Diving in Derawan

[8c9]

Diving in Derawan

I’m a backpacker and planning go to diving at Derawan on Oct.

Can anyone would let me know:

1. How I would book the domestic flight b/w Balikpapan / Bearu?
2. Which dive shop you would recommend me to join?
3. Where I would find a budget accommodation at Derawan?

Any comments, tips and suggestion are welcome.

Cheers,

 

[diver69]

I'm planning to go there in Nov/Dec...looking for info too.
http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=145023

One piece of advice: Whatever you do, do NOT go with Sangalaki Dive Lodge...read my experience here:

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=123192&highlight=derawan

Good luck and do report on your trip.

Diver69

 

[June]

I will be going to Sangalaki in early July 06 and will be staying at Nabucco.

I will post a brief report upon my return.

 

[8c9]

diver69

Before I post this message, I have read your story.... it is ridiculous.

 

[8c9]

Thanks June,

I will wait for your return and share with your experience later.

Cheers.

 

[diver69]

8c9,

Glad you read it before....I couldn't believe it either, but happened to me.

Does anyone know the condition there in Nov/Dec?

 

[8c9]

diver69,

Are you plan to go Derawan again on Nov/Dec?

Which dive shop you choose for this time?
Any useful info you can share with me?

 

[davidlkh]

To save on cost stay at Losmen Danakan.

To fly to Berau you can get your tickets from any local travel agent in Balikpapan.

I am not sure where you are starting from, but you could buy all the sector tickets from where ever you begin. Ideally buy the tickets in Indonesia. Much cheaper than buying from overseas.

To save on the transfer from Berau to Derawan, you can try and use a water Taxi. BUT can you speak Bahasa (Indonesian)?

 

[8c9]

Thank davidlkh

Yes, I will flight to Balikpapan. Besides, I can't speak Bahasa (Indonesian) so where I would find water Taxi.

Losmen Danakan?! Is it a outside island near Derawan?

 

[diver69]

8c9,

I plan to stay at Derawan Resort this time around. Seems like the cheaper option than Nabucco, and it apparently has a nice house reef.

Still waiting to hear from anyone on the condition during Nov/Dec though.

Diver69