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NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

North Sulawesi Island

Central Indonesia

SE Asia

 

This beautiful 4-star Indonesia liveaboard was for years the TRUK AGGRESSOR in Chuuk, Micronesia.  She has been fully refurbished & recommissioned & is moving to central Indonesia.  Beginning Jan. 14, '06 the North Sulawesi Aggressor has offered exceptionally well-reviewed seven-day, Saturday-to-Saturday charters departing from Kungkungan Bay Resort in Northern Sulawesi Island.  As Aggressor Fleet & U.S. Dive Travel partner, veteran Captain Niall Lawlor will guide our preferred clients to remote sites near Bangka Islands & the Lembeh Strait.  The Lembeh Strait is the region of North Sulawesi's famous "muck dives" – where hundreds of brilliant coral & fish species abound – offering some of the world’s most visually dazzling underwater colors.  North Sulawesi is a peaceful, friendly & blessedly remote portion of the large Sulawesi Island region. 

(Check the globe; go to SE Asia & locate Indonesia; then move to the middle of the island chain.  Sulawesi is that vast oddly-shaped island right in the center of the Indonesian Archipelago, shaped like a wind-swept “Special K” logo tilting to the East.  Manado is the main city right near the northernmost tip of that tipsy  “K.”) 

Direct flights into Manado from Singapore are available weekly.   We recommend arriving on the Saturday afternoon Silk Air flight from Singapore, after a relaxing overnight in Singapore on the way over from North America or Europe.  Silk Air is true to its name, one of the world’s smoothest & most customer-service-efficient airlines.  They are a joy to fly.  Now back to exotic Sulawesi geography ….

For many years, this safe, predominately Christian sector of North Sulawesi has treated scuba divers to some of the most specie-rich reef diving in the world.  Well on a par with remote sectors of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Palau & the Fiji Islands.  There is no civil infighting on North Sulawesi & foreigners are always welcome.   Our agents started diving on North Sulawesi way back in the summer of 1992, more than 10 years before travel buzz began in the North American dive community. So we are big-time glad to finally see a world-class Indonesia live-aboard plying the Lembeh Strait. 

We predict in a few short months, the client feedback will be so positive among our network’s dive shops, dive clubs & travel centers that North Sulawesi Aggressor will become as hot a ticket as Palau, Fiji, Cocos Island & the Galapagos Islands.  This is the place to be, sunseekers, & precisely the right time to be there for this new adventure in Indonesia scuba diving.  The Indonesian people, gratified by the generous contributions Americans & Europeans made after that Dec. ’04  tsunami, are riding a warm new wave of affection for foreign dive vacation travelers.  This is a bright new season of prosperity & hospitality in the North Sulawesi region.   And this Indonesia liveaboard is the way to go, sunseekers.

 

NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR Prices for 2008

Deluxe Stateroom = $2495 per diver.   Quad Cabin = $2295 per diver.

NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR Prices for 2009

Deluxe Stateroom = $2735 per diver. Quad Cabin = $2535 per diver.

NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR Prices for 2010

Deluxe Stateroom = $2835 per diver. Quad Cabin = $2635 per diver.

 

 

(North Sulawesi Aggressor cruises are Saturday to Saturday with 5.5 diving days.)

 

 

NITROX is available for all properly certified divers.

 

 

Map of North Sulawesi island, Indonesia.

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NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR CHARTERS INCLUDE:

 

• Expert divemaster guides, highly trained in their island locales.

 

• Luxury stateroom accommodations aboard the vessel.

 

• Unlimited diving (within safe PADI tables) + compressed air tanks + weights.

 

• Airport transfers on days of arrival & departure.

 

• All meals & snacks, soft-drinks & local alcoholic beverages.

 

• The vessel chef is always glad to accommodate special dietary requests.

 

 

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NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR CHARTERS DO NOT INCLUDE:

 

• International airfare nor "island hopper" commuter air tickets.

 

• Travel cancellation insurance, which is strongly advised for all cruises.

 

• Equipment rentals, whether scuba, photo or video.

 

• Nitrox refills. You must pay extra for these custom tank fills.

 

• Premium imported alcoholic drinks, such as vintage wines, bourbons.

 

• Scuba certification or specialty courses.  Custom camera courses.

 

• Hotel stays or day rooms, for those vessels that require arrivals 1 day early.

 

• Dinner on final evening of the cruise. (Guests eat on the island.)

 

• Crew tips. We recommend tipping at least 5-15%, where apropos'.

 

• Government taxes or park fees (when applicable) & nominal USDT tariffs.

 

 

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SEE IF YOU QUALIFY for SPECIAL CLIENT BENEFITS

on NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR:

 

• We offer a $200 discount to all non-divers.

 

• We offer a $200 discount to all clients booking back-to-back charters.

 

• We offer a $100 discount to all seniors older than 65, with mailed-in photo ID.

 

• Leader for a group of 9+ clients gets free Nitrox refills on most cruises.

 

• Customized private itineraries are available on all vessels -- for groups.

 

• We also offer customized packages for longer-than-usual cruises, at extra cost.

 

• Ask us how you can earn free tour leader packages with group bookings.

 

• Important reminder: given the steadily escalating costs of petrol worldwide, all Aggressor Fleet liveaboards have a fuel surcharge, except the 2 Galapagos Aggressors & the 2 Fiji Agressors. This fuel surcharge will normally be USD $100 per diver for 7-night cruises. The surcharge will be higher for cruises of longer duration.

 

 

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VESSEL DESIGN STATISTICS for NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

Length: 107 feet
Beam: 22 feet
Draft: 7 feet
Cruising Speed: 10 knots
Range: 1,800 nautical miles
Year Built: 1988
Year Refit: 2005
Builder: Seacraft, Amelia, LA, USA
Staterooms: Eight
Passengers: 18

North Sulawesi Aggressor  is built to U.S. Coast Guard & A.B.S. standards with a full line complement of safety equipment.  Full length skeg & stabilizers add to guest comfort & safety.  This dive ship was tried & true in Truk for years. 

 

( Please note that much of the following text & all photos on this page are provided courtesy of our longtime friends at the AGGRESSOR FLEET.  Thanks amigos ! )

Deck plans for NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR.

EQUIPMENT on the NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

* (2) KT19M Cummins engines-1,020 h.p.
* (2) 55 KW generator sets
* (2) 5,000 psi Mako compressor with 3,600 cu. ft. cascade storage systems
* Water maker
* Safety bar with integrated air/enriched air capabilities that can serve up to 8 divers at a time
* O2 generator, bank storage & continuous blending manifold
* Full line of scuba equipment rentals  

ADDITIONAL GEAR AVAILABLE ON REQUEST --
* 80 cu. ft air / Nitrox tank for each guest
* Defibrillator, which emits electrical impulses to a heart attack victim
* Single side band radio with link to U.S. Marine Operator
* Weather fax
* 36-mile color radar
* VHF radio
* Magellan 5000 GPS
* Video depth sounder
* Dive support dinghy
* Fire detection system
* Safety plan & regular drills
* First aid kit, DAN Oxygen System

U/W photo buffs will be in Viz Valhalla here ...

... and apres scuba, you can chill in a clean cabin.

STATEROOM LAYOUT on this INDONESIA LIVE-ABOARD:

(7) “Deluxe” staterooms with double & single berths, lavatory, private head & shower.

(1) “Quad” stateroom with four single berths, private head & shower. Quad is located on the upper deck.


OTHER INDONESIA LIVE-ABOARD AMENITIES:

*  Salon with entertainment center & personal computer station. For a fee, e-mails may be sent via satellite phone.

*  Partially covered sun deck with wet bar, hot tub, ice machine, bar-b-que grill & chaise lounges.

*  Full-service galley with freezer & refrigerator storage.

*  Large swim platform with (2) warm, freshwater showers, fin storage & (2) water exit ladders.

*  Dive deck w/ personal gear lockers for in-place air/Nitrox fills + rinse tanks & 3-tier camera table w/ low-pressure air hoses.

*  Weights, weight belts, 80-cu. ft. aluminum tanks with standard "K" valves for use with standard yoke regulators.

*  Rental scuba gear, rental UW cameras & E-6 slide film processing.

The vittles on this vessel are "to dive for" ...

... delicious SE Asian & Continental cuisine ...

... because a good ship's chef = high morale !

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR,
one of the PREMIER INDONESIA LIVE-ABOARDS:

 

1.  Where is North Sulawesi Island ?    

North Sulawesi is in the northern most part of central Indonesia.   It is just south of the Philippines in the Southwest Pacific Ocean.

 

2.  What is included in the North Sulawesi Aggressor charter package ?

Accommodations aboard the vessel + diving guides + compressed air tanks + weights & weight belts + airport transfers from the Manado Airport to Kungkungan Bay Resort across the Minahasa Peninsula on day of arrival & departure + meals & snacks + soft beverages, local beer & wine; these are all included in the package.

 

3.  How many days is the charter & how many dives can I make ?

The North Sulawesi Aggressor charter is seven days, first Saturday afternoon to final Saturday morning with five & one-half days of Indonesia scuba diving.   Most guests make up to 3-5 dives a day.   Diving begins on Sunday morning & finishes mid-day on Friday when the Aggressor return to her dock at Kungkungan Bay.

 

4.  When should I arrive in North Sulawesi to meet the live-aboard ?

Please plan to arrive in Manado on the day of your charter, Saturday.

 

5.  Are any extra taxes or fees not included in the charter price ?

U.S. Citizens are required to obtain an Indonesia Entry Visa upon arrival at a cost of USD $25  &  USD $10 upon departure.   All other non-USA passengers should check with their local Indonesian Consulate for entry requirements.   Please note: Any tourists staying longer than 30 days -- regardless of country of origin -- must apply for a permit from their local Indonesian consulate.

 

6.  Do I need a passport for Indonesia liveaboard trips if I am American ?

YES, & your US passport must have no less than 6 months validity left on it.   

Colorful healthy sea critters everywhere ...

... like this shy li'l red seahorse.

7.  How do I meet North Sulawesi Aggressor on the departure date ?

Guests are encouraged to arrive Saturday afternoon into Manado on the Silk Air flight that arrives into Manado at 12:55 pm.   Upon arrival, a staff member from the Kungkungan Bay Resort holding a sign with the Aggressor Fleet logo will greet you.   You will be transferred to the KBR in an air-conditioned bus.   The bus ride takes approximately 50-60 minutes.

 

8.  Where does North Sulawesi Aggressor dock between charters ?

The North Sulawesi Aggressor offers charters departing from the Kungkungan Bay Resort in the safe & friendly city of Bitung, NE Sulawesi Island, Indonesia.

 

9.  What’s special about Indonesia scuba diving in the North Sulawesi area ?

The Lembeh Strait & surrounding areas are believed to offer the world’s most extensive marine biodiversity.   The outer reefs are adorned with colorful soft corals & anthias.   North Sulawesi is world-famous for its “muck” dives, or chock-full-o’-critter dives, where small, colorful creatures dwell on sandy bottoms.   Despite the term “muck diving,” visibility is superb.

 

10.  What’s the water temperature ?   Will I need a wetsuit ?

Yes you are advised to bring a tropical wetsuit, full-length.  You’ll be diving in warm water that averages 78 – 82 F degrees.   Most men divers are comfortable in a 3 mm suit.    Thin clients & many women divers report they feel comfier in a 3-5-3 mm wetsuit.   It is all a matter of personal taste.

 

11.  What’s the best time of year for Indonesia scuba diving ?

The diving is very good year round; never a really off season. Wet Season in Indonesia is from November through February however.  The weather is less changeable in Lembeh Strait due to mountainous terrain surrounding the area.

 

12.  What type of land topography can I expect to see in North Sulawesi ?

The topography ranges from volcanic mountains to coconut plantains to rice paddies.   The islands also have many scenic waterfalls & lush rain forests.

 

13.  Is there dinghy diving from North Sulawesi Aggressor ?

Most of the dives are made from two large skiffs.   Some diving is done from the back deck of the Aggressor.

 

14.  Is there night diving on this Indonesia diving liveaboard ?

Yes.   The night diving is terrific.  Hundreds of colorful critters are bumping all over the place, many of whom you will never see emerging from their hiding places until well after dark.  Night dives in Indonesia are inspiring !

Brilliant corals on the walls ...

... & in the shallows, like Xanadu Gardens !

15.  Is it customary to offer a crew gratuity ?

Yes, indeed – customary & a great idea.   As in any service oriented business, gratuities are welcomed & voluntary.   From past experience, many guests have offered gratuities based on the total cost of the charter.   Satisfied passengers who believe they have been provided with a very good service have left generous gratuities of ten percent (10%) of the charter price.   Average tips are in the 5 - 10 percent range.   The Captain will have an envelope available when settling the tabs for on-board services or purchases.   Gratuities may be by cash, credit cards, traveler's checks or personal checks.   All gratuities are shared equally by the crew.

 

16.  What’s planned for Friday evening after we return to port ?

Friday afternoon at approximately 1 – 2 pm, the North Sulawesi Aggressor returns to dock to load provisions for the following week’s cruise.   This is your opportunity to join a KBR guided tour of Bitung & visit the local market.   This is a special trip for guests & presents a wonderful photo opportunity & cultural experience.   The cost will be minimal & can be paid on board prior to docking at the resort.   This trip will run approximately 3 hours.   Prior to the departure of the tour, guests will be given the opportunity to tour the Kungkungan Bay Resort property, as well.

 

17.  Are extended tours offered in the Bitung village area ?

Special tours include a full day trip to Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve & are home to the Taursius Monkey, the world’s smallest primate, the black tailless monkeys, Maleo birds, wild pigs, the Bear Cascus (Marsupial family), the Sulawesi Rousette & the Dog Faced Bats & a multitude of parrots.   These are trips into nature & the past not to be missed.   There is also white water rafting trips for those with an adventurous soul that can’t get enough of the water.   Of course, there are numerous fantastic shore dives from the Kungkungan Bay Resort, right outside your bungalow.   Also available is the tour of Bitung City & the open market.   This trip will give you a real taste of Indonesian culture & close encounter with the friendly citizens.   The open-air market presents a great chance for unique photo opportunities.

 

18.  When is check-out time on this Indonesia liveaboard ?

Checkout time is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. All local & International airlines in Manado recommend you check-in 2 hours prior to departure. The crew will transfer you to the airport or to a local hotel, if you are planning to extend your vacation.

 

19.  Where is the nearest recompression chamber – just in case ?

The nearest recompression chamber is in Manado city, about one hour’s drive west from the vessel moorage at Kungkungan Bay Resort.  This DAN-approved facility has a fully operational recompression chamber.

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The Heads-Up NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

“Know-Before-You-Go” FILE ---

a Must-See Info Kit !

 

 

COMMUNICATIONS with VESSEL

The North Sulawesi Aggressor is in constant

communication with the Kungkungan Bay Resort

(KBR) located in Bitung, Indonesia. In case of an

emergency, family & friends may contact you by

calling the Kungkungan Bay Resort at 62-438-30300,

and the North Sulawesi Aggressor at 881-631-

073228. There is a charge for satellite phone calls

and e-mails.

 

Indonesia is world renowned for its incredible

underwater bio diversity. There are few places in the

world that offer such unique creatures & is so easily

accessible. As you prepare for your diving adventure

on board the North Sulawesi Aggressor, we extend

our most hearty welcome. The enclosed information

will help you prepare for your trip.

 

It is important to notify our office of last minute

changes concerning your airline arrival & departure

times or any changes in your address & telephone

numbers.

 

ARRIVAL on SULAWESI ISLAND

The North Sulawesi Aggressor offers charters

departing from the Kungkungan Bay Resort in the

city of Bitung, Indonesia. You are encouraged to

arrive Saturday afternoon into Manado on Silk Air

that arrives into Manado at 12:55pm. Upon arrival, a

staff member from the Kungkungan Bay Resort

holding a sign with the Aggressor Fleet logo will

greet you. You will be transferred to the KBR in an

air-conditioned bus. The bus ride takes approximately

45-60 minutes.

 

If you arrive earlier in the week & are staying at a

hotel in Manado, you will need to make your way to

the Manado Airport. Transfers from the Manado

Airport will leave on Saturday at approximately

1:30pm after the guests traveling on Silk Air arrive.

We will need to know one week before your charter

date if you will be meeting the group at the airport in

Manado. This will be the only transfer provided for

the upcoming charter week on the North Sulawesi

Aggressor.

 

If you are staying in Bitung at the Kungkungan Bay

Resort, you will require no transfer as the North

Sulawesi Aggressor docks right at the KBR.

Boarding time for everyone is 5:00pm on Saturday.

 

PACKING your TRAVEL BAGS

When packing, please limit the weight & size of

your bags. For international travel, you are usually

allowed 2 bags. Each piece of baggage must not

exceed 70 pounds. You are allowed one carry on bag

not to exceed 20 pounds. Please check with your

domestic & international carrier for baggage

allowance. Don’t forget to use your Aggressor Fleet

luggage tags. They will help the crew identify you.

 

The VESSEL’s SPACE ALLOTMENTS

The North Sulawesi Aggressor is a 110-foot yacht,

built & powered for comfort, safety & stability

and built to U.S. Coast Guard certification standards.

She is diesel-powered, cruises at 10 knots & has

110-volt power on board. The North Sulawesi

Aggressor has a beautiful spacious salon, 50 feet of

sun deck with shading, chaise lounges, hot tub, deck

chairs, bar, grill, & a complete digital photo/video

center.

 

Accommodations include eight private, air-conditioned

cabins. There are seven double cabins & one “quad”

cabin for four guests. Each stateroom

has extra storage & individual climate controls. The

North Sulawesi Aggressor sleeps 18 guests & six

crew, in privacy & comfort. Diving amenities

include Nitrox & a large dive deck complete with

individual dive lockers & freshwater showers.

 

MEALS on NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

The menu on board is varied & plentiful, with a

variety of American feasts, barbecues & local

cuisine. Wake up to fresh fruits, hot entrees, cereals

& juices. Lunches are buffet-style, featuring hot

soups, homemade breads, salads & sandwiches

and/or entrees. Dinners are diverse, including

seafood, beef or chicken. Each evening, enjoy fresh

homemade desserts. Please notify our office of

special dietary requests. Feel free to bring your

favorite candy or snack!

 

BEVERAGES on NORTH SULAWESI AGGRESSOR

Soft drinks, tea, beer, & wine are

complimentary. We suggest picking up

your special brand of liquor from the

Duty-Free shop. Remember, drinking and

diving doesn’t mix. Alcohol consumption mixed with

diving is prohibited. Once you drink alcohol, you

become a non-diver until the next day.

 

ACCEPTABLE CLOTHING on BOARD

Bathing suits & t-shirts are the order of the day.

Dress is normally informal in Indonesia due to the

warm, humid climate & clothing of light fabrics are

recommended. Traveling in highland areas is

noticeably cooler so we recommend a lightweight

jacket. Accepted attire for men is a shirt & long

pants. For ladies, dresses, blouses, & long pants are

appropriate. Shorts, halters or tank tops should only

be worn on the beach. The temperature averages in

the mid 80’s during the day & mid 70’s at night.

For easy luggage storage you should pack in a soft

duffel bag.

 

ENTERTAINMENT on this LIVEABOARD

There is a variety of nightly entertainment including

night diving, fish identification slide shows, dancing,

movies, games & more…. The crew especially

enjoys recent movies, DVD’s, musical CD’s, recent

magazines & books. Feel free to bring along your

favorites!

 

INDONESIA DIVING PROCEDURES

The crew of the North Sulawesi Aggressor, with their

unique combination of talents, offers the ultimate in

service. While on board, you may pick a buddy of

your choice or dive with one of our crewmembers.

There is ample storage space for your diving

equipment in your personal locker. The North

Sulawesi Aggressor provides 80 or 63 cubic ft. tanks,

weight belts & weights. The maximum recreational

depth is 110 feet. Diving is done from two

comfortable custom-made high-speed skiffs.

 

The somewhat ambiguous & misleading term

“muck diving” was coined in the North Sulawesi area

of Indonesia. In all actuality “muck diving” is

predominantly done on crushed coral & volcanic

slopes in the 30-80 foot depth range.

 

The word “muck” conjures up, to uneducated divers,

silt out conditions & a muddy substrate. This is

typically not the case in North Sulawesi. The

average visibility in the Lembeh Strait is 30’ – 60’ on

good days & 20’ – 40’ on bad days. The poor

visibility is due to the very thing that makes the strait

the diving wonder that it is…tidal exchange and

incoming & outgoing currents.

 

This extremely rich “nutritional environment” is

precisely why the area supports such a diverse

endemic species such as the hairy frog fish, juvenile

dwarf pigmy sea horses, star gazers, cockatoo

flounder, ghost pipefish, mimic octopus, blue ring

octopus & flamboyant cuttlefish.

 

As noted above, the currents & tides are very

active in the Lembeh Strait & tend to “funnel” in

and out of the straits. This tidal action does not

create any type of drift diving situation, but does

deposit some litter & debris in the strait. To the

ecologically minded diver, this debris (i.e., cans,

buckets, bottles) can initially be somewhat

disconcerting, however; there is a very positive side

to this & one that actually works in symbiosis with

the u/w environment.

 

The previously mentioned bottom terrain of slopes

and crushed coral is totally absent of safe habitat for

the animals simply due to the movement of the water

in the straight. Consequently, the incoming debris

creates underwater homes for the resident dwellers in

the Lembeh Strait. The local dive guides will be able

to educate & inform divers further on this.

Divers not familiar with “muck diving” conditions do

need to observe & be aware of the following:

 

1.   Only gloves with the finger tips removed are

allowed on dives.

 

2.   Be constantly aware of touching or sitting

on the reef or “muck” as there are highly

camouflaged animals everywhere. You will

learn to see these animals as you spend more

time in the area.

 

3.   Do your part as a conscientious diver on the

“muck” dives to help maintain the limited visibility.

 

- Don’t move or disturb items on the bottom.

 

- Be very aware of over finning (use slow steady & short fin

movements to prevent stirring up the sandy bottom).

 

- Always remain 2-3 feet above the “muck” & have total

control of gauges & cameras that can stir up the bottom &

disturb these delicate animals.

 

4.   As animal are discovered, be courteous to

all divers in the group. These animals are

easy to photograph, as a rule, & will

remain in the open as long as necessary.

A note on the local dive guides ---

The local dive guides are highly trained to spot

animals in the “muck” that would absolutely go

unnoticed by the untrained eye. The guides use,

at times, a probe to move items on the bottom

and gently prod animals to move so they can be

seen. This is something we ask that you do not

do & that you leave it to the local guides.

 

Remember to bring your “C” Card or proof of scuba diving certification !!

 

Wet Season in Indonesia is from November through

February however; it is less changeable in Lembeh

Strait due to the mountainous terrain surrounding the

area.

 

REEF CONSERVATION LAWS

We do not permit spear fishing or collecting from any

Aggressor vessel, nor on any of our Indonesia live-aboards.

Please do not bring spear guns or “Hawaiian slings” on board.

 

DIVE GEAR SUGGESTIONS

We suggest you pack the following: mask, fins,

snorkel, regulator with pressure gauge, depth gauge,

dive computer & a buoyancy compensator. We

encourage computer diving. Optional but highly

recommended equipment include: spare mask, “backup”

dive computer, dive watch, a safety device & a

dive light. Each piece of gear should be marked with

waterproof paint or tape. You’ll be diving in water

that averages 78 – 82 degrees F. Most guests make 4

to 5 dives a day, so some sort of protection is needed.

A 3 mm – 5 mm wet suit with a skin hood & cape is

recommended for comfort & protection.

 

DIVE EQUIPMENT

A full line of rental dive gear is available aboard

including regulators, BC, dive computers & nightlights.

Please reserve equipment in advance to ensure

availability. Have your equipment checked before

arrival in North Sulawesi. A spare dive computer

and batteries are recommended. Check the detailed

scuba diving equipment checklist on U.S. Dive Travel’s

Must-See Info Kits webpage.  Important first step in

packing for our Indonesia live-aboards.

 

CERTIFICATION & SPECIALTY COURSES

The crew of the North Sulawesi Aggressor offers a

variety of certification & specialty courses such as

Open Water Check-Out Dives, Advanced Open

Water, UW Photography, & Nitrox.

 

The SHIP’S BOUTIQUE

There is a mini-boutique on board with assorted t-shirts,

shorts, batteries, & miscellaneous items. The North

Sulawesi Aggressor accepts cash, traveler’s checks, Visa,

MasterCard, American Express, & Discover. No personal checks.

 

TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Every effort is made to ensure you have a safe trip

but we recommend purchasing trip

cancellation/interruption insurance, in the event of

unexpected changes in your travel plans. Also,

recommended are accident, medical, & baggage

insurance. Highly recommended are Divers Alert

Network (DAN) “Preferred Plan” Insurance and/or

PADI Diving Accident Insurance.

 

DO NOT FORGET -- PASSPORT REQUIRED !

Visitors must have a current passport valid for more

than six months, adequate funds to support

themselves & a return airline ticket.

 

HEALTH CARE IMPERATIVES

We have a first aid kit on board, including oxygen

and a defibrillator. You may want to bring motion

sickness medicine if you feel you’ll need it.

However, because of the size, comfort & stability

of the North Sulawesi Aggressor, we have never had

a serious problem. We also recommend an antibiotic,

antihistamine, eardrops, & topical ointment. North

Sulawesi is not known to have any high incidence of

malaria.  However, check with your local travel med

clinic just to be on the safe side.

 

If you are subject to reactions from stings of any

kind, we recommend that you bring any medications

that you may need. Please inform the captain and

crew about your condition so proper steps may be

taken in the case of an allergic reaction or stings.

Please inform your dive guide(s) if you are taking

any medication or suffer from allergies. A complete

physical is recommended before your trip. There is

no smoking allowed inside the vessel or the dive

deck. Smoking is only permitted on the sun deck.

The nearest recompression chamber is in Manado.

This facility has a fully operational recompression

Chamber; a blessing for Indonesia live-aboards.

 

Be sure your tetanus & Hepatitis A immunizations

are up to snuff.  Check with your local MD.

 

International health certificates for smallpox and

cholera are not required, except from travelers

arriving from infected areas.

 

TAXES & FEES ($ USD) for VISAS

U.S. Citizens are required to obtain an entry

Visa upon arrival at a cost of $25.00 US and

$10.00 upon departure.

 

All other passengers should check with their

local Indonesian Consulate for entry requirements.

 

Please note: Any stay longer than 30 days;

regardless of country of origin must apply for

a permit from their local Indonesian consulate.

 

FRIDAY AFTERNOON, SPECIAL PROCEDURE

Friday afternoon at approximately 1:00 pm the North

Sulawesi Aggressor returns to dock to provision for

the following week. This is your opportunity to join

a KBR guided tour of Bitung & visit the local

market. This is a special trip for guests & presents

a wonderful photo opportunity & cultural

experience. The cost will be minimal & can be paid

on board prior to docking at the resort. This trip will

run approximately 3 hours. Prior to the departure of

the tour, guests will be given the opportunity to tour

the KBR property.

 

Guests not wishing to join the tour can relax by the

magnificent pool & spa at the KBR. The pool use

and towels are provided to Aggressor Fleet guests

free of charge. Drinks, food & services at the KBR

will be at the normal KBR guest rates.

 

At 6:00 pm the North Sulawesi Aggressor will host a

wine & cheese party. Dinner on Friday night is not

served on board the vessel & this is the only meal

not included in the charter rate. The KBR will offer a

Friday night poolside BBQ.

 

TIPS ON this INDONESIA LIVE-ABOARD

We believe gratuities should be voluntary & based

upon the quality of service your crew has provided.

When settling your bill at the end of the charter, the

Captain will have an envelope for gratuities, to be

divided equally among the crew.

 

CHECKOUT TIME from INDONESIA LIVE-ABOARD

Checkout time is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. All local and

International airlines in Manado recommend you

check-in 2 _ hours prior to departure. The crew will

transfer you to the airport or to a local hotel, if you

are planning to extend your vacation.

 

ADDITIONAL INFO: TRAVEL IN INDONESIA

Due to worldwide political unrest & religious

tension, the United States Department of State issues

“travel advisories” when they feel it is dangerous for

U.S. citizens to travel to specific areas. These

advisories are important and, unfortunately, a

necessary evil. However, there are times when these

warnings are posted for an entire country such as

Indonesia, & this then becomes somewhat broad

and unfair to areas such as Northern Sulawesi.

The island of Sulawesi has had problems in the South

Province, but never in the North. Sulawesi is a huge

island mass over 80,000 square miles & hosts a

population of 15,000,000 people & is spread out

over three different zones.

 

North Sulawesi, & its surrounding area are an

extremely peace loving population dominated by

90% Christian & 10% Muslim populace that has a

strong history of religious & ethnic tolerance.

North Sulawesi also represents the most politically

stable government, historically, in Indonesia. The

government is a provincial regional government

system & each of 32 provinces are self-governing

and has recently gained autonomy from the central

government in Jakarta. As you travel in North

Sulawesi you will observe churches & mosques on

corners of the same street. Intermarriage between the

two denominations in North Sulawesi is common and

accepted.  Indonesia live-aboards allow you to see

this wonderful co-existence firsthand, something that

does not exist in most of the Muslim world.

 

We at U.S. DIVE TRAVEL recommend that you, our

guests, spend some time researching North Sulawesi,

its geographical location, its long standing & stable

provincial government & discover for yourself the

peaceful harmony that exists in this huge island

nation. For your convenience, you can find much

more valuable information on the World Wide Web

at  www.north-sulawesi.org.  We feel this research

will better educate & inform you as you plan for

your trip to North Sulawesi.

 

ELECTRICITY on INDONESIA LIVEABOARD

Power supply is usually 220 volt/50 cycles in large

cities, but 110 volts is still used in some areas

including on board the North Sulawesi Aggressor.

Normal outlets are plugs with two rounded pins. It is

advisable to check electrical devices before using to

ensure that they can accept the power supply prior to

using to using to avoid damage to your equipment.

 

INDONESIAN CUSTOMS LAWS

Indonesian Customs allows on entry a maximum of

ONE liter of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes or 50

cigars or 100 grams of tobacco.

 

The BEAUTIFUL KUNGKUNGAN BAY RESORT

KBR offers several planned excursions & activities

as well as boasting a beautiful swimming pool and

poolside service, health spa, massage & other

amenities. Should you decide to extend your trip

Aggressor Fleet offers 2 & 4-day packages at KBR

customized to fit airline schedules. Every Friday

night the KBR offers a poolside BBQ with all of the

usual trimmings.

 

Special tours include a full day trip to Tangkoko

Batuangus Nature Reserve & are home to the

Taursius Monkey, the world’s smallest primate, the

black tailless monkeys, Maleo birds, wild pigs, the

Bear Cascus (Marsupial family), the Sulawesi

Rousette & the Dog Faced bats & a multitude of

parrots. These are trips into nature & the past not to

be missed.  Indonesia live-aboards should be melded

with at least a 1-week cultural immersion adventure,

we feel – to truly appreciate this gentle exotic land.

 

There is also white water rafting trips for those with

an adventurous soul that can’t get enough of the

water. Of course, there are numerous fantastic shore

dives from the KBR right outside your bungalow.

Also available is the tour of Bitung City & the

open market. This trip will give you a real taste of

Indonesian culture & close encounter with the

friendly citizens. The open-air market presents a

great chance for unique photo opportunities.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION or RESERVATIONS:

 

Please contact:  Susan & John Hessburg, Mgrs

U.S. DIVE TRAVEL Network

PMB 307  /  Suite # 116

15050 Cedar Avenue South

St. Paul, MN, USA   55124-7047

 

Voice Mail:  952-953-4124

E-mail:  divetrip@bitstream.net

Website:  www.usdivetravel.com

 

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IMPORTANT NOTE about PRICES & TARIFFS:

 

All package prices listed here are subject to possible change in this steadily evolving Indonesia dive travel market.  Indonesia liveaboard prices are traditionally stable, while air prices can fluctuate daily.  Until air tickets are issued, all airlines reserve the right to change airfares without notice -- an industry standard with Indonesia live-aboards.  Remember please, the federal government has deregulated airlines, so only they control their pricing -- not any travel professionals. 

 

Unless specifically noted, these above Indonesia diving packages are prices for only the vessel-based portion of your vacation, in most cases reflecting double-occupancy staterooms.  At most dive resorts & on most Indonesia live-aboard vessels, there will be no triple-occupancy rooms offered.  There is one “Quad Cabin” on North Sulawesi Aggressor.  International & commuter "island-hopper" airfares are always extra above these Indonesia diving costs.  Nominal service fees are also extra for air tickets & the lodging + Indonesia scuba diving components.  The baseline tariffs for all clients start at $45 per person for the Indonesia liveaboard + $35 pp for the air tickets.  Late-booking clients may receive slightly higher tariffs on the Indonesia scuba diving vacation package.  Solo clients on our Indonesia  liveaboards will always pay a single supplement to secure a private stateroom -- normally 50%.

 

Even though this Indonesia liveaboard does offer scuba diving gear for rent, just to be on the safe side, we warmly recommend that all clients, all seasons, bring their own scuba diving equipment, & in the top state of repair.  Be sure to have your local dive shop perform a thorough pre-trip safety check of your reg & BC.  ALWAYS a good idea for scuba diving vacations, not just Indonesia liveaboards.

 

Remember, all clients to all foreign destinations will be asked by local officials overseas, upon departing the airport on your final day, to pay a nominal government departure tax, usually between USD $35 - $45 per client.  USDT cannot collect this tax beforehand, so you simply pay it down there, in your host country.  Be sure to stash away a little cash for this final moment at the airport, so you'll get your exit visa stamped quickly with no fuss; & away you go.  Best of luck with your travel plans for any Indonesia live-aboards.  We hope your vacation is a safe & satisfying adventure.  Blessings & best wishes for all clients enjoying our Indonesia live-aboards.

 

Best fishes too!

 

>////*>    <*\\\\<

 

Susan & John Hessburg

Managers  /  Founding Partners

The U.S. Dive Travel Network.   

 

© Copyright 2005 - 2008 / U.S. DIVE TRAVEL Network