What Medical Assistance is there?

We cruise to remote areas: however, we are prepared to handle most accident or medical emergencies. Mermaid’s management team is available 24 hours a day via our satellite communications to expedite tried and tested emergency evacuation plans to the nearest recompression chamber and/or hospital in Bali or Makassar or the nearest available chamber. Our dive crews are first aid trained and we have an extensive first aid kit on board plus loads of emergency oxygen. Please bring any of your own medications that you may need. You can help as well by making sure you are in good condition for diving – prevention is always better than cure. Please remember to dive safely and to make sure your Dan Diver’s Alert Network or other dive insurance is up to date.
Guests over the age of 75 are required to provide medical clearance to dive, assessed within 1 month prior to the set cancellation terms if any refund will be required.

• Malaria: Raja Ampat area
  There is malaria in the region for the Raja Ampat cruise – this area is around the equator and we recommend you discuss this with your doctor. Certainly when we walk in the jungle early mornings you will need to cover up well and also use mosquito repellant. We have a supply on board but suggest you bring your preferred brands. And from the Raja Ampat Tourism Association: Papua is a malaria area and you are advised to take precautions and follow the advice from your local health centre. Note that the medication Lariam has limited effectiveness in this area due to a resistant strain of Malaria and is not recommended. Alternatives could be Malarone or doxicycline.

• Malaria – Komodo area
  Generally speaking basic precautions such as covering at dawn/dusk and using mosquito repellant for land tours is satisfactory. If you are in doubt whatsoever, please liaise with your doctor.