Frequently asked questions

A phinisi is a traditional Indonesian wooden sailing vessel, originally built by Bugis and Makassar shipwrights in South Sulawesi. The design dates back centuries as a cargo and trading vessel, with two masts and a distinctive high, curved bow. Today, most phinisis in active service have been built or converted specifically as liveaboards, combining the traditional hull form with modern cabins, engines and dive or snorkeling facilities.

Both, depending on the vessel. Some phinisis in operation today were built decades ago using traditional methods and later refitted for passengers. Others are newer builds that follow the same hull shape and rigging style while being constructed specifically for liveaboard use, with steel-reinforced hulls, generators and en suite cabins. Each listing on PhinisiGO states what is known about a vessel's build year and specifications.

Days typically follow the diving, snorkeling or exploring at hand, with the vessel moving between sites overnight or between activities. Cabins, common areas and meals are included in the trip, and crew handle navigation, cooking and equipment. Trip length, itinerary and onboard style vary significantly by operator and region, so the specific vessel and destination pages are the best source for what to expect on a given trip.

No. Anyone can browse liveaboards and destinations without creating an account. Sending an enquiry only requires your name, email, phone number, country and trip details.

No. An enquiry is a request for availability and pricing. PhinisiGO confirms details directly with the operator, then invites you to complete payment. Your booking is confirmed once payment is received, and the operator takes over the trip itself once you are on board.

Yes. Destination is the one required field, since it is what lets the search show real, relevant departures. Travel month, trip type and guest count are all optional and can be left blank.

Most liveaboard diving in Indonesia is open to divers holding an Open Water certification or higher. Some regions and specific sites, particularly those with stronger currents, commonly call for Advanced Open Water or a comparable level of logged experience. Requirements vary by vessel and itinerary, so it is worth confirming with the operator once a booking is being discussed. Our diving and snorkeling guide covers this in more detail.

Most liveaboards run two to four dives a day, with an optional night dive included on many itineraries. The exact schedule depends on the vessel, the sites being visited, and conditions on the day.

Yes. Many liveaboards welcome non-diving guests, who can usually snorkel, join topside activities, or simply enjoy the scenery while the rest of the group dives. Availability and pricing for non-divers vary by vessel, so this is worth raising directly in an enquiry.

Yes. Dive insurance covering water-based activities, and travel insurance covering medical evacuation, are strongly recommended for any liveaboard trip, given how remote some Indonesian dive regions are. Specialist providers such as DAN are widely used by divers for this reason.

Given how much time is spent on the water, especially during longer overnight crossings, it is common for even experienced travellers to feel some motion sickness. Bringing your own remedy and mentioning any concerns to the crew in advance is a sensible precaution.

Operators are responsible for onboard safety and emergency response. Given the remoteness of many dive regions, appropriate travel and dive insurance that covers medical evacuation is essential. Specific safety equipment and procedures vary by vessel, and are worth confirming directly with the operator.

Personal dive gear if you prefer your own mask or computer, reef-safe sun protection, light quick-dry clothing plus a warmer layer for overnight crossings, any personal medications, and cash for tips, marine park fees and onboard extras, since remote regions may not have ATM access.

Most nationalities can enter Indonesia on a Visa on Arrival or its online equivalent, typically valid for 30 days. Visa requirements and entry procedures change and vary by nationality, so always check current requirements through Indonesia's official immigration channels before travelling.

Search by destination, travel month, trip type and guest count to see real vessels matching your plans side by side, then send an enquiry to any that interest you. Comparing several options before enquiring is exactly what the platform is built for.

A shared departure books one or more cabins on a fixed date alongside other travellers. A private charter reserves the entire vessel for your group. Our shared departure versus private charter guide covers how to decide between them.

Popular routes and dates, particularly in peak season, can fill months ahead, so enquiring early gives you the widest choice of vessels and cabins. Last-minute availability does come up, but it is not something to plan around.

Itineraries are planned around typical conditions for the season and region, but captains may adjust the route or specific sites visited based on weather and sea conditions. This is a normal part of liveaboard travel, and operators generally aim to offer comparable alternatives when a planned site is not accessible.

Once PhinisiGO confirms availability with the operator, the deposit becomes non-refundable. The remaining balance is refundable if you cancel at least 30 days before departure. If PhinisiGO or the operator cancels a confirmed booking, for weather or any other reason, you receive a full refund. Travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is still worth considering for changes on your side.

Prices vary considerably by vessel class, trip length, destination and season. Compare listings directly on PhinisiGO to see current pricing for the dates and destinations you have in mind.

Most quoted prices cover the cabin, meals, and scheduled activities such as diving or snorkeling with guide and basic equipment. What is and is not included varies by operator, so it is always worth confirming. Our guide to what is usually included covers this in more detail.

Common extras not always included in the base price are marine park fees, rental dive equipment, nitrox, alcohol, and crew tips. These vary by operator and destination, so they are worth asking about alongside the quoted price.

PhinisiGO collects your payment directly. Deposit amount and balance due date are confirmed as part of your booking, and your booking is only confirmed once payment is received.

Prices on PhinisiGO are shown in Indonesian Rupiah. PhinisiGO confirms the final payment currency and accepted payment methods as part of your booking.