The Derawan Island Tour offers a private, crewed yacht charter experience through East Kalimantan’s Derawan Archipelago. Operated by Komodo Luxury, guests explore iconic destinations such as Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake and Maratua Atoll with a dedicated team including crew, chef, and dive guides.
Derawan Island Tour: An Overview
Set against the backdrop of the remote and pristine Derawan Archipelago, this private crewed yacht charter provides an exceptional expedition, expertly curated by Komodo Luxury. With a focus on both luxury and ecological sensitivity, our tours highlight the region’s unique marine biodiversity and cultural richness.
How It Works & What’s Included
- Whole-yacht private charter: Priced per night, inclusive of crew, a chef, and dive guides.
- Minimum duration: 4 nights (4-day itinerary); 7-night options for extended dive liveaboards.
- Vessel types: Dive resort boats (12–20 meters, day-use cabins) and liveaboards (25–35 meters, 5–7 cabins).
- Itineraries: Choose from a 4-night Derawan → Maratua → Kakaban tour or a comprehensive 7-night dive liveaboard.
What’s Included
- Private yacht charter with full crew.
- Onboard chef preparing gourmet meals.
- Experienced dive guides.
- Exclusive access to key sites like Kakaban and Maratua.
- Snorkeling and diving equipment.
Key Sites & Signature Experiences
| Site | Feature |
|---|---|
| Kakaban Island | Stingless jellyfish lake, accessible year-round. |
| Maratua Atoll | Turtle nesting and viewing of “Turtle Traffic”. |
| Sangalaki Island | Manta point and turtle conservation. |
| Derawan | Main island with accommodations. |
| Nabucco | Additional snorkeling and diving site. |
Starting point & Transfer Details
The journey to Derawan begins with a flight to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. A land transfer of approximately three hours takes you to Tanjung Batu Port, followed by a 30–45 minute speedboat ride to Derawan.
Best Season & Conservation
The optimal time for visiting is between March and October, with peak manta visibility from April to September. The Kakaban jellyfish lake is accessible year-round, offering a unique experience with its non-lethal stingless jellyfish.
Who It’s For
This tour caters to discerning travelers seeking an exclusive marine adventure, diving enthusiasts wanting to explore Indonesia’s rich underwater landscapes, and anyone interested in marine conservation and luxury travel.
Plan Your Visit
Our tours are crafted to provide the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. If you opt for a short stay or an extensive dive itinerary, we ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. Explore our packages or learn more about private charters.
Additional Information
For luxury options, consider our partner offerings at Luxury Derawan. For more on our fleet, visit our fleet page.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Derawan? The best time is March to October, with manta rays and whale sharks most visible between April and September.
How do I get to Derawan? Fly to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ), then transfer by land to Tanjung Batu Port and by sea to Derawan.
What is included in the charter? The price includes the yacht hire, crew, chef, dive guides, and use of snorkeling/diving equipment.
What are the accommodation options? Choose between dive resort boats with day-use cabins or liveaboards with full accommodations.
Dining Aboard: Culinary Experiences at Sea
One of the highlights of a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan is the exceptional dining experience on board. Each yacht is equipped with a professional chef who prepares a range of dishes to suit your preferences, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If you prefer traditional Indonesian cuisine or international favourites, the chef caters to your specific tastes, ensuring every meal is a delightful affair.
In collaboration with the crew, the chef can also organise special dining experiences, such as a beach barbecue under the stars or a picnic on a secluded island. These unique settings offer a perfect backdrop to enjoy the culinary delights prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
- Fresh seafood from the surrounding waters
- Traditional Indonesian dishes
- Customised menus to suit dietary requirements
- Special dining events upon request
Onboard Amenities and Leisure Activities
Private crewed yacht charters in Derawan provide an exceptional level of comfort and entertainment, ensuring guests have a memorable voyage. Each vessel is equipped with a range of amenities designed to enhance your experience at sea. Enjoy sunbathing on the spacious decks, relax in the comfortable cabins, or unwind in the yacht’s communal living areas.
For those seeking adventure, a variety of leisure activities are available on board. From snorkelling and diving in the lively coral reefs to kayaking around the calm waters of the islands, the opportunities for exploration and relaxation are endless. The crew is always on hand to assist with equipment and provide guidance for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Sun decks and shaded lounges
- Snorkelling and diving equipment
- Kayaks and paddleboards
- Onboard entertainment systems
Custom Itineraries and Local Expertise
Choosing a private charter offers the distinct advantage of crafting a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests. If your focus is on diving, wildlife watching, or cultural exploration, the flexibility of a private yacht ensures you can chart the course that best suits your desires. With a minimum of four nights required for a charter, the possibilities for customisation are extensive.
The crew’s local expertise is invaluable in enhancing your journey. With an intimate knowledge of the Derawan archipelago, they can suggest hidden coves, lesser-known dive spots, and pristine beaches that may not feature on standard itineraries. This insider knowledge allows for a more immersive and personalised exploration of the region.
| Itinerary | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban | 4 nights, 4 days | Jellyfish Lake, Turtle Sanctuary |
| 7-Day Dive Liveaboard | 7 nights, 7 days | Multiple dive sites, including Manta Point |
Unique Wildlife Encounters in Derawan
The Derawan Archipelago is renowned for its rich biodiversity, offering unique wildlife encounters that are sure to captivate nature enthusiasts. The region is home to an array of marine species, including the striking manta rays frequently observed at Sangalaki Manta Point. These gentle giants are best seen from April to September, when the visibility is at its peak.
Beyond the mantas, the area boasts the enchanting Kakaban Island, famous for its stingless jellyfish lake. This rare phenomenon allows visitors to swim amidst thousands of jellyfish without fear of stings, providing an unforgettable experience that is available year-round. Additionally, the Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks, the largest fish on earth, can be spotted with better clarity from April to September.
- Manta Rays at Sangalaki: April–September best viewing
- Stingless Jellyfish at Kakaban: Available year-round
- Whale Sharks at Kakaban jellyfish lake: April–September best visibility
Custom Itineraries and Activities
Komodo Luxury offers bespoke itineraries, allowing guests to tailor their experience according to personal interests and time constraints. Whether it is diving, snorkelling, or cultural excursions, each journey is crafted to meet the preferences of the guests, ensuring a truly personalised adventure.
For those keen on diving, the 7-night dive liveaboard itinerary provides ample opportunities to explore the lively underwater world of Derawan. Alternatively, the 4-night itinerary takes guests on a journey through Derawan, Maratua, and Kakaban, offering a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. Onboard dive guides are available to assist divers of all skill levels, enhancing the overall experience.
| Itinerary | Duration | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban | 4 nights, 4 days | Jellyfish Lakes, Turtle Watching |
| Dive Liveaboard | 7 nights, 7 days | Comprehensive Diving Experience |
Cultural and Community Connections
Engaging with the local communities around the Derawan Archipelago offers a rewarding cultural dimension to the voyage. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the traditional lifestyles of the islanders and their efforts in marine conservation, which play a crucial role in the preservation of the area’s natural beauty.
Visits to local villages can be arranged, providing insight into the sustainable practices employed by the inhabitants and their relationship with the sea. Participating in community-led activities not only enriches the travel experience but also supports the local economy, fostering a meaningful connection between visitors and the residents of Derawan.
- Engage with local communities
- Learn about traditional practices and conservation efforts
- Support sustainable tourism and local economies
Environmental Impact and Sustainable Practices
Komodo Luxury is committed to minimising its environmental footprint while offering unforgettable experiences in the pristine waters of Derawan. Our private crewed yacht charters are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that our operations contribute positively to local ecosystems and communities. We adhere to responsible waste management protocols, such as recycling and reducing single-use plastics, and ensure all waste is disposed of responsibly.
Additionally, the yachts are equipped with advanced navigation and anchoring systems to prevent damage to coral reefs and marine life. Our onboard team is trained in eco-friendly practices and encourages guests to follow the same principles during their journey. By educating travellers on the importance of conservation, we aim to foster a deeper connection with the natural world and inspire responsible tourism.
- Responsible waste management and recycling
- Advanced anchoring systems to protect coral reefs
- Eco-friendly guest education programmes
Cultural Interactions and Local Communities
Engaging with the local communities is a key element of the Derawan Island Tour. Our charters offer guests the opportunity to visit nearby villages, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the indigenous Bajau and Dayak peoples. These cultural interactions are designed to be respectful and mutually beneficial, supporting community-led initiatives and sustainable tourism practices.
Guests may partake in locally guided tours, where they can learn about traditional fishing techniques, handicraft production, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. These interactions are not only educational but also help to support local economies by providing direct benefits to community enterprises.
Additionally, a portion of the charter fees contributes to local conservation projects and community development programmes, ensuring that tourism supports the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the region.
- Visits to Bajau and Dayak communities
- Participation in traditional activities
- Support for local conservation and development projects
Ready to explore the Derawan Archipelago like never before? Plan your charter on WhatsApp.