Immerse yourself in the opulent world of Derawan snorkeling, where crystalline waters and lively marine life beckon. With our expertly crewed private charters, explore the mesmerizing beauty of this Indonesian archipelago.
Derawan Snorkelling: An Exclusive Marine Paradise
Derawan Islands, a hidden marine jewel, offers exceptional snorkeling experiences. With an abundance of lively marine life, this destination caters to discerning travelers seeking tranquillity and adventure. The archipelago’s azure waters are home to gentle encounters with turtles, reef fish, manta rays, and whale sharks. Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Maratua each present unique aquatic charms, ensuring a rich of experiences.
Why Choose Derawan?
Derawan’s strategic location and diverse marine life make it a premier snorkeling destination. With shallow dive sites ranging from 5 to 18 meters and visibility often exceeding 20 meters, it’s a snorkeler’s paradise. If you a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, Derawan offers something for everyone.
Key Snorkeling Sites & Highlights
| Site | Highlights | Concrete Figures / Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Kakaban Jellyfish Lake | Stingless jellyfish swimming in a calm, enclosed lake | Year-round access; no jellyfish sting |
| Sangalaki Manta Point | Giant manta rays cleaning stations | Best visibility: April–September |
| Derawan Turtles Place | Green and hawksbill turtles feeding near reefs | Turtles visible year-round; water temp ~28°C |
| Maratua Atoll | Strong currents, diverse reef fish, eagle rays | Currents can be very strong in Maratua pass |
| Nabucco (Samama) | Tranquil macro diving, rare species | Price: IDR 1,120,000 – 2,560,000 (~$70–$160) |
Access & Logistics
Begin your journey by flying to Kalimarau (BEJ), Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a sea transfer to Waisai or embarking from Berau provides convenient access to the islands. A local conservation fee of approximately IDR 0 / USD 0 per foreign visitor ensures the preservation of Derawan’s pristine environment.
Choosing Your Vessel & Itinerary
Explore the islands aboard a Dive Resort Boat or a Liveaboard, each offering unique experiences:
- Dive Resort Boat: Perfect for day trips, accommodating up to 14 guests.
- Liveaboard: Ideal for multi-day cruises with 5-7 cabins, hosting 10-14 guests.
Sample itineraries include a 4-night tour (Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban) and a 7-night full liveaboard dive/snorkel cruise. Private yacht charters are priced per night and include a crew, chef, and dive guides.
2027 Note: Conservation & Safety
It’s imperative to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment. Note that there are no foreign-card ATMs on Derawan, so it’s advisable to bring sufficient cash. Additionally, be cautious of the strong currents in Maratua pass and Kakaban.
Pricing & Booking
For the 2026–2027 season, pricing examples include:
- 4-night tour: $3,000–$4,800 USD (double occupancy)
- 7-night liveaboard: $8,800–$9,600 USD (double occupancy)
- Single occupancy: Up to $14,600 USD for 13-day tour
- Reservation deposit: $1,000 USD
Your Charter Awaits
Marine Biodiversity and Unique Ecosystems
The Derawan Archipelago is a sanctuary for marine biodiversity, offering an exceptional array of underwater ecosystems that are a delight for snorkelers and divers alike. The region is home to over 872 species of reef fish and more than 507 species of coral, making it one of the most biologically rich marine environments in the world.
Among the unique ecosystems are the renowned Kakaban Lake, where snorkelers can experience the rare phenomenon of swimming with stingless jellyfish. Maratua Atoll offers expansive coral gardens teeming with lively marine life, while Sangalaki is famed for its manta ray encounters.
- Kakaban Lake: An inland marine lake where you can snorkel with four species of non-stinging jellyfish.
- Maratua Atoll: Known for its large schools of barracuda and eagle rays.
- Sangalaki Manta Point: Offers close encounters with graceful manta rays.
Onboard Experience and Amenities
A private charter with Komodo Luxury provides an intimate and tailored experience, ensuring comfort and exclusivity throughout your journey. Choose from our fleet of well-equipped vessels, each designed to enhance your exploration of the Derawan Archipelago.
Onboard amenities include spacious cabins, gourmet dining prepared by an onboard chef, and personalised dive services from experienced guides. If you opt for a day-use dive resort boat or a week-long liveaboard, each vessel is fitted with modern conveniences to ensure a seamless experience.
| Vessel Type | Capacity | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | Up to 14 guests | Day-use cabins, dining area, snorkelling gear |
| Liveaboard | 10-14 guests | Private cabins, onboard chef, dive equipment |
Environmental Responsibility and Local Engagement
Komodo Luxury is committed to sustainable tourism practices and actively contributes to the conservation of the Derawan Archipelago. Our operations are guided by principles of environmental responsibility to preserve the pristine nature of these waters.
Guests are encouraged to participate in eco-friendly practices during their voyage. This includes adherence to marine conservation guidelines and supporting local communities through responsible tourism. A small local levy may apply, contributing directly to conservation efforts.
Engaging with local communities is an integral part of the experience. Our itineraries often include visits to nearby villages, providing guests with opportunities to learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the region while supporting local economies.
Seasonal Wildlife Encounters
Derawan’s waters teem with an extraordinary variety of marine life, making it an ideal destination for seasonal wildlife encounters. The period from April to September offers optimal visibility for manta rays and Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks, two of the most sought-after species for snorkelers. During these months, snorkelers can expect clear waters and favourable conditions for close encounters with these striking creatures.
Beyond these giants of the sea, Derawan also boasts the unique stingless jellyfish lake, available for exploration year-round. This rare phenomenon allows snorkelers to swim among these gentle creatures without the risk of stings, providing a truly unique experience. Turtle enthusiasts will find the Derawan islands to be particularly rewarding, with numerous nesting sites offering glimpses of these ancient mariners.
For those interested in broader biodiversity, the Maratua atoll and Sangalaki manta point provide additional opportunities to witness the rich of marine life. Schools of colourful fish, lively corals, and the occasional dolphin or dugong sighting add to the allure of these waters.
Gastronomy and Onboard Dining
Onboard dining with Derawan Snorkelling combines culinary excellence with stunning natural backdrops. Our private crewed dive boat charters include a dedicated chef, ensuring that each meal is a highlight of your voyage. Menus feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a delightful fusion of Indonesian and international cuisine.
Guests can expect a variety of dining experiences, from informal alfresco lunches to more formal dinners under the stars. The following are some of the culinary delights you might find during your journey:
- Local Specialties: Dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Satay, and fresh seafood platters highlight the lively flavours of the region.
- International Cuisine: A selection of Western dishes ensures there is something for every palate, including vegetarian and vegan options.
- Chef’s Specials: Unique creations inspired by the day’s freshest catch, tailored to guests’ preferences.
Dining times can be flexible to fit the day’s activities, allowing guests to enjoy meals at their leisure. If you enjoying a hearty breakfast before a day of snorkeling or a gourmet dinner after a day of adventure, the culinary offerings aboard our vessels are sure to satisfy.
Experience the pinnacle of luxury and exploration with Derawan snorkeling. Whether set out on a brief escape or an extended odyssey, the islands promise an unforgettable journey. Plan your charter on WhatsApp and embrace the serene beauty of Derawan.