The ongoing pandemic has seen numerous border closures worldwide, along with reopenings followed by shutdowns once again. As of February 9, there’’ good news from the Asia Pacific region. Indonesia’s government is permitting exceptions for some international travelers, including superyacht visitors, to re-enter the country.
Initially, Indonesia shut down its borders in March 2020, additionally initiating a countrywide lockdown. As data began revealing improving numbers toward the end of the year, the government loosened restrictions. As a result, the 262-foot (80-meter) Amevi became the first among superyacht visitors to dock in its waters, in October. The captain and crew enlisted the assistance of Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia. The Bali-based superyacht agency assists yachts with the requisite paperwork and clearances, along with provisioning and other services. Notably, the government was so pleased with how Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia created protocols for Amevi’s visit that the procedures became a template for other superyacht visitors.
Unfortunately, Indonesia temporarily closed its borders again in early January, due to the new COVID-19 strain in the region. However, the recent reversal of that decision seems promising.
Of course, the reopening comes with a few requirements. Firstly, superyacht visitors must have a valid visitation visa—what the Indonesian government terms the Visa Kunjungan. According to Thomas Taatjes of Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia, the visa needs to be in the form of an e-visa. Furthermore, he says, the permission is valid for 14 days from February 9. He cautions, “This could be changed, extended, or abolished in this time frame at any time.”
The Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia office can provide insight into all the requirements and assist you in your plans. For instance, you must present a negative PCR test result obtained within 72 hours of your departure and present it to the Indonesia health authorities. Email Taatjes for full details.
If you choose to visit, you will discover why Indonesia and its 17,000 islands are captivating more and more cruisers with large yachts. From cruising and diving in Raja Ampat top) to seeing Pura Ulun Danu Beratan (above), a major Hindu Shaivite Shiva temple in Bali, the sites and experiences are extraordinary.
Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia asia-pacific-superyachts.com/indonesia
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