Introduction: Why Indonesian Words in Derawan Make a Difference Learning a few Indonesian words in Derawan can completely change the way you experience the island. You do not need to speak fluently. You do not need perfect pronunciation. But knowing a handful of simple expressions shows respect, builds connection, and often leads to warmer smiles […]
A whale shark trip in Derawan is often described as one of the most special experiences you can have while visiting this remote corner of Indonesia. It can also be one of the most misunderstood. This is not a guaranteed encounter, not a zoo-like experience, and not something that runs on a fixed schedule. Instead, […]
Introduction: Ramadan in Derawan and Island Life Visiting during Ramadan in Derawan can feel slightly different from other times of the year, especially if you’re not familiar with the traditions behind it. For some guests, it raises questions. For others, it becomes one of the most memorable parts of their stay. This blog is here […]
Introduction: Sharks in the Derawan Archipelago Are Part of the Reef Diving with sharks in the Derawan Archipelago doesn’t usually feel dramatic or staged—and that’s exactly what makes it special. Rather than high-adrenaline encounters, shark sightings here tend to feel natural and unforced. Sharks appear as part of the reef scene: cruising along drop-offs, resting […]
Introduction: Turtles in the Derawan Archipelago Are Not a Rarity In many dive destinations, seeing a turtle is a highlight. Something you hope for, look out for, and maybe count proudly at the end of the dive. With turtles in the Derawan Archipelago, that mindset doesn’t last very long. Here, turtles are not an occasional […]
Introduction A whale shark trip in Derawan is one of those experiences many divers and snorkelers dream about—but it’s also one that works a little differently from what people often imagine. This is not a theme-park encounter, not a guaranteed sighting, and not something that can be booked months in advance. Instead, it’s an early-morning […]
Introduction: Cuttlefish in Derawan and Why Divers Love Them Many divers arrive dreaming of manta rays, turtles, or passing pelagics—yet one of the most captivating reef creatures is often much smaller and far more mysterious. Cuttlefish in Derawan can steal the show during any dive, surprising guests with their intelligence, colour-changing tricks, and gentle, curious […]
Introduction: Don’t Forget to Bring in Derawan — Avoid Surprises on Arrival You’ve made it all the way to Derawan, and this trip has probably been planned for a long time. Don’t forget to bring in Derawan isn’t meant as pressure—it’s simply a gentle reminder that while this island is charming, peaceful, and beautiful, it’s […]
MMF Researchers in Derawan Archipelago The sun is just rising over Derawan Island. The air is still, the sea calm, and the dive boats are lined up, ready for another day at sea. On the jetty, a small group of people moves with quiet efficiency — tanks clink, notebooks are tucked into waterproof bags, and […]
A day at Scuba Junkie Sangalaki Maybe you’ve been dreaming about visiting this part of the world—those turquoise waters somewhere off Borneo—but haven’t quite made it yet. So, let us take you there. Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine the sound of gentle waves lapping against a wooden jetty, the smell of coffee in […]
Leopard sharks in Derawan. It’s a leopard… but underwater. 🐆🌊 With spots instead of stripes, elegance instead of speed, and a calm confidence that turns every encounter into a moment of awe, the leopard shark is one of the ocean’s most underrated beauties. Divers who have been lucky enough to see one know: it’s the […]
If Part 1 left you dreaming of currents and coral walls, get ready for more. The top dive sites in the Derawan archipelago offers don’t end there—this region is bursting with world-class diving across Kakaban, Sangalaki, Maratua, and Derawan. From drift dives teeming with pelagics to quiet encounters with pygmy seahorses, the underwater diversity here […]
Manta Rays In Sangalaki- If you’ve ever dived with a manta, you know it’s unforgettable. Their vast wingspans, the effortless glide, the feeling of being close to something both powerful and gentle—it leaves you humbled. This 17th of September, we celebrate World Manta Day, a reminder that these incredible animals still need our help. Let’s […]
Diving and snorkeling in Derawan islands isn’t just about seeing marine life—it’s about starting your underwater journey in one of the most peaceful, vibrant, and beginner-friendly places in Indonesia. Whether you’re taking your first breath from a regulator or gliding over the reef with just a mask and snorkel, the Derawan Islands offer the kind […]
Derawan islands Kalimantan are the kind of place that still feels like a secret. Off the east coast of Borneo in Indonesia’s Coral Triangle, these 31 islands—most famously Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Maratua—sit inside Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, surrounded by reefs so alive they hum with color. It’s remote, yes. But that’s part of the […]
Introduction There’s a place in the Celebes Sea where time slows down, manta rays drift through turquoise water, and dive boats are the only traffic you’ll hear. But to get there, you don’t just book a flight and show up—you embark on a journey. If you’re wondering how to get to Scuba Junkie Sangalaki, you’re […]
2025 Guide The best dive sites Derawan archipelago offers are nothing short of spectacular. Nestled in the Coral Triangle off the coast of East Kalimantan, this Indonesian hidden gem boasts manta rays, turtles, sharks, and incredible macro life—all in a remote and uncrowded setting. Whether you’re an experienced diver or an avid marine life enthusiast, […]
Fascinating Marine Life in the Heart of the Derawan Archipelago The Derawan Archipelago is more than just a diving destination — it’s a biodiversity hotspot pulsing with fascinating marine life. This second part of our marine encounters series takes a deeper dive into what makes this region so special: the animal behaviors, research efforts, and […]
Sangalaki Diving: Your Gateway to Borneo’s Underwater Wonders Sangalaki diving offers adventurous divers the chance to explore a remote corner of Indonesia’s Coral Triangle, where manta rays, sharks, and turtles thrive in their natural habitat. With rich biodiversity and uncrowded sites, it’s no wonder this region is becoming a top destination for divers seeking authentic […]
Introduction Nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Sangalaki is truly Indonesia’s best kept secret for divers. A paradise that promises thrilling underwater encounters, breathtaking biodiversity, and a sense of adventure at every dive site. If you’re looking for a dive destination that remains untouched by mass tourism while offering world-class marine life, look […]
Today is World Manta Day 2021 – a day to celebrate manta rays around the world as well as raise awareness of the threats they are facing worldwide. We thought we'd take this opportunity to share some facts about these incredible animals!
"Can I visit Kakaban stingless jellyfish lake during my visit?" has to be one of our most frequently asked questions… And with good reason! There are very few of these lakes in the world and it's a trip not to be missed. It's a surreal experience and the photos will leave your Instagram followers wishing they were there with you!
Here we thought we'd introduce you to Scuba Junkie Sangalaki so you know what to expect ahead of your trip including where we are, how to get to us, what the resort is like and what you can see on your dives!
Traveling between our two incredible dive destinations in Borneo (Malaysia and Indonesia) is a breeze! This is why it is such an ideal package to visit two amazing places within a certain time limit.
2025 Guide The best dive sites Derawan archipelago offers are nothing short of spectacular. Nestled in the Coral Triangle off the coast of East Kalimantan, this Indonesian hidden gem boasts manta rays, turtles, sharks, and incredible macro life—all in a remote and uncrowded setting. Whether you’re an experienced diver or an avid marine life enthusiast, […]
Today is World Manta Day 2021 – a day to celebrate manta rays around the world as well as raise awareness of the threats they are facing worldwide. We thought we'd take this opportunity to share some facts about these incredible animals!
Here we thought we'd introduce you to Scuba Junkie Sangalaki so you know what to expect ahead of your trip including where we are, how to get to us, what the resort is like and what you can see on your dives!
Introduction: Why Indonesian Words in Derawan Make a Difference Learning a few Indonesian words in Derawan can completely change the way you experience the island. You do not need to speak fluently. You do not need perfect pronunciation. But knowing a handful of simple expressions shows respect, builds connection, and often leads to warmer smiles […]
A day at Scuba Junkie Sangalaki Maybe you’ve been dreaming about visiting this part of the world—those turquoise waters somewhere off Borneo—but haven’t quite made it yet. So, let us take you there. Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine the sound of gentle waves lapping against a wooden jetty, the smell of coffee in […]
If Part 1 left you dreaming of currents and coral walls, get ready for more. The top dive sites in the Derawan archipelago offers don’t end there—this region is bursting with world-class diving across Kakaban, Sangalaki, Maratua, and Derawan. From drift dives teeming with pelagics to quiet encounters with pygmy seahorses, the underwater diversity here […]
Introduction There’s a place in the Celebes Sea where time slows down, manta rays drift through turquoise water, and dive boats are the only traffic you’ll hear. But to get there, you don’t just book a flight and show up—you embark on a journey. If you’re wondering how to get to Scuba Junkie Sangalaki, you’re […]
"Can I visit Kakaban stingless jellyfish lake during my visit?" has to be one of our most frequently asked questions… And with good reason! There are very few of these lakes in the world and it's a trip not to be missed. It's a surreal experience and the photos will leave your Instagram followers wishing they were there with you!
Traveling between our two incredible dive destinations in Borneo (Malaysia and Indonesia) is a breeze! This is why it is such an ideal package to visit two amazing places within a certain time limit.
