Explore the enchanting Derawan archipelago on a 7-night expedition, an ideal retreat for discerning travellers seeking both adventure and comfort. This meticulously crafted itinerary ensures an immersive experience with the region’s stunning marine life and natural spectacles.
A 7-Night Derawan Adventure
The 7-night Derawan itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of this captivating region. With the best season stretching from March to October, the itinerary promises optimal conditions for discovering Derawan’s lively underwater ecosystem. Departing from Tarakan Airport, the journey begins with a 9–11 hours sea transfer to Derawan Island, setting the stage for an unforgettable week.
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation
Upon arrival at Tarakan Airport, our staff will welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the vessel. This day serves as an orientation to the liveaboard experience, allowing you to settle into your accommodations. The Liveaboard, measuring between 25-35 meters, provides a luxurious base for up to 14 guests, ensuring both privacy and camaraderie.
Day 2: Derawan – Turtle Sanctuary
The adventure begins at Derawan, where you’ll witness an awe-inspiring spectacle: baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. This experience is both a privilege and a gentle reminder of the delicate balance of nature. A morning dive follows, with the diverse marine life setting the tone for the days ahead.
Day 3: Kakaban – Stingless Jellyfish Lake
A short speedboat ride brings you to the enchanting Kakaban Island, home to the world-famous stingless jellyfish lake. This unique environment offers a rare opportunity to swim amongst these ethereal creatures—a must-see on your Derawan tour.
Day 4: Sangalaki – Manta Point
Day four promises encounters with the striking manta rays at Sangalaki. Known for their year-round presence, these gentle giants, with wingspans reaching up to 2 meters, provide an enthralling diving experience. Additionally, Sangalaki is renowned for its turtle population, adding another layer of splendour to your visit.
Day 5: Maratua – Barracuda and More
Venture to Maratua, where the promise of encountering massive barracuda schools, big-eye jacks, and even elusive hammerhead sharks awaits. The longer transfer to this location is well worth the journey, offering some of the most exhilarating dives of the trip.
Day 6: Nabucco and Whale Sharks
Your itinerary includes a day at Nabucco, where sightings of whale sharks are possible near local *bagans*. This experience is not only thrilling but also deeply humbling, as these gentle giants glide gracefully through the water.
Vessel Specifications
| Vessel Type | Length | Cabins | Guests | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | 12–20 m | Day-use cabins | Up to 14 | Day use |
| Liveaboard | 25–35 m | 5–7 cabins | 10–14 guests | 7-night dive |
Day 7: Return to Derawan
The final day offers a chance to reflect on the week’s adventures as you return to Derawan. Enjoy a leisurely dive before preparing for the journey back to Tarakan, cherishing the memories made in this extraordinary corner of the world.
2027 Note
As of 2027, travellers should plan for potential adjustments in logistics due to environmental and regulatory changes. It’s advisable to confirm details with your charter provider prior to departure.
Plan Your Journey
Accommodation and Luxury Onboard
The private crewed yacht charter across Derawan ensures an exceptional level of comfort and luxury, tailored to meet the desires of discerning travellers. Guests can choose from two types of vessels: the dive resort boat and the liveaboard. The dive resort boat is designed for day use with cabins available for up to 14 guests, providing an intimate setting for exploring the pristine waters of Derawan.
For those seeking an extended journey, the liveaboard offers a more comprehensive experience with 5 to 7 cabins, accommodating up to 14 guests. Each cabin is elegantly appointed, ensuring a restful retreat after a day of exploration. Onboard amenities include a spacious lounge, dining areas, and sun decks, where guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by an experienced chef. With a dedicated crew, including dive guides, every need is met with impeccable service.
Diving and Snorkelling Opportunities
The Derawan archipelago is renowned for its diverse marine life, making it a paradise for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The islands offer numerous sites, each with unique attractions that cater to various levels of diving experience. The waters surrounding Sangalaki are famed for encounters with striking manta rays, particularly visible from April to September, offering an unforgettable underwater spectacle.
Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake presents a rare opportunity to swim amongst these ethereal creatures, while Maratua’s atoll is a lively hub of marine biodiversity, home to barracudas, turtles, and other species. For those eager to witness whale sharks, the best visibility is in Kakaban jellyfish lake between April and September. With the guidance of expert dive guides, guests can safely explore these underwater wonders.
- Sangalaki – Manta Rays
- Kakaban – Stingless Jellyfish Lake
- Maratua – Barracudas and Turtles
- Kakaban jellyfish lake – Whale Sharks
Travel Logistics and Local Insights
Efficient travel logistics are key to a seamless charter experience across Derawan. Guests typically commence their journey by flying into Kalimarau (BEJ), Berau, East Kalimantan, followed by a sea transfer to Waisai. Many charters also embark from Berau, providing various options for access to the archipelago. It is important to note that while the local conservation fee is approximately IDR 0 or USD 0 per foreign visitor, a small local levy may apply in some areas.
The best time to set out on this aquatic adventure is from March to October, when weather conditions are favourable and marine visibility is at its peak. Local guides offer invaluable insights into the region’s ecology and culture, enhancing the overall experience. By understanding the area’s delicate ecosystem, travellers can appreciate the importance of conservation efforts while enjoying the natural wonders that Derawan has to offer.
| Starting point | Kalimarau (BEJ), Berau |
|---|---|
| Embarkation Points | Waisai, Berau |
| Best Season | March to October |
| Conservation Fee | IDR 0 / USD 0 per foreign visitor |
A Gastronomic Journey at Sea
Set out on a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan offers not only the splendours of marine life but also an exquisite culinary voyage. Each vessel is equipped with a professional chef who crafts a menu that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region. Guests can indulge in freshly caught seafood, prepared with a touch of local flair, alongside a selection of international dishes to cater to diverse palates.
Dining on board is a personalised experience, with options to enjoy meals under the stars or partake in a beachside barbecue on one of the idyllic islands. The crew ensures that every meal is a feast for the senses, with the freshest ingredients and careful attention to dietary preferences.
- Freshly Caught Seafood: Daily catches prepared to perfection.
- Beachside Barbecues: Enjoy meals on pristine shores.
- Personalised Menus: Tailored to dietary needs and preferences.
Derawan Archipelago: A Crew’s Expertise
One of the distinguishing features of a private crewed yacht charter in the Derawan region is the expertise offered by a seasoned crew. Their intimate knowledge of the waters and commitment to safety ensure a seamless and secure journey through the archipelago’s myriad attractions.
The crew includes experienced dive guides who are adept at lively coral reefs and introducing guests to the underwater wonders such as the stingless jellyfish of Kakaban and the manta rays of Sangalaki. Their familiarity with the local marine life offers guests an enriching diving experience, with opportunities to encounter species unique to the area.
| Role | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Captain | Navigation and route planning |
| Chef | Gastronomic experiences and local cuisine |
| Dive Guide | Marine life expertise and diving safety |
Set out on this exceptional journey with our plan your charter on WhatsApp service, ensuring every detail of your Derawan adventure is tailored to your preferences.