Discover Derawan with your family, from the stingless jellyfish at Kakaban to the striking mantas of Sangalaki. Charter a luxury yacht for an unforgettable 2026/2027 family escape.
Derawan Family: A Luxurious Escape
The Derawan Islands offer a distinctive blend of natural wonder and luxury, making it an ideal destination for families seeking an exclusive holiday experience. From the mesmerising stingless jellyfish lake at Kakaban to the gentle giants at Sangalaki manta point, these islands promise unforgettable memories for all ages. Chartering a private yacht ensures a seamless journey through this aquatic paradise, perfect for families in 2026/2027.
Access & Seamless Transfers
Reaching the Derawan Islands is a straightforward affair, ensuring your journey is as effortless as the destination is enchanting. Begin your adventure by flying to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, East Kalimantan. From there, a comfortable 2–3 hour land transfer takes you to Tanjung Batu Port, followed by a swift 30–45 minute speedboat ride to the islands. For those considering an extended itinerary, charters often embark from Berau, with sea transfers to Waisai available.
Your Itinerary Awaits
- 4-Night / 4-Day Itinerary: Explore the highlights including Derawan, Maratua, and Kakaban, each offering unique encounters from turtles to manta rays.
- 7-Night / 7-Day Liveaboard: Dive deeper into a full underwater experience with a dedicated crew and guide.
Family-Friendly Highlights
Each island within the Derawan archipelago offers its own unique allure. The Marine Turtle Conservation on Sangalaki provides an educational and interactive experience, enlightening children and adults alike about the importance of marine conservation. The islet-hopping opportunities present stunning vistas and untouched beaches, all accessible via private yacht or speedboat.
Seasonal Splendour
The optimal time to explore Derawan is from March to October, coinciding with the region’s dry season. This period offers clear waters and excellent visibility, especially for viewing the enigmatic manta rays and whale sharks. The stingless jellyfish lake is a year-round attraction, ensuring that even off-peak visits are rewarded with wonder.
Named Vessels & Tailored Experiences
Choose from our meticulously maintained vessels for your charter:
| Vessel Type | Length | Cabins | Guests | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dive Resort Boat | 12–20 m | Day-use cabins | Up to 14 | Day trips, family snorkeling |
| Liveaboard | 25–35 m | 5–7 cabins | 10–14 | 7-night dive liveaboard |
With options such as our Liveaboard, families can enjoy a fully crewed experience with a chef and dive guides, ensuring every need is catered to.
2027 Note
Marine Life Encounters
The Derawan Islands are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, offering families a unique opportunity to experience close encounters with a variety of sea creatures. The region is celebrated for its manta rays, particularly around Sangalaki, where these striking creatures can be observed gliding gracefully through the water. April to September offers the best visibility for manta sightings, enhancing the overall experience.
For those interested in swimming with whale sharks, Kakaban jellyfish lake is the perfect location. Known for its population of gently-natured whale sharks, this area presents an exhilarating opportunity for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The best time to witness these magnificent creatures is between April and September.
- Manta Rays: Best visibility from April to September at Sangalaki.
- Whale Sharks: Frequent sightings at Kakaban jellyfish lake from April to September.
- Stingless Jellyfish: Year-round in Kakaban Lake.
Cultural Experiences and Local Interactions
A yacht charter in Derawan is not solely about marine adventures; it also provides a chance to immerse yourself in local culture. Visiting local communities on islands such as Derawan and Maratua allows families to engage with indigenous cultures and learn about traditional ways of life. Interactions with local fishing communities are particularly enriching, offering insights into sustainable fishing practices and local customs.
Children can enjoy educational activities through guided tours that explain the significance of these practices in conserving marine biodiversity. The warmth and hospitality of the local people add a meaningful layer to the yacht charter experience, making it both educational and memorable for the entire family.
| Island | Cultural Highlight |
|---|---|
| Derawan | Local fishing customs |
| Maratua | Indigenous village tours |
Gastronomic Delights Onboard
Dining aboard your private yacht charter in Derawan is a culinary journey in itself. Each vessel comes equipped with a dedicated chef who crafts menus tailored to your family’s preferences, incorporating fresh, local ingredients. The emphasis is on Indonesian cuisine, with an array of dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
For families with specific dietary requirements, menus can be adjusted to ensure everyone enjoys a delectable dining experience. Whether savouring freshly caught seafood or indulging in tropical fruits, the onboard dining experience is designed to delight the palate and provide a taste of the archipelago’s diverse flavours.
- Chef Onboard: Customised menus tailored to dietary preferences.
- Local Ingredients: Fresh seafood and tropical produce.
- Culinary Heritage: Focus on traditional Indonesian dishes.
Exclusive Onboard Amenities and Services
When chartering a private yacht across Derawan, guests can expect an array of exclusive amenities designed to enhance their journey. Each vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for families.
Onboard, you will find spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms, providing a sanctuary of luxury and privacy. The communal areas, including a sun deck and lounge, offer perfect spots for relaxation and socialising amidst the stunning seascapes of Derawan. The yachts also feature modern entertainment systems, including satellite TV and Wi-Fi, keeping everyone connected and entertained.
- Modern air-conditioned cabins with en-suite facilities
- Sun deck and indoor lounge areas
- Onboard chef offering tailored culinary experiences
- Wi-Fi and satellite TV for entertainment
- Dedicated dive equipment and dive guides
Environmental Commitment and Conservation Efforts
Derawan Island Tour by Komodo Luxury is deeply committed to environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. This dedication is evident in their operations and interactions with the pristine ecosystems of the region.
The crew ensures eco-friendly practices are adhered to on all charters. Waste management protocols are strictly followed to minimise environmental impact, and the use of single-use plastics is discouraged. The yacht’s operations are designed to leave minimal footprints, ensuring the preservation of the natural beauty for future generations.
In collaboration with local communities and conservation organisations, the tour supports projects aimed at protecting marine life and habitats. Guests are encouraged to participate in educational briefings about the local ecosystems and wildlife, promoting awareness and understanding.
| Conservation Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Waste Management | Strict protocols to reduce environmental impact |
| Community Collaboration | Partnerships with local conservation projects |
| Environmental Briefings | Educational sessions for guests |
Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability Initiatives
Komodo Luxury is committed to maintaining the pristine condition of Derawan and its surrounding waters. As part of our environmental responsibility, we adhere to sustainable practices that ensure minimal impact on the marine ecosystem. Our crew is trained in eco-friendly operations, including waste management and reduced plastic use, to help preserve the natural beauty of the region.
In partnership with local conservation groups, we support initiatives aimed at protecting marine life and habitats. Guests are encouraged to participate in activities that promote conservation awareness, such as beach clean-ups and educational sessions on marine biodiversity. These efforts contribute to the preservation of Derawan’s unique underwater environment for future generations.
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our vessels, which are equipped with energy-efficient technologies to reduce carbon emissions. Guests can enjoy their charter with the assurance that they are contributing to the preservation of this extraordinary destination.
Unique Itinerary Options and Customisation
Our private crewed yacht charters offer a range of itinerary options, allowing guests to tailor their voyage to suit personal interests and preferences. If you keen on diving, snorkelling, or cultural exploration, our itineraries are designed to provide a bespoke experience.
Guests can choose from several curated routes, including the 4-night Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban itinerary, which offers a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. For those passionate about diving, the 7-night dive liveaboard provides extended access to some of the most renowned dive sites in the region, such as the Maratua atoll and Sangalaki manta point.
- 4-night Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban: Ideal for families and those seeking a blend of activities.
- 7-night Dive Liveaboard: Perfect for avid divers and underwater photographers.
For guests seeking a bespoke experience, our team is available to customise itineraries, ensuring that each charter meets the specific desires of our guests. This flexibility ensures a truly personalised voyage across the enchanting waters of Derawan and Derawan.
As you plan for 2026/2027, consider the flexibility of our charters that allow for personalised itineraries tailored to your family’s interests. The plan your charter on WhatsApp and let our team curate an unforgettable voyage through Indonesia’s hidden waters.