Where to Dive with Sea Turtles in Indonesia: Complete 2026 Guide

Indonesia hosts six of the world's seven sea turtle species¹, offering some of the planet's most reliable and diverse turtle encounters. From Derawan's 99% success rate to ubiquitous sightings across the archipelago, Indonesia provides world-class turtle diving throughout its waters.

Quick Facts: Sea Turtle Diving in Indonesia

Best Overall Destination: Derawan Islands (99% encounter rate) or Bunaken Marine Park (90%+, staggering numbers)
Most Unique Encounters: Multiple species on single dives
Certification Required: Open Water minimum
Typical Trip Length: 7-10 days for dedicated turtle destinations
Best Combination: North Sulawesi + Derawan (niche combo) or turtles with any Indonesian destination
Species Diversity: Primarily green and hawksbill turtles (most commonly seen)

Quick Answers: Essential Sea Turtle Information

Where can I see sea turtles in Indonesia?

Sea turtles are found throughout Indonesian waters at virtually every dive destination. For guaranteed high-density encounters, Derawan Islands offers 99% success rates with multiple species, while Bunaken Marine Park provides 90%+ success with staggering numbers (10-30+ per dive).

What sea turtle species live in Indonesia?

You'll primarily see green sea turtles (most common) and hawksbill turtles at dive sites throughout Indonesia. While Indonesia hosts 6 of the world's 7 species, green and hawksbill encounters make up the vast majority of sightings.

How much should it cost to dive with sea turtles?

Sea turtle liveaboard trips range from $300-1000+ per day depending on vessel category, with total 7-10 day expeditions costing $2,500-10,000+ including all diving, accommodation, and meals aboard the vessel. Since turtles are found throughout Indonesia, costs depend on destination rather than turtle-specific requirements.

Can I see sea turtles year-round in Indonesia?

Yes, sea turtles are present year-round throughout Indonesian waters. Derawan Islands offers consistent encounters throughout the year, while other destinations provide reliable sightings as part of broader diving experiences. Nesting seasons vary by species and location but don't significantly impact diving encounters.

Green sea turtle facing camera with detailed shell and facial patterns on coral reef in Raja Ampat marine sanctuary - Picture by Neptune Liveaboards

Overview: Why Indonesia for Sea Turtle Diving

Indonesia's vast archipelago and extensive marine protected areas⁴⁵ create ideal conditions for sea turtle populations. The country's position in the Coral Triangle⁸¹⁰ and commitment to marine conservation have made it a global hotspot for turtle encounters through liveaboard diving expeditions.

Understanding Indonesia's Sea Turtle Species

Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) - Most common throughout Indonesia. Adults reach 1.5m and 200kg+. Herbivorous, calm, found on coral reefs, seagrass beds, and coastal areas. Approachable for divers and photographers.

Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) - Distinctive hawk-like beak and beautiful shell patterns. Feed primarily on sponges. Critically endangered globally, but Indonesia's protected waters support important populations.

Other Species - Leatherback (largest, up to 2m), loggerhead, olive ridley, and flatback turtles occur with varying frequency. Encountered opportunistically.

What Makes Indonesian Sea Turtle Encounters Special

Indonesia's turtle diving advantages:

Ubiquitous presence: Turtles at virtually every dive destination (not just specialized locations)
Multiple species: Green and hawksbill turtles at many sites, occasional other species
Natural behaviors: Feeding, resting, swimming in healthy, unstressed populations
Accessibility: Reliable encounters regardless of primary destination choice

Conservation and Research

Indonesia's sea turtle populations benefit from extensive conservation initiatives and marine protected areas⁴⁵. Organizations conduct monitoring programs²⁶ tracking nesting beaches, migration patterns, and population health. The combination of protection, research, and sustainable tourism⁷ supports turtle conservation while providing exceptional diving experiences. Learn more about why Indonesia is exceptional for diving.

Green sea turtle swimming underwater Indonesia liveaboard marine wildlife diving

Indonesia's Premier Sea Turtle Destination

Derawan Islands - Indonesia's Turtle Capital

Location: East Kalimantan, Borneo
Encounter Reliability: 99% success rate
Best Season: Year-round, with March-June offering optimal conditions
Typical Group Size: 2-8 individuals per dive, often multiple species
Unique Feature: Highest turtle density in Indonesia with multiple species encounters

Derawan Islands represents Indonesia's premier dedicated sea turtle destination. The archipelago's protected waters host exceptional turtle populations, with green sea turtles so abundant that 99% encounter rates are standard. Multiple individuals on every dive, often including both green and hawksbill turtles, create unparalleled turtle diving experiences.

Why Derawan is Special

Perfect turtle habitat created by:

Seagrass beds where green turtles feed extensively
Coral reefs where hawksbills patrol
Protected status concentrating populations
Sangalaki Island nesting site (females nest year-round)
All life stages present (juveniles to massive adults)

What to Expect

Multiple turtle encounters per dive (5-10+ individuals common)
Both green and hawksbill turtles on single dives
Intimate, extended encounters with tolerant turtles
Manta ray diving at cleaning stations
Unique stingless jellyfish lake (Kakaban Island)
Pristine coral reefs

For complete destination details including dive sites, jellyfish lake, and trip planning, see our Derawan Islands Guide.

Check Derawan Islands Sea Turtle Tour Availability

Aerial view of pristine Derawan Islands East Kalimantan Indonesia showing white sand beach tropical paradise with coconut palms and turquoise waters perfect for liveaboard diving trips

Bunaken Marine Park - North Sulawesi's Turtle Paradise

Location: North Sulawesi, near Manado
Encounter Reliability: 90%+ success rate with exceptional turtle density
Best Season: Year-round with optimal conditions April-November
Typical Group Size: 10-30+ turtles per dive at famous sites
Unique Feature: Staggering turtle numbers on world-class walls

Bunaken Marine Park stands as one of Indonesia's first marine protected areas (established 1991) and has become legendary for its extraordinary turtle population. The park's five islands—Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage, and Nain—host such remarkable green sea turtle numbers that encountering 30+ turtles on a single dive is common.

Why Bunaken is Special

The park's unique geography creates perfect turtle habitat. Steep walls dropping 60-200 meters feature countless ledges and overhangs where turtles rest, while plateau reefs and seagrass beds provide feeding areas. This combination of wall diving and shallow habitats concentrates turtles in easily accessible locations.

Bunaken's most famous sites—Lekuan I, II, and III—are consistently rated among Indonesia's best turtle encounters. These dramatic walls host resident populations of large green sea turtles, some males reaching impressive sizes. Divers commonly observe turtles resting on ledges, grazing on reef algae, and swimming peacefully in open water.

What to Expect

Bunaken diving features:

Guaranteed turtle encounters (10-30+ per dive at famous sites)
World-class wall diving (60-200m drops)
Crystal clear water (15-25m visibility)
Healthy coral coverage
Famous sites: Lekuan I, II, III, Muka Kampung, Fukui Point, Bunaken Timur
Both green and hawksbill turtles (nesting on islands)
Incredible biodiversity + macro photography
Dolphins, dugongs, occasional whale sightings

Access: Shore-based diving from island resorts or liveaboard expeditions. Often combined with Lembeh Strait (muck diving) and Bangka Island.

Sea Turtles Throughout Indonesia

While Derawan and Bunaken offer the highest densities, sea turtles appear at virtually every Indonesian dive destination. Raja Ampat, Komodo, Bali, Banda Sea, and other regions all host resident turtle populations.

Most Indonesian liveaboard itineraries include regular turtle sightings as part of broader diving experiences. Rather than requiring dedicated turtle-focused trips, divers encounter turtles naturally while exploring Indonesia's incredible marine biodiversity. This makes turtle diving accessible regardless of primary destination choice.

The ubiquity of turtle encounters throughout Indonesia means divers can combine turtle sightings with other priorities like manta rays, whale sharks, or world-class reef diving.

Aerial view of pristine white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise lagoon and coral gardens surrounded by tropical jungle in Raja Ampat - Picture by Neptune Liveaboards

Cost and Category Breakdown

Understanding sea turtle diving costs helps you budget effectively for Indonesian expeditions. Since turtles are found throughout Indonesia, pricing reflects overall destination and vessel choices rather than turtle-specific requirements.

Important note about categories

These pricing categories are fluid. Many mid-tier boats offer premium cabin options like master suites or deluxe staterooms that can push pricing into higher categories. A mid-range vessel might have standard cabins at $400/day but master cabins at $700/day, effectively spanning multiple price categories on the same boat.

General Price Ranges

Luxury Diving-Focused: $500-1000+ per day
Luxury Lifestyle-Focused: $600-1000+ per day
Mid-Range: $300-600 per day

Additional costs include marine park fees, equipment rental if needed, fuel surcharges for remote destinations, domestic flights, and gratuities.

Total Trip Investment: Expect $2,500-10,000+ for 7-10 day expeditions covering vessel costs and onboard expenses. Domestic flights, hotels, and transfers are additional.

For detailed breakdowns of vessel categories, what's included at each price point, and specific boat recommendations, see our comprehensive Indonesia Liveaboard Category Guide.

Luxury phinisi liveaboard sailing yacht in crystal clear waters of Indonesia archipelago surrounded by tropical islands - premium diving and leisure cruise experience - Picture by Celestia Private Yacht

Recommended Operators for Sea Turtle Diving

The following operators represent quality vessels we work with regularly for Indonesian destinations. Since sea turtles are found throughout Indonesia, these operators provide excellent turtle encounters as part of comprehensive diving experiences. Note that operators not listed here aren't necessarily lower quality—this is simply our current selection.

Luxury Diving-Focused Operators

Dewi Nusantara - Premium Indonesian Tradition

Specifications: 58-meter traditional phinisi combining elegance with professional diving and expert dive team
Perfect For: Divers seeking premium comfort with authentic Indonesian vessel character
Highlights: Regular Derawan, Raja Ampat, and Komodo itineraries with consistent turtle sightings

View Dewi Nusantara Expeditions

Dewi Nusantara sundeck with comfortable loungers at sunset showcasing premium liveaboard amenities in Indonesian waters - Picture by Dewi Nusantara

Gaia Love - Sustainable Luxury Diving

Specifications: Eco-luxury vessel combining comfort with environmental responsibility and marine conservation focus
Perfect For: Environmentally conscious divers seeking luxury without compromising values
Highlights: Commitment to turtle conservation, responsible diving practices, Derawan and Raja Ampat routes

View Gaia Love Availability

Gaia Love liveaboard contemporary interior lounge with panoramic windows and comfortable seating for diving guests relaxation - Picture by Dive Gaia

Mermaid I - Premium Expedition Diving

Specifications: Contemporary expedition vessel designed for serious diving operations with spacious dive deck and professional naturalist guides
Perfect For: Divers seeking modern comfort during Indonesian expeditions
Highlights: Comprehensive Indonesian coverage including Derawan, proven turtle encounter track record

Explore Mermaid I Itineraries

Explore hidden lagoons and remote islands with complimentary kayaks available aboard Mermaid I for non-diving adventures and water activities.

Luxury Lifestyle-Focused Operators

Mutiara Laut - Pearl of the Sea

Specifications: Traditional sailing yacht offering luxury lifestyle cruising with authentic sailing experience and gourmet cuisine
Perfect For: Guests prioritizing luxury lifestyle and relaxation alongside diving
Highlights: Beautiful vessel design, exceptional onboard experience, Derawan and Indonesia-wide routes

Explore Mutiara Laut Routes

Mutiara Laut liveaboard happy family enjoying quality time together on deck during peaceful sailing moments in Indonesian waters - Picture by Mutiara Laut Liveaboard

Mid-Range Value Operators

Blue Manta - Quality Mid-Range Operations

Specifications: Well-equipped vessel covering multiple Indonesian destinations with reliable operations and experienced guides
Perfect For: Divers seeking quality experiences at mid-range pricing
Highlights: Regular Derawan itineraries, consistent turtle encounters, comfortable accommodations

View Blue Manta Options

Modern liveaboard diving boat Blue Manta with crew among limestone karst islands in Indonesia - Picture by White Manta Fleet

White Manta - Derawan Specialist

Specifications: Purpose-built vessel focused on East Kalimantan operations with specialist knowledge of Derawan ecosystem
Perfect For: Divers seeking dedicated Derawan expertise at mid-range pricing
Highlights: Focused Derawan operations, turtle nesting beach access, manta ray combinations

Check White Manta Availability

White Manta liveaboard boat with guests on dive deck against dramatic Indonesian island backdrop for premium diving adventures - Picture by White Manta Diving

Ilike - Comprehensive Indonesian Diving

Specifications: Purpose-built dive vessel optimized for Indonesian expedition diving with comprehensive dive facilities
Perfect For: Adventure-focused divers prioritizing marine encounters over luxury amenities
Highlights: Specialist in Derawan Islands, professional dive operations, excellent turtle encounter rates

Check Ilike Availability

Traditional Indonesian decorative touches aboard ILIKÉ liveaboard including pink frangipani flowers and nautical bell creating authentic atmosphere - Picture by ILIKÉ Liveaboard

For complete operator comparisons, cabin layouts, and detailed booking information, contact our team for personalized recommendations based on your specific dates and preferences.

Managing Expectations: Sea Turtle Diving Realities

While Indonesia offers exceptional turtle encounter rates, particularly at Derawan, responsible diving practices are essential. Operators maintain protocols including no touching, appropriate distance (2+ meters), and avoiding disturbance of feeding or resting turtles. These guidelines protect turtle populations and ensure sustainable tourism.

Sea turtle diving suits divers of all experience levels. The calm, predictable nature of turtle encounters makes them ideal for newer divers building confidence. Good buoyancy control helps avoid contact with coral while observing turtles, and most encounters occur at moderate depths (5-20 meters).

Comprehensive dive insurance with medical evacuation coverage is mandatory for remote destinations like Derawan.

For complete preparation guidance including equipment lists and physical requirements, see our Indonesia Liveaboard Beginner Guide.

Hawksbill sea turtle resting on vibrant coral reef covered with orange soft corals and red sea urchins in Raja Ampat marine sanctuary - Picture by Neptune Liveaboards

Why Choose Coralbound for Sea Turtle Adventures

We specialize in Indonesian liveaboard diving with intimate knowledge of turtle destinations, seasonal patterns, and operator capabilities. Our services include domestic flight monitoring with automatic rebooking, 24/7 emergency coordination, and cultural bridge services.

We maintain identical operator pricing while adding professional coordination at no additional cost. Our partnership with inVINCible Tours ensures seamless coordination between diving and cultural extensions.

For complete details on our services, see our Why Book with Coralbound guide.

Ready to Dive with Sea Turtles?

Discover Indonesia's incredible sea turtle diving, from Derawan's 99% encounter rates to Bunaken's staggering numbers and reliable sightings across the archipelago. We'll create your ideal turtle diving adventure matching your experience level, budget, and timing.

Browse our complete inventory of liveaboards on Coralbound or contact us via our contact form to start planning your next turtle diving adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sea turtles endangered in Indonesia?

Yes, all sea turtle species are protected under Indonesian law and classified as endangered or critically endangered globally³⁹. Indonesia's extensive marine protected areas⁴⁵ and conservation programs²⁶⁷ support turtle population recovery. Responsible diving tourism contributes to conservation efforts by creating economic value for protection.

What's the best time of year for sea turtle diving?

Sea turtles are present year-round throughout Indonesian waters. Derawan Islands offers consistent 99% encounter rates throughout the year, with March-June providing optimal overall diving conditions. Other destinations provide reliable turtle sightings regardless of season, as turtles are resident populations rather than migratory visitors.

How long should my sea turtle diving trip be?

Plan 7-10 days for Derawan-focused turtle expeditions. However, since turtles are found throughout Indonesia, trip length depends more on overall destination goals. Most Indonesian liveaboard itineraries of any length include regular turtle encounters as part of comprehensive diving experiences.

Can I combine sea turtle diving with other marine life?

Absolutely. Sea turtles appear at virtually every Indonesian destination, making them easy to combine with other priorities. Derawan Islands specifically combines turtles with manta rays and jellyfish lake. Other destinations offer turtles alongside whale sharks, manta rays, or world-class reef diving.

Do I need special certification for sea turtle diving?

No, Open Water certification suffices for sea turtle diving. Turtle encounters occur at recreational depths (5-20 meters) without strong currents or technical requirements. The calm, predictable nature of turtle diving makes it ideal for divers of all experience levels, including those building confidence after recent certification.