Derawan diving offers a world of underwater wonders with over 40 dive sites, crystal-clear waters, and unique marine life. Charter a private yacht to explore at your own pace and experience luxury at sea.
Derawan Diving: Starting point to Underwater Splendour
For those seeking an aquatic adventure without equal, the Derawan Archipelago serves as a true aquatic sanctuary. Accessible via flights to Kalimarau Airport in Berau, East Kalimantan, and a seamless sea transfer to Waisai, it offers an unspoilt diving experience. Many charters commence from Berau, providing an excellent starting point for your underwater journey.
Signature Sites of Derawan
Kakaban Jellyfish Lake
Among the archipelago’s most intriguing offerings is Kakaban Jellyfish Lake, where you can swim amidst stingless jellyfish year-round. This unique natural wonder provides a rare opportunity to interact with these gentle creatures.
Maratua Atoll
Maratua Atoll’s “Channel” offers an exhilarating drift dive experience. Known for its strong currents, this site teems with barracuda schools, rays, and grey reef sharks, promising an unforgettable underwater encounter.
Sangalaki Manta Point
Sangalaki Manta Point is renowned for its manta ray sightings, particularly from April to September. It’s also a prime location for observing Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks during the same period, offering divers a dynamic and thrilling experience.
Derawan Turtles
Derawan is famous for its resident turtles, where encounters are frequent. The site also hosts a rich variety of macro life, including seahorses and flamboyant cuttlefish, making it a diver’s delight.
Nabucco
Nabucco is not just a resort area but a starting point to excellent diving. The Nabucco Island Resort offers prime access to some of the region’s best dive sites, ensuring a luxurious base for your adventures.
Optimal Diving Conditions
The best diving conditions in Derawan are found between March and October, when visibility is optimal. The dry season, particularly from April to September, is ideal for manta and whale shark sightings. Be mindful that November to March marks the rainy season, which may impact visibility.
Vessels and Itineraries
Exploring Derawan’s underwater marvels is best done aboard a private charter. Options range from dive resort boats to luxurious liveaboards, ensuring a tailor-made experience. Here are some details:
- Dive Resort Boat: 12–20m, accommodates up to 14 guests, perfect for day trips.
- Liveaboard: 25–35m, offering 5–7 cabins for 10–14 guests, ideal for extended stays.
Itineraries include 4-night/4-day trips covering Derawan, Maratua, and Kakaban, as well as 7-night/7-day full liveaboard dive cruises, providing up to 39 dives on 12-day trips. Whole-yacht private charters are priced per night and include crew, a chef, and dive guides.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Dive Sites | >40 sites |
| Visibility | ~20m (avg) |
| Depth Range | 15m to 35m |
| Water Temp | 28°C – 30°C |
| Currents | Strong in Maratua pass & Kakaban |
2027 Note
As of 2027, regulations and fees may have evolved. While the current conservation fee is indicated as ~IDR 0 / ~USD 0, it is advisable to verify the latest local levy as these often change. Ensure your trip is compliant with all local guidelines for a hassle-free experience.
Plan Your Exclusive Adventure
The Derawan Archipelago promises an exceptional diving experience, blending luxury with adventure. If you choose a 4-night quick dive or a comprehensive 7-night liveaboard, the region’s underwater offerings are exceptional. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, consider a private charter to fully customise your diving holiday.
Exclusive Culinary Experience on Board
Indulging in a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan isn’t just about exploring underwater wonders; it’s also an opportunity to enjoy a bespoke culinary journey. Onboard, each meal is a celebration of both local and international flavours, crafted with care by your personal chef.
The culinary team is dedicated to accommodating all dietary preferences, offering a curated menu that transforms fresh, locally-sourced ingredients into exquisite dishes. From breakfast to dinner, each meal is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your specific tastes and dietary requirements.
- Breakfast: Continental or traditional Indonesian options
- Lunch: Light salads, freshly caught seafood, or sandwiches
- Dinner: A three-course meal with an emphasis on fresh produce
Wildlife Encounters: Beyond the Reef
While the lively reefs of Derawan are undoubtedly the main attraction, the wildlife encounters extend beyond the underwater spectacle. The archipelago is home to a variety of species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
On land, the islands of Derawan offer a chance to witness a diverse ecosystem, including the elusive Kakaban jellyfish lake, or Bird of Paradise, and various species of tropical birds. Moreover, the beaches serve as nesting grounds for turtles, providing guests with the unique opportunity to observe these striking creatures in their natural habitat.
| Species | Best Viewing Time |
|---|---|
| Manta Rays | April to September |
| Whale Sharks | April to September |
| Birds of Paradise | Year-round |
Customised Itineraries for a Personalised Voyage
A private crewed yacht charter across Derawan allows for the ultimate in flexibility and personalisation. Each itinerary can be customised to suit your interests, if you prefer a relaxed exploration of secluded beaches or an action-packed diving adventure.
For those keen on diving, itineraries can focus on the renowned sites like Maratua Atoll and Sangalaki Manta Point. Alternatively, if relaxation and leisure are your priorities, spend more time enjoying the serene surroundings of Kakaban’s jellyfish lake or basking on the sun-drenched decks of your yacht.
With the ability to tailor your schedule, you can ensure that every moment of your journey aligns perfectly with your desires, creating a unique and memorable experience.
The Cultural Richness of the Derawan Archipelago
Aside from its renowned diving sites, the Derawan Archipelago offers a fascinating cultural for those who wish to explore beyond the aquatic realm. This region is home to the Bajau Laut, often referred to as ‘Sea Gypsies’. These indigenous people have lived a nomadic maritime lifestyle for generations, and their intricate relationship with the ocean is both captivating and educational for visitors.
During your private yacht charter, an optional excursion can be arranged to visit a Bajau village. Here, you can gain insight into their traditional fishing techniques and boat-making skills, which have been passed down through centuries. Engaging with the Bajau people provides a unique cultural dimension to your journey, offering a deeper, more enriching experience.
- Visit a Bajau Laut village
- Learn traditional fishing techniques
- Experience the craft of boat-making
Luxury and Comfort Aboard: A Home at Sea
Each vessel in the Derawan Private Trip fleet is designed to offer the utmost in comfort and luxury, ensuring a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. If you choose the intimacy of the Dive Resort Boat or the expansive space of the Liveaboard, both options provide all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
The Dive Resort Boat features day-use cabins with private amenities, catering to groups of up to 14 guests. Meanwhile, the Liveaboard offers a more extensive range, accommodating up to 14 guests across 5-7 luxurious cabins. Both vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art diving facilities and gear, allowing you to the underwater wonders with ease and safety.
| Vessel | Capacity | Cabins |
|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | Up to 14 guests | Day-use cabins |
| Liveaboard | 10-14 guests | 5-7 cabins |
To experience Derawan’s treasures, plan your charter on WhatsApp today. Discover a bespoke diving journey tailored to your desires.