Set out on an exquisite 7-night dive expedition through the Derawan Islands, where luxury meets marine wonder. Explore Kakaban’s unique stingless jellyfish lake, dive with striking manta rays at Sangalaki, and unwind on the secluded Nabucco Island. This itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation.
The 7 Night Derawan Experience
The Derawan Islands offer a marine paradise, perfect for those seeking a bespoke dive and snorkel holiday. This 7-night itinerary is meticulously crafted to provide an immersive experience, showcasing the finest natural wonders of Kakaban, Maratua, Sangalaki, and Nabucco. With peak conditions from March to October, it is the ideal time to witness the lively marine life, including the famed manta rays and whale sharks.
Core Logistics & Concrete Figures
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting point & Transfer | Fly to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ), Berau, East Kalimantan; land transfer to Tanjung Batu Port, speedboat to Derawan. |
| Conservation Fee | IDR 0 / USD 0; small local levy applicable. |
| Best Season | March to October; manta and whale shark visibility peaks April–September. |
| Minimum Duration | 4 nights minimum; 7-night dedicated liveaboard dive expedition. |
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction
Upon arriving at Kalimarau Airport, a seamless transfer will take you to Tanjung Batu Port. From there, a speedboat ride transports you to the pristine shores of Derawan Island. Settle into your liveaboard vessel, a floating home for the next week, and join the crew for an introductory briefing.
The Liveaboard Experience
- Vessel Dimensions: 25–35 meters in length.
- Capacity: 5–7 cabins; accommodates 10–14 guests.
- Inclusions: Crew, chef, and dive guides.
This is no ordinary cruise; it is a luxurious aquatic retreat designed for discerning adventurers.
Day 2: Kakaban Stingless Jellyfish Lake
Begin your journey with a visit to Kakaban’s renowned stingless jellyfish lake. This surreal 5-hectare lake, located approximately an hour from Derawan, is home to unique jellyfish species.
Activity: Snorkel among harmless jellyfish, respecting the delicate ecosystem by avoiding fins and sunscreen. Linger on the wooden jetty and embrace the tranquil surroundings.
Day 3: Maratua Atoll and Haji Mangku Cave
Maratua Atoll is a diver’s dream, with its dramatic drop-offs and lively marine life. Engage in thrilling drift dives or explore Haji Mangku Cave, an adventurous underwater tunnel.
Activity: Cliff diving, cave exploration, and diving excursions. Maratua offers a blend of adrenaline and tranquility, perfect for diverse preferences.
Day 4: Sangalaki Manta Point & Turtle Sanctuary
Venture to Sangalaki, known for its manta ray population. Here, you can dive alongside these graceful creatures and visit the hawksbill turtle conservation center, where you can observe and learn about turtle preservation efforts.
Activity: Dive with mantas, explore the turtle sanctuary, and engage in conservation activities.
Day 5: Nabucco Island
Experience a day on Nabucco Island, a secluded spot offering pristine beaches and clear waters.
Activity: Snorkeling, island hopping, and beach relaxation. Nabucco’s charm lies in its untouched beauty and the opportunity to unwind.
Day 6: Leisure and Exploration
Enjoy a day tailored to your preferences. If you wish to dive deeper into the marine wonders or relax on deck with a book, the choice is yours.
Explore more about our itinerary offerings and how they can be customised to suit your desires.
Day 7: Return to Derawan
Your journey concludes as you return to Derawan Island, reminiscing about the captivating experiences and newfound connections.
2027 Note
As of 2027, the Derawan Islands continue to thrive as a premier diving destination, with increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism practices. It’s crucial to support these efforts by adhering to local guidelines and conservation measures.
Charter Details
For those seeking exclusivity, consider a private yacht charter. These charters offer tailored itineraries, ensuring a personal touch to your adventure.
Vessel Specifications:
- Dimensions: 12–20 meters length.
- Capacity: Day-use cabins, up to 14 guests.
- Pricing: Priced per night, inclusive of crew, chef, and dive guides.
Accommodation and Comfort Onboard
Our private crewed dive boat charters offer two distinct vessel options to suit varying preferences and group sizes. The Dive Resort Boat, accommodating up to 14 guests, is designed for shorter excursions with day-use cabins. This vessel ensures a comfortable day trip experience, allowing you to explore the wonders of Derawan with ease and style.
For those seeking a more extended stay, the Liveaboard option provides 5 to 7 cabins, comfortably hosting 10 to 14 guests. This vessel is ideal for our 7-night itineraries, offering a comprehensive dive experience. Guests will enjoy well-appointed cabins, each equipped with modern amenities to ensure a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Both vessels come with a dedicated crew, including a chef and dive guides, ensuring every aspect of your journey is catered to with professionalism and care.
- Dive Resort Boat: 12-20mm in length, day-use cabins, accommodates up to 14 guests.
- Liveaboard: 25-35mm in length, 5-7 cabins, accommodates 10-14 guests.
Environmental Stewardship and Conservation Efforts
In the spirit of preserving Derawan’s unique marine ecosystems, our charters are committed to sustainable practices and conservation. We actively collaborate with local organisations to ensure that our activities have minimal impact on the environment. Our crew is trained in eco-friendly practices, ensuring that all waste is managed responsibly and that energy use is minimised where possible.
Guests are encouraged to respect local customs and participate in conservation efforts, such as beach clean-ups and educational programmes about the local wildlife. A small local conservation levy may be applicable, which contributes directly to the protection and maintenance of these stunning marine habitats. By choosing our charters, you are supporting sustainable tourism and helping to preserve the natural beauty of Derawan for future generations.
Dive Sites and Marine Biodiversity
Derawan is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, offering some of the world’s most spectacular dive sites. Our itineraries include visits to Kakaban Stingless Jellyfish Lake, where you can swim amongst harmless jellyfish in a surreal and serene environment. The Maratua Atoll provides dramatic drop-offs and lively coral gardens teeming with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise.
Sangalaki is famous for its Manta Point, where divers can witness the graceful movements of manta rays gliding through the water. The nearby Turtle Sanctuary offers a chance to observe these striking creatures in their natural habitat. For those interested in pelagic species, the best visibility for Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks is between April and September, offering an unforgettable experience.
| Site | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kakaban | Stingless Jellyfish Lake |
| Maratua Atoll | Coral gardens and drop-offs |
| Sangalaki | Manta Point |
| Derawan | Turtle Sanctuary |
Vessel Options for Your Derawan Adventure
Choosing the right vessel for your Derawan diving experience can greatly enhance your journey. We provide two distinct types of vessels to cater to different preferences and group sizes.
The Dive Resort Boat offers a more intimate setting with day use cabins accommodating up to 14 guests. This vessel is ideal for those seeking a robust day-time diving experience with comfortable overnight stays onshore. Its dimensions range between 12 to 20 metres, providing ample space for relaxation and gear storage.
For those desiring a more immersive experience, the Liveaboard option is available. With a length of 25 to 35 metres, it features 5 to 7 cabins, accommodating 10 to 14 guests comfortably. This vessel is perfect for extended explorations and offers the flexibility to dive at multiple sites without the need to return to shore each night. Onboard amenities include full dining services prepared by a dedicated chef and the expertise of seasoned dive guides.
Preparing for Your Dive Charter Experience
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable adventure, it’s crucial to prepare adequately for your dive charter experience in Derawan. Here’s a concise guide to help you get ready:
- Travel Arrangements: Fly into Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a sea transfer will take you to Waisai, where many charters begin their journey.
- Diving Gear: While basic diving equipment is typically provided, it is advisable to bring along personal essentials like masks, fins, and snorkels for a more comfortable fit.
- Conservation Fee: Be aware that a small local levy may apply, although the principal conservation fee is approximately IDR 0 / USD 0 per foreign visitor.
- Seasonal Considerations: The best time to visit is from March to October, with optimal conditions for manta sightings and whale shark encounters between April and September. However, the stingless jellyfish lake is accessible throughout the year.
By preparing thoroughly, you can ensure that your time aboard our vessels will be both comfortable and unforgettable, allowing you to focus entirely on the underwater wonders of Derawan.
The allure of Derawan extends beyond its waters. Plan your charter on WhatsApp and unlock the secrets of this Indonesian haven.