- Visit manta ray and turtle hotspots.
- Experience diverse marine ecosystems.
- Stay in comfortable, fully-equipped cabins.
Discover the Derawan Liveaboard Routes
Begin an immersive journey across the Derawan archipelago, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity and captivating underwater experiences. Our Derawan liveaboard routes are meticulously designed to offer divers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the best dive sites in East Kalimantan. From the vibrant coral gardens of Maratua to the unique jellyfish lakes of Kakaban, each route is crafted to maximize your diving adventure.
Maratua: A Diver’s Dream
Maratua Island, the first stop on our liveaboard routes, is a diver’s dream with its clear waters and thriving marine life. Here, divers can explore the Maratua Atoll, a hotspot for large pelagic species such as barracudas, eagle rays, and even hammerhead sharks. The island’s outer reefs are marked by steep drop-offs and strong currents, offering thrilling drift dives. The region is accessible year-round, but the best diving conditions are typically between March and October.
Kakaban: Home to the Jellyfish Lake
Next on the itinerary is Kakaban Island, famous for its unique Jellyfish Lake. This brackish lake is home to thousands of non-stinging jellyfish, providing a surreal snorkeling experience. Beyond the lake, Kakaban offers excellent dive sites such as Barracuda Point, where divers can encounter schools of barracudas and other pelagic fish. The island’s underwater topography features dramatic walls and caves, making it a favorite among adventurous divers.
Sangalaki: Manta Ray Encounters
Sangalaki Island is the highlight for manta ray enthusiasts. Known as a manta ray sanctuary, the island’s waters are frequented by these gentle giants, offering divers the chance to observe them up close. Sangalaki also offers vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including turtles, which nest on the island’s beaches. The best time to visit Sangalaki for manta ray sightings is from April to November.
Route Logistics and Itinerary
Our Derawan liveaboard itineraries typically span 5 to 7 nights, covering approximately 100 to 150 kilometers of pristine ocean. The journey begins and ends in Berau, East Kalimantan, with transfers available from the local airport. Each day consists of multiple dives, allowing you to fully experience the underwater wonders of the region. Our liveaboard vessels are equipped with comfortable cabins, onboard dining, and all necessary diving equipment to ensure a seamless adventure.
Pricing and Booking Information
Experience the best of the Derawan archipelago with our competitively priced liveaboard packages. Prices start at approximately 1,500 USD per person, including accommodation, meals, and diving activities. For detailed pricing information and to secure your spot, please visit our book derawan liveaboard page.
For more information on our pricing tiers and special offers, check out the derawan liveaboard pricing page. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and singular diving experiences.
Additional Dive Sites to Explore
While Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki are the most popular stops, our Derawan liveaboard routes also offer opportunities to explore lesser-known but equally fascinating dive sites. Derawan Island itself is home to the iconic Blue Trigger Wall, where divers can see a myriad of triggerfish, making it an exciting dive with its vibrant fish life. The biodiversity extends to the coral formations, which host a diverse range of species such as the elusive mandarin fish during twilight dives. Another hidden treasure is the submerged pinnacle of Nabucco Island, providing divers with a chance to encounter rare critters in its sandy bottoms and sheltered coral gardens.
What’s Included in Your Liveaboard Experience
Our packages are comprehensive, ensuring that your only focus is on the diving. Included in the standard package are accommodations in comfortable, air-conditioned cabins, three meals a day featuring local and international cuisine, and snacks to keep you energized for your dives. Onboard amenities include a sundeck for relaxation, a lounge for socializing, and a dive deck equipped for easy access to the water. Diving equipment, such as tanks and weights, is also provided. Optional extras, such as nitrox fills or private dive guides, are available for an additional fee. Not included in the package are international and domestic flights, travel insurance, and personal expenses such as souvenirs or alcoholic beverages.
Choosing the Right Derawan Liveaboard Route for You
When selecting your Derawan liveaboard route, consider your diving experience and interests. For those seeking encounters with large pelagics, the routes through Maratua and Sangalaki are ideal. If you’re fascinated by unique marine environments, Kakaban’s Jellyfish Lake offers a rare opportunity to swim with non-stinging jellyfish. For macro photography enthusiasts, the critter-rich sites around Derawan and Nabucco are perfect. Each route offers a distinct experience, and our experts can help tailor your itinerary based on your preferences.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
Booking your Derawan liveaboard adventure is straightforward. Begin by exploring our book derawan liveaboard page to review available dates and pricing tiers. Once you’ve chosen your preferred itinerary, contact our booking team to check availability and secure your reservation. We require a deposit to hold your spot, with the balance due closer to your departure date. Our team will assist with any questions, ensuring a smooth booking process from start to finish.
Comparison of Derawan Liveaboard Options
To help you choose the perfect liveaboard experience, we offer a comparison of our available routes. For instance, the 5-night package offers a comprehensive introduction to the archipelago, covering the essential sites with ample time for relaxation. The 7-night option provides a more in-depth exploration, including additional dives and the chance to visit lesser-known sites. Both options include the same high-quality accommodations and services, with the extended trip offering a more leisurely pace and extra opportunities for adventure.
We invite you to explore the variety of Derawan liveaboard routes and select the itinerary that best matches your diving goals. Whether you’re seeking thrilling encounters with marine megafauna or the tranquility of remote coral gardens, our liveaboard adventures promise a rich and rewarding dive experience.