Explore the captivating world of Derawan snorkelling, where nature’s wonders await in the pristine waters of East Kalimantan. Charter a private yacht and discover the region’s most intriguing marine life, from stingless jellyfish to striking manta rays.
Derawan Snorkelling: Starting point to Marine Wonders
Derawan Islands, an archipelago located off the coast of East Kalimantan, Indonesia, offers an exceptional aquatic experience. Begin your journey by flying to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Berau, followed by a sea transfer to Waisai. For those seeking an alternative, many charters embark from Berau, a renowned hub for marine explorations.
Key Snorkelling Sites & Concrete Figures
Derawan Islands boast several snorkelling sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the lively marine ecosystem. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
| Site | Signature Feature | Concrete Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Kakaban Island | Stingless jellyfish lake | Day-tour: IDR 1,120,000 – 2,400,000 (~$70–$150) + lake fee; 20–30 min speedboat from Sangalaki, 45–60 min from Maratua/Derawan; open year-round |
| Sangalaki | Manta rays & turtles | Manta visibility April–September; dry season March–October with calm seas |
| Maratua Atoll | Reef diversity & pass drift dives | Depth: 15–35m; strong currents in Maratua pass; 2–3 hour speedboat from Tanjung Batu or flight to Maratua airport |
| Derawan Turtles Place | Green & hawksbill turtles | Common encounters; visibility often >20m |
| Nabucco | Remote reef exploration | Home to Nabucco Island Resort, Nunukan Island Resort, Virgin Cocoa Resort |
Best Season & Conservation Details
The best time to enjoy Derawan snorkelling is from March to October, coinciding with the dry season and calm seas. Visibility often exceeds 20 meters, making it ideal for observing marine life in their natural habitat. While there is no fixed conservation fee, a small local levy may apply. Water temperatures remain a pleasant 28°C year-round.
Vessel Types & Itineraries
Set out on a voyage aboard our carefully selected vessels. Choose between a Dive resort boat for day trips or a Liveaboard for an extended journey. With a minimum stay of 4 nights, itineraries include:
- 4-night/4-day: Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban
- 7-night/7-day: Dive liveaboard cruise
Our private yacht charters are priced per night, inclusive of crew, chef, and dive guides, ensuring a luxurious experience tailored to your desires. For more information on the diverse offerings, visit our Derawan Island Tour page.
Access & Charters (Flag Uncertainty)
While Kalimarau (BEJ) in Berau serves as the primary starting point, some charters may operate from Waisai or Berau. It’s advisable to verify current embarkation points when planning your trip. For day excursions, explore our options at Derawan Island Tour Daytrips.
2027 Note: Planning Your Derawan Adventure
As the popularity of Derawan Islands continues to grow, ensuring a seamless journey has never been more crucial. Our team remains committed to providing exemplary service, maintaining the highest standards of comfort and safety for our discerning guests.
Begin Your Journey
Charter: What to Expect on Board
When you choose a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan, you are selecting a personalized experience tailored to your preferences. The vessels cater to small groups, offering privacy and exclusivity. Aboard the yacht, you will find amenities designed for comfort and convenience, ensuring your journey is as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
The crewed yachts available for charter in Derawan are well-equipped with modern facilities. These typically include air-conditioned cabins, en-suite bathrooms, and spacious decks for relaxation and observation. The onboard crew, consisting of a captain, chef, and dive guides, work diligently to provide an exceptional service, catering to your culinary tastes and snorkelling or diving preferences.
- Air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms
- Personal chef catering to dietary requirements
- Dive guides for snorkelling and diving excursions
- Spacious decks for sunbathing and stargazing
Exploring Marine Biodiversity: A Diver’s Paradise
Derawan is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, offering diving enthusiasts an opportunity to explore some of the most lively underwater ecosystems in the world. The region is home to diverse marine life, including manta rays, green turtles, and whale sharks, making it a must-visit destination for underwater adventurers.
Several dive sites around Derawan provide unique experiences. Sangalaki is famous for manta encounters, while Kakaban’s jellyfish lake offers a surreal snorkelling experience amidst stingless jellyfish. Maratua atoll is another prime location, known for its deep channels and pelagic species. These sites are accessible through the yacht charters, which often include dive guides to enhance your underwater exploration.
| Dive Site | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sangalaki | Manta rays |
| Kakaban | Stingless jellyfish lake |
| Maratua | Pelagic species and deep channels |
Cultural Encounters: Discovering Local Traditions
A yacht charter around Derawan not only offers a journey through stunning marine landscapes but also an opportunity to engage with the local culture. The islands are inhabited by communities with rich traditions and a unique way of life, providing an enriching cultural experience for visitors.
During your yacht charter, you can arrange visits to local villages to learn about their customs and daily life. Engage with the locals to understand their relationship with the sea and how they contribute to the conservation efforts in the region. These cultural encounters add depth to your voyage, offering insights into the heritage of the islands and the people who call them home.
- Visit traditional villages
- Learn about local customs and traditions
- Understand the community’s role in marine conservation
Dining Aboard: Culinary Experiences on a Private Yacht Charter
One of the highlights of a private crewed yacht charter across Derawan is the exceptional dining experience offered on board. With a dedicated chef at your service, you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights tailored to your preferences. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients are the cornerstone of the menu, ensuring that every meal is both delicious and reflective of the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Expect a fusion of traditional Indonesian dishes and international favourites, artfully prepared to suit your tastes. From freshly caught seafood to tropical fruits, each dish is crafted to provide a memorable dining experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Derawan Islands. If you choose to dine al fresco on the deck under the stars or enjoy a more formal setting in the yacht’s dining area, the culinary team ensures a personalised and exquisite dining journey.
- Breakfast: Freshly baked pastries, tropical fruit platters, and a selection of eggs cooked to order.
- Lunch: Light yet satisfying options such as grilled fish, salads, and traditional Indonesian satay.
- Dinner: A three-course meal featuring local specialties like rendang and sambal prawns, complemented by international dishes.
Photography Opportunities: Capturing the Essence of Derawan
The Derawan Islands offer a spectacular setting for photography enthusiasts, with opportunities to capture the lively marine life, striking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. A private crewed yacht charter provides the perfect platform to explore these photographic wonders at your own pace.
With the flexibility to tailor your itinerary, you can ensure ample time at key locations renowned for their visual splendour. The turquoise waters of Kakaban Lake, filled with stingless jellyfish, present a unique photographic challenge, while the colourful corals and diverse marine species at Maratua Atoll and Sangalaki Manta Point offer endless underwater photography possibilities. On land, the traditional villages provide a glimpse into the local culture, perfect for capturing the essence of life in the Derawan Islands.
To make the most of your photography experience, consider the following tips:
- Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural lighting for photography.
- Equipment: A waterproof camera is essential for underwater photography, while a wide-angle lens captures expansive landscapes.
- Guidance: Leverage the crew’s local knowledge to find the best spots and times for capturing iconic images.
To explore the enchanting waters of Derawan and its surrounding islands, plan your charter on WhatsApp today. Set out on an unforgettable adventure, where the wonders of the ocean await your discovery.