The Indonesian government requires private yachts to obtain several cruising permits and to pass international clearance standards when entering and sailing around Indonesia, including the Bird’s Head Seascape. Because Indonesian legal procedures are often complicated, it is recommended that private yachts seeking cruising permits contact an experienced yacht consultant for logistical support and advice.
Bali-based, The Lighthouse Consultancy is a full service authority.
An alternative shore support agency is Asia pacific Superyachts
Foreign vessels entering Indonesia need to arrange these two permits and processes at the minimum:
The Vessel Declaration (VD)
This is initially a year long permit allowing single entry to vessels entering Indonesian waters and granting the crew and guests, who are expressly listed on the application, approval to enter Indonesia.
Temporary Importation
Each vessel will need to be temporarily imported into Indonesia, which takes place during inspections in the initial international clearance process. The vessel will then be inspected again upon international departure out. This can be done at many ports in Indonesia, including Bali and Sorong.Once foreign vessels are granted admission into Indonesian waters, they will have to abide by the rules of each Regency they visit.
The BHS is comprised of three Regencies: Raja Ampat, Manokwari (location of Cenderawasih Bay and Biak Island) and Kaimana (location of Triton Bay). Each Regency has their own entry/cruising guidelines and entry procedures. Check with a yacht consultant/agency for current details.
Cenderawasih Bay
Boats seeking to cruise Cenderawasih Bay, must obtain a SIMAKSI letter, which gives the vessel permission to visit the National Park. Once granted this letter, a ranger will be assigned to the vessel and will accompany and facilitate the entire trip.
The SIMAKSI application letter to be handed in at the National Park Authority office in Manokwari, requires:
- Identification of all passengers and crew
- Purpose of visit
- Length of stay
- List of all equipment that will be used
Address: Jl. Essau Sesa, Sowi Gunung, Manokwari, P.O Box 229, Tel/Fax: (0986) 214719.
There is a complicated and ever-changing list of charges for equipment and guests entering the National Park, but it is much wiser to let the yacht consultancy obtain the necessary permissions than for the uninitiated to try to navigate the convoluted entry system
Summary of Procedure for Liveaboards Visiting Cendrawasih Whale Sharks:
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