Scuba diving in Derawan, Indonesia
Derawan is a unique experience for divers of all levels. With its crystal clear waters, rich marine life, and colorful coral reefs, it's a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Here's what you need to know about diving in Derawan:
Best scuba diving spots for experienced divers:
- Sangalaki Island: This site is known for its strong currents and deep drop-offs, making it ideal for advanced divers. Here, you can spot manta rays, barracudas, and other pelagic species.
- Derawan Island: This site offers a chance to see green sea turtles, eagle rays, and schools of colorful fish. It also features underwater caves and swim-throughs for more adventurous divers.
Best scuba diving spots for beginners:
- Maratua Island: With its calm waters and shallow reefs, Maratua Island is a great place for beginners to get their feet wet. You can spot clownfish, seahorses, and other colorful marine life here.
- Kakaban Island: This site is home to a unique jellyfish lake, where divers can swim among non-stinging jellyfish. It also has a shallow reef area for beginners to explore.
Marine life:
Derawan is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, sharks, octopuses, and a variety of fish species. The waters are also known for their vibrant coral reefs, which are home to colorful hard and soft corals.
Dive conditions:
The water temperature in Derawan ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius, and visibility is typically excellent, ranging from 15 to 30 meters. Currents can be strong in some areas, so it's important to follow the guidance of your dive guide.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Derawan varies depending on the dive operator and the type of dive. As of 2022, prices start at around 800,000 IDR (approximately 55 USD) for a single dive, with discounts available for multiple dives.
