How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Ari was very knowledgeable and easy going, and related well to us all.  He seemed to quickly pick up on the interests, strengths and limitations of those in the group.  He had a good sense of humour and adjusted the itinerary when possible to ensure we were able to get good snorkelling or to find the best island for our beach barbecue, avoiding the planned one which was hosting a wedding party!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Try to download as much as possible of the trip notes provided by the tour operator Sea Trek Adventures.  We only found out once on board that free laundry (2 items pp pd) is included, thus reducing what needs to be packed, as are all soft drinks.  Beer prices on board are reasonable, but wines and spirits very expensive - but taking 'your favourite tipple' on the ship is ok. Unless you are very choosey about your snorkelling gear that provided onboard was very good - certainly the best we' ve had on previous trips.  And be prepared to go on a diet on your return as good and ample local cuisine provided.

Do you have anything else to add?

Explore's use of Swastika Bungalows is good, but a lot of variation in the size of the rooms. The room allocated us via Explore was very good but be prepared to query the room if the hotel gives you a smaller one in a less good position.  The local travel agent who is around reception offers numerous tours in Bali and we found him genuine,reliable and competitively priced.  We also took a day trip to Borobudur etc in Java, which at $240 each is pricey but in fact good valueas all inclusive of flights, entrance fees, guide and driver, lunch.  We booked that from UK with BaliTours.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

There was no 'Explore' tour leader.  However the on board Sea Trek, Bali cruise director - Ari - could not be faulted.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Remember that there are no portholes/windows on the Katharina.  Cabin 7 - the on deck 'family room' - has 2 proper windows but comes at a cost.  There is a laundry service available - 2 items per person per day - so no need to take loads of cloths. Once you have decided on what to take - half that will suffice!  All you need are 3 sets - 1 to wear, 1 change and 1 in the wash!.  Dinner is served with 2 glasses of wine (Indonesian rose) or 2 small tins of beer."

Do you have anything else to add?

"This is not an Explore exclusive trip.  We had 7 others on board - only 1 other Explore couple.  The Explore advice that ""the ability to swim 25 metres unaided is essential"" is erroneous.  This is only essential if you want to swim or snorkel. My partner cannot swim and had a great time. Obvious precautions taken of course.  You will not receive your internal air tickets until you are in Indonesia - from Explore's agent Happy Trails.  This was not made clear before departure and little disconcerting."

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Great Leader, good organiser, lots of local information, even got us invited to a local wedding, amazing:)

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Go! It was an amazing trip, fantastic boat, cabin was great, beds very comfortable. Food was excellent with lots of choices. 9 people on trip with 14 crew looking after all our needs, lovely friendly guys:) Best snorkelling and beaches I've done around the world.

Do you have anything else to add?

Take note nothing is done for you before meeting the Bali Seatrek tour leader on morning of sail by Explore except a 10min meet by a local rep to give you your flight ticket and ask if you need anything.

Dancing with the crew playing live music on a tropical island,  after having the most fantastic day komodo dragon spotting, followed by snorkelling amongst the most exquisite coral and starfish with your belly full of bbq’ed snapper and goat and chicken kebabs – now that’s a day to remember.  Don’t forgot to take a rash vest/second skin to stop your back from burning when snorkelling. (ST - 17th July 2011)