Discover the allure of Derawan with family on a luxurious private yacht, exploring East Kalimantan’s marine wonders. Ideal from March to October, this voyage offers encounters with stingless jellyfish, manta rays, and turtles. Book your exclusive family adventure today.
Derawan Family Adventure
The Derawan Islands, located off the coast of East Kalimantan, present an exquisite family retreat. With 31 islands, including the famed Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Maratua, the region offers endless opportunities for marine exploration. A private yacht charter allows you to explore these islands in style, with itineraries customised to suit your family’s interests.
Optimal Travel Season
Plan your visit between March and October when the weather is most favourable. During this period, manta rays are best visible from April to September, while Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake remains a year-round attraction. For a chance to swim with the striking Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks, consider visiting between April and September.
Seamless Access & Transfers
Begin your journey by flying into Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a scenic 2-3 hour land transfer takes you to Tanjung Batu Port. A short speedboat ride of 30-45 minutes then delivers you to the captivating Derawan Islands.
Luxury Itineraries & Vessels
Select from our curated itineraries, such as the 4-night Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban trip, ideal for families seeking a compact yet enriching experience. Alternatively, the 7-night dive liveaboard offers an in-depth exploration for avid marine enthusiasts. Our fleet includes the Dive Resort Boat for day excursions and the Liveaboard vessel for overnight stays, ensuring comfort with spacious cabins and attentive crew.
Yacht Charter Options
- Dive Resort Boat: 12-20m, day-use cabins, accommodates up to 14 guests.
- Liveaboard: 25-35m, with 5-7 cabins, caters to 10-14 guests for overnight journeys.
- Private Yacht Charter: Fully crewed with chef and dive guides, priced per night for bespoke adventures.
Conservation & Local Levies
While there is no formal conservation fee, a small local levy may apply. Participation in local conservation efforts is encouraged, ensuring the continued protection of these pristine environments.
Engage in Unique Marine Experiences
Derawan offers a plethora of activities for families. Kakaban Lake with its unique stingless jellyfish, or snorkel alongside the gentle giants at Sangalaki Manta Point. Turtle sightings are almost guaranteed at Sangalaki, offering an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Islands | 31 total; Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, Maratua |
| Best Season | March–October |
| Local Tour Cost | ~500,000 IDR per person for 3 islands |
2027 Note
Looking ahead to 2026/2027, the Derawan Islands continue to promise a luxurious escape for families. With evolving itineraries and enhanced vessel offerings, your family adventure will remain exceptional in comfort and experience.
Immersive Cultural Encounters
Derawan’s allure extends beyond its aquatic wonders, offering a rich of cultural experiences that are integral to a private crewed yacht charter. While traversing the crystalline waters, guests have the opportunity to engage with remote island communities, each with its own distinct heritage and traditions.
Visits to local villages can be arranged, where guests can participate in traditional ceremonies, witness artisanal crafts, and savour indigenous culinary delights. These interactions provide a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the islanders and foster a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural fabric.
- Traditional dance performances
- Handicraft workshops
- Local culinary tasting sessions
Culinary Delights Onboard
The culinary experience aboard a private yacht charter in Derawan is nothing short of exceptional. With a dedicated chef on board, guests can indulge in a bespoke menu tailored to their preferences, featuring a fusion of local and international cuisines.
Ingredients are sourced fresh from local markets, ensuring each dish is a a sign of the region’s lively flavours. Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the deck or a sumptuous dinner under the stars, each meal is crafted to enhance the overall charter experience.
| Meal | Description |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Fresh tropical fruits, local pastries, and made-to-order eggs |
| Lunch | Light salads, grilled seafood, and traditional Indonesian dishes |
| Dinner | Three-course meal featuring regional specialties and international favourites |
Bespoke Itinerary Design
One of the key benefits of a private crewed yacht charter in Derawan is the flexibility to design a bespoke itinerary that caters to individual interests and preferences. Whether focusing on diving, cultural exploration, or leisurely cruises, the possibilities are tailored to ensure a personalised experience.
Guests can collaborate with the crew to select preferred dive sites, arrange visits to specific islands, or include additional activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. This level of customisation allows for a truly unique adventure, accommodating spontaneous desires or planned excursions alike.
- Custom dive site selection
- Personalised shore excursions
- Flexible daily schedules
Family-Friendly Activities Aboard and Ashore
Derawan Private Trip offers an array of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone on board. With a dedicated crew, including experienced dive guides and a chef, families can enjoy a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure. Onboard activities can include educational sessions about marine biology, where children and adults alike can learn about the unique ecosystems surrounding Derawan.
For those keen on exploration, the yacht charter offers snorkelling excursions, allowing families to discover the lively coral reefs teeming with marine life. The calm waters of Derawan are ideal for paddleboarding, offering a gentle introduction to water sports for younger family members. Ashore, families can visit local villages to engage with the community and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Interactive marine biology sessions
- Snorkelling excursions
- Paddleboarding activities
- Local village visits
Safety and Sustainability on the Seas
Ensuring the safety and well-being of all guests is a paramount concern on Derawan Private Trip. All vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art safety equipment and adhere to international maritime safety standards. The crew is trained in first aid and emergency response, providing peace of mind to families as they explore the stunning waters of Derawan.
The commitment to sustainability is equally robust, with all charters operating under eco-friendly guidelines. Waste management protocols are strictly followed, and the use of single-use plastics is minimised. Guests are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts, such as beach clean-ups, during their trip, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment and promoting responsible tourism.
| Safety Features | Sustainability Practices |
|---|---|
| Emergency response training | Eco-friendly operations |
| State-of-the-art safety equipment | Waste management protocols |
| International maritime safety standards | Minimisation of single-use plastics |
Family-Centric Activities and Amenities
Travelling as a family can present unique challenges, but aboard a private crewed yacht, every detail is meticulously arranged to ensure an enjoyable experience for guests of all ages. The yachts provide a variety of family-centric activities that are both entertaining and educational, allowing families to bond over shared experiences in the stunning setting of Derawan.
- Guided Snorkelling Tours: Expert guides lead snorkelling excursions suitable for all skill levels, offering families an opportunity to explore lively coral reefs and encounter marine life in a safe environment.
- Onboard Workshops: Families can engage in workshops focusing on marine conservation and local culture, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s ecological and cultural significance.
- Water Sports and Equipment: From kayaking to paddleboarding, the yachts are equipped with a range of water sports gear, ensuring that active families can make the most of their time on the water.
In addition to activities, the yachts cater to families with child-friendly amenities, including safety equipment and menu options tailored to younger palates. With attentive crew members who are experienced in working with children, families can relax knowing that their needs are well taken care of.
Personalised Service and Crew Expertise
The private crewed yacht charters in Derawan are distinguished by their emphasis on personalised service, ensuring that each family’s trip is as unique as their interests and needs. The dedicated crew members, including a chef and dive guides, provide an exceptional level of service, tailoring the experience to the preferences of the guests.
Chef-Prepared Meals: The onboard chef crafts bespoke meals using fresh, local ingredients, accommodating dietary preferences and creating dishes that delight both adults and children.
Expert Dive and Snorkel Guides: The presence of proficient dive guides on each charter ensures that families experience the best of Derawan’s underwater splendours. The guides offer customised dive plans, allowing enthusiasts to explore renowned sites such as Maratua Atoll and Sangalaki Manta Point.
Moreover, the crew’s familiarity with the Derawan archipelago means they can offer insider tips and guidance, enhancing the overall experience. Whether it is suggesting the best time to visit Kakaban’s famous jellyfish lake or arranging a unique cultural encounter on Nabucco, the crew’s expertise guarantees a memorable family adventure.
Ready to explore Derawan’s wonders with your family? Plan your charter on WhatsApp and let us craft the perfect maritime journey.