Discover the allure of Derawan liveaboard boats, offering luxury and adventure on Phinisi-style vessels operated by Komodo Luxury. Our meticulously curated itineraries provide an exceptional diving experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments.
Vessel Types & Deck Plans
Choose from our expertly designed vessels, each offering unique features and comforts. Our fleet includes the striking Phinisi-style liveaboard and the versatile Dive Resort Boat, each providing an exceptional platform for exploration.
Liveaboard Phinisi
The Phinisi, like the Queenesia II, spans 32 meters with seven elegantly appointed cabins, accommodating up to 16 guests. Each cabin is ensuite with climate control, ensuring a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.
Dive Resort Boat
Our Dive Resort Boat, exemplified by the Raja Manta, is a 50-meter vessel accommodating up to 14 guests. While primarily for day use, it provides ample space and comfort for your diving excursions.
What a Charter Gets You
- Full-board meals and beverages
- Up to four dives per day
- Dive guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4
- Transfers in Berau
- Complimentary toiletries and towels
Charters include experienced crew, a dedicated chef, and expert dive guides, ensuring an exceptional experience.
Pricing
Our pricing is transparent, offering excellent value for a bespoke experience. A 7-night itinerary starts at $2,800 per guest, with longer itineraries available for a comprehensive exploration of Derawan’s marine wonders.
Best Season & Marine Highlights
March to October is prime time for visibility, with manta rays and whale sharks best spotted between April and September. The Kakaban Jellyfish Lake remains a year-round marvel.
Who It’s For
Our charters cater to discerning divers and marine enthusiasts seeking a refined, immersive experience. If you a seasoned diver or a nature lover, Derawan’s underwater treasures await.
Detailed Itinerary
| Itinerary | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban | 4 nights | Manta rays, jellyfish lake |
| Comprehensive Marine Exploration | 7 nights | Whale sharks, turtles, atolls |
Plan Your Adventure
Onboard Experience and Amenities
The Derawan Liveaboard experience offers a harmonious blend of comfort and adventure, designed to cater to the discerning traveller. Each vessel is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay even as you journey through some of the most remote and pristine marine environments. The cabins, whether on a dive resort boat or a larger liveaboard, are spacious and well-appointed, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.
Guests can enjoy a variety of onboard amenities including:
- Well-equipped diving facilities with gear rental available
- A communal dining area serving freshly prepared meals by an onboard chef
- Comfortable sun decks for relaxation and wildlife viewing
- Air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms
- Entertainment options such as a library and media centre
The liveaboard’s professional crew, including experienced dive guides, ensures that every aspect of your journey is seamless, from dining to diving. The crew’s local knowledge enriches your experience, providing insights into the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Derawan Archipelago.
Conservation and Sustainability Efforts
As an operator committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Derawan Archipelago, our liveaboard charters actively participate in conservation and sustainability efforts. Guests are encouraged to engage with these initiatives to help protect the unique ecosystems and marine life encountered during their voyage.
Our sustainability measures include:
- Adhering to strict waste management protocols to minimise environmental impact
- Supporting local conservation projects, such as turtle hatcheries and coral reef restoration
- Educating guests about responsible diving practices to protect sensitive marine habitats
- Utilising eco-friendly products and reducing single-use plastics onboard
In collaboration with local communities, we strive to support sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and the people who call this region home. By choosing a liveaboard charter with us, you contribute to the ongoing efforts to safeguard Derawan’s natural wonders for future generations.
Cultural Experiences and Local Engagement
Beyond its stunning marine landscapes, the Derawan Archipelago offers rich cultural experiences that enhance your journey. Our itineraries include opportunities to engage with local communities, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and traditions.
Highlights of cultural engagement include:
- Visits to traditional villages to learn about local crafts and daily life
- Interactions with indigenous communities, offering insights into their customs and beliefs
- Culinary experiences featuring local cuisine and cooking demonstrations
- Cultural performances showcasing traditional music and dance
These experiences are designed to foster meaningful connections with the communities of the Derawan Archipelago, enriching your liveaboard adventure with authentic cultural insights. This engagement not only enhances your travel experience but also supports local economies and preserves cultural heritage.
Unique Wildlife and Ecosystems
The Derawan Islands are renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity, offering guests the opportunity to experience unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The region is a haven for marine life enthusiasts, with opportunities to encounter species that are rarely seen elsewhere.
Kakaban Island is famous for its jellyfish lake, where you can swim with non-stinging jellyfish in an unusual brackish water environment. This lake is a result of ancient geological activity, creating an isolated habitat that evolved independently.
- Kakaban Jellyfish Lake: Home to four different species of stingless jellyfish.
- Maratua Atoll: Known for its lively coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Sangalaki Island: A top spot for observing manta rays in their natural habitat.
- Derawan Island: Famous for its turtle population, with frequent sightings of both green and hawksbill turtles.
Culinary Delights on Board
Guests on a Derawan liveaboard can look forward to an exquisite dining experience that highlights both local and international cuisine. The onboard chef prepares meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Dining on board often includes a selection of freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Indonesian dishes. Each meal is crafted to cater to a variety of palates, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests.
- Breakfast: A mix of continental and Indonesian options, including freshly baked bread and exotic fruits.
- Lunch: Features local specialities such as nasi goreng and gado-gado.
- Dinner: A three-course meal with options for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian dishes.
Photography Opportunities and Workshops
The Derawan Islands offer a spectacular backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The liveaboard charters provide ample opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse marine life, with guidance and workshops available for those looking to enhance their skills.
Professional photographers and guides are often on board, offering workshops on underwater photography, landscape photography, and wildlife photography. These sessions aim to help guests capture the lively colours and dynamic scenes of the islands.
| Photography Focus | Workshop Highlights |
|---|---|
| Underwater Photography | Techniques for capturing marine life and coral reefs. |
| Landscape Photography | Compositional tips and use of natural lighting. |
| Wildlife Photography | Approaches to photographing birds and other terrestrial wildlife. |
Expert Dive Guides and Personalised Itineraries
One of the key advantages of set out on a private crewed liveaboard charter across Derawan is the personalised service offered by the expert dive guides. These professionals possess an in-depth knowledge of the local marine environment, ensuring that each diving experience is both safe and tailored to the interests of the guests. With a focus on delivering unique underwater adventures, the guides are adept at identifying the best dive sites based on current conditions and guest preferences.
The flexibility of a private charter allows guests to customise their itineraries. If you wish to explore the lively coral reefs of Maratua Atoll or encounter the striking whale sharks in Kakaban jellyfish lake, our team will craft a bespoke schedule that aligns with your desires. This personalised approach ensures that each guest enjoys a truly memorable experience, unencumbered by the constraints of a fixed itinerary.
The combination of expert guidance and personalised itineraries guarantees an exceptional level of service, allowing guests to maximise their time in the remarkable waters of Derawan. This tailored approach is ideal for both seasoned divers seeking new challenges and novice divers looking for a more relaxed pace.
Culinary Experiences and Onboard Dining
The culinary offerings on a Derawan liveaboard charter are thoughtfully curated to enhance the overall experience. With a dedicated onboard chef, guests can indulge in a range of delectable meals prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a fusion of Indonesian and international cuisine, catering to a variety of palates and dietary preferences.
Dining aboard is a communal affair, with meals served in a spacious dining area that offers stunning views of the surrounding seascape. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a sumptuous lunch, or a candlelit dinner under the stars. Guests are encouraged to discuss their preferences with the chef to ensure that meals are tailored to their tastes.
- Continental breakfast with tropical fruits and freshly baked pastries
- Lunch featuring local seafood and Indonesian specialities
- Dinner with a selection of grilled meats and vegetarian options
- Complimentary beverages including coffee, tea, and soft drinks
The emphasis on quality and freshness in the onboard dining experience enhances the sense of luxury and relaxation, making every meal an occasion to savour.
Ready to explore the aquatic marvels of Derawan? Plan your charter on WhatsApp and set out on a journey like no other.