Discover Derawan’s diving wonders, from Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake to Sangalaki’s manta rays. Plan your charter today.
Derawan Diving: The Signature Sites
For the discerning diver, diving in the Derawan Archipelago is an unmissable experience. These waters are graced by the presence of stingless jellyfish, striking manta rays, and the country’s largest nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles. The Derawan Archipelago is a treasure for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity beneath the waves.
Kakaban: The Stingless Jellyfish Lake
The jellyfish lake at Kakaban offers an exceptional opportunity to swim amongst stingless jellyfish, a phenomenon that occurs only in a handful of places worldwide. With consistent visibility year-round, Kakaban is accessible daily, making it a prime spot for exploration.
Key Data for Kakaban
- Year-round visibility
- Unique ecosystem with four jellyfish species
Sangalaki: Manta Ray Cleaning Station
Sangalaki Island is renowned for its manta ray cleaning station, where divers can witness these elegant creatures glide effortlessly through the water. The best time to experience this is between April and September, when visibility is optimal, ranging from 15 to 35 metres.
Derawan: Turtle Nesting Grounds
Derawan Island is Indonesia’s largest nesting site for giant green and hawksbill turtles. The marine conservancy spans 1.27 million hectares, offering a protected environment for these magnificent creatures.
Maratua: “The Channel” Drift Dive
Maratua’s “The Channel” offers exhilarating drift dives with strong currents and visibility fluctuating between 10 and 30 metres. The depth ranges from 15 to 35 metres, providing an immersive experience that challenges and excites.
Nabucco: Resort & Dive Base
Nabucco Island serves as a vital resort and dive base within this rich ecosystem. It is one of three operating resorts in the region, offering comfortable accommodation and easy access to the surrounding dive sites.
Best Season & Visibility
While diving can be enjoyed throughout the year, the best conditions occur from April to October, with the peak season between June and August. Water temperatures remain stable at 28–30°C (82–86°F), though visibility may decrease following heavy rainfall.
Seasonal Highlights
- Manta Rays & Whale Sharks: Best visibility April–September
- Jellyfish Lake: Year-round visibility
Access & Logistics
To access the Derawan Archipelago, the primary starting point is Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From Berau, a sea transfer to the islands takes approximately two hours by a 250hp boat. Note that routes involving Waisai or Berau pertain to the Derawan region and not Derawan.
Logistics Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Starting point | Kalimarau Airport (BEJ), Berau |
| Sea Transfer | Approx. 2 hours from Berau |
| Conservation Fee | IDR 0 / USD 0 (small local levy where applicable) |
Vessels & Itineraries
Explore Derawan aboard our meticulously curated vessels. The resort boat, with day-use cabins, accommodates up to 14 guests and spans 12–20 metres. For a more immersive experience, consider our liveaboard option, ranging from 25 to 35 metres with 5–7 cabins, hosting 10–14 guests. Each itinerary includes a crew, chef, and dive guides.
Popular Itineraries
- 4-night/4-day: Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban
- 7-night/7-day: Full liveaboard dive cruise (average 22 dives)
2027 Note
As we look forward to 2027, the Derawan Archipelago continues to uphold its reputation as a premier diving destination. With ongoing conservation efforts, these waters promise enduring beauty and biodiversity for years to come.
Experiencing Cultural Encounters on Your Liveaboard Journey
Beyond the enchanting underwater world, the Derawan Islands offer a rich of cultural experiences that can be explored during your liveaboard voyage. These islands are home to the Bajau people, often referred to as ‘sea gypsies’, who have lived in harmony with the ocean for generations. Their unique way of life, centred around the sea, provides an intriguing glimpse into a culture deeply intertwined with marine environments.
As part of the liveaboard experience, guests have the opportunity to visit local villages, interact with the Bajau communities, and learn about traditional fishing techniques. Engage with the locals to understand their customs and partake in traditional dances and musical performances. Such experiences not only enrich your journey but also support the local economy and help sustain these lively communities.
Culinary Delights on Board: A Gastronomic Journey
A private crewed liveaboard charter across Derawan offers more than just diving and exploration; it is also a culinary journey that tantalises the taste buds. Guests can indulge in a diverse range of dishes prepared by skilled chefs on board, who use fresh local ingredients to create exquisite meals that reflect both Indonesian flavours and international cuisine.
Each day presents a new culinary adventure, with menus customised to accommodate dietary preferences and highlight seasonal produce. From fresh seafood caught by local fishermen to tropical fruits and traditional Indonesian dishes, the onboard dining experience is a highlight for many guests. Whether enjoying a casual breakfast on deck or a formal dinner under the stars, the culinary offerings aboard ensure that every meal is a memorable occasion.
Liveaboard Sustainability Practices and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Operating in some of the most pristine marine environments, the liveaboard charters across Derawan are committed to sustainable practices and eco-friendly initiatives to minimise their environmental impact. These efforts are crucial in preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region for future generations.
Key sustainability practices include the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, responsible waste management, and energy-efficient systems on board. Additionally, crews are trained in marine conservation and promote awareness among guests through educational briefings and participation in conservation activities.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Utilising biodegradable products to reduce chemical discharge into the ocean.
- Sustainable Seafood Sourcing: Prioritising locally and responsibly sourced seafood to support sustainable fishing practices.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities on conservation projects and supporting local economies.
By choosing a liveaboard charter committed to these practices, guests can enjoy their journey with the assurance that they are contributing to the preservation of Derawan’s unique ecosystems.
Exclusive Culinary Experiences Onboard
Set out on a private liveaboard charter across Derawan offers not only exceptional diving experiences but also exceptional culinary delights tailored to your preferences. With a dedicated chef onboard, guests enjoy an array of exquisite dishes that highlight both local and international cuisines.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared fresh every day, using local ingredients sourced from nearby markets and, occasionally, the sea itself. Expect to savour freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Indonesian delicacies, all served in an elegant yet relaxed dining setting with stunning ocean views.
- Breakfast: A variety of options including fresh fruits, pastries, and traditional Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Goreng.
- Lunch: Light yet satisfying meals, often featuring fresh salads, grilled fish, or local noodles.
- Dinner: A more elaborate affair, with multiple courses showcasing the chef’s culinary creativity and expertise.
Customised Itineraries and Activities
One of the distinct advantages of choosing a private crewed liveaboard charter is the flexibility to design a unique itinerary that caters to your specific interests. If you a seasoned diver eager to explore the most remote sites or a family looking to combine diving with other marine activities, the crew can tailor the journey to meet your desires.
In addition to diving, guests can engage in a variety of activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, and shore excursions to discover the rich cultural heritage of the region. The crew’s intimate knowledge of Derawan ensures access to lesser-known sites and exclusive experiences that enhance your voyage.
Popular itinerary options include:
| Duration | Activities |
|---|---|
| 4-night 4-day | Explore Derawan, Maratua, and Kakaban with options for night dives and island visits. |
| 7-night 7-day | Comprehensive dive itinerary covering all signature sites, with added leisure activities like beach picnics and cultural tours. |
To discover the wonders of Derawan for yourself, plan your charter on WhatsApp today, and let us guide you through an unforgettable journey beneath the waves.