Virgin Cocoa Island Resort

All of Indonesia’s remote locations mean that dive sites are rarely crowded, marine life is abundant with an almost water tight guarantee of seeing something new each day. East Kalimantan offers that rare combination of big and small underwater life.

The Derawan Islands are in the province of East Kalimantan in Indonesia. They include Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, Maratua, Panjang and Samama Island and submerged reefs and islets. They are located in the Sulawesi (Celebes) Sea, on the coastal shelf of East Kalimantan.

Located in a biodiversity hotspot, the Derawan Islands feature 872 species of reef fishes, 507 species of coral, and invertebrates including protected species such as giant clam, two different sea turtles and coconut crab. Some of the islands harbour the largest green turtle nesting sites in Indonesia. Travel between the months of September–November for increased likelihood of seeing larger species.

Maratua Island

Situated in Maratua Atoll itself, the namesake island features specular outer and inner reefs, fast channels and calming drifts. Barracuda abound in the right currents and thresher and grey reef sharks have been spotted, if you can take your eyes off the turtles and eagle rays.

Kakaban Island

Situated in the interior of Kakaban island and one of only two non-stinging jellyfish lakes in the world, this is a must dive, or snorkel if you prefer. The strange experience of diving in near motionless, brackish water with these strange medusa (not one, but 4 species!) remains a very unique experience in the diving world. The site is reached with a 15-minute walk inwards from shore (not in your dive kit).

The outer perimeter of Kakaban island, as you would expect, offers a handful of dive sites with great coral growth and pelagic sightings.

Sangalaki Island

A so far reliable spot for seeing manta rays, this island has ‘mobile’ feeding and cleaning stations shifting in line with the currents. If these marine giants are not cute enough for you, the island also runs a government managed turtle nursery where a visit may be organised locally for a small fee.

Derawan Island

Derawan Island itself offers a selection of fantastic sights, offering that wonderful mix of drift dives or muck dives! 

Enjoy a refreshing swim and snorkel just a step from your door.

As this is Indonesia, it goes without saying that macro fanatics will not be disappointed. Some recent spots are satomi pygmy seahorses, a variety of ghost pipe fish, blue ring octopus and frogfish.

How do I get there?

Singapore Airlines, into Balikpapan via Singapore. On arrival in Balikpapan, a wait for a couple of hours in the airport’s comfortable lounge, or an overnight in a local hotel, may be required so that the connecting internal flight can meet all the arrivals. 

Internal flight, Balikpapan to Berau - 45 minutes. Here you're met on arrival and transferred to a nearby jetty, the 2-3 hour boat journey is scenic as it passes settlements, plantation and jungle before crossing the Celebes Sea to reach the resort. Your feet will get wet on arrival! 

Alternative flights via Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta may be available. 

Dive Pack Prices

A package of 10 house reef dives, including a guide, typically costs £440, there's then a local supplement if you wish to go further afield on a half or full day boat trip. Extra Divers Cocoa Virgin have both 10L and 12L tanks, Nitrox is complimentary for qualified divers. Equipment is available to rent and the dive centre can conduct a variety of scuba courses.

Climate

Mid January - June are semi dry
July–August southerly wind, can be choppy
September, October and mid-November are said to be the best months to travel
Mid-November to Mid-January rainy

Time

East Kalimantan is GMT / BST +7 or +8 hours

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in used in East Kalimantan.

Land Clothing

If you are venturing any further, we recommend modest dress with loose fitting clothing. Natural fabrics are more comfortable.

Flights 

International:
Best flight option into Balikpapan is with Singapore Airlines

Internal flight:
Balikpapan - Berau flights: 45 minutes

On arrival, there may be a wait in Balikpapan’s comfortable lounge or an overnight in a local hotel. This is the same for the return journey. 

Visas

Entry requirements vary from country to country, and it’s important to check the latest visa information well before you travel. Some destinations may allow visa-free entry for a limited period, while others require an eVisa or a visa obtained in advance. To ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip, we recommend checking the official advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or contacting the relevant country’s embassy or consulate. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

Passports

Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your trip and meets the entry requirements of your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date, while others may have different rules. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the UK Government’s passport guidance or the official travel advice pages for your destination. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

If you’re planning to travel to or via an EU country (with certain exceptions) your UK passport must meet two key requirements, it must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country and it must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date.

Vaccinations & Health Advice

Health and vaccination requirements differ depending on where you're travelling. Some destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations or recommend certain precautions to protect your wellbeing.

We’re not qualified to provide you with specific advice on vaccinations and strongly recommend that you contact your healthcare professional before you travel to discuss the inoculations you may need to consider.

For trusted guidance on health and vaccination advice, refer to the NHS Travel Vaccination Advice, Masta Travel Health or Travel Health Pro websites.