Kalimantan and the Maratua Atoll deliver immense underwater experiences. Expect huge schools of barracuda, several species of shark, turtles, non-stinging jellyfish, manta rays and a plethora of critters on the colourful reefs.
Like so many remote locations in the world, the Maratua Atoll is extremely rewarding, both in terms of marine life and its paradise location on a tropical island.
Most dive sites are less than 20 minutes from resort. Here you’ll find colourful reefs with plenty of inhabitants and no other divers, as well as regular sightings of eagle rays, leopard shark and turtles. Channel diving in ‘Big Fish Country’ is where the huge schools of barracuda and other pelagic species can be found and, for the lucky ones, hammerhead sharks are also visitors.
This suggested itinerary includes time at one resort on Nabucco Island, however it's possible to arrange a twin centre with others for example nearby Nunukan, which boasts a four kilometre long house reef. Day trips to Sangalaki and Kakaban are available from both.
On arrival in Balikpapan, make your way to your chosen hotel for an overnight stay. Rest of day at leisure.
This morning, fly to Maratua where you will be transferred by boat to Nabucco Island Resort for a ten night stay. Rest of day at leisure.
Your diving package begins today. It includes a day trip to Sangalaki and Kakaban, two signature dive spots on the Maratua Atoll. Most other sites are within 20 minutes of resort and offer a fantastic mix of colourful reefs with tiny residents as well as common sightings of eagle rays, bumphead parrot fish, turtles and leopard shark. Spectacular sightings of huge schools of barracuda and other pelagic species can be enjoyed on the channel dives in ‘Big Fish Country’ just a few minutes away.
Take time to unwind and relax on your paradise island or continue diving. The daily schedule is subject to change due to local conditions, so we’ve allowed for this. Further diving can be arranged locally for additional charge.
Due to flight schedules, it is likely you will need an overnight stay in Balikpapan on your return journey.
Transfer back to the airport for your flight to Singapore and onto the UK.
Please note: The flight to Maratua operates once a week. Speak to the Dive team about land based activities during your stay in Balikpapan.
This remote area of Indonesia is worth the journey for intrepid divers. Highlights include Big Fish Country, the channel dive at Maratua Atoll, manta ray encounters at Sangalaki and non-stinging jellyfish at Kakaban; all part of the Derawan Archipelago. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Located off the east coast of Kalimantan on the island of Maratua, this resort comprises eight beach chalets and five water bungalows and offers some of Indonesia’s most remote and pristine diving. Find Out More about Maratua Paradise Resort
A tropical island paradise off the coast of east Kalimantan, this small exotic resort is ecologically sound and perfectly located to dive the signature sites of the Maratua Atoll including Sangalaki and Kakaban. Find Out More about Nabucco Island Resort
Located on the south eastern tip of the lagoon on the Maratua Atoll, this resort offers guests lavish bungalows and provides adventurous divers with access to some of Indonesia’s finest diving. Find Out More about Nunukan Island Resort
