The Derawan itinerary offers an exclusive glance into Indonesia’s Coral Triangle with luxurious 4, 7, and 10-night liveaboard charters. Experience the natural beauty of Kakaban’s jellyfish lake, Maratua Atoll, and Sangalaki Manta Point, all while enjoying the comforts provided by Komodo Luxury.
Derawan Itinerary Overview
Our Derawan itineraries are designed to showcase the best of the region’s marine biodiversity and stunning landscapes. From March to October, guests can explore prime diving locations with optimal visibility for encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, and more.
Sample Itineraries
| Duration | Route | Key Stops & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Nights / 4 Days | Derawan → Maratua → Kakaban | • Day 1: Embark in Derawan (4 dives) • Day 2–3: Maratua Atoll (8 dives; “The Channel”, big fish, turtles) • Day 4: Kakaban (4 dives + jellyfish lake excursion) |
| 7 Nights / 7 Days | Sangalaki → Maratua → Kakaban → Sambit | • Day 1: Embark in Tarakan, sail to Derawan (no dive) • Day 2: Sangalaki (manta rays, turtles, baby turtle watching) • Day 3–4: Maratua (barracudas, jacks, possible hammerheads) • Day 5: Kakaban (wall dives + jellyfish lake) • Day 6: Sambit Island (corals, turtles, sharks, whale sharks) • Day 7: Whale sharks at local bagans, return to Tarakan |
| 10 Nights / 10 Days | Extended Coral Triangle (Derawan + Maratua + Kakaban + Sulawesi) | • Includes all 7-night sites + extended time in Central/West Sulawesi (7 dives) • Optional: Palu region, more pelagic encounters, macro life, wreck dives |
Vessel Options
Our fleet includes vessels designed for both luxury and flexibility. Choose the perfect boat to suit your itinerary:
- Liveaboard: 25–35 meters, 5–7 cabins, accommodating 10–14 guests with luxury amenities and full dive support.
- Dive Resort Boat: 12–20 meters, day-use cabins, accommodating up to 14 guests, ideal for shorter trips.
Starting point & Logistics
Begin your adventure by flying to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a short sea transfer will bring you to the Derawan Islands, where your charter awaits. While many charters start from Berau, our Derawan itinerary provides a seamless and unique entry to the region.
What’s Included
- Private yacht charter priced per night, including crew, chef, and dive guides
- All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Daily diving excursions with professional guides
- All necessary diving equipment
Who It’s For
This exclusive experience is perfect for discerning travelers who seek a blend of adventure and luxury. Ideal for divers and marine enthusiasts, our itineraries cater to small groups and families looking for a private exploration of one of the world’s richest marine environments.
FAQs
How do I get to the Derawan Islands?
Fly to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan, and take a sea transfer to the islands.
What is the best time to visit?
The best season is from March to October, with optimal conditions for manta rays from April to September.
Are there any extra fees?
A small local conservation fee may apply, although it is generally nominal for foreign visitors.
Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, our charters can be tailored to suit your preferences. Please contact us on WhatsApp for more details.
Diving Highlights of Derawan
The Derawan Archipelago is a diver’s paradise, offering a diverse range of marine experiences that cater to both novice and experienced divers. The Maratua Atoll is renowned for its drift dives, where currents carry divers along lively coral walls teeming with marine life, including barracuda and reef sharks.
Another unmissable dive site is the spectacular Kakaban Island, home to the unique stingless jellyfish lake. Here, divers and snorkellers can swim among thousands of non-stinging jellyfish, a rare phenomenon found in only a few places worldwide. Additionally, Sangalaki Island is famed for its manta ray cleaning stations, providing divers with close encounters with these striking creatures.
The following table summarises the key dive spots in Derawan:
| Dive Site | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Maratua Atoll | Drift dives, barracuda, reef sharks |
| Kakaban Lake | Stingless jellyfish, unique ecosystem |
| Sangalaki Island | Manta ray cleaning stations |
Cultural and Natural Encounters
Beyond its underwater allure, the Derawan Archipelago offers rich cultural and natural experiences. Visitors can explore the traditional villages on Derawan Island, where local communities live in harmony with the sea. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their fishing traditions and sustainable living practices.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s lush landscapes, where tropical forests meet pristine beaches. Birdwatchers can set out on guided tours to spot rare avian species, including the endemic Kakaban jellyfish lake, or Bird of Paradise, known for its vivid plumage and elaborate courtship displays.
The region’s commitment to conservation ensures that these natural and cultural treasures remain unspoiled. Visitors contribute to local conservation efforts through a small levy, helping to maintain the archipelago’s ecological balance and support community initiatives.
Culinary Delights Onboard
Aboard the Derawan Liveaboard, culinary experiences are as memorable as the underwater ones. The onboard chef crafts meals using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dining experience is both delightful and sustainable. Guests can indulge in a fusion of traditional Indonesian cuisine and international flavours, tailored to suit individual preferences.
Breakfasts include a variety of tropical fruits and freshly baked goods, while lunch and dinner feature a selection of dishes that highlight the region’s diverse culinary heritage. From spicy sambal to succulent grilled seafood, the menu is designed to cater to a range of tastes and dietary requirements.
- Freshly caught seafood: grilled fish, prawns, and calamari
- Traditional Indonesian dishes: nasi goreng, rendang, and gado-gado
- International favourites: pasta, salads, and grilled meats
Complementing the meals is a selection of fine wines and spirits, available upon request. Dining is enjoyed al fresco on the deck, allowing guests to savour meals amidst the serene beauty of the archipelago.
Conservation Efforts and Environmental Responsibility
The Derawan archipelago is a lively ecosystem, home to a wide array of marine life, from the gentle manta rays to the elusive whale sharks. As part of our commitment to preserving this precious environment, our liveaboard charters adhere to strict conservation guidelines. These include waste management protocols to ensure that no refuse is left behind, and eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable cleaning products onboard.
Guests are encouraged to participate in our conservation efforts by observing responsible diving practices. This includes maintaining buoyancy to avoid contact with delicate corals and refraining from disturbing marine life. Our knowledgeable dive guides provide briefings on how to interact with the underwater world respectfully, ensuring that the beauty of Derawan can be enjoyed by future generations.
- Biodegradable products used onboard
- Waste management protocols in place
- Responsible diving practices encouraged
- Conservation briefings by dive guides
Personalised Experiences and Bespoke Itineraries
Our private crewed liveaboard charters offer a unique opportunity to tailor your itinerary to match your interests and preferences. Whether diving with the striking manta rays at Sangalaki or exploring the terrestrial wonders of Maratua Island, each voyage can be customised to deliver an unforgettable experience.
We pride ourselves on our ability to provide bespoke experiences, whether it’s a special celebration onboard or a request for a particular dive site not typically included in the standard itinerary. Our crew and dive guides are flexible and attentive, dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of your journey is tailored to your desires.
| Customisable Experience | Details |
|---|---|
| Dive Site Preferences | Choose from a variety of sites not on the standard itinerary |
| Special Celebrations | Personalised events and dining experiences onboard |
| Activity Flexibility | Option to include kayaking, snorkelling, or cultural excursions |
Marine Life Encounters in Derawan
The Derawan Islands are renowned for their diverse marine ecosystems, offering exceptional opportunities for close encounters with some of the ocean’s most striking creatures. The region’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a dream destination for diving enthusiasts.
One of the highlights is swimming alongside manta rays at Sangalaki Manta Point. These gentle giants are a mesmerising sight as they glide gracefully through the water. The best visibility to observe manta rays is from April to September, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
- Manta Rays: Best visibility April-September at Sangalaki Manta Point.
- Stingless Jellyfish: Year-round encounters at Kakaban Jellyfish Lake.
- Whale Sharks: Optimal sightings April-September around Kakaban jellyfish lake.
- Sea Turtles: Frequently seen around Derawan Island.
Beyond manta rays, Derawan offers the chance to dive with whale sharks, particularly around Kakaban jellyfish lake. These gentle giants are often seen between April and September, offering a truly awe-inspiring experience. Additionally, the unique stingless jellyfish of Kakaban Lake make for a fascinating encounter throughout the year.
Charter Experience and Comfort
Chartering a private liveaboard in Derawan ensures a personalised and luxurious experience. With a range of vessels, including day-use dive resort boats and full liveaboards, guests can select the perfect option to suit their needs. Each vessel is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring comfort and relaxation throughout the journey.
The crew aboard each charter is comprised of experienced professionals, including a chef who prepares exquisite meals using fresh, local ingredients. Whether indulging in a seafood feast or enjoying a traditional Indonesian dish, the culinary experience aboard enhances the overall journey.
| Vessel Type | Cabin Range | Guest Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | 12-20mm | Up to 14 guests |
| Liveaboard | 25-35mm | 10-14 guests |
In addition to the onboard amenities, guests enjoy the expertise of dive guides who ensure safe and enriching diving experiences at each site. The ability to tailor the itinerary to personal preferences further enhances the bespoke nature of a private liveaboard charter in Derawan.
To plan your bespoke journey through the Derawan Islands, plan your charter on WhatsApp.