Diving & Snorkelling in Derawan

Discover Derawan Diving

Derawan Islands, located in East Kalimantan, are a prime destination for diving enthusiasts. With shallow, clear waters providing visibility up to 20 meters, these islands offer some of the most stunning underwater landscapes in Indonesia. The best diving season spans March to October, with peak visibility for manta rays and whale sharks from April to September.

Signature Diving Sites

Explore unique sites such as Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake, Sangalaki’s manta point, and Maratua’s lively reefs. Each location offers a distinct diving experience, from the gentle wonders of jellyfish in Kakaban to exhilarating drift dives in Maratua Pass.

• Kakaban Jellyfish Lake: Swim amongst stingless jellyfish in this unique landlocked lake. Fins and sunscreen are prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Sangalaki Manta Point: Observe striking manta rays in their natural habitat, best visited between April and September.
• Maratua Atoll: Experience the thrill of drift diving in Maratua Pass, amidst rich marine life including sharks and pelagics.

Vessel Options

Our charters are operated by Komodo Luxury and offer a range of vessels to suit your needs:

• Dive Resort Boat: Accommodates up to 14 guests, perfect for day trips from nearby resorts.
• Liveaboard Yacht: Offers 5-7 cabins for 10-14 guests, designed for extensive diving expeditions.
• Private Charter: Exclusive whole-yacht charters include crew, chef, and dive guides, offering a bespoke diving experience.

Itinerary Highlights

What’s Included

• Private yacht charter with a dedicated crew
• Full board meals prepared by an onboard chef
• Professional dive guides and equipment
• Transfers from Berau to Derawan

Who It’s For

Ideal for intermediate to advanced divers, our charters cater to those seeking both adventure and luxury. If you an avid diver or a snorkeler, the Derawan Islands promise an unforgettable experience.

FAQs

How do I reach Derawan?

Fly to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, followed by a boat transfer to the Derawan Islands.

What is the best time to dive in Derawan?

The optimal diving season is from March to October, with peak conditions for mantas and whale sharks from April to September.

Do I need a diving certification?

A minimum of Open Water Diver certification is recommended, with Advanced Open Water preferred for certain challenging dives.

What is included in a private charter?

Private charters include a crew, chef, dive guides, and full board meals. Equipment and transfers are also included.

Local Culture and Community Engagement

Exploring Derawan on a private crewed yacht charter is not just about the stunning marine life and pristine waters; it also offers a chance to engage with the local culture and communities. The region is home to a variety of indigenous groups, each with their own unique traditions and stories. Taking the time to learn about the local way of life can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the area.

Guests on our charters often have opportunities to visit local villages and observe traditional practices. This can include witnessing cultural performances or participating in local crafts workshops. Such interactions not only enrich the visitor’s experience but also support local economies and contribute to cultural preservation.

• Visit local villages and markets
• Participate in traditional craft workshops
• Support local artisans by purchasing handmade goods

Gastronomic Experience Onboard

Dining aboard a private crewed yacht in Derawan is a culinary journey in itself. Our skilled chefs tailor menus to individual preferences, drawing inspiration from fresh local ingredients and traditional Indonesian cuisine. This ensures that each meal is not only delicious but also a reflection of the rich heritage of the region.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from casual al fresco breakfasts to elegant dinners under the stars. The chef is adept at accommodating dietary restrictions, ensuring that every guest has a memorable gastronomic experience. Additionally, the yacht’s crew often arranges for seafood barbecues on secluded beaches, providing a unique opportunity to dine nature.

• Fresh, locally sourced ingredients
• Customised menus to suit dietary needs
• Beachfront seafood barbecues

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Derawan’s lively ecosystem is a haven for marine life, but it also requires dedicated conservation efforts to maintain its pristine condition. Our private yacht charters are committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that the impact on the environment is minimised. This commitment is reflected in our adherence to eco-friendly policies and support for local conservation initiatives.

Guests are encouraged to participate in conservation activities, such as beach clean-ups and educational sessions on marine ecology. Moreover, the yacht’s crew is trained in sustainable practices, including waste management and the use of environmentally friendly products, to ensure that the natural beauty of Derawan is preserved for future generations.

Customised Itineraries and Dive Experiences

When chartering a private yacht across Derawan, guests have the unique opportunity to tailor their itinerary to match their interests and skill levels. If you an experienced diver or a snorkelling enthusiast, our team will work with you to design the perfect journey through this marine paradise.

Consider incorporating a mix of the following when planning your charter itinerary:

• Advanced Dive Sites: Explore challenging locations like Maratua atoll, known for its channels and pelagic encounters.
• Beginner-Friendly Spots: Sites such as Derawan Island offer gentle currents and lively coral gardens perfect for less experienced divers.
• Unique Marine Interactions: Visit Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake for a surreal experience or dive with the striking manta rays at Sangalaki.
• Cultural Shore Excursions: Include visits to local fishing villages to gain insight into traditional ways of life.

Onboard Amenities and Personalised Service

The private crewed yachts in Derawan come equipped with a range of amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay. Each vessel offers spacious cabins with en-suite facilities, providing a retreat after a day of adventure.

Guests can enjoy the following amenities and services during their charter:

• Personal Chef: Savour culinary delights prepared by a dedicated chef, featuring local and international cuisine tailored to your preferences.
• Dive Equipment: State-of-the-art dive gear is available onboard, ensuring safety and convenience for all diving activities.
• Leisure Facilities: Relax in communal areas, which may include sun decks, lounges, and entertainment systems for unwinding after a day in the water.
• Dedicated Crew: A professional team, including dive guides, ensures a seamless and enriching experience throughout your journey.

Sustainable Tourism Practices

Our commitment to sustainable tourism in Derawan is integral to our operations. We strive to minimize our environmental impact and promote conservation efforts in collaboration with local communities and authorities.

Key sustainable practices include:

• Eco-Friendly Operations: Implementation of waste management systems and responsible fuel consumption to reduce ecological footprints.
• Community Engagement: Partnering with local communities to support conservation initiatives and promote cultural understanding.
• Marine Conservation Education: Providing guests with educational materials and briefings on the region’s delicate ecosystems and the importance of marine preservation.

By choosing a private crewed yacht charter in Derawan, guests contribute to the preservation of this extraordinary region, ensuring its wonders can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Wildlife and Marine Life Encounters

Set out on a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan presents an extraordinary opportunity to witness some of the world’s most captivating wildlife and marine life. The region is renowned for its biodiversity, offering encounters with creatures both below and above the water. Notably, the area is home to the striking manta rays, best observed between April and September. These gentle giants can often be seen gliding gracefully through the waters at Sangalaki Manta Point.

For those fascinated by unique marine environments, Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake offers a rare chance to swim among millions of harmless jellyfish. This phenomenon is one of only a few in the world, making it a must-visit for any marine enthusiast. Additionally, the region’s lively coral reefs are teeming with life, including turtles around Derawan and the potential to spot Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks, particularly during the months of April to September.

• Manta Ray Encounters: Best visibility from April to September at Sangalaki.
• Stingless Jellyfish Lake: Year-round access at Kakaban.
• Turtle Nesting: Frequent sightings around Derawan.
• Whale Shark Sightings: Optimal from April to September at Kakaban jellyfish lake.

Practical Travel Information

Travelling to Derawan for a yacht charter adventure requires some planning to ensure a seamless experience. The recommended starting point is via Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a sea transfer can take you to Waisai, where many charters commence. An alternative starting point for many itineraries is the port city of Berau, which serves as a hub for liveaboard departures.

Visitors should be aware of the local conservation fee, which is a small levy applicable to foreign tourists. This fee contributes to the preservation of the unique marine environments and supports local conservation efforts. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from March to October, when weather conditions are most favourable for diving and snorkelling.

For more information or to plan your charter on WhatsApp, contact us today.