Everything you need to know about planning a private Derawan charter — vessels, cost, season, diving and logistics — answered by our team.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical cost for a private crewed luxury yacht charter in Derawan Island?
Weekly fees for 80 ft catamarans range from USD 40,000 to 100,000, while 100 ft motor yachts cost USD 50,000 to 80,000 per week, with superyachts exceeding USD 100,000 weekly[1].
How far in advance should travelers book a luxury phinisi or catamaran charter for Derawan Island?
For peak seasons like Christmas, book 12–18 months ahead; for shoulder seasons, 3–6 months is sufficient, with the optimal booking window being 6–9 months in advance[1].
Are bareboat charters common for luxury yacht rentals in the Derawan Island area?
Crewed charters generate 60–82% of charter revenue due to demand for full-service experiences, while bareboat charters are growing faster but remain a smaller base compared to crewed options[1].
What is the best liveaboard for diving in Derawan?
The Gaia Love is rated highest (9.6/10) for Derawan diving, offering exceptional facilities and marine diversity access. White Manta and Raja Ampat Aggressor are also top-rated options with strong reputations for liveaboard safaris in the region[1][3].
How much does a liveaboard trip to Derawan cost?
Liveaboard trips to Derawan start from USD 2,600 per trip, with daily rates around US$523. Prices vary by vessel, duration, and included amenities like Nitrox or private cabins[2][7].
Is a private cabin better than a shared cabin on a Derawan liveaboard?
A private cabin offers greater comfort, privacy, and quiet, ideal for luxury travelers. Shared cabins are more budget-friendly but may lack personal space. Most premium liveaboards like Gaia Love and White Manta provide private cabin options[1][3].
What is the typical itinerary for a Derawan liveaboard cruise?
Itineraries usually include Sangalaki, Maratua, and Kakaban, featuring jellyfish lakes, turtle sanctuaries, and drop-offs. Trips span 5–7 days with 3–4 dives daily, often starting from Tanjung Batu port via speedboat[2][3].
When is the best time to book a liveaboard to Derawan?
Book for the dry season (April–October) when seas are calm, visibility is high, and weather is sunny. This period offers optimal diving conditions and easier boat access to the islands[2][4].
How do I book a liveaboard trip to Derawan Islands?
Contact liveaboard operators directly via phone (1-844-334-1666) or email. Popular platforms include Liveaboard.com, Divebooker, and ZuBlu, which list available vessels, prices, and booking details[1][2][7].
What marine life can I expect on a Derawan liveaboard dive?
Expect jellyfish in Kakaban’s lake, sea turtles at Sangalaki, hammerhead and grey reef sharks, barracuda schools, and Trevally. The area is part of a marine protected zone with rich biodiversity[2][3][4].
Are there vegetarian options on Derawan liveaboard cruises?
Vegetarian options are limited but available on most liveaboards. It’s advisable to inform the operator of dietary needs before booking to ensure adequate meal preparation[5].
When is the best dive season for Derawan Islands, and what are the typical sea conditions?
The best dive season is April to October, with June to August offering good weather but slightly rougher seas. Rainy season runs November to March. Water temperature stays around 28°C, and visibility averages 20 meters, though it may drop after heavy rain[4].
Are the jellyfish in Kakaban Lake safe to touch, and why do they not sting?
Yes, the jellyfish in Kakaban Lake are non-stinging and safe to touch. They have inhabited the lake for centuries without predators, so they lost their sting over time[5].
What marine life can divers expect at Sangalaki’s manta ray cleaning station, and is their presence guaranteed?
Divers may see manta rays at Sangalaki’s cleaning station, along with great corals and many fish. However, manta presence is not guaranteed, though the site remains excellent for diving[1][3].
What is included in a standard Derawan 4D3N tour package?
A standard 4D3N package includes water cottage accommodation, AC transport to Tanjung Batu, speedboat transfers, snorkeling gear, six meals, snacks, mineral water, tour leader, guide, documentation, and entry tickets[1][2].
How does a private Derawan tour differ from an open trip?
A private tour offers exclusive speedboat use, flexible itineraries, personalized guides, and no sharing with other travelers, while open trips group participants and follow fixed schedules[1][2][3].
What destinations are covered in a Derawan island hopping tour?
Island hopping tours include Maratua, Kakaban (jellyfish lake), Sangalaki, Gusung Pasir, Halo Tabung Cave, Dolphin Point, Turtle Point, Manta Point, Kehe Daing Lagoon, and Manimbora Island[1][4].
Are whale shark sightings guaranteed in a Derawan day trip?
Whale shark sightings are not guaranteed; they depend on seasonal conditions, typically occurring in Labuan Cermin during specific months like November to January[1][3].
What is typically excluded from a Derawan tour package?
Exclusions include flight tickets, pre- and post-trip hotels, personal expenses, and optional guide tips, which travelers arrange separately[1][2].
Can I customize a private Derawan tour for a honeymoon?
Yes, private tours can be customized for honeymoons with secluded beach picnics, overwater stays, and romantic itineraries tailored to couple preferences[3][4].