A boutique charter desk for the Derawan archipelago
Plan with us: read the definitive Derawan Yacht guide, compare our liveaboard packages and itineraries, and meet the phinisi fleet, boats and cabins. For routes, see Derawan destinations and routes; for budgets, the pricing and cost guide. Common questions are answered on our Derawan Yacht FAQ. When you are ready, enquire with the charter desk.
Welcome to Derawan Yacht, where voyages across the striking Derawan archipelago are quietly arranged with precision and care. As an independent editorial desk, not a call-centre, we pride ourselves on offering a bespoke service tailored to the discerning traveler. Our expertise spans the captivating islands of Derawan, Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki, providing an exclusive window into a world brimming with marine wonders.
Our boutique charter services are ideal for those who seek more than just a vacation. We cater to explorers who delight in the beauty of nature, relish in the tranquility of secluded beaches, and appreciate the thrill of discovering vibrant marine life in their natural habitats. Whether it’s a private charter or a meticulously planned phinisi liveaboard journey, each itinerary is crafted with your preferences in mind, ensuring an experience that is as unique as the waters you sail through.
The four islands, and what each is known for
The Derawan Islands are a sanctuary for marine enthusiasts, offering distinct experiences across its four signature islands. Each island holds its own charm and is renowned for specific natural wonders that attract visitors from around the globe.
- Derawan: Famous for its resident green sea turtles, which can be seen off the jetties and house reef daily.
- Maratua: Known as the “sea turtle capital,” this large atoll features dramatic reef slopes and drop-offs into the deep Makassar Strait.
- Kakaban: Home to the unique landlocked brackish Kakaban Lake, where snorkelers can swim among stingless jellyfish.
- Sangalaki: Renowned for its manta ray cleaning and feeding stations, as well as its green-turtle nesting and hatchery on the beach.
Each island offers a distinct encounter with nature, from swimming alongside manta rays to exploring the varied marine life on vibrant coral reefs. Together, they create a mosaic of experiences that are both enriching and singular.
Diving and snorkelling the Berau marine park
The Berau marine park is a wealth of biodiversity, boasting 460-507 coral species and around 870 reef-fish species. This underwater sanctuary offers a dynamic exploration ground for divers and snorkelers alike. From the graceful manta rays of Sangalaki to the thrilling drop-offs and reef sharks of Maratua, the marine life here is nothing short of spectacular.
For those seeking even more adventure, Whale Shark Point near Talisayan/Biduk-Biduk provides a chance to witness the gentle giants of the sea. Schools of barracuda and the occasional dugong or dolphin add to the wealth of marine encounters found in these waters. With water temperatures ranging from 28-30°C, a 3mm shorty or rash guard is more than adequate for comfort.
The Berau marine park caters to all levels of aquatic adventurers, from novice snorkelers to seasoned divers. Each excursion promises a unique perspective of the vibrant marine life that calls this protected area home, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.
Our boutique fleet: phinisi liveaboards and private speedboats
Our boutique fleet is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life while exploring the sweeping Derawan archipelago. Our phinisi liveaboards offer en-suite cabins, gourmet dining, and a professional crew dedicated to ensuring your journey is both comfortable and memorable.
For those preferring a more intimate experience, our private speedboat day transfers allow you to explore the islands at your own pace. Each vessel in our fleet is equipped with modern amenities and designed to provide the utmost comfort while you traverse these idyllic waters.
- En-suite cabins with panoramic views
- Gourmet dining experiences featuring local and international cuisine
- Professional crew providing personalized service
- Private speedboat transfers for tailored itineraries
Every detail of your voyage is considered, ensuring that your time in the Derawan archipelago is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether aboard a phinisi liveaboard or a private speedboat, our fleet promises a journey that is both luxurious and singular.
Itineraries: from a 3-day taste to a 7-night expedition
Begin your Derawan adventure with a choice of meticulously crafted itineraries that cater to both novice snorkelers and seasoned divers. From a brief yet enriching 3-day, 2-night sojourn to an immersive 7-night expedition, each itinerary is designed to showcase the sweeping beauty of the Derawan Islands. Picture yourself swimming with the resident green turtles off the jetties of Derawan, exploring the unique Kakaban Lake with its stingless jellyfish, encountering manta rays at Sangalaki, and diving along the dramatic walls of Maratua. An indicative pricing guide offers a “from” USD per night to help plan your journey.
Our offerings are as varied as the marine life you’ll encounter. Experience the elegance of a phinisi liveaboard, enjoy the convenience of speedboat day transfers, or consider a private charter with en-suite cabins. Each option promises a unique vantage point on this marine sanctuary. Here, we outline three sample itinerary shapes to inspire your journey:
- 3-day, 2-night: Derawan turtles, Kakaban Lake, Sangalaki mantas.
- 5-day, 4-night: Derawan, Kakaban, Sangalaki, Maratua walls.
- 7-night expedition: Comprehensive exploration of all four signature islands.
When to sail: seasons, visibility and the manta window
The dry months from March to November offer the best conditions for exploring the offshore wonders of the Derawan Islands. With crystal-clear waters, these months promise optimum visibility, making it ideal for uncovering the vibrant marine life around Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki. As November approaches, the wetter season begins, but it still presents excellent opportunities for island-hopping adventures.
During the November to January window, the waters remain calm, allowing for serene crossings to Sangalaki, where the manta rays congregate near the reefs. Water temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 28-30°C year-round, comfortable in nothing more than a 3mm shorty or a simple rash guard. This period invites intimate interactions with the manta rays as they visit their cleaning and feeding stations.
Getting to Derawan
Your journey to the Derawan Islands begins at Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Tanjung Redeb/Berau, the gateway to this marine wonderland. From there, a scenic road trip leads you to Tanjung Batu port, where a swift 25-minute speedboat ride whisks you to Derawan. In total, expect approximately three hours of seamless travel from the airport to the island, ensuring you arrive refreshed and ready for the days ahead.
The experience is about to become even more convenient with the introduction of Wings Air’s new Maratua-Berau route, set to launch on January 4, 2026, offering flights on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Our dedicated desk, embodying a more personal touch than a call centre, is here to quietly arrange all necessary transfers, ensuring a smooth transition to your yacht or speedboat charter.
Conservation, and a quiet word before you sail
As you plan this journey, it is worth keeping the conservation ethos that defines the Berau marine protected area. With 460-507 coral species and around 870 reef-fish species, this biodiversity hotspot requires our respect and care. Engage in responsible practices when observing green turtles and manta rays, ensuring your presence leaves no trace. Our low-impact charters are carefully considered to support this delicate ecosystem.
We invite you to speak with our knowledgeable charter desk to shape your private itinerary, tailored to your interests and schedule. With a boutique fleet at your disposal, your adventure in the Derawan Islands promises to be as enriching as it is responsible. Let us quietly arrange the details, allowing you to focus on the wonders that await beneath the waves.