With uncrowded, world-class dive sites and magical topside experiences, Borneo is a destination like no other. Discover the wonders of this magical land in the company of writer, photographer and SCUBA magazine editor Simon Rogerson.
For your Borneo diving experience, you first head to the remote Maratua Atoll off the coast of Indonesian Borneo to enjoy eight nights at the charming Nabucco Island Resort. In addition to the picture postcard location and idyllic tropical hues, divers and underwater photographers can delight in a multitude of exceptional diving opportunities including the thrills of Big Fish Country, manta rays at Sangalaki and the extraordinary Kakaban island.
You then continue your adventure with three nights at Samboja Lodge for orangutan watching and other topside encounters with sun bears and more. Here you can relax, enjoy rainforest canopy walks and a boat trip before returning home.
This itinerary is ideal for those looking to explore the wonders of this remote region in the company of like-minded divers.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart for Indonesia
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Day 2:
Arrive to Surabaya, Indonesia and transfer to the historic Hotel Majapahit
Your stay at this elegant colonial hotel includes a relaxing afternoon tea experience.
Accommodation: Hotel Majapahit Surabaya, 1-night
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Day 3:
Transfer to Nabucco Island Resort by air and by boat for an eight night stay
Nestled in the remote Maratua Atoll, this charming dive resort is located on a picturesque private island, offering a tranquil setting and natural charm. This area of Indonesian Borneo sees relatively few divers, which is why it is still a relative secret.
In addition to traditionally built garden or seaview bungalows, facilities include a restaurant built on stilts over the water with panoramic views and a bar serving cocktails and local beverages; perfect for watching the sun set over the horizon.
Accommodation: Nabucco Island Resort, 8-nights
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Days 4-10
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Dive Indonesian Borneo
Enjoy a bespoke diving package of 16 dives, including one day trip to Sangalaki and Kakaban and two early morning or night dives.
Maratua Atoll offers the best prospects for encounters with larger pelagic species, especially on the channel dive known as Big Fish Country, home to towering schools of barracuda, patrolling sharks, bumphead parrot fish and eagle rays.
Sangalaki is home to several manta ray cleaning stations, while Kakaban is most famous for its lake which, amongst other marine life, features four species of non-stinging jellyfish that have adapted to live in the brackish waters. The area is home to superb biodiversity, with plenty of sites for underwater photographers to capture images of smaller, rare marine species.
More dives can be arranged locally upon request, while Nitrox is available for an additional charge.
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Days 11-13
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Transfer back to mainland Borneo and on to Samboja Lodge for a further three nights
Nestled in the enchanting rainforests of Borneo, Samboja Lodge offers a truly immersive eco-retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The lodge’s extensive grounds host an Orangutan Reintroduction Programme, providing a sanctuary for displaced and orphaned orangutans rescued from areas of habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, while the grounds also act as a sanctuary for sun bears. The wider area is home to 137 species of birds – including the famous rhinoceros hornbill, along with proboscis monkey, mouse deer, long-tailed macaque, and even porcupine.
Your three night stay includes two full days to enjoy the area’s wildlife, and also includes a stunning canopy walk and boat ride up the Black River in search of Proboscis monkeys and other wildlife.
Accommodation: Samboja Lodge, 3-nights
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Day 14:
Depart Indonesia
Transfer to the airport and begin your journey home.
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Day 15:
Arrive home
Please note: Some dive sites are suitable for more experienced divers.
