How to get to the Derawan Islands for your yacht trip

Getting to the Derawan Islands involves multiple travel options, primarily through Balikpapan or Berau. Here’s how to reach this diving sanctuary:

Fly to Balikpapan or Berau.
Take a domestic flight to Berau if arriving in Balikpapan.
Book a speedboat to the islands from Berau.

Overview of the Derawan Islands

How to get to the Derawan Islands for your yacht trip

The Derawan Islands are part of Indonesia’s East Kalimantan province, known for their rich marine biodiversity and exceptional diving opportunities. The islands are a popular destination for both novice and experienced divers, offering a variety of dive sites, vibrant coral reefs, and unique marine life. With luxury yacht charters available, travelers can explore multiple islands and enjoy tailored itineraries.

Step-by-Step Travel Guide to the Derawan Islands

1. Plan Your Journey to Indonesia

Before heading to the Derawan Islands, you will need to book your flights to Indonesia. The most common entry points are Jakarta (the capital) and Bali. Once in Indonesia, your next step will involve traveling to East Kalimantan.

2. Fly to Balikpapan or Berau

Balikpapan is the main gateway to East Kalimantan. Domestic airlines offer regular flights from major cities like Jakarta and Bali to Balikpapan. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Berau, which is closer to the Derawan Islands. Here are some airlines to consider:

Garuda Indonesia
Lion Air
Citilink

Flight times vary, but expect a journey of approximately 2-3 hours from Jakarta to Balikpapan or 1-2 hours from Bali to Balikpapan. If you choose to fly to Berau, the flight duration is typically shorter, around 1-1.5 hours from Balikpapan.

3. Transfer to Berau

If you land in Balikpapan, you will need to take a domestic flight to Berau. Flight times from Balikpapan to Berau are about 1 hour. It’s advisable to book this flight in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

4. Speedboat Transfer to Derawan Islands

Upon arriving in Berau, you can take a speedboat to the Derawan Islands. The boat ride typically takes around 20-30 minutes. Speedboats can be arranged through local operators, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during high season.

5. Consider Your Travel Seasons

The best time to visit the Derawan Islands is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, visibility for diving is optimal, and marine life is more active. Here are some considerations for your travel plans:

Peak season: June to September
Shoulder season: April to May and October
Off-season: November to March (may have rough seas and reduced visibility)

Alternative Routes and Packages

For travelers looking for a more scenic route, consider booking a yacht charter that includes a stop at the Derawan Islands as part of a broader itinerary. This option allows for island-hopping and diving experiences at multiple locations, including Raja Ampat and Komodo National Park. You can compare packages that include these destinations for a comprehensive diving experience.

What to Expect Upon Arrival

The Derawan Islands are composed of several islands, including Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki, and Kakaban, each offering unique experiences. Upon arrival, you can expect:

Warm temperatures averaging 28-30°C (82-86°F) year-round.
Access to luxury accommodations ranging from beach resorts to yacht charters.
Numerous diving sites with diverse marine ecosystems, including turtles, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a smooth trip to the Derawan Islands, consider the following tips:

Book flights and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
Pack appropriately for diving, including wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and underwater cameras.
Stay informed about local weather conditions and sea conditions, particularly in off-peak seasons.

Navigating Your Journey to the Derawan Islands

Your yacht adventure to the Derawan Islands starts with selecting the right charter service. Choose one that aligns with your itinerary, whether it’s a luxury yacht, a diving expedition, or an island-hopping tour. These options ensure you explore Indonesia’s vibrant marine biodiversity at your own pace.

Don’t forget to consult Derawan Yacht for detailed trip planning insights or check availability to secure your ideal travel dates.

A Practical Airport-to-Island Transfer Timeline for Derawan

Upon landing at Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Tanjung Redeb, your journey to the Derawan Islands begins. The airport serves as the main gateway for divers and travelers eager to explore the rich marine life of this Indonesian archipelago. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you’ll begin a road transfer to Tanjung Batu port. This drive typically takes around 2 hours, passing through the scenic landscapes of East Kalimantan. The road is generally well-maintained but can be subject to local traffic conditions, so it’s wise to plan for some buffer time.

Once you arrive at Tanjung Batu, a speedboat transfer awaits to whisk you away to Derawan Island. This leg of the journey takes approximately 25 minutes across the calm, turquoise waters. The speedboat ride offers a preview of the striking marine environment, with the possibility of spotting dolphins or even a sea turtle surfacing. It’s advisable to arrange your transfers in advance to ensure a seamless transition from land to sea. The total travel time from Kalimarau Airport to Derawan Island is around 3 hours, making it a relatively straightforward journey to this remote sanctuary.

Flight to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ): Plan for early morning arrivals to maximize daylight travel.
Road transfer to Tanjung Batu: Approximately 2 hours, costing around Rp 500,000 for a van.
Speedboat to Derawan Island: 25 minutes, with local boat fares around Rp 250,000.
Pre-book transfers: Ensure smooth logistics by coordinating with local operators ahead of time.

Connecting Flights, Baggage and Arrival-Day Logistics for Derawan

When planning your yacht trip to the Derawan Islands, the first step is to secure a flight into Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Tanjung Redeb, Berau. This airport serves as the main gateway to the islands. Starting January 4, 2026, Wings Air offers flights from Maratua to Berau on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Once you land, expect a road transfer to Tanjung Batu, where a speedboat will take you to Derawan Island in about 25 minutes. The entire journey from the airport to the island typically takes around three hours, so plan your flights accordingly to ensure a smooth arrival.

When packing for your trip, consider the baggage requirements for your connecting flights. If you’re bringing dive gear, check with your airline about their policies on sports equipment to avoid any surprises at the airport. The warm equatorial seas around Derawan maintain a temperature of 28-30°C year-round, so a 3mm shorty or rash guard should suffice for most diving activities. With the diverse marine life, including green turtles and manta rays, you’ll want to be well-prepared to explore the underwater wonders of the region.

On the day of your arrival, it’s crucial to coordinate the timing of your speedboat transfer with daylight hours, as navigating the waters can be challenging in the dark. Ensure you have enough cash on hand, as local transfer costs are approximately Rp 500,000 for a van and Rp 250,000 for a boat. ATMs may not be readily available on the islands. Consider adding a buffer day to your itinerary to account for any unexpected delays, giving you peace of mind and flexibility in your travel plans.

Check airline policies on dive gear as baggage to avoid extra fees.
Plan your speedboat transfer during daylight for safer navigation.
Carry sufficient cash for local transfers and expenses, as ATMs are scarce.
Include a buffer day in your schedule to accommodate potential delays.
Pack a 3mm shorty or rash guard for the warm 28-30°C waters.