Explore the luxury Derawan archipelago by flying to Kalimarau Airport, followed by a seamless land and sea transfer. Discover manta rays, stingless jellyfish, and pristine beaches in this exclusive paradise.
Getting to Derawan
For the discerning traveller seeking a blend of adventure and luxury, Derawan is a pristine destination not to be missed. Access is both straightforward and delightful, beginning with a flight 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 30–45 minute speedboat ride to the idyllic Derawan Island.
Seasonal Highlights
The best time to visit Derawan spans from March to October, aligning with the dry season. Within this window, April to September offers optimal visibility for encounters with the striking manta rays and the awe-inspiring Kakaban jellyfish lake whale sharks. The stingless jellyfish lake on Kakaban is a year-round spectacle, promising an unforgettable swim with these unique creatures.
Luxury Charter Options
Consider enhancing your experience by opting for a private yacht charter. The fleet includes the Liveaboard vessel, boasting 25–35 metres in length, 5–7 cabins, and accommodating 10–14 guests. This option is perfect for multiday explorations of the archipelago’s hidden wonders, with a dedicated crew, chef, and dive guides at your disposal.
Vessel Specifications
| Type | Length | Cabins | Guests | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dive resort boat | 12–20 mm | Day-use cabins | Up to 14 | Day trips |
| Liveaboard | 25–35 mm | 5–7 cabins | 10–14 | Multi-day |
Exclusive Itineraries
Choose from a variety of itineraries tailored to your preferences. A 4-night/4-day journey covers Derawan, Maratua, and Kakaban, while a 7-night dive liveaboard offers a more immersive exploration with extended time at each site.
- 4-night/4-day itinerary: Derawan–Maratua–Kakaban
- 7-night liveaboard: In-depth exploration with diving opportunities
Entry Fees and Conservation
While the local conservation fee is typically minimal, guests should be prepared for a modest Rp 20,000 per person (~$1.30 USD) entry fee for the Kakaban Jellyfish Lake. This fee contributes to the preservation of these unique ecosystems.
2027 Note
As of 2027, travel logistics and conservation efforts remain a priority to ensure the sustainability of Derawan’s natural wonders. All figures and itineraries are current, reflecting the latest in luxury travel standards.
Plan Your Exclusive Derawan Charter
Local Culture and Community Engagement
Engaging with the local culture of Derawan and its surrounding islands offers a unique opportunity to enrich your yachting experience. The islands are home to communities with rich traditions and a deep connection to the sea. Guests can explore local villages, where traditional lifestyles are maintained through fishing and artisanal crafts.
To foster meaningful connections, our charters offer opportunities to participate in community-led activities. These may include guided tours of villages, visits to local markets, and workshops where guests can learn traditional weaving techniques or the art of crafting wooden boats. Engaging with locals not only enhances your travel experience but also supports the community economically.
- Village Tours: Discover the daily life and traditions of Derawan’s inhabitants.
- Craft Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions led by local artisans.
- Market Visits: Explore the lively local markets and sample regional delicacies.
Culinary Experiences on Board
Dining aboard a private yacht in Derawan is an exquisite affair, where guests can savour the flavours of both Indonesian and international cuisines, meticulously prepared by skilled on-board chefs. The culinary team sources fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a delightful fusion of taste and culture.
Guests can enjoy bespoke menus tailored to their preferences, with options ranging from freshly caught seafood to traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay. Dining can be as formal or as casual as desired, whether it’s a romantic dinner on the deck under the stars or a casual lunch with panoramic ocean views.
- Custom Menus: Tailored to dietary preferences and featuring both local and international dishes.
- Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day, expertly prepared by the chef.
- Dining Settings: Choose from indoor elegance or al fresco dining with ocean vistas.
Environmental Responsibility and Conservation Efforts
As stewards of the marine environment, we are committed to sustainable practices and supporting conservation efforts in Derawan. The region’s biodiversity is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations, and our operations reflect this commitment.
Our yachts adhere to strict environmental guidelines, including waste management protocols and the use of eco-friendly products. We also work closely with local conservation organisations to support initiatives such as reef restoration and the protection of endangered species like turtles and manta rays. Guests can participate in conservation activities, gaining insight into the challenges and successes of preserving these vital ecosystems.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Commitment to reducing environmental impact through sustainable operations.
- Conservation Partnerships: Collaborations with local organisations for marine protection.
- Guest Involvement: Opportunities to engage in conservation activities and learn about marine ecosystems.
Onboard Experiences and Activities
Aboard your private crewed yacht charter in Derawan, a wealth of experiences awaits, tailored to suit both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation. Each vessel is equipped to offer a wide range of activities, ensuring an unforgettable journey through one of Indonesia’s most captivating marine environments.
For diving enthusiasts, the charter provides exceptional access to some of the world’s most renowned dive sites, including the chance to explore lively coral gardens and encounter diverse marine life. Dive guides, well-versed in the local waters, ensure safe and informative excursions tailored to your experience level.
- Snorkelling in pristine waters
- Guided diving expeditions
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Beach excursions and picnics
Those preferring a more leisurely pace can indulge in sunbathing on deck, enjoying the panoramic views of the archipelago while the onboard chef prepares exquisite meals featuring local and international cuisine. The onboard service ensures every need is catered for, creating a truly bespoke experience.
Navigating Local Regulations and Conservation Efforts
Navigating the waters of Derawan involves adhering to local regulations designed to preserve the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. It is essential for charter guests to be aware of these guidelines, which help ensure the sustainable enjoyment of these unique ecosystems.
While there is no formal conservation fee for foreign visitors, small local levies may apply in certain areas. These contributions support community-led conservation initiatives and infrastructure improvements, facilitating the ongoing protection of the environment.
Charter guests are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts by respecting marine life and coral formations during activities such as diving and snorkelling. The crew provides briefings on responsible tourism practices, helping minimise impact and preserve the natural habitat for future generations. By embracing these guidelines, guests contribute to the preservation of Derawan’s pristine landscapes.
Onboard Activities and Amenities
The experience aboard a Derawan Yacht charter is designed to cater to all your leisure and adventure desires. If you a diving enthusiast or prefer a more leisurely pace, there’s something for every guest. Our yachts are equipped with state-of-the-art diving facilities, ensuring both safety and comfort as you explore the underwater wonders of Derawan.
For those who prefer to stay above water, enjoy a range of onboard activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. Relaxation is also central to our charters, with spacious sun decks perfect for soaking up the tropical sun and a library of books and films for quiet evenings.
- State-of-the-art diving and snorkelling gear
- Kayaks and paddleboards available
- Spacious sun decks and lounge areas
- Library with books and films
- Wi-Fi connectivity where coverage allows
Wildlife Encounters and Nature Exploration
Derawan’s diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems offer a plethora of wildlife encounters for nature enthusiasts. During your charter, you can witness the magnificent spectacle of manta rays gliding through the waters at Sangalaki, or swim alongside the gentle whale sharks of Kakaban jellyfish lake, particularly visible from April to September.
On land, the islands are home to unique fauna, including the endemic coconut crabs and a variety of bird species. Kakaban Island’s stingless jellyfish lake provides a surreal experience, where you can safely swim amongst thousands of non-stinging jellyfish.
| Wildlife Encounter | Best Time |
|---|---|
| Manta Rays at Sangalaki | April to September |
| Whale Sharks at Kakaban jellyfish lake | April to September |
| Stingless Jellyfish at Kakaban | Year-round |
These encounters are smoothly integrated into our itineraries, ensuring guests have ample opportunities to marvel at the incredible biodiversity of the Derawan Archipelago.
For an unforgettable journey through the Derawan archipelago, consider a bespoke charter experience. Engage directly with our team to plan your charter on WhatsApp and begin your adventure in style.