Explore Kalimanta
In East Kalimantan. Indonesian Borneo, lie several reefs located around the Derawan archipelago perfect for scuba diving. Surrounding the 31 islands are unique dive sites that offer the chance to glide in ripping currents or relax in shallow coral reefs. At Sangalaki Island divers can find themselves among majestic manta rays all year round while Derawan, Samama and Nabucco Island showcase muck diving at its best. Blue ringed octopus, nudibranch, pygmy seahorse and ghost pipefish are all residents to these areas. Maratua Island has several impressive drop-offs where you can witness hammerheads, whale sharks and nurse sharks while at Kakaban you can scale towering walls or shelter from the strong currents during a cave dive.
As Kalimantan diving is remote and only two of the islands are inhabited, there are very few dive resorts and dive centres in the archipelago. There are three resorts on Derawan Island while Maratua has only one. At Derawan Island there is a certified dive centre where visitors can take part in dive courses at calmer dive sites. To really gain the full experience of scuba diving in Kalimantan, most divers opt to dive into the Celebes Sea from one of the many visiting liveaboards.
Dive Activity
Diving in Kalimantan
Kalimantan, Indonesia, offers a diverse array of diving experiences, making it a prime destination for underwater enthusiasts. The region is renowned for sites like the Sangalaki Island, famous for its manta rays that gracefully dance through the waters. For wreck dive aficionados, the USAT Liberty Wreck provides an enthralling exploration opportunity, teeming with vibrant marine life and corals, offering a peek into history beneath the waves.
Shore diving is also a popular option here, with easy access to rich coral gardens right off the coast. Divers can enjoy the convenience of shore dives while discovering the nocturnal wonders of the ocean during captivating night dives. Liveaboard options further enhance the experience, allowing access to remote sites like Kakaban Island, known for its jellyfish lake and unique underwater topographies. The balance between shore and liveaboard diving ensures that every diver's preference and skill level is catered to, making Kalimantan a versatile and thrilling diving destination.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Kalimantan
Kalimantan, part of the lush island of Borneo, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, offering a captivating underwater experience for divers. The region's coral reefs are teeming with vibrant reef fish such as the clownfish and butterflyfish, making them a common sight during dives. Divers can also expect to encounter an array of parrotfish and angelfish, contributing to the kaleidoscope of colors beneath the waves. Seasonally, Kalimantan offers the thrilling prospect of sightings of larger marine life. During certain times of the year, particularly around the months of April to October, divers may have the opportunity to spot majestic manta rays gliding through the waters. Additionally, green sea turtles are often seen nesting on the beaches, especially in the protected areas of islands like Derawan. While shark encounters are less frequent, lucky divers may spot blacktip reef sharks in some of the region's more secluded dive sites, providing an exhilarating experience for those exploring these waters.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
594 Sightings
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126
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49
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69
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57
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64
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65
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33
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 27
iStock-Global_Pics
Barracuda
459 Sightings
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30
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18
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80
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46
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37
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17
Shutterstock-Andrey Armyagov
Hawksbill Turtle
207 Sightings
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4
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32
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7
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23
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30
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18
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23
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14
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23
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18
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4
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11
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
Moray Eel
174 Sightings
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15
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44
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14
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6
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18
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16
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8
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15
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15
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9
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 25
iStock/Juliosanjuan
Eagle Ray
142 Sightings
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9
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25
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14
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8
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16
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18
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3
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 3
Alamy/imageBROKER
Thresher Shark
94 Sightings
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14
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9
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15
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14
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10
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9
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2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
90 Sightings
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4
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9
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4
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5
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19
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11
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10
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8
iStock-crisod
Reef Manta Ray
76 Sightings
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14
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7
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0
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4
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7
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12
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14
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5
iStock-ShaneGross
Loggerhead Turtle
57 Sightings
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2
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6
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12
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2
iStock/Divepic
Giant Oceanic Manta Ray
54 Sightings
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2
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14
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11
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12
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2
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2
Alamy-National Geographic Creative
Leatherback Turtle
48 Sightings
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4
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3
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13
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6
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0
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1
A
5
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8
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3
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3
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2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
42 Sightings
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10
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6
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1
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4
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5
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3
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3
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0
The best Months to dive in Kalimantan
Kalimantan, part of the Indonesian island of Borneo, offers year-round diving opportunities thanks to its tropical climate. Water temperatures typically range between 27°C to 30°C, providing comfortable conditions for divers throughout the year. Visibility is generally good, often spanning 15 to 30 meters, allowing for excellent underwater exploration. The best diving conditions are usually between April and November, when the seas are calmer and visibility is at its peak. While diving is possible year-round, the period from December to March can be less favorable due to stronger winds and increased rainfall, which may impact visibility and create stronger currents. Despite these seasonal variations, Kalimantan remains a vibrant and accessible diving destination for enthusiasts.
