How to book a boat

Booking your first trip with KapalSantai is straightforward. You can choose between a Private Trip or an Open Trip. Here’s how: Private Trip Log In or Sign Up Go to kapalsantai.com and create a new account, or log in if you already have one.   Browse Boats  Select the “List of Boats” menu to view all available vessels.   View Boat Details  Click on any boat to see: Amenities and guest capacity  Route information Rental price (for a private charter)   Fill Out the Booking Form Click the “Book Now” button and fill in: Full name Preferred departure date Number of guests   Complete Payment or Send Request via WhatsApp Online Payment: After submitting the form, you will be redirected to the payment page. Follow the instructions to complete the transaction. WhatsApp Request: If you prefer to be assisted directly, click the WhatsApp button on the confirmation page and send your booking details via chat. Tip: Double-check your personal data and travel date before payment. Our team will reconfirm via WhatsApp if any details are unclear.   Open Trip Log In or Sign Up Visit Kapalsantai.com and log in or register a new account.   Find Open Trip Schedules  On the “List of Boats” page, use the “Open Trip” filter to see boats with shared-trip schedules.   View Details & Open Trip Schedule  Click on a boat to check:  Participant quota (minimum number of travelers) Price per person Amenities (e.g., cabins, snorkeling gear, meals)   Fill Out the Booking Form  Click “Book Now” or “Book Open Trip”, then enter: Full name Chosen trip date Number of guests Cabin preference    Complete Payment or Send Request via WhatsApp Online Payment: Follow the payment instructions on the confirmation page. WhatsApp: Click the WhatsApp button to send your booking details and get direct assistance from our team. Note: Open Trips require a minimum number of participants; make sure your booking meets the requirement to guarantee departure.

Steps to choose the right boat type

1. Define Your Needs & Budget Number of guests? (solo, family, group) Full privacy (Private Trip) or cost-sharing (Open Trip)? 2. Select Duration & Route 2D1N / 3D2N / 4D3N Select your route: Around Komodo or Komodo–Lombok For Open Trips, guests must follow the published itinerary For Private Trips, the itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and route feasibility   3. Check Cabin Type & Amenities  Master, Deluxe, Superior, or Sharing 4. Compare Boats Match vessel capacity and facilities to your requirements Review photos, guest reviews, and boat details 5. Consult via WhatsApp On the Kapalsantai website, click the WhatsApp button Chat with our team for personalized recommendations and best offers

Private Trip or Open Trip, which one should I pick?

When choosing between a Private Trip and an Open Trip with Kapalsantai, consider your needs, budget, and the type of experience you want. Here’s a breakdown of differences, benefits, and some extra points to help you decide: Feature Private Trip Open Trip Dates Flexible: You choose any available date Fixed Schedule: Follows available open-trip dates Route You are given the option to choose available routes Route is all set Privacy Full: Only your group on board Shared: You join other participants Amenities & Service Personalized: Adjust snorkeling times, meal schedule, and menus Similar to private, but dorm cabins might be shared Pricing Boat-rate: Higher per person but exclusive Per-person: More budget-friendly since costs are shared Minimum Quota None—only your group Often 6–8 pax minimum; trip may cancel or reschedule if quota isn’t met Advantages Privacy, full flexibility, ideal for families or special groups Cost-effective, no planning needed, opportunity to meet new people  

After full payment, the Boat is unavailable, Refund or Replacement?

Force Majeure Uncontrollable events (severe weather, sailing ban) → full refund automatically. Double Booking Scheduling error by the boat’s admin → they’ll source an alternative boat matching your trip type (Private/Open). Kapalsantai will confirm within 2×24 hours; if no response, auto refund. Underbook If the booked departure does not meet the minimum number of participants required for the boat to operate, passengers may be transferred to another boat. A replacement boat with a similar standard and specifications will be arranged. If the replacement boat has a higher price category, no additional charge will be applied to the passenger.

Adding guests after reservation is confirmed

Once your reservation is confirmed, contact Kapalsantai’s admin via WhatsApp or email to request adding more guests. Our admin will forward your request to the boat operator. The boat operator decides whether to approve extra guests, including any additional fees. If approved, the admin will send payment instructions for the extra charges and send you an updated confirmation.

Latest Booking Deadline (Up to 2 Days Before Departure)

Bookings must be completed no later than 2 days (H-2) before the departure date, subject to cabin and boat availability. We strongly recommend contacting Kapalsantai's admin via WhatsApp before making a booking to confirm the latest availability, cabin options, and departure status. Full payment is required to confirm and secure your reservation. Availability cannot be guaranteed until payment has been received and verified.

Payment methods we accept

We accept various payment methods to make booking with Kapalsantai easy and flexible. Below are the categories and some example providers: Category Provider Bank Transfer Mandiri, Neobank, BSI, Sahabat Sampoerna, BRI, BCA, BNI, Permata, CIMB, BJB & Bank lain Kredit/Debit/Nex Card Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB Retail Outlet Alfamart, Alfamidi, Indomaret E-Wallet DANA, OVO, ShopeePay / SPayLater, Nex Cash, Jenius Pay, Link Aja, AstraPay, Gopay QR Payments QRIS Direct Debit BRI Direct Debit, Mandiri Direct Debit PayLater Kredivo, Akulaku PayLater, Atome Notes The list of providers may change. For the latest options, check the Payment section during checkout or ask us on WhatsApp. Each method has specific instructions and expiry times (e.g., bank transfer codes often expire after 24 hours).

How to pay using an international debit/credit card

1. Select “Credit/Debit Card/Nex Card” 2. On the Kapalsantai payment page, locate and click the Credit / Debit Card / Nex Card option. 3. Enter Card Details      •        Card Number: Input the 16-digit card number (no spaces).      •        Valid Thru: Enter the expiration date (MM/YY).      •        CVN/CVV: Provide the 3–4 digit security code from the back of your card. 4. Fill in Cardholder Information      •        First Name: Your first name exactly as it appears on the card.      •        Last Name: Your last name exactly as it appears on the card.      •        Email Address: A valid email to receive payment notifications.      •        Mobile Number: Your phone number (include country code, e.g., +62 for Indonesia). 5. Click “Pay Now”      •        After filling in all fields, double-check the information, then click Pay Now.      •        Wait a few seconds for the confirmation screen to load. 6. Confirmation & Receipt      •        Once the transaction is approved, you’ll see an on-screen confirmation and receive an email receipt.      •        Keep this receipt for your records. Note      •        Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.      •        Your issuing bank may charge a foreign transaction fee.      •        If the payment fails, verify your card details or contact your bank.

Pay by local bank transfer

1. Select “Bank Transfer” At Kapalsantai checkout, choose the Bank Transfer option. 2. Choose Your Local Bank Pick from the available banks (Mandiri, BCA, BNI, BRI, etc.). 3. Follow the On-Screen Instructions You’ll be redirected to our payment gateway, where you’ll see:      •        Destination account number or unique payment code      •        Exact amount to transfer      •        Payment deadline (usually 24 hours) 4. Make the Transfer Use your banking app or visit a teller to send the exact amount to the specified account. 5. Automatic Confirmation Once the transfer is successful and our system is notified by the bank, your payment status will automatically update to “Paid”. No manual proof is needed. Note: A full tutorial for each step of the local bank transfer process is available on the instruction page after selecting “Bank Transfer.”

Flexible rescheduling up to 60 days before departure

Submit Request Message Kapalsantai on WhatsApp (24/7) no later than 60 days before your trip.   CS Response (≤ 24 hours) Our Customer Service will confirm: Approval or rejection of your reschedule request Available new dates Price difference (if any) A 24-hour deadline to confirm   Your Confirmation Reply “AGREE” or choose another date via WhatsApp. If you AGREE, a new voucher is sent to you via WhatsApp & email. If no dates work or you decline all options, the request auto-converts to cancellation and follows the refund policy.   Pay Any Difference If the new date is more expensive, an automatic payment link is sent via WhatsApp—balance due within 24 hours.   Reschedule Limit Allowed once per booking.  

Extending or shortening your trip duration

Submit Request Message KapalSantai on WhatsApp (24/7) with your desired new duration no later than 30 days before your trip.   Kapalsantai CS will review and will confirm (≤24 hours) Approval or Rejection Available duration options (2D1N, 3D2N, 4D3N, etc.) Price difference (if any)   Next Steps If approved, you’ll receive a new voucher & payment link (for any difference), due within 24 hours. If rejected, your original trip duration remains unchanged.   Change Limit Allowed once per booking.  

Cancellation policy & refund

Guest Cancellations Your deposit refund is based on this schedule: Cancellation Window Deposit Refund ≥ 60 days before departure 45% 30–59 days before departure 20% ≤ 29 days before / No-Show 0% Operator Cancellations  Force Majeure (severe weather, sailing bans, etc.) → 100% refund Double Booking (system/admin error) → alternative boat sourced; confirmed within 2×24h; otherwise 100% refund Overbook (full capacity) → moved to another vessel; if upgraded, difference charged to guest; if no upgrade available, 100% refund Note The deposit refund is calculated as a percentage of your initial total payment.

Procedure for canceling some guests in one booking

Currently, partial cancllations are not supported, cancellations only apply to the entire booking. Kapalsantai records each reservation as a single transaction under one name / representative.   Guest Substitution: You may replace canceled guests with substitute guests without requesting a refund. Provide the replacement guest’s details to Customer Service prior

Refund policy

Guest Cancellations Your deposit refund is based on this schedule: Cancellation Window Deposit Refund ≥ 30 days before departure 45% 15–29 days before departure 20% ≤ 14 days before / No-Show 0% Operator Cancellations Force Majeure (severe weather, sailing bans, etc.) → 100% refund Double Booking (system/admin error) → alternative boat sourced; confirmed within 2×24h; otherwise 100% refund Underbook If the booked departure does not meet the minimum number of participants required for the boat to operate, passengers may be transferred to another boat. • A replacement boat with a similar standard and specifications will be arranged. • If the replacement boat has a higher price category, no additional charge will be applied to the passenger.   Note The deposit refund is calculated as a percentage of your initial total payment.

How to request a refund via WhatsApp Customer Service

1. Contact Kapalsantai CS Send a message to Kapalsantai’s WhatsApp Customer Service. 2. Verify Your Details & Payment The CS team will review your booking information and payment proof. 3. Receive the Refund Link After verification, CS will send you a dedicated refund link. 4. Refund Timeline      •        Credit/Debit Card: Funds returned within 2–14 business days.      •        E-Wallet: Processed within 24 hours.      •        Bank Transfer: Processed within 24 hours, minus a Rp 2,500 admin fee.

How long does the refund process take?

The refund timeline depends on the payment method used: Credit/Debit Card Funds returned within 2–14 business days. E-Wallet Processed within 24 hours. Bank Transfer Processed within 24 hours, minus a Rp 2,500 admin fee.

Guide to refunds for partial guest cancellations within one booking

Currently, partial refunds are not supported, cancellations only apply to the entire booking. Kapalsantai records each reservation as a single transaction under one name / representative.   Guest Substitution: You may replace canceled guests with substitute guests without requesting a refund. Provide the replacement guest’s details to Customer Service during the cancellation process.

Standard routes 2D1N, 3D2N, and 4D3N

Duration Standard Route 2D1N Kelor – Manjarite – Kalong – Padar – Pink Beach – Komodo 3D2N Kelor – Manjarite – Kalong – Padar – Pink Beach – Komodo – Taka Makassar – Manta Point – Siaba 4D3N Kelor – Manjarite – Kalong – Padar – Pink Beach – Komodo – Gili Lawa – Taka Makassar – Manta Point – Siaba Notes All Kapalsantai boats follow these itineraries. The only variation is the corridor chosen: North corridor Travels via Rinca Island & Gili Lawa before reaching Komodo Island. Perfect for visiting Komodo habitats on Rinca and capturing aerial views at Gili Lawa.   South corridor Travels via Padar Island & Pink Beach before reaching Komodo Island.  Ideal for enjoying Padar’s iconic panoramas and swimming at the unique Pink Beach.   On longer trips (3D2N/4D3N), after Komodo the boat continues to Taka Makassar, Manta Point, and Siaba as per standard itinerary

Customizing a private itinerary

For Private Trips, the route isn’t fully custom. You can only choose one of two pre-set corridors: North Corridor Via Rinca Island & Gili Lawa before reaching Komodo Island Perfect if you want to explore Komodo habitats on Rinca and capture stunning aerial views at Gili Lawa.   South Corridor Via Padar Island & Pink Beach before reaching Komodo Island. Ideal for enjoying Padar’s iconic panoramas and swimming at the unique Pink Beach.

Kids’ activity recommendations onboard

Although Kapalsantai doesn’t offer a formal kids’ program, here are ways to keep children engaged: Light Snorkeling Use child-sized masks and fins, and let them explore shallow reefs safely.   Beach Playtime During island stops, build sandcastles, collect shells, or play beach volleyball.   Wildlife Spotting On Rinca Island, observe Komodo from a safe distance; at Kalong, watch the bats emerge at sunset.   Simple Games Bring card games (UNO, picture quizzes), crossword puzzles, or coloring books for deck entertainment.   Stargazing At night, lie on the open deck and look for constellations—share fun star myths.   Photography & Vlogging Give kids a waterproof camera or GoPro to document the trip—fun and creative!   Educational Mini-Talks Ask the guide for a 10–15 minute “mini-lesson” on marine ecology or local culture.   Safety Tip: Always supervise children around water and on beaches, and review safety rules before activities

Onboard facilities

Our onboard facilities includes: Pick-Up & Transfer: Transport to/from the harbor (for Private Trip)   Local Tour Guide: Experienced guide on board.   Full Documentation: Camera, drone (weather permitting), and GoPro.   Meals & Beverages: Full meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), mineral water, coffee, and tea (depending on the boat).   Snorkeling Gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins provided.   Safety & First Aid: Life jackets for all passengers and a first-aid kit.

Cabin types & bed configurations

Cabin Type Capacity (+extra*) Location Key Features / Notes Master Cabin 2 pax (+1) Prime position on the boat (often upper deck) • Most complete amenities (AC, en-suite bathroom, wardrobe, sometimes a small sofa/seating area) • Sea-view window Deluxe Cabin 2 pax (+1) Directly below the Master, usually upper deck • Air Conditioner • Sea-view window • En-suite bathroom (if available) Superior Cabin 2 pax (+1) Lower deck • Air Conditioner • En-suite or shared bathroom (boat-dependent) • May have sea-view window Sharing Cabin 4 pax Lower deck • 4 separate single beds • 1 shared bathroom • Most budget-friendly option * Availability of the extra bed (+1) depends on the boat

Meal menu & dietary preferences (vegan, halal, allergies)

Basic Halal Menu All Kapalsantai boats serve Indonesian halal meals (rice, side dishes, vegetables, fruits). Additional Options Western: Some boats offer Western dishes (steak, pasta, salad). Vegetarian/Vegan: Available on select boats; request at least 7 days before departure. Allergies & Special Needs Inform us of any allergies (nuts, seafood, gluten, etc.) when booking. The boat’s kitchen will adjust recipes (swap ingredients or separate meals) accordingly. Alcoholic Beverages Available as an add-on; purchase and payment are made on board. Please bring or pre-order if desired.

Wi-Fi and electricity access at sea

Power Access Every Kapalsantai boat is equipped with electrical power for lighting, device charging, and cabin amenities. You can charge your phone or laptop anytime while the boat is running. Wi-Fi/Internet Connectivity Not all boats offer onboard Wi-Fi. If a boat has a hotspot, its speed and availability depend on satellite connections or local cellular coverage.  Telkomsel is the most reliable provider in the travel area (Flores waters and surroundings). However, even Telkomsel’s coverage can have dead zones. Tips Prepare a sufficient data plan before departure, especially if you need regular internet access. Confirm ahead of time whether your chosen boat provides Wi-Fi.

Use of Kayak, Paddle Board & Snorkeling Equipment

Snorkeling All Kapalsantai boats provide snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) free of charge. Kayak & Paddle Board Available only on select boats; if your chosen boat has them, you can use them at no extra cost. Tips It’s recommended to confirm during booking so we can ensure your boat has kayak or paddle board.

Alcohol policy onboard

Guests are allowed to bring their own alcohol on board. If you prefer Kapalsantai to provide alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, etc.), please request at the time of booking. Providing alcohol through Kapalsantai incurs an extra fee based on type and quantity. Pricing and options will be confirmed by our admin prior to departure.

Additional services during the trip

Discuss with Kapalsantai Any extra-service request (e.g., professional photographer, beach BBQ, night fishing) can be discussed with our Kapalsantai team. Submission to Boat Partner We’ll forward your request to the boat operator. Approval depends on availability and partner policies. Extra Fees If the partner boat agrees, additional services typically incur an extra fee. Final pricing will be confirmed before departure.

Safety briefing before departure

At the start of the trip, The boat crew will conduct a safety briefing. The briefing covers: How to wear and locate life jackets Location and use of safety equipment (life rings, inflatable boats) Emergency evacuation procedures and muster points Onboard safety rules (e.g., no running on the deck)

Medical emergency procedure at sea

Basic First Aid Kit All boat listed in Kapalsantai is equipped with a First Aid (P3K) kit containing supplies to treat minor injuries (scratches, bruises, mild nausea). Handling Minor Injuries For minor injuries, inform the crew immediately. They will administer first aid (cleaning wounds, reducing swelling, providing antiseptics) as per the kit contents. Severe Injury Protocol If a guest suffers a serious injury (e.g., a fracture, severe bleeding, or life-threatening condition), the crew will: Contact Kapalsantai and/or the boat operator to arrange a speedboat evacuation. Transport the guest to the nearest hospital or medical facility as the situation demands. Recommendations Bring personal medications and critical medical information (allergies, regular prescriptions). Inform the crew of any pre-existing health conditions before departure. Consider travel insurance covering medical evacuation at sea.

Age limit & guest health conditions

Age Limit There is no official age limit. Children and seniors are welcome. Health Conditions If you have pre-existing conditions (asthma, heart disease, diabetes, etc.), please inform Kapalsantai when booking. Bring your personal medications and any medical equipment needed (inhaler, EpiPen, heart meds, etc.). The crew will note your health information to prepare for potential emergency evacuation.

Essential packing checklist

Clothing According to Trip Duration Lightweight clothes (t-shirts, shorts) and sufficient changes based on trip length. Swimwear Swimsuit or quick-dry outfit for snorkeling/swimming. Hat & Sunglasses Protection from midday sun. Personal Medications Daily prescription meds, pain relievers, seasickness pills, and a small first-aid kit. Identification (ID) Original ID card or passport and photocopies for administrative purposes. Sun Protection Sunscreen (SPF) and lip balm with SPF. Toiletries & Hygiene Items Toothbrush & toothpaste, soap, shampoo, small towel. Additional Gear (optional) Power bank, waterproof pouch for gadgets, waterproof camera, reusable water bottle.

Seasonal weather guide for Labuan Bajo

Dry Season/East Wind (April–September) Ideal sailing conditions—calm seas, gentle breezes, and mostly clear skies. Daytime temperatures around 28–32°C, with little to no rainfall. West/ Southwest Wind Season (October–March) Often accompanied by stronger winds and higher waves. Increased rainfall with brief showers or thunderstorms. Seas can be rough—only sail if the boat and crew are experienced and weather forecasts are stable. Tips Check daily weather forecasts before departure. Pack lightweight clothing and a thin jacket for cooler evenings in the dry season. In the west wind season, bring a light rain jacket and seasickness medication.

Storing valuables in your cabin

Private Cabin (Master/Deluxe/Superior) You can store valuables (camera, wallet, phone) in your locked cabin using the boat’s lock. For extra security, bring a small padlock to secure drawers or wardrobe inside the cabin. Sharing Cabin Since the cabin is shared, ask a crew member to keep valuables in a safe box/storage room (if available). If no safe is provided, use a waterproof dry bag or bag, which can be strapped to the bunk. Additional Options Some boats may offer a small safe box in the crew area—verify upon boarding. Consider bringing an anti-theft backpack with hidden zippers for items you need to carry frequently.

Luggage limit & personal diving gear

Light Packing It’s recommended to bring only essentials—cabin space is limited. Use soft bags/backpacks for easier storage. Snorkeling Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) is provided by our boat partner. You may bring your own gear if you prefer, but keep it compact. Diving Trip On diving trips, full scuba equipment (BCD, regulator, tanks, wetsuit) is supplied by the partner dive center. You don’t need to bring bulky diving gear.

Local etiquette & cultural awareness

Briefing by the Destination Upon entering each attraction, local staff will provide a brief orientation on culture, customs, and local rules. Dress Modestly Wear respectful attire—avoid revealing clothes in culturally sensitive areas (e.g., traditional villages or places of worship). Respect Local Customs & Traditions Do not step on offerings or enter sacred spaces without permission. Follow local instructions if there’s a cultural ceremony or ritual in progress. Preserve the Environment Dispose of trash properly; carry your waste back if bins are not available. Avoid damaging coral, collecting shells, or picking plants. Interacting with Locals Greet with local salutations (e.g., “Selamat pagi”) Ask for permission before photographing residents or their activities.

Airport–Harbor transportation we provide

Open Trip Airport–harbor pickup and drop-off service is available. Private Trip Pickup/drop-off arranged by group size: 1–4 guests: Toyota Innova 5–8 guests: Toyota HiAce 9+ guests: Minibus

Required identification documents at check-in

ID Card (KTP for Indonesian citizens) or Passport (for foreign nationals)   QR Code The QR code will be generated and sent by the boat partner prior to departure. Present this QR code at check-in for data verification.

Drone usage policy

Permission Required Drone use on board and at visited destinations must be approved by Kapalsantai and the local authorities.   Additional Fee An extra fee applies for drone usage. Rates vary based on flight duration and location—please contact Kapalsantai’s admin for the latest pricing.   Rules & Safety: Drones may only be flown in designated safe zones without disrupting vessel operations. Follow crew instructions regarding flight times and no-fly areas (e.g., near sensitive sites or other vessels). Users are responsible for the safety and care of their personal drone.

Smoking policy onboard

Smoking is allowed only if your chosen boat permits it, generally on the outdoor deck. Some boats do not allow smoking at all—always check each boat’s policy before booking. If permitted, smoking must be confined to designated areas, away from cabins and stairwells to avoid disturbing other guests

Personal speaker & music policy

Personal Instruments Most Kapalsantai boats allow you to bring small musical instruments (e.g., guitar, ukulele).   Sound System & Karaoke Some boats offer a full sound system for onboard karaoke sessions.   Notification If you plan to bring speakers or instruments, inform your Kapalsantai agent during booking so the crew can allocate space and ensure it doesn’t disturb other guests.

Creating an account & email verification

Sign Up with Google Click the “Sign up with Google” button on Kapalsantai’s homepage. Select Your Account Choose or enter the Google account you want to use.   Automatic Verification Since you’re signing in with Google, your email is verified automatically—no further steps required.   Log In If you already have an account, click “Log in now” to access your dashboard. All sign-up and log-in actions on the Kapalsantai site are handled through Google.

How to sign in with Google

All sign-up and log-in actions on the Kapalsantai site are handled through Google   Click “Sign in with Google” on the Kapalsantai login page.   Select Your Google Account or enter your Google credentials.   Once authenticated, you’ll be redirected to your dashboard—no additional password required.

Changing password & phone number

Change password Currently, Kapalsantai account passwords cannot be changed via the dashboard, as all logins are managed through “Sign in with Google”.   Change phone number You can update your phone number in your Profile at any time without re-verification.

Deleting your account & personal data

The feature to delete your account and personal data is currently unavailable. We are working on it and will announce once it’s live.

Saving 'Favorite' boats for later

The “Save to Favorites” feature is currently under development and not yet available. We’ll announce as soon as this feature is ready for use.

Booking history & how to download invoice

Booking History Currently not available in your Kapalsantai dashboard or account. Confirmation & Invoice Every booking confirmation, including your invoice, is sent via WhatsApp and email. Downloading Your Invoice Open the confirmation email you received. Locate the PDF attachment or “Download Invoice” link. Click the link or save the attachment to download your invoice. Reissue Requests If you need a reissued invoice, contact Kapalsantai CS via WhatsApp, and we’ll resend it.