Derawan diving offers an extraordinary experience with its signature sites like Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake and Sangalaki’s manta point. Fly to Kalimarau Airport, then enjoy a scenic sea transfer to reach this marine paradise. Charter options provide luxury and exclusivity, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
Derawan Diving: A Marine Wonderland
Set the Indonesian archipelago, the Derawan Islands promise some of the most exhilarating diving experiences worldwide. The region’s unique biodiversity includes the famed Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake, the fast-paced drift dives of Maratua’s Channel, and the graceful manta rays at Sangalaki’s cleaning station.
Accessing Derawan
Getting There
The starting point to this aquatic haven is through Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a picturesque 2-3 hour drive takes you to Tanjung Batu Port, followed by a speedboat journey to Derawan.
- Fly to Kalimarau Airport, Berau
- Drive to Tanjung Batu Port
- Speedboat to Derawan
Signature Diving Sites
Kakaban’s Stingless Jellyfish Lake
This landlocked marine lake hosts millions of non-stinging jellyfish, a phenomenon found in only a few places globally. Accessible year-round, it offers an ethereal swimming experience.
Maratua’s Channel Drift Dive
Maratua Atoll is renowned for its exhilarating drift dives. The Channel is teeming with marine life, including barracudas and sharks, making it ideal for seasoned divers.
Sangalaki’s Manta Cleaning Station
Sangalaki is famed for its manta rays, visible from April to September. The cleaning station offers divers a chance to observe these striking creatures up close.
Exclusive Charter Options
Opting for a private charter enhances your diving itinerary, offering flexibility and privacy. Our vessels, ranging from dive resort boats to luxurious liveaboards, accommodate groups with all-inclusive services.
| Vessel Type | Length | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | 12–20m | Up to 14 guests |
| Liveaboard | 25–35m | 10–14 guests |
Conservation and Marine Life
Derawan’s commitment to conservation is evident in its thriving ecosystems. Efforts to protect sea turtles, especially around Sangalaki, and promote sustainable tourism are ongoing.
2027 Note
Looking ahead to 2027, the Derawan Islands continue to uphold their reputation as a premier diving destination. Conservation efforts and infrastructure improvements ensure that the charm and ecological integrity of these waters remain intact.
Plan Your Adventure
Set out on a journey that promises both adventure and relaxation. To explore the endless wonders of Derawan at your own pace, consider a private charter. Our seasoned crew, chef, and dive guides await to tailor a bespoke itinerary for you.
Into Derawan’s Cultural
While Derawan is predominantly celebrated for its marine biodiversity, the cultural experiences offered by this region are equally enriching. The local communities, predominantly Bajau and Bugis, have a rich heritage that has been shaped by centuries of maritime traditions. A private crewed charter not only provides a the oceanic wonders but also an opportunity to engage with these lively cultures.
Guests on a charter can arrange visits to local villages where they can witness traditional crafts such as weaving and boat building. These crafts have been passed down through generations, and visitors can engage with artisans to learn about their techniques and the stories behind their creations. Additionally, the culinary experience onboard can be enhanced with local delicacies, offering a taste of authentic Indonesian flavours.
Customised Itineraries for Unique Experiences
One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a private crewed dive boat charter in Derawan is the ability to tailor your itinerary to your specific interests and preferences. If you a seasoned diver seeking lesser-known dive sites or a family looking for a balanced mix of diving and leisure, the charter can be customised to accommodate your desires.
Typical itineraries, such as the 4-night Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban or the 7-night dive liveaboard, serve as excellent starting points. However, guests can choose to extend their stay, explore additional sites, or focus on specific experiences such as night diving or visiting more secluded beaches. The flexibility of a private charter ensures that each journey is unique and memorable.
- Extended Stay Options: Tailor the length of your journey to explore more.
- Specialised Diving Experiences: Target specific marine life or phenomena.
- Leisure and Relaxation: Incorporate more time for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Safety and Sustainability Practices Onboard
Ensuring the safety of guests and the sustainability of marine ecosystems are top priorities for any private crewed dive boat charter in Derawan. Each vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art safety equipment and staffed by well-trained, experienced crew members, including certified dive guides who are familiar with the local waters and conditions.
Sustainable practices are integrated into the daily operations of the charter. This includes waste management strategies to minimise environmental impact, adherence to responsible diving practices to protect the coral reefs and marine life, and educational programs for guests about local conservation efforts. By choosing a charter, visitors contribute to ongoing conservation initiatives that help preserve the pristine nature of Derawan’s underwater wonders.
- Safety Equipment: Modern safety gear and emergency protocols for peace of mind.
- Eco-Friendly Operations: Practices that reduce environmental impact.
- Conservation Contributions: Support for local ecosystems through responsible tourism.
Dining and Culinary Delights Onboard
A journey across Derawan aboard a private crewed dive boat is not only an exploration of underwater marvels but also a culinary voyage. Each vessel is equipped with a professional chef, ensuring that guests experience a range of delectable dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
The menu is a lively fusion of Indonesian and international cuisines, catering to a variety of dietary preferences and requirements. Guests can expect to savour dishes like nasi goreng, grilled seafood freshly caught from the surrounding waters, and tropical fruits sourced from local markets.
- Breakfast: A selection of continental and traditional Indonesian options.
- Lunch: Light meals and salads featuring local produce.
- Dinner: A three-course meal with a choice of meat, seafood, or vegetarian options.
Guests are invited to enjoy their meals in the open-air dining area, offering panoramic views of the ocean, or in the comfort of the indoor dining space. The culinary team is dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience, perfectly complementing the day’s adventures.
Photography and Videography Services
Capturing the lively marine life and stunning landscapes of Derawan is a priority for many guests, and our charters offer professional photography and videography services to ensure these memories are preserved in the highest quality.
Our team of experienced photographers and videographers are available to accompany divers on their underwater excursions, using state-of-the-art equipment to capture the vivid colours and dynamic scenes of the coral reefs and marine species.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Underwater Photography | High-resolution images of your diving experiences. |
| Personalised Video Footage | Edited video compilations of your dive and onboard activities. |
| Photography Workshops | Learn tips and techniques from professional photographers. |
These services ensure that your adventure is beautifully documented, allowing you to relive the excitement of your journey through high-quality visual media.
Onboard Amenities and Culinary Delights
Chartering a private dive boat across Derawan offers not only the opportunity to explore extraordinary marine environments but also to enjoy a luxurious onboard experience. Each vessel, whether it be a dive resort boat or a lavish liveaboard, is equipped with modern amenities designed to enhance your journey.
Guests can expect spacious sun decks perfect for relaxation and observation, well-appointed cabins, and state-of-the-art dive equipment. For those looking to unwind after a day of diving, common areas provide space for socialising or quiet reflection with a good book.
The culinary experience aboard is as memorable as the diving. A dedicated chef prepares a variety of dishes, blending local Indonesian flavours with international cuisine. Fresh seafood, lively tropical fruits, and carefully curated beverages are all part of the indulgent menu, ensuring that every meal is a highlight.
Exploring Beyond the Reef: Land Excursions and Cultural Interactions
While the underwater wonders of Derawan are undoubtedly captivating, the region offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions on land that can be explored through bespoke excursions. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the area’s heritage and biodiversity.
Guests have the opportunity to visit local fishing villages, engaging with the communities to learn about traditional practices and lifestyles. Excursions to the islands’ lush interiors reveal rainforests teeming with endemic wildlife, offering a chance to spot rare bird species such as the Red Bird-of-Paradise and the Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise.
These land-based adventures can be tailored to suit the interests of each group, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of both the marine and terrestrial wonders of the Derawan archipelago. With the flexibility of a private charter, guests can smoothly integrate these cultural interactions and nature walks into their diving itinerary for a truly immersive experience.
Plan your charter on WhatsApp and an unforgettable experience.