Imagine you are floating in the water, face-to-face with the largest fish on Earth.
A whale shark glides slowly beneath you. Its enormous mouth opens as it filters water, completely uninterested in your presence. Your eyes follow the pattern of white spots along its back, and for a moment, it feels like the only thing in the ocean.
Then you notice something else.
Small fish tucked underneath its belly. A few near its gills. Others attached along its sides. Sometimes they are tiny. Sometimes they are surprisingly large. They seem completely at home, as if they belong there.
And in a way, they do.
The story of whale shark remora symbiosis is one of the most fascinating partnerships in the ocean. It is a relationship built on cooperation, opportunity, and millions of years of evolution. And once you understand it, you will never look at a whale shark the same way again.
To understand the relationship, we first need to meet the remora.
Remoras are a family of fish famous for one unusual feature. On top of their heads sits a modified dorsal fin that has evolved into a suction disc. This natural adaptation allows them to attach themselves to larger animals.
At first glance, it can look like they are stuck to the whale shark. In reality, they can attach and detach whenever they want. Think of it as a living suction cup designed by nature.
For a remora, finding a whale shark is a little like finding a moving house.
It provides transportation, protection, and access to food, all without the remora needing to spend much energy.
Not a bad deal for a fish.
The word “symbiosis” often sounds more complicated than it really is.
In simple terms, symbiosis is a close relationship between two different species.
Some symbiotic relationships benefit only one animal. Others benefit both. Some can even be harmful to one partner.
The whale shark remora symbiosis is generally considered a form of mutualism or commensalism, depending on the situation. Scientists continue to study the relationship, but the important point is that neither animal appears to suffer from it.
Instead, both seem to gain something from the arrangement.
Like many good roommates, they make life easier for one another.
A whale shark spends much of its life moving through the ocean in search of plankton and other tiny food sources.
For a remora, following a whale shark offers several advantages.
The most obvious is transportation.
Rather than swimming long distances on its own, the remora can travel efficiently by attaching itself to the whale shark. This allows it to conserve energy while exploring vast stretches of ocean.
Food is another benefit.
As a whale shark feeds, small scraps and particles drift away. Remoras take advantage of these opportunities, feeding on leftovers that would otherwise be lost.
The whale shark, meanwhile, gains something too.
Remoras are known to consume parasites, dead skin, and unwanted organisms from their hosts. While a whale shark could certainly survive without remoras, having a few diligent cleaners around is unlikely to be a disadvantage.
The result is one of the ocean’s most successful partnerships.
One of the most remarkable aspects of whale shark remora symbiosis is the remora’s ability to stay attached while the whale shark swims.
The suction disc on top of the remora’s head contains a series of movable plates. When pressed against a surface, these plates create a strong grip.
This allows the remora to remain attached even when the whale shark changes direction or increases speed.
Despite this impressive attachment system, remoras are not permanent passengers. They move around frequently, switching positions and sometimes leaving one host to find another.
It is less like being glued to a whale shark and more like choosing the best seat on a very large bus.
Although whale sharks are among the most famous hosts, remoras are not particularly picky.
They can be found attached to:
Some have even been observed attaching themselves to boats.
For a remora, the goal is simple. Find something large, safe, and constantly moving through food-rich waters.
Whale sharks happen to be particularly attractive options.
One of the reasons whale shark encounters in the Derawan Archipelago are so memorable is that they allow you to observe more than just the whale shark itself.
Many guests join the whale shark trips hoping to see the giant fish, and understandably so. But those who take a moment to slow down often notice the details.
Look beneath the whale shark. Around its gills. Along its sides.
You may spot several remoras travelling alongside their enormous host.
Suddenly, what seemed like a single animal becomes an entire story unfolding in front of you.
The whale shark is not travelling alone.
The longer divers spend underwater, the more they realise that nothing exists in isolation.
Cleaner wrasse depend on larger fish. Coral depends on algae. Reef predators depend on healthy fish populations.
The whale shark remora symbiosis is another reminder that the ocean is built on connections.
Every animal plays a role.
Even one of the largest creatures on Earth shares its journey with a fish small enough to fit in your hand.
That contrast is part of what makes the relationship so fascinating.
Current observations suggest that remoras do not significantly harm whale sharks. In many cases, they may even help by removing parasites and dead skin.
No. Parasites benefit at the expense of their host. Remoras generally do not cause harm and may provide benefits, making the relationship different from parasitism.
They gain transportation, protection, and access to food while conserving energy.
Yes. Remoras can attach to many different marine animals and can swim freely when needed.
No evidence suggests that whale sharks actively prey on remoras. The two species coexist peacefully.
Absolutely. In fact, noticing the remoras is one of the easiest ways to appreciate the complexity of the encounter beyond simply seeing the whale shark itself.
The next time you find yourself swimming alongside a whale shark, try looking beyond the giant.
Notice the smaller fish travelling beneath it. Watch how effortlessly they move from one position to another. Think about the journey they are sharing.
The whale shark may be the star of the show, but the story of whale shark remora symbiosis reminds us that some of nature’s most fascinating relationships happen quietly in the background.
And once you start noticing them, the ocean becomes a much richer place.
Long before divers arrived in the Derawan Archipelago searching for mantas, turtles, or whale sharks, tiny lights were already appearing on the horizon after sunset.
From the shore, they almost looked like floating villages.
A few dim lamps in the middle of the sea. Wooden structures standing quietly in the dark. Men preparing coffee. Someone cooking dinner. Hammocks swaying in the evening breeze.
These are the bagans.
And for generations, they have been part of life in Indonesia.
Most visitors first notice them at sunrise, when their silhouettes slowly emerge from the morning mist. Others encounter them while heading out for a whale shark trip. But few realise that these simple wooden platforms have stories that go back long before tourism ever arrived in Derawan.
The word “bagan” refers to a traditional Indonesian lift-net fishing platform. Originally introduced by Bugis and Makassarese fishermen from Sulawesi in the mid-20th century, these floating structures were designed to catch squid and small pelagic species using lights and large nets suspended beneath the platform.
Some bagans remain anchored in one place for months. Others move depending on the season and fishing conditions.
But no matter their location, they are much more than fishing tools.
Step onto a bagan and you’ll find small kitchens, sleeping areas, simple tables, and enough supplies for fishermen to spend days or even weeks at sea. Life moves slowly out here. Meals are shared, stories are exchanged, and the ocean provides both a livelihood and a rhythm.
To many fishermen, the bagan is simply where life happens.
As the sun disappears below the horizon, something magical begins.
Lights come on.
Bright lamps shine over the water, attracting plankton, squid, and small fish. Throughout the night, more and more marine life gathers beneath the platform. Hidden below, large square nets wait patiently.
At the right moment, the fishermen raise the nets and collect the catch.
Fishing on dark nights has traditionally been the most productive. Around the new moon, when natural light is limited, the artificial lights become even more effective. That is why bagans are often busiest during these periods.
While most people are asleep, life on the bagans is only just beginning.
Like many things in the ocean, bagans are not fixed forever. They move with the weather and with the seasons.
During most of the year, roughly from September until June, many of the platforms operate relatively close to Derawan Island. At these times, reaching them is often just a short boat ride away.
When the southern winds arrive, usually from mid-June until around mid-September, conditions become rougher around Derawan. To find calmer waters, many fishermen move their bagans towards the sheltered area of Talisayan, closer to the mainland of East Kalimantan.
Life on the platforms continues much as it always has, only in a different location. And with them, the rhythm of the sea changes too.
For visitors, this means that whale shark trips during these months involve a much longer journey, often around two hours each way. It also means that some days are simply too rough to go at all. The ocean, as always, decides the schedule.
Spend enough time around the bagans, and you begin to realise that fishing is only part of the story.
Life out here is simple.
Morning starts with coffee. Conversations happen slowly. Meals are cooked on tiny stoves. Between lifting nets and checking lines, there are long periods of waiting.
Sunsets become routine. So do sunrises.
There are no traffic jams. No schedules filled with meetings. Only the weather, the moon, and the sea.
It is a lifestyle that demands patience.
And perhaps that is why the people who work on these platforms seem so comfortable with uncertainty. The ocean has always operated on its own timetable.
For many communities around the Derawan Archipelago, bagans represent generations of knowledge passed from father to son. Understanding currents, reading the weather, and knowing the influence of the moon have always been part of life at sea. Long before modern weather forecasts and GPS, fishermen relied on experience and patience, learning to work with the ocean rather than against it.
These floating platforms are part of a tradition that has adapted over time while remaining deeply connected to the sea. They remind us that life in the archipelago has always depended on understanding the ocean rather than trying to control it.
The bagans are not monuments.
They are living history.
People often associate bagans with whale sharks, but the relationship is only one small part of a much bigger story.
The lights attract squid and small fish, creating feeding opportunities that whale sharks sometimes take advantage of. If a whale shark is already present and fishermen have excess catch, some may throw leftovers back into the water. Sometimes even splashing water is enough to keep the curious giants interested for a little longer.
Current observations suggest these interactions do not alter the whale sharks’ natural migration patterns, and after a quick snack they continue their journeys through the archipelago and beyond.
For the fishermen, whale sharks are occasional visitors. For the whale sharks, the bagans are simply one of many places where food can sometimes be found.
Fishing remains the primary purpose of these platforms, but tourism has created new opportunities as well.
Local captains and fishermen have become guides, sharing their knowledge with visitors who wish to experience the ocean through local eyes. At Scuba Junkie Sangalaki, whale shark excursions are organised directly through the local community. The trips are not operated by the resort, and all payments go directly to local captains and guides.
This connection between tourism and traditional livelihoods helps create additional sources of income while keeping the community involved in protecting the marine environment. Conservation works best when local people benefit from it too.
A bagan is a traditional Indonesian lift-net fishing platform used primarily for catching squid and small fish at night using lights.
Depending on the season and location, fishermen may spend days or even weeks living on the platforms.
The lights attract plankton, squid, and small fish, which gather beneath the platform and are caught using large nets.
Dark nights make the lights more effective, which usually improves fishing conditions.
No. Whale sharks are wild animals and their presence is never guaranteed.
Yes. Many visitors experience the bagans during whale shark trips organised by local captains.
If you ever leave Derawan before sunrise, take a moment to look towards the horizon.
Those lights are not resorts.
They are not ships.
They are bagans.
Small worlds floating quietly in the sea, where generations of fishermen have lived by the rhythm of the ocean.
Long after the tourists have returned home, the lights will come on again. Coffee will be brewing, nets will be lowered, and stories will be shared. Because for the people who live and work on them, the bagans are not attractions.
They are simply life.
Let this World Oceans Day remind us that the ocean is not separate from us but has always flowed through us, in everything we do and consume. Discover how small daily actions, responsible diving, and marine conservation efforts by the Scuba Junkie family help protect our blue planet.
The first time many of us truly understand the ocean is not from a documentary or a photograph. It happens quietly. Sometimes underwater, where the sound of the world disappears and all we hear is our own breathing. Sometimes standing barefoot on a beach at sunrise, watching waves arrive from places we will never see.
And sometimes, it happens when we lock eyes with a sea turtle gliding through coral reefs older than human history itself.
That moment changes people.
This is why World Oceans Day matters so deeply to us at Scuba Junkie. Not because it is just another date on the calendar, but because it reminds us that the ocean is not somewhere far away. It is part of every breath we take, every meal we eat, every climate system that keeps our planet alive.
The ocean gives us life long before we ever step into it.
Yet today, it needs our active actions to protect it more than ever. So, let’s reimagine our relationship to the ocean.
We often speak about “saving the ocean” as though it were separate from humanity. But the truth is simpler and more uncomfortable than that. If the ocean suffers, we suffer too.
The ocean is one of Earth’s greatest oxygen producers and the foundation of our planetary life support system. It regulates our climate, feeds over 3 billion people, supports livelihoods, and protects biodiversity on a scale we are only beginning to understand.
And still, every year, millions of tonnes of plastic enter marine ecosystems. Coral reefs are bleaching under rising temperatures. Sea turtles mistake floating plastic bags for jellyfish. Ghost nets continue drifting silently through the sea, trapping marine life long after they were abandoned.
For many people, these problems feel distant. Easy to ignore.
That is part of the challenge.
We rarely protect what we do not feel connected to.
At Scuba Junkie, we have seen this transformation happen thousands of times. Someone arrives simply wanting a holiday or a dive certification. Then they descend beneath the surface for the first time and suddenly the ocean becomes personal.
A turtle is no longer just “marine life.”
A reef is no longer just “nature.”
The ocean becomes a living world they care about deeply.
And once people care, they begin to protect.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when talking about protecting and preserving the ocean. Climate change, pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction… the list can feel endless.
But not all hope is lost.
In fact, one of the most beautiful things we witness every day is the incredible resilience of the ocean when people choose to care for it.
Across the Scuba Junkie family, conservation is not treated as a side project. It is part of daily life — from the small details, like providing guests with locally sourced eco-friendly toiletries across all our operations to weekly beach and underwater cleanups to the larger programs that define how we dive, travel, educate, and operate.
Through Scuba Junkie SEAS, our conservation arm founded in 2009, marine conservation has become deeply woven into everything we do. In Mabul, sea turtle nests are protected through hatchery programs that have already helped release more than 17,000 hatchlings back into the ocean. In collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department, injured turtles have been rehabilitated and returned to the wild through the Mabul Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
Coral restoration projects, marine debris initiatives, shark conservation efforts, and educational outreach efforts all work toward the same idea:
Protecting the ocean starts with people.
Not perfect people.
Not scientists only.
Just people willing to care.
This is an important conversation, and one we believe should be honest.
Yes, diving can damage reefs — if done irresponsibly. Poor buoyancy, touching marine life, littering, or overcrowding fragile ecosystems can all have negative impacts.
But when done responsibly, diving and other marine activities can also become one of conservation’s strongest allies.
At Scuba Junkie, responsible dive practices are central to how we operate. Environmental briefings, following the Green Fins code of conduct, reef-safe behaviors, and conservation education are integrated into the diving experience because we believe tourism should protect the places it depends on.
And perhaps even more importantly, diving creates emotional connection.
Someone who has watched a shark glide through blue water is far more likely to support shark conservation. Someone who has seen coral bleaching with their own eyes understands climate change differently. Someone who has floated beside a turtle often leaves carrying a sense of responsibility that lasts years beyond the trip itself.
The ocean stops being abstract.
It becomes real.
One of the biggest misconceptions about marine conservation is believing only coastal communities or divers can make a difference. But the ocean connects all of us and our actions.
The plastic bottle thrown away inland can still reach the sea through rivers and drainage systems. The seafood choices we make influence the fishing industry. The products we buy, the waste we create, the businesses we support — all of these decisions ripple outward and can make a real difference.
Being an ocean ambassador does not require living close to the ocean. It begins with awareness. Sometimes the smallest actions matter more than we realize:
Using reusable bottles and bags to reduce unnecessary plastic consumption.
Supporting sustainable tourism operators such as Green Fins Members.
Learning and sharing about marine ecosystems.
Using non-toxic, reef-safe sunscreens.
Use local and public transportation when possible.
Supporting conservation organizations in-person or financially.
Sharing educational content instead of ignoring it.
Voting for candidates that prioritize climate action.
Even conversations matter. Because awareness spreads. And when enough people care, that’s when systems begin to change.
The truth is that conservation is rarely about one dramatic action. It is usually thousands of small consistent efforts carried out by ordinary people.
At Scuba Junkie, we have watched travelers join reef and beach cleanups during their holidays and leave transformed by the experience. We have seen local communities become deeply involved in turtle protection initiatives. We have watched children release hatchlings into the sea and understand, perhaps for the first time, that nature’s future depends on them.
For those who have the time and would like to be more hands-on, participating in reef and beach cleanups, marine life monitoring, or marine conservation workshops can make a direct difference.
For those who are limited on time and resources, your support can still be powerful. Scuba Junkie SEAS runs programs such as turtle adoption initiatives connected to the hatchery and rehabilitation work in Mabul. Supporting these projects helps fund nest protection, rehabilitation efforts, monitoring, education, and conservation outreach. Many vital marine conservation organisations remain underfunded, any support you can offer makes a difference.
Sometimes helping the ocean means getting in the water.
Sometimes it means using your voice or wallet.
Both matter.
There is a tendency in environmental conversations to focus only on loss. But the ocean is still full of life worth fighting for.
While individual actions matter deeply, we can’t ignore that the future of the ocean also depends on larger decisions being made at government and industry levels. Marine protected areas, stronger regulations against pollution, sustainable fishing policies, and meaningful climate action all play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.
Sometimes helping the ocean means carrying a reusable bottle or joining a beach cleanup. Sometimes it means signing petitions, supporting environmental organizations, voting for leaders who prioritize conservation, or using our voices to demand stronger protection for our seas.
Real change happens when personal responsibility and collective action work together — whether that means carrying a reusable bottle, signing a petition, or voting for leaders who prioritize our seas.
And despite the challenges, hope is not lost.
There are still healthy reefs bursting with color.
There are still turtles returning to the nest.
There are still communities choosing conservation over exploitation.
There are still people willing to dedicate their lives to protecting marine ecosystems.
World Oceans Day is celebrated every year on June 8th to raise awareness about the importance of the ocean and encourage global action to protect marine ecosystems.
The ocean is one of Earth’s greatest oxygen producers, regulates the climate, supports biodiversity, provides food, and sustains billions of livelihoods worldwide.
Conservation is embedded into everything we do at Scuba Junkie. As a Green Fins Member, we follow a strict code of conduct to minimize our environmental impact across all operations. Through Scuba Junkie SEAS, our dedicated conservation arm, this commitment extends further into turtle conservation, coral restoration, marine debris cleanups, shark conservation, and community outreach programs.
Yes. Responsible diving practices such as good buoyancy control, avoiding contact with marine life, using reef-safe products, and supporting eco-conscious operators can minimize environmental impact and promote conservation awareness.
Reducing plastic use, supporting conservation projects, making sustainable purchasing choices, spreading awareness, and donating to marine conservation initiatives can all help protect the ocean from anywhere in the world.
The turtle adoption initiatives supported by Scuba Junkie SEAS help fund sea turtle conservation efforts including hatchery protection, rehabilitation, monitoring, and conservation education programs in Mabul.
The ocean does not ask for perfection from us.
Only respect.
Every refillable bottle, every cleanup, every conversation, every responsible dive, every protected reef, every rescued turtle — it all matters.
And perhaps the most powerful thing we can do is inspire others to care too.
Because the moment people fall in love with the
The first few days in Derawan are usually about the obvious things.
The boat rides. The reefs. The turtles. The excitement of finally arriving after such a long journey.
But after a while, something changes.
The bigger moments stop demanding all your attention, and you begin noticing smaller things instead. Quiet things. The kind of details that would probably sound unimportant anywhere else, but somehow become part of the experience here.
That is often when life in Derawan starts feeling real.
Most guests arrive with busy minds.
Flights, connections, transfers, packing lists, camera gear, dive plans. The journey to the Derawan Archipelago takes time, and most people arrive carrying a bit of mental noise with them.
Then gradually, the island starts slowing things down.
Morning coffee lasts longer. Surface intervals become conversations instead of phone scrolling. People stop checking the time constantly. Nobody seems to be rushing anywhere.
It is not something you notice immediately. It happens quietly over several days.
And eventually, you realise your brain feels quieter too.
During the first days, guests get excited every time they see a turtle.
And honestly, that excitement never fully disappears.
But after spending time around Derawan, turtles slowly become part of the background rhythm of the island. You see them while walking to breakfast. You spot them from the jetty during surface intervals. Sometimes they are directly underneath the water bungalows, calmly feeding on seagrass as if nobody is watching.
And they are big.
The strange thing is not only how many turtles there are, but how relaxed they seem. They move slowly, surface casually beside boats, and continue feeding even when people stop to watch them.
At some point, guests stop calling everyone over every time a turtle appears.
Not because it is less special, but because it has quietly become normal.
One of the first things many people notice about life in Derawan is that the island always has sound.
Wooden walkways creak softly at night. Small boats pass in the distance. Waves move underneath the bungalows. Early mornings begin slowly while the ocean is already awake.
At first, some guests find these sounds unusual. Then, after a few nights, they become strangely comforting.
People who live near cities often forget what natural silence actually sounds like. Derawan is not silent in the traditional sense. It is alive. The island has rhythm, movement, and small noises that become familiar surprisingly quickly.
In many dive destinations, everything revolves around getting underwater as quickly as possible.
But after a few days in Derawan, surface intervals start becoming part of the experience rather than just breaks between dives.
Coffee tastes better after a morning dive. Conversations become slower and longer. Divers compare sightings, laugh about failed fish photos, and quietly watch the water while waiting for the next briefing.
Sometimes the best moments happen between dives rather than during them.
That slower rhythm is part of what makes staying at Scuba Junkie Sangalaki feel different from larger, busier dive destinations.
The longer divers stay in Derawan, the less they chase big sightings.
During the first dives, everyone wants mantas, sharks, whale sharks, or turtles. And often they get them.
But after a while, people start noticing:
The ocean becomes less about highlights and more about observation.
That shift changes the entire diving experience.
One of the unexpected things about life in Derawan is how quickly simple routines start feeling comfortable.
Wake up. Dive. Eat. Rest. Repeat.
There is something satisfying about days becoming uncomplicated. No traffic. No schedules packed into every hour. No need to constantly decide what to do next.
The island slowly removes unnecessary noise from daily life.
And for many guests, that feeling becomes just as memorable as the diving itself.
Guests who stay only a few days usually remember the highlights.
Guests who stay longer often remember the atmosphere.
The light in the late afternoon. The sounds under the bungalow at night. The routine of morning coffee before diving. The feeling of slowly adapting to island life instead of simply visiting it.
This is often why experienced divers return to places like Derawan. Not only because of what they see underwater, but because of how the place makes them feel after enough time has passed.
Some destinations impress you immediately.
Others reveal themselves slowly.
Life in Derawan belongs to the second category. The longer you stay, the more the small details begin to matter. The turtles beneath the jetty. The calm pace of the island. The quiet conversations during surface intervals. The feeling of waking up surrounded by ocean every day.
None of these things sound dramatic on paper.
But together, they are often what people remember most.
Understanding ocean behavior is not a special talent reserved for marine biologists or dive guides. It is something many divers slowly develop over time, often without even realizing it.
There’s a moment that happens to many divers after enough time underwater.
You stop searching for marine life directly.
Instead, you start paying attention to everything around it.
The current changes slightly. A school of fish suddenly tightens. Cleaner wrasse become unusually active. Visibility shifts. The reef feels different somehow. And before you even see anything, you know something is about to happen.
The ocean is constantly giving information away. The longer you spend underwater, the more you begin to notice the patterns.
And once you do, diving changes completely.
Many memorable marine life encounters actually begin several minutes before the animal arrives.
A reef rarely stays neutral when something larger approaches. Fish react. Tiny movements spread through the water column. Schools become tighter and more organised. Some species disappear into the reef while others move higher into the current.
Experienced divers often notice these subtle changes before they notice the shark, manta ray, or tuna itself.
In places like the Derawan Archipelago, these moments happen naturally and often unexpectedly. One minute a dive feels calm and slow, and the next the entire reef seems to wake up.
That transition is part of what makes diving feel alive.
One of the clearest examples of ocean behavior can be seen around cleaning stations.
Cleaner wrasse and cleaner shrimp spend their days removing parasites and dead skin from larger animals. Reef fish, turtles, manta rays, and even sharks visit these stations regularly.
But cleaning stations are not random meeting points. They follow patterns.
When activity around a cleaning station increases, experienced divers often become more attentive. A manta ray may be approaching. A turtle could appear from the blue. Sometimes the only clue is the sudden movement of small cleaner fish becoming more active than usual.
The reef often announces arrivals quietly before divers notice them.
Many divers are nervous about current at first. But current is one of the reasons reefs become so full of life.
Current brings nutrients. Nutrients attract plankton. Plankton attracts smaller fish. Smaller fish attract predators. Everything is connected.
Understanding ocean behavior means recognizing that strong marine life encounters are often linked to moving water.
This is why manta rays frequently appear in current areas. Why sharks patrol reef edges. Why schooling fish position themselves in certain places at certain times.
The best dives are not always the calmest ones.
Not every signal underwater is about movement.
Sometimes the most interesting thing is silence.
Divers occasionally describe moments where the reef suddenly feels empty or unusually still. Fish disappear into coral heads. The water column clears. Small species become cautious.
Then something larger appears.
Predators influence reef behaviour long before divers notice them directly. Tuna, sharks, and large trevallies can completely change the atmosphere underwater simply by entering the area.
Learning to recognise these shifts is part of understanding ocean behavior.
The ocean does not stop at the surface.
On boat rides in the Derawan Archipelago, experienced guides often watch birds carefully. Diving seabirds can reveal where bait fish are gathering. Surface activity may indicate feeding predators below.
Sometimes what happens above the water helps explain what is happening underneath it.
This connection between sky, surface, and reef is part of what makes the ocean feel like one large living system rather than separate environments.
One of the surprising things about ocean behavior is that it rewards patience more than speed.
Divers who rush from one coral head to another often miss the small changes happening around them. The best encounters frequently happen to divers who slow down, hover quietly, and observe.
Marine life responds differently to calm divers. Fish relax. Turtles continue feeding. Sharks pass naturally without sudden direction changes.
The ocean becomes easier to read when you stop trying to control it.
Many divers visiting the Derawan Archipelago arrive hoping to see specific animals. Mantas, whale sharks, turtles.
And often they do.
But after several days, something changes. The dives become less about searching for highlights and more about understanding the rhythm of the reef itself.
You start recognising current lines. Fish movement begins to make sense. Cleaning stations become predictable. The ocean starts feeling less random.
That deeper understanding is often what keeps experienced divers coming back.
The reef is never truly quiet.
Every movement, every shift in behaviour, every sudden change in direction is part of a larger conversation happening underwater.
Understanding ocean behavior does not guarantee sightings. It does something better. It transforms diving from passive observation into active awareness.
And once divers begin noticing these patterns, they rarely stop.
Some divers collect sightings.
Others slowly learn to read the ocean itself.
The longer you spend underwater, the more you realise that marine life rarely appears without warning. The reef communicates constantly through movement, silence, current, and behaviour.
Understanding ocean behavior makes diving feel less like chasing moments and more like becoming part of the environment around you.
And in places like Derawan, where reefs are still full of life, those signals are everywhere if you know where to look.
In recent years, underwater photography has become a big part of diving. Cameras are smaller, better, and more accessible than ever.
But there’s something many divers overlook.
Diving buoyancy control is far more important than any camera you bring underwater. It shapes how you move, how you interact with marine life, and how you experience every single dive.
And the truth is simple. A diver with good buoyancy will always have better dives than a diver with a great camera but poor control.
Diving buoyancy control is your ability to stay neutrally balanced in the water without sinking or floating uncontrollably.
When your buoyancy is right, you:
It may sound basic, but mastering this skill takes time and awareness.
Bringing a camera underwater changes your focus.
Instead of observing your surroundings, you start chasing shots. You move closer, adjust angles, and sometimes forget your position in the water.
Without proper diving buoyancy control, this can lead to:
Ironically, the better your buoyancy, the better your photos. Stability is what allows you to compose calmly and wait for the right moment.
Marine life reacts to movement.
Divers with poor buoyancy tend to:
This often causes animals to swim away.
Divers with good diving buoyancy control:
This is especially noticeable in places like the Derawan Archipelago, where encounters feel more relaxed when divers are not chasing them.
Coral reefs are fragile.
A single misplaced fin kick or accidental contact can cause damage that takes years to recover. Most of this damage is not intentional. It comes from lack of awareness.
Good diving buoyancy control helps prevent:
It is one of the simplest ways divers can protect the environment.
Buoyancy also affects how much air you use.
When you are balanced:
This leads to longer dives and more enjoyable experiences.
Poor buoyancy often means constant adjustments, more effort, and faster air consumption.
In destinations like the Derawan Archipelago, diving is not about rushing from one highlight to another.
It is about:
Good diving buoyancy control allows you to fully enjoy this style of diving. You are not chasing the dive. You are part of it.
Improving buoyancy does not require advanced training. It requires awareness and practice.
Start with:
Small adjustments make a big difference over time.
There is nothing wrong with bringing a camera. It can enhance your experience and help you remember your dives.
But the priority should always come first.
Master your buoyancy. Then add the camera.
Divers who focus on diving buoyancy control often find that everything else improves naturally:
It is easy to focus on equipment. Cameras, lenses, lights.
But the most important tool you have underwater is your own control.
Diving buoyancy control is what turns a dive from good to great. It protects the reef, improves your experience, and allows you to connect with the underwater world in a more natural way.
And in places like Derawan, that makes all the difference. If you have any questions, ask your dive guide for tips, they will be more than happy to help you.
At first glance, diving in the Derawan Archipelago might seem similar to other tropical destinations. Warm water, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life.
But after a few days in the water, most divers notice something else. The experience feels different. Not louder, not busier, not more intense. Just… more natural.
This difference is not about one single highlight. It is about a combination of factors that shape how diving feels here, both underwater and on the surface.
One of the biggest differences when diving in the Derawan Archipelago is how wildlife encounters happen.
There are no guarantees. No fixed schedules for animals. No controlled interactions.
Manta rays arrive when conditions are right.
Whale sharks appear depending on fishing activity and lunar cycles.
Sharks pass quietly when you are paying attention.
These encounters feel genuine because they are. Nothing is rushed, and nothing is forced.
For many divers, this makes each sighting more meaningful.
Few places offer the variety found when diving in the Derawan Archipelago.
Within the same trip, divers may experience:
This diversity keeps every dive interesting. Even when you return to the same site, the experience can feel completely different.
Another noticeable difference is the absence of crowds.
Dive sites in the Derawan Archipelago are not heavily congested. You are not sharing the water with dozens of divers at the same time. Surface intervals feel calm. Boats are spaced out.
This creates:
For experienced divers, this space often becomes one of the most appreciated aspects of the trip.
Diving in the Derawan Archipelago is not about rushing from one highlight to the next.
Days follow a simple rhythm:
There is time to rest, observe, and absorb what you are experiencing. This slower pace often leads to better dives, not fewer.
The Derawan Archipelago is not a large-scale tourism destination. Local communities still play an important role in daily life.
Some experiences, like whale shark trips, are run directly by local fishermen. This connection between tourism and community creates a more authentic environment and supports alternative livelihoods.
For visitors, this adds another layer to the experience. You are not only diving in a place, you are visiting a living community.
Getting to the Derawan Archipelago takes time. Flights, transfers, and boat journeys are all part of the process.
But that remoteness is exactly what helps preserve what makes the area special.
Fewer visitors, less pressure on the reefs, and a slower development pace all contribute to the quality of diving here.
It is not the easiest destination to reach. But for many divers, that is part of the appeal.
Because conditions and wildlife are not controlled, time becomes an important factor.
Divers who stay longer:
Diving in the Derawan Archipelago rewards patience. The more time you spend here, the more the place reveals itself.
This is not a destination built around a single iconic dive. It is a place where multiple experiences come together.
You might remember:
These moments are not always dramatic, but they are often the ones that stay with you.
Diving in the Derawan Archipelago is not about intensity or spectacle. It is about authenticity.
It is about encounters that happen on their own terms, reefs that feel alive, and a pace that allows you to truly experience the environment.
For divers who value natural interactions, variety, and a quieter atmosphere, this part of Indonesia offers something increasingly rare.
And sometimes, the difference is not in what you see, but in how it feels to be there.
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, it’s an early-morning adventure shaped by lunar phases, fishing traditions, weather, and the natural behavior of wild animals. When conditions align, the reward can be extraordinary. This article explains honestly how the trip works, why timing matters, and what guests should realistically expect.
The night before a whale shark trip in Derawan, local captains confirm whether whale sharks have been spotted and where the fishing platforms are located. Depending on the season, this can be:
You’ll be asked to prepare your snorkelling gear the evening before, either in your room or on the jetty, so you’re ready to leave early.
Departure is very early, usually around 4:30 am, to reach the area during peak feeding time and before other boats arrive. The sunrise boat ride is often one of the quiet highlights of the trip.
Once at the fishing platforms, captains communicate with fishermen to locate where whale sharks have been seen. This can involve moving between several platforms before entering the water.
Bagans are traditional floating fishing platforms used by local fishermen. At night, lights attract small fish—mainly anchovies—which are then harvested in the early morning.
Whale sharks are drawn to this activity because of the concentration of food. These platforms are not built for tourism, and their locations change depending on season, wind, and sea conditions. This is why the distance and duration of a whale shark trip in Derawan can vary from day to day.
Whale sharks visit this area for one simple reason: food availability.
Around the new moon, nights are darker. Small fish stay closer to the surface and gather more densely around the bagans. This creates a feeding opportunity that whale sharks take advantage of.
Yes, technically, whale sharks are fed when they are already present. If a whale shark arrives and guests are in the water, fishermen may release extra anchovies—or sometimes even just water. Whale sharks are not particularly smart and still respond as if food is available, which keeps them around briefly.
Importantly:
They are not resident animals, trained, or conditioned to stay.
During the full moon, conditions change:
This is why the days leading up to and just after the new moon offer the best chances for a whale shark trip in Derawan.
While sightings are never guaranteed, planning your stay around the new moon can improve your chances.
| Month | New Moon Date | Best Viewing Window |
|---|---|---|
| January | 12 Jan 2026 | 10–14 Jan |
| February | 11 Feb 2026 | 9–13 Feb |
| March | 12 Mar 2026 | 10–14 Mar |
| April | 10 Apr 2026 | 8–12 Apr |
| May | 10 May 2026 | 8–12 May |
| June | 8 Jun 2026 | 6–10 Jun |
| July | 8 Jul 2026 | 6–10 Jul |
| August | 6 Aug 2026 | 4–8 Aug |
| September | 5 Sep 2026 | 3–7 Sep |
| October | 4 Oct 2026 | 2–6 Oct |
| November | 3 Nov 2026 | 1–5 Nov |
| December | 2 Dec 2026 | 30 Nov–4 Dec |
Planning tip: Aim to be in Derawan 2 days before to 2 days after the new moon.
This excursion is run entirely by the local community. Scuba Junkie does not operate the trip, does not profit from it, and does not take advance bookings.
All arrangements are made once you are on the island, allowing our team to check weather, moon phase, and availability with the local captains. Supporting this trip helps provide alternative livelihoods and long-term protection for the area.
Trips to Talisayan return around midday, which means you will not be able to join dive boats that day.
Although Scuba Junkie does not operate the trip, we expect all guests to follow strict guidelines:
Whale sharks may approach very closely, sometimes swimming directly toward snorkellers. This can feel intense, but they pose no threat to humans. Any guest who touches a whale shark will be removed from the water for the remainder of the trip.
Is the trip guaranteed?
No. Whale sharks are wild animals and sightings depend on many factors.
How early do we leave?
Usually around 4:30 am.
Can I book in advance?
No. Trips are arranged on the island only.
Will I miss diving?
Possibly. Short trips may allow you to join Dive 1; longer trips start from Dive 2 or 3.
What should I bring?
Mask, snorkel, fins, and optional warm layers and snacks.
A whale shark trip in Derawan is raw, early, unpredictable, and deeply special when it works. Understanding how it functions—from bagans to moon phases—helps guests arrive with the right expectations.
Go for the experience, not the promise. Respect the animals, the fishermen, and the rhythm of nature. That’s when the trip becomes truly unforgettable.
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 to explain, calmly and openly, what Ramadan is, how it’s observed in Derawan, and what that means for you as a guest staying on the island.
Ramadan is a holy month in Islam, observed by Muslims around the world. It is a time of:
During the day, practicing Muslims do not eat or drink until sunset. In the evening, families and communities gather to break the fast together.
Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, so its dates change every year.
Derawan is a Muslim island, and Ramadan is an important part of life here. That said, daily life does not stop. Boats still run, diving continues, and guests are very welcome.
What you may notice during Ramadan in Derawan is:
For many visitors, this quieter rhythm is actually a pleasant change.
One of the most noticeable aspects of Ramadan in Derawan is the call to prayer coming from the nearby mosque.
The call to prayer happens five times a day, and during Ramadan, early morning prayers can feel more noticeable, especially for light sleepers. Because our water bungalows are made of wood and the island is quiet at night, sound carries easily.
For most guests, the call to prayer quickly becomes part of the background. For some, especially those not used to it, it can be surprising at first.
If you are a light sleeper, we recommend:
It’s not meant to disturb, but to mark moments of reflection and prayer.
Guests are not expected to fast or change their routines during Ramadan in Derawan. Restaurants continue to operate, and diving schedules remain the same.
That said, small gestures of awareness go a long way:
These gestures are never demanded, but they are always appreciated.
Interestingly, many guests who initially worry about visiting during Ramadan end up appreciating it deeply.
They often mention:
For divers in particular, the slower pace pairs beautifully with early nights, sunrise dives, and relaxed surface intervals.
Travel isn’t only about destinations. It’s about timing.
Visiting during Ramadan in Derawan offers a chance to see the island through a different lens. One shaped by tradition, community, and daily rituals that have existed long before tourism arrived.
For guests who are curious and open-minded, it often becomes a meaningful part of their stay.
Ramadan in Derawan is not something to worry about. It’s something to understand.
Knowing what to expect, why certain sounds or rhythms exist, and how the island gently shifts during this time helps guests relax and settle in more easily.
If you ever have questions about Ramadan or island life, our team is always happy to explain. And if you’d like to know more about Ramadan itself, let us know. We’d be happy to share more in a future blog.
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 on sandy patches, or passing through the blue at the edge of visibility. For many divers, especially those with experience, this kind of encounter feels far more rewarding than a choreographed spectacle.
One of the strengths of diving with sharks in the Derawan Archipelago is the diversity of species you may encounter over time.
Common and regularly seen species include:
With patience—and a bit of luck—you may also encounter:
These pelagic species are rare, but their occasional appearances are what make long stays particularly exciting.
On top of that, divers and snorkellers sometimes spot:
This range—from small, cryptic species to large, open-water sharks—speaks volumes about the health of the ecosystem.
Sharks in the Derawan Archipelago behave like sharks should.
They are not conditioned to divers, boats, or feeding. As a result, encounters often feel calm and brief—yet memorable. Sharks may circle once, glide past, or remain at a comfortable distance before disappearing again.
This behaviour is shaped by:
For divers who enjoy reading the reef and scanning the blue, these moments are deeply satisfying.
Shark sightings in the Derawan Archipelago often occur:
Some species, like whitetip reef sharks, are often seen resting, while others cruise steadily through open water. Paying attention to the environment—rather than actively searching—often leads to the best encounters.
The presence of sharks in the Derawan Archipelago is a strong indicator of reef health.
As predators, sharks help maintain balance by:
Seeing sharks regularly—even briefly—means the reef is functioning as a whole, interconnected system.
Shark encounters are rarely about one specific dive. They tend to build over time.
Divers who stay longer:
Those rare sightings—thresher sharks, hammerheads, leopard sharks—often happen when expectations are relaxed and awareness is high.
Guests don’t usually describe sharks here by size or number.
Instead, they remember:
These are the kinds of encounters that feel authentic—and they tend to stay with divers long after the trip ends.
Sharks in the Derawan Archipelago aren’t a headline attraction—they’re part of a larger, healthy marine environment.
From reef-associated species to rare pelagic visitors, the diversity here rewards patience, curiosity, and time. For divers willing to slow down and stay present, shark encounters become moments of connection rather than spectacle.
And sometimes, the most memorable sightings are the ones you didn’t expect at all.
