Derawan
Protected Area
Pulau Semama
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), orcas, sea turtles and sperm whales - Derawan offers some of Derawan Islands's richest reef diving.
Derawan itself isn't a single site, but rather a collection of about half a dozen spots peppered around the small island. We'd call it a drift diver's playground, though the real draw for us here is the macro. We're talking ghostpipefish lurking in the shallows, flying gurnards fanning their fins over the sandy bottom, and the occasional frogfish camouflaged against sponges. If you've got a keen eye, or a good guide, you might even spot a blue-ringed octopus, pygmy seahorses, or a harlequin shrimp. It's a great spot for photographers and anyone who enjoys slowing down to appreciate the smaller things.
Typical Derawan Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
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