This decision is taken by the liveaboard director.
There is an apotek (pharmacy) conveniently situated right across the street from Blue Marlin where you can see Doctor Asep for any minor health complaints. If you do come down with any health problems, the recently opened Siloam hospital is a good resource with Western standards. There is also a hyperbaric recompression chamber in Siloam hospital.
Medical care in Indonesia cannot be compared with that in Europe A sufficient, worldwide health insurance coverage and reliable travel repatriation insurance
are therefore strongly recommended.
Please check that you are up to date with vaccinations.
Medical care in Indonesia cannot be compared with that in Europe A sufficient, worldwide health insurance coverage and reliable travel repatriation insurance
are therefore strongly recommended.
Please check that you are up to date with vaccinations.
The Indonesian government charges entry and diving tickets into Komodo National Park which must be paid for daily and in Indonesian Rupiah. While Blue Marlin buys these tickets for all guests each morning, these fees are not included in quoted prices. Tickets are IDR 275.000/day and IDR 350.000 on Sundays and holidays.
Yes this needs to be processed before you travel to Indonesia. Check on the Indonesian website to see if you are eligible for e-visa.
E-visa form
https://molina.imigrasi.go.id
You also need to do a customs declaration - you need to show the QR code which is given to you at check in before you get on the plane to Indonesia.
Customs declaration form
https://ecd.beacukai.go.id
E-visa form
https://molina.imigrasi.go.id
You also need to do a customs declaration - you need to show the QR code which is given to you at check in before you get on the plane to Indonesia.
Customs declaration form
https://ecd.beacukai.go.id
Similar to the rest of the tropical world, Komodo National Park experiences a wet season and a dry season. Wet season generally runs from December until March. However, while it does rain in wet season, we are still able to go diving most of the time. In fact, it is during this season that Manta rays are most prevalent. The northern sites usually experience poor visibility and large waves, but sites in the southern part of the park (Cannibal Rock, 3 Sisters, Pillarsteen and more) open up with incredible visibility (25-40m) and calm conditions. The cooler dry season is from April through November. Visibility clears up in the northern and central parts of the park with an average day seeing about 30m vis, while we stop visiting the southern sites due to winds coming in from the south. In terms of crowds, high season is July, August and September with a busy week around the Christmas and New Year Holidays. We recommend April, May, October and November as the best months for optimal weather and beating the crowds.
Please be aware of and respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend. Detailed below are some key points to remember:
Avoid using your left hand. This could be for touching someone, handing something to someone, or indicating towards something. The left hand is used for all bathroom activity, and considered ‘dirty’.
Dress appropriately. This is a very important, simple point of etiquette. Make sure you know what is appropriate for where you are visiting and what you are doing. Do not sunbathe topless in Indonesia as this is deemed offensive.
If you are visiting government buildings or religious sites make sure your arms are covered and you wear proper shoes rather than flipflops/thongs.
Remove your shoes on entry to shops and homes.
Don’t show the soles of your feet. This also includes touching someone with your foot or pointing to something with your foot. It’s considered disrespectful.
Finish your plate of food. When you visit a local home or someone has cooked specifically for you, make sure you clean your plate. This will show you respect .
Respect elders and people in high positions. Not that you shouldn’t respect everyone else as well, but make an extra effort to greet elders and people in high positions politely, even ducking or bending a little bit.
Avoid using your left hand. This could be for touching someone, handing something to someone, or indicating towards something. The left hand is used for all bathroom activity, and considered ‘dirty’.
Dress appropriately. This is a very important, simple point of etiquette. Make sure you know what is appropriate for where you are visiting and what you are doing. Do not sunbathe topless in Indonesia as this is deemed offensive.
If you are visiting government buildings or religious sites make sure your arms are covered and you wear proper shoes rather than flipflops/thongs.
Remove your shoes on entry to shops and homes.
Don’t show the soles of your feet. This also includes touching someone with your foot or pointing to something with your foot. It’s considered disrespectful.
Finish your plate of food. When you visit a local home or someone has cooked specifically for you, make sure you clean your plate. This will show you respect .
Respect elders and people in high positions. Not that you shouldn’t respect everyone else as well, but make an extra effort to greet elders and people in high positions politely, even ducking or bending a little bit.
Although there is Malaria throughout Indonesia, the risk to travelers staying at any Blue Marlin is quite small. Prevention by Malaria tablets is usually not prescribed. You will find that the usual precautions of wearing repellent and long loose clothing are sufficient protection, and most hotels use a spray when they clean the rooms. If you have to take anti-malarial medication be careful about the use of Larium, as in about 50% of cases it produces unpleasant side effects when combined with diving.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS (online booking)
Acceptance of the booking means that you and/or your agent agree to the terms and conditions as outlined below in their entirety.
1. PAYMENT TERMS
Upon signing up to dive and/or snorkel with Blue Marlin Komodo which is operated by PT Blue Marlin Dive Komodo (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Blue Marlin Komodo”), you have agreed to pay the full payment of the value of the services you are due to undertake.
1.1 Day Trips, Dive Packages, Snorkelling, PADI Courses & Accommodations
i. For online bookings of day trips, packages (including Dive & Stay and Learn & Stay packages), snorkelling trips, and PADI courses, a non-refundable booking deposit of 25% of the total price is required to secure the availability of the desired dates of the guest(s), which is to be paid and received at least 7 days prior to the departure date. If the booking is made less than 7 days from the departure date, the non-refundable 25% deposit must be paid upon receipt of the invoice for the said booking.
ii. For the confirmation of the booking of any accommodation at Blue Marlin Komodo, a booking deposit equivalent to the sum of one (1) night is required to secure the availability of the desired dates of the guest(s), which is to be paid and received at least 7 days prior to the departure date. If the booking is made less than 7 days from the departure date, the non- refundable deposit must be paid upon receipt of the invoice for the said booking.
iii. In the event a booking comprises of an all-inclusive package of diving (day trip, liveaboard, private charter or PADI course) and accommodation (excluding the Dive & Stay, Learn & Stay packages), a booking deposit of 1 night accommodation plus 25% of the price of the dive trip is required to confirm the bookings.
iv. The balance payment for day trips, packages (including Dive & Stay and Learn & Stay packages), snorkelling trips, and PADI courses can be paid at any time via transfer but must be paid at the Blue Marlin Komodo dive shop by 4pm at the very latest, one day before the commencement of the diving and/or snorkelling trip and/or PADI course. We accept Visa and MasterCard (Debit/Credit Card and subject to a 3% surcharge) on site, PayPal (in USD and subject to a 5% PayPal fee) or cash (Indonesian Rupiah only).
v. If for whatsoever reason, the balance payment is not received by 4pm on the day before the commencement of the trip or check-in, Blue Marlin Komodo is not able to guarantee the availability of the room(s), dive trip, PADI course and/or boat slots. Any such bookings may therefore be rearranged subject to availability and full payment thereof.
1.2 Liveaboard
i. In order to secure the dates for the liveaboard, a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the cost of the liveaboard must be paid and received within 7 days of the date of the invoice to secure the booking. Due to limited space on the liveaboard, and the balance full payment must be paid and received at least 45 days prior to the departure date.
ii. If a reservation/booking is made in 45 days or less to the departure date of the liveaboard, full payment of the liveaboard is required within 3 days of the date of the invoice to confirm the booking. This final payment is not refundable.
iii. If for whatsoever reason, the remaining payment is not received by the prescribed date, Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right retain the deposit; and to resell your booking to other customers.
1.3 Private Charter
i. For private charters, a non-refundable deposit of 35% of the cost of the charter must be paid within 7 days of the date of the invoice to secure the booking, and the balance full payment must be paid and received at the very latest 45 days prior to the departure date.
ii. If a reservation/booking for a private charter is made 45 days or less from the departure date, full payment is required within 3 days of the date from the invoice to confirm the booking. This final payment is not refundable.
iii. If for whatsoever reason, the remaining payment is not received by the prescribed date, Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right retain the deposit; and to resell the booking to other customers.
General
1.4 Payments of deposits may be made via PayPal (in USD only and subject to a 5% PayPal fee) or WISE (formerly Transferwise) in either USD or IDR. All banking and/or administrative fees and/or charges imposed by the banks are to be paid by the guest(s). Any deposit which had been paid in USD (or Euro) shall be converted into Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) based on the daily currency exchange rate on the date the said payment is received, and the difference, if any, shall be added on or subtracted from the balance price which is to be paid or refunded upon your arrival.
1.5 A booking is not confirmed until the deposit is received and acknowledged by Blue Marlin Komodo, and until then the desired dates remain open and available for other bookings.
1.6 For the avoidance of doubt, any deposits paid herein are NOT refundable in the event of any cancellation by the guest(s) for any reason whatsoever, save and except for Covid-19 related restrictions (Indonesia prevents the guest(s) from entering due to its governmental regulations/guidelines and restrictions on your country of residence, the guest(s) country of residence prevents them from departing due to their governmental regulations/guidelines), in which case the deposit may then be utilised for a rescheduled booking within 12 months. These claims must be proven with official notification-it is not valid for ‘personal choice to cancel or not to travel or merely an advice from a country not travel’.
1.7 All prices quoted are excluding the National Park Fees and/or Tourism Tax and all National Park Fees and/or Tourism Tax are to be paid to Blue Marlin Komodo upon arrival or prior to any activities, which will purchase the tickets on your behalf.
1.8 Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right to alter published rates without prior notice and/or introduce any other fees as deemed necessary by Blue Marlin Komodo, for example fuel surcharges. The National Park fees, Tourism Tax and/or port fees are subject to increase and/or amendment by government policy and are out of the control of Blue Marlin Komodo.
1.9 Blue Marlin Komodo reserve the right to cancel a booking and enforce the cancellation policy set out in Clause 3 below, if full payment is not made in accordance with these Terms and Conditions.
1.10 For Agents
When an agent accepts a booking for and on behalf of Blue Marlin Komodo, the agent accepts that it represents the agency and/or the company and not that of the individual guest(s). Therefore, the agency and/or the company shall accept all responsibility for all and any payments including making the payment by the due dates and providing the relevant and necessary information to enable us to register the guest(s) and/or to apply for a permit to enter into the Komodo National Park, if so required. If payments and the necessary information are not received by the due date, the space will be automatically released for resale and any monies already paid is subject to the cancellation terms and conditions as set out below. Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible and/or liable if the said application for permit(s) is rejected for whatsoever reason.
2. KOMODO NATIONAL PARK REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Blue Marlin Komodo will whenever possible, assist guest(s) to register and/or obtain the necessary permit(s) to enter the Komodo National Park. Blue Marlin Komodo does not guarantee that approval of the permit application. If for any reason, the application for permit(s) is rejected, the guest(s) will be informed accordingly.
2.2 Guest(s) are required and is deemed to have consented to provide Blue Marlin Komodo with all the relevant details to facilitate such an application including but not limited to copies of their passport and/or identity card, insurance details, copies of valid Covid-19 vaccination certificates, Covid-19 test results or any other relevant documents. Failure to provide such documents in a timely manner may result in the rejection of the permit, for which Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible.
2.3 Guest(s) must also at all times adhere to Blue Marlin Komodo’s standard operating procedure and/or any other health protocol or program implemented by the provincial government and/or government agencies. Failure to do so may result in the guest(s) being prohibited to participate in a dive or to commence the trip, for which Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible.
3. CANCELLATION & REFUNDS
Cancellation
3.1 Different cancellation policies may apply to each booking category, and the guest(s) are deems to have agreed to the specific cancellation policy upon booking. Cancellation of any online booking can only be accepted if received in writing by email to [email protected] to avoid any misunderstanding. No cancellation is accepted by telephone, SMS or chats. These cancellations need to be acknowledged by Blue Marlin Komodo in writing in order to be valid.
3.2 Guest(s) will not receive a refund for no shows or any cancellation communicated to Blue Marlin Komodo AFTER 5pm the day before a trip. However, if a certified medical document is presented upon cancellation, confirming the guest(s) inability to carry out the activity, a refund may be given but guest(s) will be charged for the Komodo National Park fees and Tourism Tax and food costs (100.000 IDR/pax).
3.3 Day Trips, Dive & Stay packages & Snorkelling Cancellation • No show – no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation is made 14 days or more before the date of the trip – refund of payment less deposit
3.4 PADI Dive Courses
• No show – no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation is made 14 days or more before the date of the trip – refund of payment less deposit
• Itispossibletofailand/ornotcompleteacourse;failureorinabilitytocompletethecoursedoesnotqualifyforafullrefund. The instructor will determine if the guest(s) may be certified or not, based on whether the said guest(s) meets the requirements of the particular course (skill demonstration, comfort level in the water and total dive skills) and the score on the written examination and quizzes. Refunds will only be given for PADI training course modules that were NOT completed by the guest(s). For the Open Water, the following will apply for each completed section :
i) Theory modules : 250.000 IDR per module (max of 5 modules);
ii) Confined sessions : 250.000 IDR per module (max of 5 modules); and
iii) Open Water dives : 1.350.000 per dive (max of 4 dives)
• For all other PADI Courses, any refunds for non-completion (if any) will be subject to the assessment and determination of the instructor
• The courses are offered in good faith. If for whatever reason, guest(s) missed a training session, there will be NO refund for the missed session; the missed training session may be rescheduled subject to availability
• No refunds for PADI materials purchased by Blue Marlin Komodo for courses; these can be used at any PADI Dive Centre world wide
3.5 Liveaboard
• Depositspaidfortheliveaboardarenotrefundable,saveandexceptforthereasonsstatedinparagraph1.6above,inwhich
case the deposit may then be utilised for a rescheduled trip.
• Cancellation made less than 14 days from the departure date - no refund
3.6 Accommodation
• Cancellation made up to 7 days or more before check in - refund of payment less deposit
• Cancellation made less than 7 days or failure to check-in - no refund
• Early departure or check-out - no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation made up to 14 or more before the date of the check in - refund of payment less deposit
3.7 Private Charter
The private charter of our boats cannot be cancelled and there will be no refund as Blue Marlin Komodo has accepted your
commitment to use the boat in its entirety, and has lost the use of the chartered boat.
Refunds
3.8 In case of a refund, if any, the bank fees and/or administrative charges and VAT will be deducted from the amount to be refunded. All deposits are not refundable, except where it is expressly stated.
3.9 Blue Marlin Komodo does not offer refunds in the event of personal injury, airplane delay, unforeseeable mechanical/technical breakdowns, strikes, war, criminal acts, quarantine, acts of God, or any other event beyond its actual control, and for any other than for reasons set out below in Force Majeure.
3.10 Blue Marlin Komodo will give a full refund (less bank fee and/or administrative and VAT) in the event of a closed port situation, bad weather to the extent that it makes the activities unsafe or dangerous, or prohibited by the harbour master or if, for any reason Blue Marlin Komodo itself cancels a trip or course; or if Blue Marlin Komodo has less than 4 people scheduled for the liveaboard. However, rainy and/or cloudy weather are not valid reasons for cancellation that would entitled the guest(s) a refund.
3.11 Blue Marlin Komodo and the dive guides on the boat may prohibit participation on dives at their discretion based on lack of respect for ecological rules and regulations, lack of respect - or “handling” of any marine life, alcohol consumption between dives, blatant disregard for Blue Marlin Komodo’s policies or not abiding by international safe diving rules. In this instant, Blue Marlin Komodo will not offer any refund for the missed dives.
3.12 Please book refundable hotel and flights as those expenses will not be refunded by Blue Marlin Komodo.
3.13 Substitution for liveaboard
Transfers of any booking and/or substitution of guest(s) for the liveaboard are only accepted, provided that it is made at the very latest 5 days prior to the departure date and the substituted guest(s) fulfils all the liveaboard pre-requisites. Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the absolute discretion not to accept any transfer and/or substitution of guest(s) if it deems the said substituted guest(s) unsuitable for the liveaboard. Any discounts valid for the original booking shall not be transferred to the substituted guest(s), unless agreed in writing by Blue Marlin Komodo.
3.14 If guest(s) wishes to change the original liveaboard booking (to a later date or a different trip), after the original booking has been confirmed, Blue Marlin Komodo will assist the guest(s) in every possible way. However, such alteration is subject to availability and may require additional charges, and if Blue Marlin Komodo cannot accommodate you, the terms of the cancellation policy shall apply.
3.15 Unused Services
Save for circumstances where refunds will only be given for PADI training course modules that were not completed by the guest(s), no refund or compensation is due and payable by Blue Marlin Komodo for any unused portions of a trip OR if the guest(s) have any equalisation issues and/or inability to dive due to anxiety or nervousness. Guest(s) who do not complete their trips for any reason are not entitled to a refund for a portion of the total costs.
4. LIABILITY
4.1 All itineraries are subject to various unpredictable changes including weather conditions and government approvals. Whilst Blue Marlin Komodo makes every effort, we cannot guarantee diving at specific dive sites. In adverse weather conditions, the guides and captain of the boat will have the final decision as to which dive sites to visit to ensure the guest(s), staff and boats safety is not compromised in any way. If, in the unfortunate event that itinerary are changed and dives are missed/cancelled or dive sites are not reached due to weather conditions or other unforeseeable changes, Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be liable and will not offer a refund or compensation.
4.2 In case of a medical problem arising during voyage, either on board or on shore, which results in costs for evacuation, use of aircraft or repatriation, the responsibility of payment of these costs belongs solely to the guest(s). If a person requires emergency evacuation and the boat must return to land, Blue Marlin Komodo shall not accept any financial responsibilities for any ensuing itinerary changes.
4.3 Blue Marlin Komodo does not accept any legal liability to guest(s) or for any loss or damage to their luggage, personal belongings or dive equipment including but not limited to camera and lighting equipment while transferring to and from the boat or while being on board or while being stored at Blue Marlin Komodo’s facility. Blue Marlin Komodo’s liability under any circumstances (if any) is limited to a 100% refund of the payment made. Blue Marlin Komodo will however help guest(s) in every possible way with insurance claims for the lost or damaged goods.
4.4 Guest(s) agree to pay compensation at full current market value to Blue Marlin Komodo for all and any damage or loss of property and equipment belonging to Blue Marlin Komodo resulting from abuse and/or negligence on their part.
5. DISABILITIES
The guest(s) must declare at the time of reservation that they do not suffer from any mental, physical, or other, disability that may put them, or other passenger at risk. Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right to refuse the contracted services to a guest(s) presenting these risks during a charter and/or activity.
6. FORCE MAJEURE
6.1 Blue Marlin Komodo, its partners, affiliates, agents, and employees shall not refund any payment and/or be responsible or liable in contract or in tort, for all and any injury to person (whether or not resulting in death), damage, loss, delay to person or property, additional expenses or inconvenienced caused directly or indirectly by Blue Marlin Komodo arising out of any act or war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or military action, Acts of God (including but not limited to fire, flood, earthquake, storm, hurricane, or other natural disaster), war, political unrest, ad other hostilities (regardless whether war is declared), pandemic, epidemic, government regulations or policies or any technical difficulties occurring in the country of destination or during the passage.
6.2 Blue Marlin Komodo recommends a travel/diving and cancellation insurance policy that covers for unforeseen circumstances, last minute cancellations, medical, personal liability and Covid-19 restrictions such as border closures.
Acceptance of the booking means that you and/or your agent agree to the terms and conditions as outlined below in their entirety.
1. PAYMENT TERMS
Upon signing up to dive and/or snorkel with Blue Marlin Komodo which is operated by PT Blue Marlin Dive Komodo (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Blue Marlin Komodo”), you have agreed to pay the full payment of the value of the services you are due to undertake.
1.1 Day Trips, Dive Packages, Snorkelling, PADI Courses & Accommodations
i. For online bookings of day trips, packages (including Dive & Stay and Learn & Stay packages), snorkelling trips, and PADI courses, a non-refundable booking deposit of 25% of the total price is required to secure the availability of the desired dates of the guest(s), which is to be paid and received at least 7 days prior to the departure date. If the booking is made less than 7 days from the departure date, the non-refundable 25% deposit must be paid upon receipt of the invoice for the said booking.
ii. For the confirmation of the booking of any accommodation at Blue Marlin Komodo, a booking deposit equivalent to the sum of one (1) night is required to secure the availability of the desired dates of the guest(s), which is to be paid and received at least 7 days prior to the departure date. If the booking is made less than 7 days from the departure date, the non- refundable deposit must be paid upon receipt of the invoice for the said booking.
iii. In the event a booking comprises of an all-inclusive package of diving (day trip, liveaboard, private charter or PADI course) and accommodation (excluding the Dive & Stay, Learn & Stay packages), a booking deposit of 1 night accommodation plus 25% of the price of the dive trip is required to confirm the bookings.
iv. The balance payment for day trips, packages (including Dive & Stay and Learn & Stay packages), snorkelling trips, and PADI courses can be paid at any time via transfer but must be paid at the Blue Marlin Komodo dive shop by 4pm at the very latest, one day before the commencement of the diving and/or snorkelling trip and/or PADI course. We accept Visa and MasterCard (Debit/Credit Card and subject to a 3% surcharge) on site, PayPal (in USD and subject to a 5% PayPal fee) or cash (Indonesian Rupiah only).
v. If for whatsoever reason, the balance payment is not received by 4pm on the day before the commencement of the trip or check-in, Blue Marlin Komodo is not able to guarantee the availability of the room(s), dive trip, PADI course and/or boat slots. Any such bookings may therefore be rearranged subject to availability and full payment thereof.
1.2 Liveaboard
i. In order to secure the dates for the liveaboard, a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the cost of the liveaboard must be paid and received within 7 days of the date of the invoice to secure the booking. Due to limited space on the liveaboard, and the balance full payment must be paid and received at least 45 days prior to the departure date.
ii. If a reservation/booking is made in 45 days or less to the departure date of the liveaboard, full payment of the liveaboard is required within 3 days of the date of the invoice to confirm the booking. This final payment is not refundable.
iii. If for whatsoever reason, the remaining payment is not received by the prescribed date, Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right retain the deposit; and to resell your booking to other customers.
1.3 Private Charter
i. For private charters, a non-refundable deposit of 35% of the cost of the charter must be paid within 7 days of the date of the invoice to secure the booking, and the balance full payment must be paid and received at the very latest 45 days prior to the departure date.
ii. If a reservation/booking for a private charter is made 45 days or less from the departure date, full payment is required within 3 days of the date from the invoice to confirm the booking. This final payment is not refundable.
iii. If for whatsoever reason, the remaining payment is not received by the prescribed date, Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right retain the deposit; and to resell the booking to other customers.
General
1.4 Payments of deposits may be made via PayPal (in USD only and subject to a 5% PayPal fee) or WISE (formerly Transferwise) in either USD or IDR. All banking and/or administrative fees and/or charges imposed by the banks are to be paid by the guest(s). Any deposit which had been paid in USD (or Euro) shall be converted into Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) based on the daily currency exchange rate on the date the said payment is received, and the difference, if any, shall be added on or subtracted from the balance price which is to be paid or refunded upon your arrival.
1.5 A booking is not confirmed until the deposit is received and acknowledged by Blue Marlin Komodo, and until then the desired dates remain open and available for other bookings.
1.6 For the avoidance of doubt, any deposits paid herein are NOT refundable in the event of any cancellation by the guest(s) for any reason whatsoever, save and except for Covid-19 related restrictions (Indonesia prevents the guest(s) from entering due to its governmental regulations/guidelines and restrictions on your country of residence, the guest(s) country of residence prevents them from departing due to their governmental regulations/guidelines), in which case the deposit may then be utilised for a rescheduled booking within 12 months. These claims must be proven with official notification-it is not valid for ‘personal choice to cancel or not to travel or merely an advice from a country not travel’.
1.7 All prices quoted are excluding the National Park Fees and/or Tourism Tax and all National Park Fees and/or Tourism Tax are to be paid to Blue Marlin Komodo upon arrival or prior to any activities, which will purchase the tickets on your behalf.
1.8 Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right to alter published rates without prior notice and/or introduce any other fees as deemed necessary by Blue Marlin Komodo, for example fuel surcharges. The National Park fees, Tourism Tax and/or port fees are subject to increase and/or amendment by government policy and are out of the control of Blue Marlin Komodo.
1.9 Blue Marlin Komodo reserve the right to cancel a booking and enforce the cancellation policy set out in Clause 3 below, if full payment is not made in accordance with these Terms and Conditions.
1.10 For Agents
When an agent accepts a booking for and on behalf of Blue Marlin Komodo, the agent accepts that it represents the agency and/or the company and not that of the individual guest(s). Therefore, the agency and/or the company shall accept all responsibility for all and any payments including making the payment by the due dates and providing the relevant and necessary information to enable us to register the guest(s) and/or to apply for a permit to enter into the Komodo National Park, if so required. If payments and the necessary information are not received by the due date, the space will be automatically released for resale and any monies already paid is subject to the cancellation terms and conditions as set out below. Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible and/or liable if the said application for permit(s) is rejected for whatsoever reason.
2. KOMODO NATIONAL PARK REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Blue Marlin Komodo will whenever possible, assist guest(s) to register and/or obtain the necessary permit(s) to enter the Komodo National Park. Blue Marlin Komodo does not guarantee that approval of the permit application. If for any reason, the application for permit(s) is rejected, the guest(s) will be informed accordingly.
2.2 Guest(s) are required and is deemed to have consented to provide Blue Marlin Komodo with all the relevant details to facilitate such an application including but not limited to copies of their passport and/or identity card, insurance details, copies of valid Covid-19 vaccination certificates, Covid-19 test results or any other relevant documents. Failure to provide such documents in a timely manner may result in the rejection of the permit, for which Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible.
2.3 Guest(s) must also at all times adhere to Blue Marlin Komodo’s standard operating procedure and/or any other health protocol or program implemented by the provincial government and/or government agencies. Failure to do so may result in the guest(s) being prohibited to participate in a dive or to commence the trip, for which Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be responsible.
3. CANCELLATION & REFUNDS
Cancellation
3.1 Different cancellation policies may apply to each booking category, and the guest(s) are deems to have agreed to the specific cancellation policy upon booking. Cancellation of any online booking can only be accepted if received in writing by email to [email protected] to avoid any misunderstanding. No cancellation is accepted by telephone, SMS or chats. These cancellations need to be acknowledged by Blue Marlin Komodo in writing in order to be valid.
3.2 Guest(s) will not receive a refund for no shows or any cancellation communicated to Blue Marlin Komodo AFTER 5pm the day before a trip. However, if a certified medical document is presented upon cancellation, confirming the guest(s) inability to carry out the activity, a refund may be given but guest(s) will be charged for the Komodo National Park fees and Tourism Tax and food costs (100.000 IDR/pax).
3.3 Day Trips, Dive & Stay packages & Snorkelling Cancellation • No show – no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation is made 14 days or more before the date of the trip – refund of payment less deposit
3.4 PADI Dive Courses
• No show – no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation is made 14 days or more before the date of the trip – refund of payment less deposit
• Itispossibletofailand/ornotcompleteacourse;failureorinabilitytocompletethecoursedoesnotqualifyforafullrefund. The instructor will determine if the guest(s) may be certified or not, based on whether the said guest(s) meets the requirements of the particular course (skill demonstration, comfort level in the water and total dive skills) and the score on the written examination and quizzes. Refunds will only be given for PADI training course modules that were NOT completed by the guest(s). For the Open Water, the following will apply for each completed section :
i) Theory modules : 250.000 IDR per module (max of 5 modules);
ii) Confined sessions : 250.000 IDR per module (max of 5 modules); and
iii) Open Water dives : 1.350.000 per dive (max of 4 dives)
• For all other PADI Courses, any refunds for non-completion (if any) will be subject to the assessment and determination of the instructor
• The courses are offered in good faith. If for whatever reason, guest(s) missed a training session, there will be NO refund for the missed session; the missed training session may be rescheduled subject to availability
• No refunds for PADI materials purchased by Blue Marlin Komodo for courses; these can be used at any PADI Dive Centre world wide
3.5 Liveaboard
• Depositspaidfortheliveaboardarenotrefundable,saveandexceptforthereasonsstatedinparagraph1.6above,inwhich
case the deposit may then be utilised for a rescheduled trip.
• Cancellation made less than 14 days from the departure date - no refund
3.6 Accommodation
• Cancellation made up to 7 days or more before check in - refund of payment less deposit
• Cancellation made less than 7 days or failure to check-in - no refund
• Early departure or check-out - no refund
• PEAK SEASON EXCEPTION (1st December to 14th January and 1st July to 31st October), cancellation made up to 14 or more before the date of the check in - refund of payment less deposit
3.7 Private Charter
The private charter of our boats cannot be cancelled and there will be no refund as Blue Marlin Komodo has accepted your
commitment to use the boat in its entirety, and has lost the use of the chartered boat.
Refunds
3.8 In case of a refund, if any, the bank fees and/or administrative charges and VAT will be deducted from the amount to be refunded. All deposits are not refundable, except where it is expressly stated.
3.9 Blue Marlin Komodo does not offer refunds in the event of personal injury, airplane delay, unforeseeable mechanical/technical breakdowns, strikes, war, criminal acts, quarantine, acts of God, or any other event beyond its actual control, and for any other than for reasons set out below in Force Majeure.
3.10 Blue Marlin Komodo will give a full refund (less bank fee and/or administrative and VAT) in the event of a closed port situation, bad weather to the extent that it makes the activities unsafe or dangerous, or prohibited by the harbour master or if, for any reason Blue Marlin Komodo itself cancels a trip or course; or if Blue Marlin Komodo has less than 4 people scheduled for the liveaboard. However, rainy and/or cloudy weather are not valid reasons for cancellation that would entitled the guest(s) a refund.
3.11 Blue Marlin Komodo and the dive guides on the boat may prohibit participation on dives at their discretion based on lack of respect for ecological rules and regulations, lack of respect - or “handling” of any marine life, alcohol consumption between dives, blatant disregard for Blue Marlin Komodo’s policies or not abiding by international safe diving rules. In this instant, Blue Marlin Komodo will not offer any refund for the missed dives.
3.12 Please book refundable hotel and flights as those expenses will not be refunded by Blue Marlin Komodo.
3.13 Substitution for liveaboard
Transfers of any booking and/or substitution of guest(s) for the liveaboard are only accepted, provided that it is made at the very latest 5 days prior to the departure date and the substituted guest(s) fulfils all the liveaboard pre-requisites. Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the absolute discretion not to accept any transfer and/or substitution of guest(s) if it deems the said substituted guest(s) unsuitable for the liveaboard. Any discounts valid for the original booking shall not be transferred to the substituted guest(s), unless agreed in writing by Blue Marlin Komodo.
3.14 If guest(s) wishes to change the original liveaboard booking (to a later date or a different trip), after the original booking has been confirmed, Blue Marlin Komodo will assist the guest(s) in every possible way. However, such alteration is subject to availability and may require additional charges, and if Blue Marlin Komodo cannot accommodate you, the terms of the cancellation policy shall apply.
3.15 Unused Services
Save for circumstances where refunds will only be given for PADI training course modules that were not completed by the guest(s), no refund or compensation is due and payable by Blue Marlin Komodo for any unused portions of a trip OR if the guest(s) have any equalisation issues and/or inability to dive due to anxiety or nervousness. Guest(s) who do not complete their trips for any reason are not entitled to a refund for a portion of the total costs.
4. LIABILITY
4.1 All itineraries are subject to various unpredictable changes including weather conditions and government approvals. Whilst Blue Marlin Komodo makes every effort, we cannot guarantee diving at specific dive sites. In adverse weather conditions, the guides and captain of the boat will have the final decision as to which dive sites to visit to ensure the guest(s), staff and boats safety is not compromised in any way. If, in the unfortunate event that itinerary are changed and dives are missed/cancelled or dive sites are not reached due to weather conditions or other unforeseeable changes, Blue Marlin Komodo shall not be liable and will not offer a refund or compensation.
4.2 In case of a medical problem arising during voyage, either on board or on shore, which results in costs for evacuation, use of aircraft or repatriation, the responsibility of payment of these costs belongs solely to the guest(s). If a person requires emergency evacuation and the boat must return to land, Blue Marlin Komodo shall not accept any financial responsibilities for any ensuing itinerary changes.
4.3 Blue Marlin Komodo does not accept any legal liability to guest(s) or for any loss or damage to their luggage, personal belongings or dive equipment including but not limited to camera and lighting equipment while transferring to and from the boat or while being on board or while being stored at Blue Marlin Komodo’s facility. Blue Marlin Komodo’s liability under any circumstances (if any) is limited to a 100% refund of the payment made. Blue Marlin Komodo will however help guest(s) in every possible way with insurance claims for the lost or damaged goods.
4.4 Guest(s) agree to pay compensation at full current market value to Blue Marlin Komodo for all and any damage or loss of property and equipment belonging to Blue Marlin Komodo resulting from abuse and/or negligence on their part.
5. DISABILITIES
The guest(s) must declare at the time of reservation that they do not suffer from any mental, physical, or other, disability that may put them, or other passenger at risk. Blue Marlin Komodo reserves the right to refuse the contracted services to a guest(s) presenting these risks during a charter and/or activity.
6. FORCE MAJEURE
6.1 Blue Marlin Komodo, its partners, affiliates, agents, and employees shall not refund any payment and/or be responsible or liable in contract or in tort, for all and any injury to person (whether or not resulting in death), damage, loss, delay to person or property, additional expenses or inconvenienced caused directly or indirectly by Blue Marlin Komodo arising out of any act or war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or military action, Acts of God (including but not limited to fire, flood, earthquake, storm, hurricane, or other natural disaster), war, political unrest, ad other hostilities (regardless whether war is declared), pandemic, epidemic, government regulations or policies or any technical difficulties occurring in the country of destination or during the passage.
6.2 Blue Marlin Komodo recommends a travel/diving and cancellation insurance policy that covers for unforeseen circumstances, last minute cancellations, medical, personal liability and Covid-19 restrictions such as border closures.
On Ikan Biru we have a main living area that converts into a sleeping area at night. Please be aware that all guests sleep on deck at night.
There is a private changing and bathroom area below deck.
Smoking on the boat is strictly restricted to the bow of the boat.
There is no smoking on the main deck or in the cabins.
and no throwing of cigarette stubs over board.
There is a private changing and bathroom area below deck.
Smoking on the boat is strictly restricted to the bow of the boat.
There is no smoking on the main deck or in the cabins.
and no throwing of cigarette stubs over board.
Early Morning Breakfast,
Yoghurt with fresh fruit and granola at 6:15am
First dive
Breakfast buffet at 8:30
Second dive
Lunch buffet
Third dive
Snacks (muffins, doughnuts, or deep-fried bananas with coffee or tea)
Last dive
Dinner buffet
Special Diets can be catered for on request.
Soft Drinks are included. Alcohol is available on board but charged extra.
Yoghurt with fresh fruit and granola at 6:15am
First dive
Breakfast buffet at 8:30
Second dive
Lunch buffet
Third dive
Snacks (muffins, doughnuts, or deep-fried bananas with coffee or tea)
Last dive
Dinner buffet
Special Diets can be catered for on request.
Soft Drinks are included. Alcohol is available on board but charged extra.
Decompression dives are prohibited on principle and the max. dive-depth is 40 metres.
We recommend that all our guests have dive insurance that includes the rescue, costs for Decompression
Chamber and the transportation home. Blue Marlin can offer you this medical insurance prior to your trip.
Safety Features of Ikan Biru:
GPS
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
Emergency Rafts
Life Vests
Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
Oxygen
First Aid Kits
Crew trained in first aid
We recommend that all our guests have dive insurance that includes the rescue, costs for Decompression
Chamber and the transportation home. Blue Marlin can offer you this medical insurance prior to your trip.
Safety Features of Ikan Biru:
GPS
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
Emergency Rafts
Life Vests
Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
Oxygen
First Aid Kits
Crew trained in first aid