Indo Advice / Possible Other Options

I spoke with Stefan this morning who went on a trip last year on the Mahalo 2 (click to see his trip photos) in East Timor and he gave me some advice on our trip. Stefan unfortunately will not be able to come along because he has moved from california to puerto rico and is spending his $$ on building his dream home in Rincon.

Stefan suggests: We book a charter on a catamaran, not a single hull vessel. He said the cats take open ocean swell better, tend to be faster, draw less draft and can get closer to the breaks, and are more comfortable to be on at anchor because they don't "pitch & roll" at anchor.

He also said to take Energy Gels with you and to put one or two in your trunks while you are surfing, they keep you hydrated and give your body needed nutrients to sustain you for those marathon sessions. The gels come in little packets that are obviously water proof so if you get goo on your leg its probably from the deep barrels.

He also mentioned that having a small boat or several small boats (not a rubber dingy), attached to your charter vessel is vital because of the ease of accessing a multitude of spots without having to move the main vessel.

Possible Other Options:

After speaking with Bill and Tom yesterday it was obvious that they have an interest in satellite phone/Internet access since they are big time execs and need to keep their fingers on the pulse of the business. That being said, they are looking into a portable satellite Internet solution to bring on the boat or we have the option of a land based resort. There are 3 land based resorts in the mentawais that have broadband.

The two good ones are: Kandui Resort and Katiet Villas

The other benefits to the land based resort option: We get there quicker, It's Cheaper, and We get to surf 2 extra hours per day compared to Boats which leave 1 hour before sunset to proceed to their mooring spots to anchor.

Your thoughts on this are appreciated.. please leave your comments on the site so everyone can read them and take them into consideration.