- Explore Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki islands.
- All-inclusive packages start at USD 1,500.
- Best diving months: April to November.
The Derawan Liveaboard promise is simple: dive into the aquatic wonders of the Derawan archipelago with unmatched comfort and expertise. This is where marine life spectacles meet luxury at sea.
Discover the Derawan Archipelago
Located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, the Derawan archipelago comprises a collection of islands that are a diver’s dream. Spanning over 1,200 square kilometers, the area is renowned for its vibrant marine biodiversity. Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki form the core of this underwater sanctuary, each offering unique dive sites. Maratua Island is known for its large sea turtles, while Kakaban is famous for its jellyfish lake, a rare natural wonder where visitors can swim with stingless jellyfish. Sangalaki is a manta ray haven, where these majestic creatures glide gracefully through the water.
The Derawan Liveaboard Experience
Our liveaboard cruises provide an intimate way to explore this remote archipelago. With a maximum of 16 guests, our trips ensure personalized attention and a sense of camaraderie. Our vessels are equipped with air-conditioned cabins, en-suite bathrooms, and spacious decks for relaxation. Prices for our all-inclusive packages begin at USD 1,500, featuring full-board accommodation, diving equipment rental, and expert guides. This ensures that every aspect of your journey is taken care of, allowing you to focus entirely on the striking marine life that awaits.
World-Class Dive Sites
The Derawan archipelago is a diver’s sanctuary offering more than 50 dive sites. Each site presents a unique underwater landscape, from the steep walls of Maratua to the coral gardens of Sangalaki. The Blue Trigger Wall at Maratua is home to triggerfish and other pelagic species. Meanwhile, Kakaban offers the chance to dive in a prehistoric lake filled with jellyfish, a phenomenon only found in a few places worldwide. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, the region is considered one of the richest marine biodiversity hotspots on Earth.
Expert-Led Dive Programs
Our dive programs are meticulously crafted to suit divers of all levels. Our PADI-certified instructors guide you through each dive, ensuring safety and maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, our team tailors each outing to your skill level. Safety is paramount, with all our equipment adhering to international standards and regularly maintained. The dive season from April to November offers the best visibility, often exceeding 30 meters, and a higher likelihood of encountering large marine species.
A Closer Look at Maratua Atoll
Maratua Atoll, an elliptical-shaped island, is a key highlight of the Derawan Liveaboard itinerary. The island is surrounded by a lagoon and a reef that stretches for over 60 kilometers. Maratua is famous for its dive sites such as Turtle Traffic, where green sea turtles are a common sight. Divers often encounter schooling barracudas, jackfish, and even the occasional reef shark. The channel dive at Big Fish Country is another favorite, offering opportunities to see grey reef sharks and bumphead parrotfish. For those interested in night diving, Maratua provides an entirely different experience, with nocturnal creatures like slipper lobsters and Spanish dancers making their appearance.
Diving the Unique Jellyfish Lake of Kakaban
Kakaban Island hosts an extraordinary feature—its jellyfish lake. This landlocked marine lake is one of only a handful in the world where you can swim with non-stinging jellyfish. The lake is home to four unique species of jellyfish, including the Moon Jellyfish and Spotted Jellyfish. The island also offers spectacular wall dives. Barracuda Point is another must-visit site, where strong currents attract large schools of fish, making it a thrilling dive for experienced divers. The underwater topography here includes steep walls and overhangs, home to a variety of corals and critters.
Sangalaki: A Manta Ray Sanctuary
Sangalaki is synonymous with manta rays. The cleaning stations around the island are frequented by these gentle giants, offering divers an incredible opportunity to observe them up close. The dive sites around Sangalaki are also rich in macro life; pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and frogfish are common sightings. One can also explore the vibrant coral gardens, which are teeming with life, from colorful reef fish to larger pelagics. Sangalaki’s waters are also known for the occasional sighting of whale sharks, making it an exciting destination for marine enthusiasts.
Comparing Dive Boats: Choosing Your Ideal Experience
When selecting a Derawan Liveaboard, you have options ranging from more luxurious vessels to budget-friendly choices. High-end boats like the MV Raja Ampat Aggressor feature amenities such as a hot tub, large sundecks, and spacious dining areas, catering to those seeking comfort and luxury. These vessels typically offer 3-4 dives per day, along with fine dining experiences. Alternatively, budget-conscious travelers might opt for simpler boats like the MV Nusa Tara, which offer basic amenities but still maintain high safety and service standards. These boats often host fewer guests, allowing for a more intimate experience. Whichever option you choose, each promises access to the same world-class dive sites and professional guidance.
Seasonal Highlights
The best time to visit the Derawan archipelago is between April and November. During these months, the weather is dry, and sea conditions are calm. This period also coincides with the peak activity of marine life, including the migration of manta rays and the nesting season of green turtles on Derawan Island. The temperature ranges between 27°C and 30°C, making it ideal for diving and other water activities. The Indonesian government has recognized the ecological importance of this area, and efforts are ongoing to preserve its unique marine environment.
Planning Your Visit
Reaching the Derawan archipelago involves flying to Balikpapan and then taking a domestic flight to Berau, followed by a speedboat transfer to the islands. It’s a journey that underscores the remote allure of the destination. Given its growing popularity, it’s advisable to book your Derawan Liveaboard experience well in advance. Our booking portal makes it easy to secure your spot on a cruise, with a detailed itinerary and comprehensive information on what to expect during your journey. You can find more details about planning your liveaboard trip on our dedicated page.
Ready to begin a journey through the Derawan archipelago? Dive into the aquatic wonders with Derawan Liveaboard, where every adventure promises comfort, safety, and awe-inspiring marine life. Visit our homepage to start planning your singular dive experience today.
For additional information about the Derawan Islands, you may visit the official tourism website of Indonesia or check out the Wikipedia page on Derawan Islands.