FAQ

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

Frequently asked questions

OUR TEAM IS HERE TO HELP YOU

Where will we go and what will we see on our Day Charter?

On our Day Charters, you will explore the stunning islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. For a detailed itinerary of our Day Cruise, please follow the link to our Day Cruise page. Please note itineraries will vary depending on vessel.

Where will we go on our Sunset Charter?

On our Sunset Charters, you will explore the beautiful coastline of Bali. Departing from Serangan harbor, you will explore either the Bukit peninsula or the Sanur coastline. For a detailed itinerary of our Sunset Cruise, please follow the link to our Sunset Cruise page.

How long is the charter?

Our Day Charters are 8hrs long. We recommend departing at 10:00am from Serangan harbor and returning at 6:00pm which will allow you to enjoy one of Bali’s famous sunsets on your way back to the mainland. For a detailed itinerary of our Day Cruise, please follow the link to our Day Cruise page. Please note itineraries will vary depending on vessel.

Our Sunset Charters are 4hrs long. We recommend departing at 3:00pm from Serangan harbor and returning at 7:00pm. For a detailed itinerary of our Sunset Cruise, please follow the link to our Sunset Cruise page.

What time is Pickup?

Whilst we are happy to accommodate a late pickup, we recommend pick up a minimum of 1hr before the recommended departure time.

For Day Cruises, the recommended departure time from Serangan harbour is 10:00am.

For Sunset Charters, the recommended departure time from Serangan harbour is 3:30pm.

How long does it take to get to the islands?

For our motor vessels (Rhino, Haruku and Burjuman), the journey to the islands can take between 45-60min.

For our sail vessel Jemme the journey can take between 2-3hrs. This is the worst-case scenario and the sail vessel is heavily affected by wind, current and swell. Generally, it will take around 2.5hrs to reach the islands and only 1.5hrs to return to Bali as the currents and wind favor the return leg.

What time do we depart and return? Can we leave later?

The recommended departure time from harbor is 10:00am, however we are more than happy to accommodate your schedule. Please note the charter duration will remain the same at 8hrs for Day Charters and 4hrs for Sunset Charters. The latest return to harbor is 7:00pm

Can we extend our charter into the night?

Yes, you can extend your charter beyond the standard charter duration (8hrs Day Cruise/4hrs Sunset Cruise). Extending the charter is charged at an hourly rate calculated from the standard rate. Please contact our staff to clarify the hourly rates for each vessel.

Can we have dinner onboard?

Dinner is possible on Haruku, Burjuman and Jemme, however numbers are limited to available seating on each vessel. Please note that dinner is charged separately. Contact our staff to clarify availability and catering options.

Can we go on land for excursions?

Absolutely, we can arrange land tours on Nusa Penida from Toya Pakeh. These land tours can take between 3-4hrs so please consider if that’s something for you. For land tour options, please contact our staff for more details.

Will we visit private beaches on the charter?

Whilst we strive to get you to the most isolated and beautiful locations in the best times, please note that Bali is the most visited destination in the world so complete exclusivity is hard. But! We do have a few secret spots and have designed our itinerary around going to areas when the crowds have left. Without a doubt we offer the most comprehensive itineraries available and these are completely customizable.

If you really want to find that abandoned beach and have a private island party with your loved ones, then we recommend an overnight charter to some of the further reaching islands. Please contact our staff for overnight charter options and check out the details on the Overnight Cruise page.

Will there be anybody else onboard?

No, we only offer exclusively private charters.

Can we visit the Gili islands in a day tour?

Because of the distance from Serangan harbor, we do not recommend travelling to the Gili islands as a day charter option. Logistically, there’s just not enough time in the day to explore all that the Gili islands have to offer. But if you still are adamant about visiting the Gili islands in 1 day, we can help you out!

For 1-day Gili cruises we charge an additional fuel surcharge that will vary depending on which vessel you choose. It is not possible on our sail catamaran Jemme. Our staff will be happy to go over the logistics and additional fees with you.

If you’re really serious about experiencing the Gili islands then we recommend a 2-3 day cruise aboard either Jemme, Haruku or Burjuman. Please contact our staff for overnight charter options and check out the details on the Overnight Cruise page.

Will we catch fish on our charter?

We are not a fishing charter company! However, we do offer fishing on our charters and catch fish, but that’s not all we offer. Your day will be full of different activities in and around the water and we try and make your experience as enjoyable as possible.

The reality is fishing in and around Bali isn’t that spectacular so don’t expect 200kg black marlin or 60kg tuna as, unfortunately, you’re not going to find it here. Everyone has their days, including us, and we have caught some sizeable GT, Mahi Mahi and Mackerel but we don’t guarantee this as a regular catch. PLEASE BE CAREFUL with what other operators promise.

If you want an awesome day out on the water and the chance to snag a Mahi Mahi on your cruise, then we’re the perfect choice for you. If you want 8hrs of patiently watching a line and a bad case of heat stroke, then we’re not the right company for you.

Will we see manta ray on our charter?

Manta season in Bali runs at its peak during the months of April and May, and sightings can be seen right through to September. However, if you’re lucky, you may see these majestic beauties outside of these months.

On our Day Cruises, we do venture to the furthest hot spot Manta Point to give clients the best chance of spotting a Manta. Manta point is not to be confused with Manta Bay (which is located further west on the Nusa Penida coast). Be careful you don’t get sold on the closer Manta Bay as the likelihood of seeing a Manta is far less likely.

Quite often during the Manta Ray off season, Mola Mola do show themselves around the snorkeling and diving hotspots.

Do you offer any cruises with other people?

At this stage we don’t offer shared charters, but we are looking closely at this and will update our site and our social media channels of any changes as they happen. To keep up to date, please follow us on our Instagram or Facebook pages.

Can we be picked up from the beach near our hotel?

No, all charters depart from Serangan harbor. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or villa in a private air-conditioned vehicle are included. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough protected areas along the Bali coastline to safely offer beach pickups.

Can we depart from Benoa harbor?

Yes, you can depart from Benoa harbor, however there is an additional harbor clearance fee of USD $100.

Is it safe for a pregnant woman to go on charter?

This should be discussed with your professional physician. Please note weather conditions can vary on charter and people can react differently to sea conditions. We have had many happy pregnant women onboard. We cannot recommend or not recommend this as each situation and individual is different.

Do we need to bring a passport on the day?

We require a copy of one person’s passport and the full names, nationalities and ages of all other passengers cruising a minimum of 24 hours prior to charter disembarkation. Passports are not needed on the day of your cruise.

Can you arrange decorations for our charter?

Yes, we can, however we do recommend a professional party planner to assist and we’re happy to recommend some options on the island. If you would like to come early and setup your own decorations, that is also fine. If you require Pulau to do the decorations, we recommend setting a budget and providing a clear outline of what you require.

Can you arrange a bartender?

Absolutely. Professional bartenders are available for hire on the island and we’re happy to arrange a mixologist wiz to help get the party started. Prices for bartenders start at USD $200 for a full day.

Where do we leave from and where is your office located?

We are located at Serangan harbor which is also the harbor our cruises disembark from. Please check out our contacts page for an accurate pin.

Can you provide sea-sick tablets?

Absolutely! Please advise us 48hrs prior to disembarking if you require medication to reduce the chance of seasickness. Please consult with your physician if you have any doubts to get the best advice. We recommend the proper precautions are taken 48hrs prior to disembarking (including, but not limited to, no alcohol, lots of water and food, medication to be taken ahead of time).

I’m a guide, do I still count as a passenger?

Yes, guides are considered a passenger by the Harbor Master and incur any additional fee’s if the number of passengers is over the base rates. For our pricing, please check out the individual vessel pages or ask our helpful staff.

Can we hire the boat for a photoshoot?

Yes, photoshoot options are provided between the time of 7am-9am only. For pricing and availability please contact our helpful staff.

What’s included on a Day Charter?

Inclusions vary depending on which vessel you choose to hire. Please see below for a detailed list of each of our vessel’s inclusions.

HARUKU

- Morning & Afternoon Snacks, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- Lunch prepared onboard
- Choice of BBQ Seafood or Chicken (Vegetarian options also available)
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- 2 x Kayaks
- Inflatable Towable
- Water Skis & Wake Board
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI
- Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

JEMME

- Morning & Afternoon Snacks, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- Lunch prepared onboard
- Choice of BBQ Seafood or Chicken (Vegetarian options also available)
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Inflatable Towable
- Knee Boarding
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI/Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

RHINO

- Morning & Afternoon Snacks, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- Lunch Onboard
- Picnic Sandwiches (please ask us about our onshore BBQ upgrade)
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI
- Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

BURJUMAN

- Morning & Afternoon Snacks, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- Lunch prepared onboard
- Choice of BBQ Seafood or Chicken (Vegetarian options also available)
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Fishing Equipment for fun line fishing
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI/Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

What’s included on a Sunset Charter?

Inclusions vary depending on which vessel you choose to hire. The major difference in inclusions from our day cruises is the catering. Seafood BBQ options are available for sunset charters aboard Haruku, Burjuman and Jemme at an additional USD$25 per person.

HARUKU
- Chips and dip, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- BBQ prepared onboard
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Mash Potato
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- 4 x Kayaks
- Inflatable Towable
- Water Skis & Wake Board
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI
- Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

JEMME
- Chips and Dip, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- BBQ prepared onboard
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Mash Potato
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Inflatable Kayak
- Inflatable Towable
- Knee Boarding
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI/Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

RHINO
- Chips and Dip, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- Picnic Sandwiches
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Fishing Equipment (Trolling and Bottom fishing)
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI
- Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

BURJUMAN
- Chips and Dip, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Soft Drinks, Water
- BBQ prepared onboard
- BBQ Chicken Satay
- Seasonal Salads
- Mash Potato
- Rice
- Snorkel Equipment in variety of adult and child sizes
- Stand Up Paddle Board
- Large Inflatable Sea Mattress/Floating Raft
- Inflatable Kayak
- Fishing Equipment for fun line fishing
- Towels
- Vessel wide WIFI/Vessel Wide Speakers/Music Player
- Cruising Permits for all passengers
- Boat Fuel & Certified Skipper and Crew
- Vessel to Shore Tenders
- Life Jackets
- Insurance
- Return Hotel/Villa Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle (surcharge applies if outside Bali metro area)

Can we arrange dinner for our Sunset Charter?

Sit down dinner is possible on Haruku, Burjuman and Jemme, however, numbers are limited to available seating on each vessel if you would like everyone to be seated at the same table. Dinner can be prepared on request and charged separately depending on menu requests. Please contact our staff to clarify seating availability and catering options we can accommodate.

As a secondary option a seafood BBQ can be prepared aboard Haruku, Burjuman or Jemme at an additional USD$25 per person. This is a more casual option that isn’t restricted by seating availability.

Is lunch onshore included?

No. Lunch onshore is not included and will need to be paid at your own expense. We have some fantastic restaurant suggestions that we’re happy to discuss and tables can be pre-reserved prior to charter.

Can we bring our own food and alcohol?

Bring your own alcohol is not permissible on board, snacks, food and non alcoholic beverages are okay to bring, we can provide you an alcohol as per request, please ask us for our beverage menu for your reference.

Will your crew help serve and prepare food and beverage?

Yes, our super friendly crew will be there to assist you on your charter with whatever help is needed on the day. We have a cook aboard Haruku, Burjuman and Jemme that prepare all the yummy food onboard and act as part time mixologists. If you need anything while cruising, please ask one of the crew who will be happy to assist.

What fishing equipment is on board?

We have a variety of fishing equipment available for trolling, bottom fishing and jigging. We also use both live bait and lures depending on location. Please check with our team if you have any specific equipment in mind prior to your charter to confirm if this is available or not on your chosen vessel.

Do you have life jackets for children?

Yes, we have lifejackets available for infants and children.

Is my child too young to come on the cruise?

It’s always recommended to speak to a professional physician regarding health of an individual and whether suitable to come on a cruise or not. Every person reacts differently to sea conditions.

Will you provide seasickness medication?

What should we bring on the charter?

A hat, sunscreen and a big smile😊

We do have sunscreen onboard, but its recommended to bring your own in case you have sensitive skin.

Do you have insurance?

Yes, our vessels have insurance.

Is there any corkage fee on alcohol?

Should you bring your own bottles, there will be a corkage fee applies

IDR 150,000/bottle (wine spirit)
IDR 100,000/6 beers

What safety equipment is provided onboard?

Our vessels are equipped with all the required safety equipment as set out by the Indonesian government. All safety equipment and procedures are regulated regularly by the Indonesian maritime authority.

Can we play music onboard?

Yes, all our vessels are equipped with music players that can be connected via Bluetooth. The type of device and system varies between the different vessels. A PA system is also available on request.

A DJ can be arranged for charters aboard Haruku and Burjuman for an additional fee.

Can you cater for vegans/vegetarians?

Absolutely! Please let us know what your dietary requirements are, and we will do everything we can to accommodate these.

Is transport included in the cost?

Transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle to and from your hotel or villa within the Bali metro area is included in the charter fee. For transport outside the Bali metro area, the below fees apply:

Bali Metro area include: Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu and Canggu.

Outside Bali Metro area:
Tabanan, Mengwi & Ubud additional USD $50
Bedugul additional USD $85
Candidasa, Amed and Tulamben additional USD $105
Lovina & Pemuteran additional USD $105

What is the weather like in Bali?

Bali is an island located in the tropics so you can expect warm and humid conditions all year round. As with all islands located in the tropics, there are 2 predominant seasons: a Dry season and a Rainy season. Rainy season runs from mid-October to March however, the rain generally falls late afternoon and early morning. The islands we visit on our Day Charters are less effected by the monsoonal rain and are considered a lot drier than their big sister, Bali.

What is the refund policy if there’s bad weather?

Please see here for full terms and conditions.

What if it rains on my charter?

It’s very rare we get a full day of rain in Bali, especially out on the islands. However, if our experienced staff can confirm prolonged rain for the whole day, we will advise the passengers prior to charter and offer an alternative cruise date. If an alternative cruise date cannot be found, then a full refund will be provided. Any decision on suitable weather conditions will not be made at the discretion of the passengers. Please see here for full terms and conditions.

Are there any undercover areas on the boat?

All vessels provide undercover areas for protection of the passengers from rain and sunshine. Haruku, Jemme and Burjuman also have AC available in their galley’s and cabins for additional relief if required.

What temperature will the water be?

The water temperature in Bali and her outlying islands is generally a warm 27 degrees Celsius from July to September increasing to 29 degrees Celsius between November and May. Please note that there can be a chance of cool water in the currents

Will it be rough on the cruise?

It’s common to experience swell in the Bandung Strait between Bali and the Nusa islands, however once over on the islands, it is well protected. Our experienced captains know exactly where to position the vessel with consideration to the sea conditions on the day.

How do I reserve a charter date?

To secure a charter reservation date, a minimum deposit of 50% must be received by Pulau. For balance payments, 100% of the charter fee must be paid a minimum of 48hrs prior to charter. For any bookings made within 48hrs prior to departure date, 100% of the charter fee must be received by Pulau prior to disembarking. No charters will disembark until 100% payment is received by Pulau.

How can I pay for my charter?

We accept payment by Visa or Mastercard credit/debit cards, Xendit, or online bank transfers. The available payment options are displayed during the booking process. For CC a processing fee of up to 2.75% may apply. For Xendit processing fee is up to 2,5%.

Once your booking has been successfully completed, a Booking confirmation will be issued in respect of each charter booked and sent to the email address provided in your registered account. You MUST produce your Booking Confirmation(s) upon departure, together with your original valid photo identification document (national registration identity card, passport, driver's license or other identification card or document as Pulau Group may require for the cruise permit perusal).

At all times during the booking process, you will be advised to ensure the accuracy of your booking details (guest details, stay dates, charters types, charters rates, number of guest(s), Nationalities, Ages, Add-Ons). Pulau Group will not be responsible or liable for errors in booking details or non-acknowledgement and acceptance of the terms and conditions force majeure and refund or cancelation policies.

Are children free of charge?

Additional passenger charges only apply to groups exceeding the base rate number for each vessel.

Base rate for Rhino is up to 7 people
Base rate for Jemme is up to 7 people
Base rate for Haruku is up to 10 people
Base rate for Burjuman is up to 10 people

When numbers exceed the above base rates, charges are applied for children as per the below.

Children aged 0-3 are free of charge
Children aged 3-7 are 50%
Children aged 7-12 are 100%

Do children count as passengers?

Yes, as per guidelines and licensing set by the Indonesian authority, children are considered passengers. Licensing numbers are in consideration of safety equipment onboard, so this is absolutely necessary.

What is your refund policy?

CANCELLATIONS

• Cancellation by the discretion of the Indonesian Maritime authorities (Harbor Master) due to inclement weather or sea conditions then an alternative date will be offered, and/or a refund/voucher may apply. This decision will be made 1 hour prior to charters disembarkation.
• Cancellations 90 days or more full refund will be given. Cancellations less than 60 days from charters commencement date will receive a refund at USD 500 or 50% of amount paid (whichever is greater) and a card processing fee (if applicable). If the deposit is less than USD 500 then the full deposit is lost. Cancellations within 48 hours of time of embarkation will be non-refundable.
• No refund on deposits or full payment will be given for charters booked or cancelled in relation to guest personal reason/or travel restrictions.
• Any postponements/cancellations reasons - Any payments made to confirm your booking will be held for 24 months to be put towards another charters of equal length within that time or to be transferred/sold to any third party of your choosing.
• If cancelled during the charter by the guest after disembarkation, where the guest wishes to return to shore due to sea-sickness (when harbor master has deemed the ocean conditions sailable) no refund will be provided. It is the responsibility of the guest to take their preferred method of prevention against seasickness 1 day before & again on the morning of the charter at least 2hrs prior to embarkation to be effective, not to consume alcohol at least 24hrs in advance of charter and to be sure they are sea-fit prior to embarking. Please request sea-sickness/anti motion tablets 48hrs prior to charter if you have any doubts of sea-sickness.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

No charter will disembark without the approval of the Indonesian authorities. We have the experience and knowledge of what the weather conditions are at our intended destination. We are happy to consult with you should the weather be an issue. We are happy to accommodate you on the following day/s should there be availability and there not be another paid for booking on that date or offer a voucher to be used upon another occasion. Please note a change of charter date will incur an additional fee.
Note: RAINY SEASON is from OCTOBER-MARCH.

Please keep in mind that the conditions at the intended destination may be different and still suitable to conduct the charter and Pulau Private Charters Captain and Crew has the local knowledge and professional experience in determining the viability of the charter for the comfort and safety of all guests and crew on board.

Inclement weather is defined as prolonged and heavy rain. Please know that it is normal to experience patches of rain throughout the day in rainy season – these normally occur early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Please know that it is normal to experience swell in the straight between Bali mainland and the islands.

Are there any additional fees for the charter?

There are no additional fees on the advertised charter prices and associated inclusions.

Does the charter include tax and service fees?

The advertised charter price includes all government taxes and service fees.