Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your stay aboard Scubaspa Zen Indonesia?
Explore our frequently asked questions covering diving, spa treatments, life on board, and practical travel information to help you prepare for your time at sea.
Spa
What spa treatments are available?
Our onboard spa offers a carefully curated selection of treatments designed for relaxation, recovery and wellbeing. Guests can choose from a variety of massages, including Balinese, Swedish and sports massage, as well as reflexology, facials, body treatments and selected Deluxe spa experiences. Spa Package guests can also choose from our signature multi-day wellness journeys. Our full Spa Menu is available upon request.
Which treatments are included in the Spa and Scuba & Spa packages?
Both the Spa and Scuba & Spa packages include a selection of our Classic Body and Classic Beauty Treatments. In addition, guests choosing the Spa Package can select one of two signature multi-day wellness journeys. Deluxe treatments are available at an additional charge. Please contact us if you would like to receive the full Spa Menu.
How do I book spa treatments?
Your first spa appointments can be arranged on embarkation day. Further treatments can be booked with our spa team or Cruise Director throughout your cruise, subject to availability. Spa treatments are available from arrival day until the second-to-last day of the cruise and cannot be booked in advance.
Are there any health considerations I should be aware of before booking a treatment?
If you are pregnant, have a medical condition or are taking medication, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking a treatment. Please inform your spa therapist of any health conditions, allergies, injuries or other relevant concerns before your treatment so they can advise you accordingly.
Can I upgrade a Classic treatment included in my package to a Deluxe treatment?
Yes. You can upgrade a Classic treatment included in your package to a Deluxe treatment by paying the difference in price.
What spa products do you use on board?
Our spa products are made exclusively in Bali for Scubaspa, using high-quality organic ingredients, botanical extracts and essential oils. Each product has been carefully selected to complement our treatments and enhance the overall spa experience.
Scuba Diving
What diving certification and experience do I need to join a Scubaspa cruise?
To join the diving program on our Indonesia routes, you will generally need a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or internationally recognized equivalent) and at least 30 logged dives.
If you are Open Water certified but have not yet completed your Advanced course, you may be able to do so on board. Please arrange and confirm the course before departure.
Guests who do not meet the standard certification or experience requirements may still be able to dive with a private guide, subject to prior approval. This must be requested, booked and confirmed in advance.
What diving equipment is provided, and what do I need to bring?
Included in every dive package: Each dive package includes a 12-litre aluminium tank as standard, weights, mask, snorkel, fins and a surface marker buoy (SMB).
Rental equipment: BCD, regulator, wetsuit, dive computer, underwater torch and larger tanks are available to rent on board for an additional fee. A dive computer is mandatory for every diver.
What to bring: Please bring your certification card and logbook. Our rental fins are full-foot fins and are worn without booties, so we recommend bringing neoprene socks if required for additional comfort. Our tanks are fitted with K-valves compatible with both DIN and yoke regulators.
You are, of course, welcome to bring your own equipment. Our dive team will set it up for you, rinse it daily and give it a thorough clean after your final dive.
Is Nitrox available on board?
Yes. Nitrox is available for an additional fee, typically with an EANx blend of 30–33%. A recognized Nitrox certification is required. Alternatively, guests can complete the PADI Enriched Air Diver course on board.
As our dives are generally conducted to a maximum depth of 30 meters and guests may complete several dives per day, we recommend using Nitrox throughout the cruise.
What is the diver-to-guide ratio?
Our maximum ratio is 4 divers per dive guide. Dive groups are arranged according to certification level and experience to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What type of wetsuit do you recommend for diving with Scubaspa?
Water temperatures generally range from 24–29°C, depending on the region and season. We recommend a full-length 3 mm or 5 mm wetsuit. Guests who tend to feel the cold may be more comfortable in a 5 mm wetsuit.
Can I book a private dive guide?
Yes. Private dive guides are available for guests who would like additional support, a more personalized diving experience or assistance with specific requirements.
Private guides must be requested and confirmed in advance.
A private dive guide is required for guests who do not meet the standard certification or experience requirements but have been approved to participate in the diving program.
Do I need a medical certificate to dive?
All guests participating in scuba diving activities are required to complete a Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire before diving. This questionnaire helps identify any medical conditions that may require further evaluation to ensure your safety underwater.
Answering “Yes” to a question does not automatically disqualify you from diving. However, depending on the nature of the medical condition and the specific response, our dive team may request additional clarification or medical clearance from a physician before allowing participation in diving activities, even if you are not enrolling in a course.
Guests enrolling in a PADI course must complete the official PADI Medical Form, which will be provided separately. If a student answers “Yes” to any question, medical clearance signed by a physician is required before starting the course.
The medical form is valid for 12 months, provided there have been no relevant changes to your health, including recent medical conditions or surgery.
Dining
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. We are happy to accommodate dietary requirements wherever possible. Please let us know about any specific requirements at the time of booking so our team has sufficient time to plan and source the necessary ingredients. As supplies in remote areas of Indonesia can be limited, please note that certain ingredients or products may not always be available.
Do you accommodate food allergies and intolerances?
Yes. Please inform us of any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking so our team has sufficient time to prepare accordingly. We will accommodate individual requirements and prepare separate dishes where necessary.
During shared dining experiences such as the beach barbecue, a separate dish may be prepared depending on the specific allergy or intolerance, to avoid cross-contamination, as all food is otherwise prepared on a shared grill.
What type of food is served on board?
Our menus combine local Indonesian and Asian flavors with Mediterranean and continental cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style in our open-air restaurant on the Main Deck, complemented by live cooking, while dinner is occasionally served à la carte.
The dining experience also includes a special à la carte dinner under the stars and, weather and itinerary permitting, a beach barbecue on a desert island.
What should I wear for meals?
There is no formal dress code on board; casual wear is perfectly suitable. We simply ask guests to wear appropriate clothing covering both the upper and lower body when dining. Swimwear and wet clothing are not suitable in the restaurant.
Other Activities
Is a Scubaspa cruise suitable for non-divers?
Absolutely. Catering to both divers and non-divers is at the heart of the Scubaspa concept, and our Spa Package is specifically designed for guests who prefer to experience Indonesia beyond diving.
Activities and experiences include daily sunrise yoga, guided snorkeling, kayaking and SUP (subject to weather and sea conditions), spa treatments, sunbathing and relaxing on our spacious decks, land excursions and movie nights.
We do not offer swimming lessons on board. Guests wishing to snorkel should be able to swim, and life vests are available if required.
What excursions and onshore experiences are included?
Depending on the itinerary and cruise duration, one or two land excursions are typically included. Experiences vary by route and may include trekking to see Komodo dragons, local village visits, birdwatching for birds of paradise and nature walks.
Are excursions and onshore experiences included in the cruise price, or are they available at an additional cost?
All excursions and onshore experiences included as part of the scheduled cruise itinerary are included in the cruise price.
How often are snorkeling sessions offered during the cruise?
Guided snorkeling sessions are offered up to three times a day, depending on the itinerary, location and conditions.
Packages
Can I exchange dives for spa treatments within my package?
No. Dives and spa treatments are specific to the package selected and cannot be exchanged or substituted for one another.
Can I book additional spa treatments?
Yes. Additional spa treatments can be booked on board for an additional fee, subject to availability.
Can I purchase additional dives outside my package?
Yes. If you are on the Scuba & Spa package, additional dives can be arranged for an additional fee, subject to the applicable diving requirements.
Can I change my package before or during the cruise?
Yes. You may request to change your package before the cruise, subject to availability.
Once the cruise has started, package changes are generally not possible. However, in exceptional circumstances, our onboard team will be happy to discuss the available options and find the most suitable solution for you.
Vessels
What facilities are available on board?
Scubaspa ZEN is a 53-meter traditional Indonesian phinisi combining spacious outdoor areas with dedicated wellness and leisure facilities. On board, guests will find a spa at the stern with treatments available for individuals and couples, an open-air restaurant and bar, a spacious sundeck, small library and dedicated camera charging station. Non-motorized watersports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are also available.
ZEN is accompanied by a dedicated 21-meter dive dhoni and a dinghy.
How many guests can stay on board?
Scubaspa ZEN accommodates up to 20 guests across nine suites, including triple occupancy in two suites.
How many crew members are on board?
Scubaspa Zen is supported by approximately 28 crew members.
Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes. Starlink internet is available on board, with Wi-Fi hotspot coverage throughout the yacht.
Each guest receives 1 GB of complimentary data. Additional data packages can be purchased on board.
What boats are used for diving and transfers during the cruise?
Scubaspa ZEN is accompanied by a dedicated 21-meter dive dhoni, from which all diving activities take place.
The dhoni is equipped with individual seating and gear storage, tank stations and wetsuit hangers, air and Nitrox compressors, multiple water-entry points, an outdoor shower and toilet, and a sundeck. Keeping the compressors and dive operations on the dhoni also helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere on board ZEN.
A separate dinghy is used for snorkeling and transfers between ZEN and land.
Accommodation
What bed configurations are available in the cabins?
Our suites offer queen-size and twin bed configurations depending on the suite category:
- Owner’s Manta Suite: Queen-size bed with an additional third-bed option.
- Cowrie Suite: Queen-size bed convertible into twin beds, with an additional third-bed option.
- Dolphin Suite: Queen-size bed convertible into twin beds.
- Sea Star Suites: Queen-size bed convertible into twin beds.
Which cabins can accommodate a third guest?
Two suites can accommodate a third guest: the Owner’s Manta Suite and the Cowrie Suite. Both offer an additional third-bed option.
Can solo travelers share a cabin with another guest?
Our suites are booked on a per-cabin basis rather than per bed, so we do not arrange cabin sharing between individual travelers. Guests traveling together are, of course, welcome to share a suite under the same booking.
Are towels and toiletries provided in the cabins?
Yes. All suites are equipped with hand and bath towels, as well as complimentary toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash and hand soap.
Essentials
What is the weather and water temperature like?
Indonesia enjoys a tropical climate, with weather and sea conditions varying by region and season. Air temperatures generally range from 26–32°C, while water temperatures typically range from 24–29°C.
Conditions differ between destinations such as Raja Ampat, Komodo and the Banda Sea, with each region offering its own optimal cruising seasons. Our itineraries are carefully scheduled to take advantage of the most favorable seasonal conditions.
What are the visa requirements for traveling to Indonesia?
Visa requirements for Indonesia vary depending on nationality and length of stay. Many travelers are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA), generally allowing a stay of up to 30 days for a fee.
Travelers must meet the applicable entry requirements, including holding a passport valid for at least six months and proof of onward or return travel. An online arrival declaration is also required.
We recommend checking the latest visa requirements, eligibility and application procedures through the official Indonesian Immigration portal before traveling, as regulations may change and certain nationalities may require a visa in advance.
Are there any import restrictions I should be aware of?
Indonesia has strict customs regulations, particularly regarding narcotics, certain medications, alcohol, tobacco products and other restricted goods. Electronic cigarettes and vaping products are subject to specific import allowances and restrictions.
Guests traveling with prescription medication should keep it in its original packaging and carry the appropriate medical documentation.
These are the current regulations. However, as import restrictions and allowances may change, we strongly recommend checking the latest requirements with Indonesian Customs before traveling.
How should I pack for my Scubaspa cruise?
Both soft-sided and hard-shell luggage are welcome on board. Our suites offer storage space for your belongings, so there is no need to bring a specific type of suitcase.
We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate, along with any personal essentials and equipment you may need throughout your cruise.
What should I pack for my Scubaspa cruise?
We recommend bringing comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.
Useful items include:
- Swimwear, casual clothing and light evening wear
- Sun protection, including reef-conscious sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas
- Closed sneakers/shoes for land excursions
- Personal medications and toiletries
- Diving certification card, logbook and personal dive equipment, if applicable
- Underwater camera equipment and chargers, if desired
We have a no-shoes policy on board, so extensive footwear is unnecessary.
Do I need diving or travel insurance?
Diving insurance is mandatory for all guests participating in scuba diving activities. Your policy must cover recreational diving to the maximum depth permitted by your certification, including emergency medical treatment, evacuation and hyperbaric chamber treatment.
Guests who do not have diving insurance may be able to purchase short-term DAN diving insurance on board, subject to applicable policy conditions. Please confirm with our Reservations Team before departure.
We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, travel disruptions, baggage loss and emergency evacuation. Please ensure that your insurance provides adequate coverage for your intended activities and destinations.
Is there a dress code on board?
There is no formal dress code on board. We encourage a relaxed, casual style throughout your cruise.
For comfort and safety reasons, we follow a barefoot policy on board. Footwear is only needed for excursions and activities ashore.
When dining in the restaurant, we kindly ask guests to wear appropriate clothing covering both the upper and lower body. Wet clothing is not permitted in the dining areas.
What type of power outlets are available on board?
Each suite is equipped with international power outlets. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with your devices.
What currency should I bring on board?
The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR), which is also the preferred currency for cash payments on board. Visa and MasterCard are accepted for onboard expenses.
We recommend carrying some Indonesian rupiah for personal expenses during excursions or visits ashore. Currency exchange facilities are available at major airports.
What payment methods are available on board?
Onboard expenses can be settled in Indonesian rupiah (IDR) cash or by Visa and MasterCard, American Express and JCB and Union Pay credit cards. All transactions onboard will be converted from USD to IDR on the final billing.
Are drones allowed, and what are the regulations for using them?
Drone use in Indonesia is subject to aviation regulations, with additional restrictions and permit requirements in certain areas, particularly national parks and protected regions.
For example, operating a drone within Komodo National Park requires specific authorization, which must be arranged in advance.
Guests wishing to operate a drone must obtain all necessary permits in advance and coordinate with our onboard team before any drone flights.
As regulations may change, we strongly recommend checking the latest requirements with the Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the relevant national park authorities before traveling.
Booking Process & Payments
What are the payment terms for my booking?
To confirm your booking, a 25% deposit is required within 7 calendar days of receiving your booking option.
The remaining balance is due at least 60 days before departure.
If you book less than 60 days before departure, full payment is required within 72 hours of booking, and proof of payment must be emailed to us within the same timeframe.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payments by bank transfer and credit or debit card.
Is there an additional fee for paying by credit card?
No, we do not charge any additional fees for credit or debit card payments when paying for your booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy depends on how far in advance you cancel your booking:
- More than 120 days before departure: A 25% cancellation fee applies. Alternatively, your 25% deposit can be credited towards a future booking under the same name, provided the new departure date is within 12 months of the date we are notified of the cancellation.
- Between 60 and 120 days before departure: A 25% cancellation fee applies. No refunds or booking credits are available.
- 60 days or less before departure: A 100% cancellation fee applies. No refunds or booking credits are available.
- If one guest sharing a double suite cancels 60 or more days before departure: The canceling guest’s 25% deposit may be credited towards a future booking under the same name, provided the new departure date is within 12 months of the date we are notified of the cancellation. A single supplement will apply to the remaining guest.
We recommend reviewing our full booking terms and conditions for complete details.
Can I make changes to my booking after it has been confirmed?
You can request a change to your travel dates free of charge up to 120 days before departure, subject to availability for your preferred dates, suite category and package.
Unfortunately, date changes cannot be made less than 120 days before departure. Please contact our Sales & Reservations Team as early as possible if you need to change your travel dates.
Do you offer price matching if I find a lower rate elsewhere?
We aim to maintain consistent pricing across our direct bookings and authorized travel partners. If one of our partner travel operators or agents officially confirms a lower rate for the same trip and booking conditions, we will review it and match the price where applicable.
Can I book directly?
Absolutely! You are welcome to book directly with us. Our Sales & Reservations Team can provide first-hand information, personalized assistance and support throughout the booking process, from your initial inquiry to your departure.
Our five-person team is available seven days a week across different time zones, so we can assist guests from around the world. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.
Arrival & Departure
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in and check-out times are consistent across our itineraries, regardless of cruise duration.
Check-in: Between 07:00 and 12:00 on arrival day.
Check-out: Between 09:00 and 11:00 on departure day. Guests with earlier departure flights can be accommodated with an earlier transfer.
How many hours should I wait between my last dive and my departure flight?
A minimum surface interval of 18 hours is required between your last dive and your departure flight. If your dive computer indicates a longer no-fly time, you must follow its recommendation.
On the second-to-last day of the cruise, we generally schedule only two morning dives to allow sufficient time before departure flights the following day.
Which airport should I fly to?
The required arrival and departure airports depend on your selected itinerary. Complimentary transfers are included between the vessel and the designated airports on scheduled embarkation and disembarkation days.
Depending on your route, the relevant airports may include:
- Komodo: Komodo Airport, Labuan Bajo (LBJ)
- Bali: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
- Raja Ampat: Domine Eduard Osok Airport, Sorong (SOQ)
- Halmahera: Sultan Babullah Airport, Ternate (TTE)
- Ambon: Pattimura Airport (AMQ)
- Triton Bay: Utarom Airport, Kaimana (KNG)
- Alor: Alor Airport / Mali Airport (ARD)
- Cenderawasih Bay: Rendani Airport, Manokwari (MKW), or Douw Aturure Airport, Nabire (NBX)
Please check the designated arrival and departure airports for your specific cruise before booking your flights.
How are airport transfers arranged?
Airport or hotel transfers are arranged according to your flight details and the embarkation location of your selected itinerary.
Depending on the route, a Scubaspa representative will welcome you at the airport arrival hall or your hotel lobby. You will then be transferred by minivan to the designated port, where our tender boat will usually take you to the main vessel.
Return transfers are arranged accordingly on disembarkation day.
What if my arrival flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed, please inform our Cruise Director as soon as possible so we can assist with alternative arrangements.
As the vessel must adhere to scheduled port departure times due to port regulations, departure generally cannot be postponed.
If the vessel has already departed, a private transfer to an alternative embarkation point may be possible, subject to availability and an additional fee.