Join a Kalimantan liveaboard trip to explore the rich biodiversity of the Derawan Archipelago and the unique wildlife of Tanjung Puting. Operated by Komodo Luxury, this journey promises exclusive experiences across land and sea.
Kalimantan Liveaboard Trip Overview
Kalimantan, a region of exceptional biodiversity, offers a distinctive blend of terrestrial and marine adventures. The liveaboard journey through the Derawan Archipelago presents divers with opportunities to explore lively coral reefs, encounter manta rays, and swim with whale sharks. Meanwhile, Tanjung Puting is home to the iconic orangutans and lush rainforests.
Itinerary Highlights
Embark from Pangkalan Bun (PKN) for a seamless transfer to the Kumai river, the starting point to Tanjung Puting National Park. Here, visitors can observe orangutans at Camp Leakey and navigate the serene Sekonyer River. For those focusing on underwater exploration, the Derawan Archipelago, accessible via Tarakan, offers an 11-day itinerary featuring Sangalaki, Derawan, and Maratua.
- Day 1-3: Arrival at Pangkalan Bun, transfer to Tanjung Puting, orangutan encounters.
- Day 4-11: Dive the Derawan Archipelago, manta rays at Sangalaki, whale sharks at Talisayan.
Vessel Options
| Vessel Type | Length | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Klotok River Boat | 10-15m | 2-6 guests |
| River Cruiser | 15-25m | Up to 10 guests |
| Damai II Liveaboard | Custom sea-based | Varies |
What’s Included
- Private charter pricing per night
- Experienced crew, chef, and dive guides
- All meals and selected beverages
- National park permits and fees
Who It’s For
This experience is tailored for luxury divers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers seeking private, curated adventures. Families and small groups will appreciate the intimate and personal nature of these charters.
Booking and Pricing
Pricing for the whole-yacht private charter is determined per night and includes all services and amenities. For detailed cost breakdowns and to refine your itinerary, visit our cost page.
Plan Your Adventure
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation Efforts
Kalimantan’s liveaboard charters offer a unique opportunity to witness diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. The region is particularly renowned for its orangutan population, which can be observed at Tanjung Puting National Park. This area is one of the few places in the world where these great apes can be seen in the wild, offering travellers a rare and intimate viewing experience. The park is accessible via a klotok river boat, allowing for a serene journey along the Sekonyer River.
In addition to orangutans, the forests and rivers of Kalimantan are home to proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and a variety of bird species, including the rare hornbill. The rich biodiversity is a focal point for conservation efforts, with organisations working tirelessly to protect these habitats and their inhabitants from deforestation and other threats.
Visitors are encouraged to engage with local conservation initiatives, learning about the challenges faced and the strategies employed to safeguard these extraordinary ecosystems. Such participation not only enriches the travel experience but also contributes to the preservation of Kalimantan’s natural heritage.
Cultural Immersion with Indigenous Communities
Beyond its natural wonders, Kalimantan offers a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of Indonesian Borneo. Liveaboard charters provide a starting point to explore the rich heritage of the Dayak people, indigenous inhabitants known for their traditional longhouses and distinctive tattoos. Visits to Dayak villages offer insights into their way of life, artisanal crafts, and rituals that have been passed down through generations.
Travellers have the opportunity to witness traditional dance performances and participate in workshops that highlight Dayak craftsmanship, such as beadwork and wood carving. These experiences are often complemented by guided tours through the villages, where guests can interact with community members and learn about their history and customs.
- Visit Dayak longhouses
- Participate in cultural workshops
- Experience traditional dance performances
- Engage with local communities
Customising Your Liveaboard Experience
One of the greatest advantages of a private crewed liveaboard charter in Kalimantan is the ability to tailor the journey to meet your specific interests. If your focus is wildlife observation, cultural exploration, or simply relaxation, itineraries can be customised to create a bespoke adventure.
Guests have the flexibility to choose from various vessel options, such as the intimate Klotok river boat for smaller groups, or the more spacious river cruiser for larger parties. Each vessel is equipped with knowledgeable crew members, including a chef and dive guides, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience on board.
| Vessel Type | Capacity | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Klotok River Boat | 2-6 guests | Open-deck cabins, intimate setting |
| River Cruiser | Up to 10 guests | Enclosed cabins, spacious interior |
With a minimum of four nights required for the charter, guests can select from established itineraries, like the three-night Tanjung Puting exploration or the five-night Borneo river and culture tour. Alternatively, they can work with the crew to develop a unique route that matches their personal interests, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the heart of Kalimantan.
Transportation and Accessibility
Reaching the remote and alluring landscapes of Kalimantan involves a seamless blend of air and sea travel, ensuring a journey that is both efficient and enjoyable. Most expeditions begin with a flight to Iskandar Airport in Pangkalan Bun, Central Kalimantan, which acts as a convenient starting point for those venturing into the lush realms of Tanjung Puting National Park.
Following your arrival, a sea transfer will take you to Waisai, from where many charters embark. Pangkalan Bun also serves as a common departure point for liveaboard journeys. The logistics are expertly handled to maximise your time exploring the wonders of Kalimantan rather than navigating travel complexities.
- Air Travel: Fly into Iskandar Airport (PKN) for easy access to Tanjung Puting.
- Sea Transfer: Transfers to Waisai or Pangkalan Bun, depending on your charter’s departure point.
- Permits: Ensure a Tanjung Puting park permit is arranged, approximately IDR 150,000 per foreign visitor.
Dining and Culinary Experience
Aboard your private charter, culinary delights are an integral part of the experience, with an onboard chef crafting meals that showcase the rich flavours of Indonesian cuisine. Expect to savour freshly caught seafood, lively tropical fruits, and aromatic spices, meticulously prepared to satisfy diverse palates.
Menus are thoughtfully designed to reflect both local delicacies and international favourites, ensuring a gastronomic journey that complements your exploration of Kalimantan’s natural and cultural treasures. Dietary preferences and restrictions are always accommodated, offering a personalised dining experience.
- Local Specialities: Enjoy dishes like nasi goreng, satay, and freshly caught fish.
- Customised Menus: Tailored to your dietary needs, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
- Dining Experience: Relish meals in open-air settings with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Photography and Film Opportunities
Kalimantan’s diverse landscapes and unique wildlife offer exceptional opportunities for photography and film enthusiasts. If you a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur, the region provides a canvas of vivid imagery waiting to be captured.
The orangutan habitats in Tanjung Puting, the cultural tableau of Dayak longhouses, and the dynamic scenes along the Sekonyer River offer a plethora of subjects. The best season for capturing the natural splendour is from April to October, ensuring ideal lighting and weather conditions.
| Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Tanjung Puting | Orangutan encounters and lush jungle scenery |
| Dayak Longhouses | Cultural rituals and architectural details |
| Sekonyer River | Serene river scenes and diverse wildlife |
Gastronomy and Dining Experiences Aboard
Dining aboard a private crewed liveaboard charter in Kalimantan offers an exquisite culinary journey. With a dedicated chef on board, guests can enjoy a diverse range of dishes that highlight the local flavours of Indonesian cuisine while accommodating international tastes. Each meal is prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience that complements the adventure.
Guests can expect a variety of dining settings, from al fresco meals on the open deck under the stars to more formal dining experiences in the vessel’s dining area. Menus are customisable to meet dietary preferences and requirements, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met. The culinary team is adept at creating bespoke menus that cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the flavours of Kalimantan.
- Breakfast: Continental and local options, fresh tropical fruits, and juices.
- Lunch: Indonesian favourites such as satay and gado-gado, with international dishes available.
- Dinner: Multi-course meals featuring seafood, meats, and vegetarian options.
- Snacks: Light bites and refreshments available throughout the day.
Photography and Videography Opportunities
The diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kalimantan provide exceptional opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether capturing the lively colours of a sunrise over the Sekonyer River or the intricate cultural rituals of the Dayak people, the region offers a myriad of subjects for both amateur and professional photographers.
Guests aboard the liveaboard charter can take advantage of the expertise of the onboard guides who are familiar with the best photography spots and timings. The crew is knowledgeable about lighting conditions and can assist in ensuring guests capture the perfect shot. Moreover, the privacy of a whole-yacht charter means guests can take their time to frame the perfect image without the interruptions common on larger tours.
| Photography Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Wildlife | Orangutans at Tanjung Puting, endemic bird species, and aquatic life in Derawan. |
| Cultural | Dayak longhouses, traditional dances, and local crafts. |
| Landscape | Sunrise and sunset vistas, riverine scenery, and dense rainforests. |
Experience the wonders of Kalimantan with the assurance of Komodo Luxury. To start planning your bespoke charter experience, plan your charter on WhatsApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Kalimantan for diving?
The optimal period for diving in Kalimantan is between April and October, aligning with the dry season and increased marine activity.
How do I reach the starting point for the liveaboard?
Fly into Pangkalan Bun (PKN) for Tanjung Puting or Tarakan for Derawan Archipelago expeditions.
Are there opportunities to see orangutans?
Yes, Tanjung Puting is renowned for its orangutan rehabilitation center at Camp Leakey.
What type of diving can I expect in the Derawan Archipelago?
Divers can expect to see manta rays, whale sharks, and a variety of macro life in this rich marine environment.