Following the successful application for the 80m Amevi to enter Indonesia, superyachts wanting to visit the country can now apply for a single-entry electronic Visa (e-Visa), available for 60 days and extendable up to 180 days. The visa must be obtained prior to coming to Indonesia using an online system and the process must be carried out by a guarantor or agent.

Asia Pacific Superyachts (APS) Indonesia recently obtained approval from the regency of Belitung, situated east of Sumatra, for Amevi and crew to visit. Visas were granted to crew via various embassies around the world including the USA, England, Spain, Greece, Thailand and Australia.

In addition, APS – which has previously handled many superyachts in Indonesia including the 120m Octopus and 146m Ocean Victory – suggested Covid-19 protocols, which were approved by the regency and are now being used as an example for all other yachts and agents to follow.

Once the process was completed, the Indonesia government released a letter that stated: “Now, all ports in Indonesia are open for yachts, provided they follow the protocol as per those set out by Amevi and Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia.”

Thomas Taatjes of APS Indonesia said: “The process now makes it easy for crew to leave and return to the yacht and for all to fly in or out. All our clients need is the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test showing ‘negative’ and there is no quarantine. Now, there is no need to go to the Embassy and lose valuable time, and APS can do it for you.”

A local newspaper reported that Amevi docked around the waters of Lengkuas Island and Sijuk District on the northeast of Belitung Island after obtaining permission from the authorities.

“The crew enjoyed the beautiful offshore islets, Belitung’s beaches and the friendly local people,” said Taatjes, noting local government and people were happy to have Amevi in Belitung during a difficult time for tourism.

Some crew have since taken leave in Indonesia and overseas. PCR tests were completed for sign-off crew in Jakarta in six hours to meet their outbound flights, airline and country-of-destination requirements.

“The crew noted the ‘crew change’ was even smoother than pre-Covid days,” Taatjes said. “To fly out, there is no need to show anything. You just need to check with the airlines and the destination to as to what the requirements are. Usually they need a PCR with validity of 72 hours or less. In Jakarta, we can do PCR test results in six hours.”

Captain Jimmy Blee, founder of APS Indonesia, said: “APS will be sending regular updates to all our friends and clients as conditions change in Indonesia. These uncertain days require strength and hope and a profound humanity for others. We are delighted to share this good news to all.”

APS Indonesia can provide details and pro formas, and stated that the e-Visa application requires the following documents:

•  A statement letter in English stating that you are willing to enter quarantine and/or treatment at your own expense (should it be required), carry out health monitoring and that you have health insurance
•  Proof of availability of funds of at least US$10,000 for your cost of living while in Indonesia
•  A health certificate from a recognised laboratory stating you are free of Covid-19                

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For details, email: thomas@asia-pacific-superyachts.com