EVENT SELECTION / PRICING / MAKING A BOOKING
In 2011 we are offering a wide selection of event packages so that there is something for everyone right from $8.00 and up.
Shortly, we will have the information into a form that is easier to understand but for the moment it is likely easiest to simply call us and ask for advice. The short summary on this page will eventually be cross linked so that you can figure out your own plan in a step-by-step manner.
Temporarily, this page simply links to a second page that contains a huge load of information that you will likely find overpowering. Don't worry, just call, and you will find the Dunes as easy to deal with as ever! We will get the web material into a simpler form as soon as we can.
STEP 1: Decide whether you want to do paintball or laser.
Paintball's strength is that it creates an adrenalin rush, sharpens your senses, and provides a highly interactive and memorable adventure. The fact that it hurts and puts you on edge is the very reason it is popular. Groups go away with vivid memories and stories that get retold multi times and are remembered for years.
Laser is a copy of paintball except that it doesn't hurt. The thrill comes from getting into the games and the desire to win the games. It is very similar to a video game except that there is human interaction and a true team spirit. Outdoor laser is badly underrated. It is great for mixed groups, and gals who usually are timid in a paintball setting, will be tigers at laser. The relaxed atmosphere, lack of masks, lack of paintball goop, and lack of bruises when the day is done are great pluses. Especially with the unique Merrill Dunes game system, laser is going to increasingly rival paintball as an outdoor action game.
STEP 2: Decide when you want to play and whether you want to play at Field #1 or Field #2.
Go to our calendar page and look at the calendars and see what times are available. Call for advice if you are unsure of yourself.
STEP 3: Decide what type of event package you want.
1. Private Booking - your group and no one else. This is what you want if you have enough players! And we do mean "Private". Your group and no one else! Not several individual groups moved around to a string of mini-fields and using a communal Safe Zone with other groups! "Dunes Private" means you have the whole field and Safe Zone to yourself. You see no players other than your own invited friends or team mates.
2. Multi-Group Booking - you go in with others to form a group. This is potentially cheaper and easier to organize. This is what you normally get at other fields, although we keep the total number of players on the field at a much lower level than you may see elsewhere. And this is good!
3. Private / Multi-Group Hybrid - this is like a private group except that you allow a few extra players into the event to get player numbers up to a level that makes the booking practical. You get to determine the size of the group and you can request low size or low cost. If you are joining in with and existing group, you have even more flexibility on numbers.
4. Walk-On - simply come and play with whoever else is there. Easy to do for a few players. Reserve spots if you wish so you know you will find an opening on arrival! Especially in laser, this a clear Team option. You can stay for as little as 30 minutes, exact numbers aren't an issue and our Sunday evening Classic Laser event is a $ bargain. Keep in mind that at other fields, this is the regular type of event.
5. Spot Booking - this is a last minute private booking with a duration as low as 1 hr. We do request minimum numbers but the numbers are very realistic.
6. Non Conforming Event - this is a last minute private booking with a time down to 2 hrs and as few as 4 players. If nothing else fits, this event may well be the one to go for! Cost may be a bit higher but may still be lower than at other fields! And the perks are major!
7. Off Site Events - we rent paintball gear for off-site events and can do laser events off-site as well. Details and pricing need to be negotiated. It is likely cheaper to come to the regular field but sometimes the premium cost is worth it.
STEP 4: Making a booking for a private or multi-group event.
1. A $50 initial deposit is required within 48 hours of selecting a time slot. $15 of this is totally commited.
2. At 28 days before the event date you are free to make any changes at no cost apart from an outright cancellation which would cost $15.
3. At 21 days you are free to cancel or change any detail and there is only a $15 charge.
4. At 14 day you MUST have a major deposit in place that ranges from $25/player to $15/player. Your $50 initial deposit goes to help pay this major deposit.
5. At 7 days prior to the event date you can still salvage half of your 14 day deposit if you delay the event date or cancel. We do have other bail-out features that are covered elsewhere.
6. On the event date, so long as you come as you said you would and with the agreed on number of players, all deposit cost simply goes to pay for the event. Deposits cost you nothing so long as you are accurate in your instructions to us.
STEP 5: Give us a little time to get all of the above information linked to price lists and other important details, call us by phone for assistance, or jump to our second page that provides LOTS of detailed information!
Merrill Dunes
