Diving Maratua’s Turtle Traffic site: what you need to know

• Location: Maratua Island, part of the Derawan Islands in East Kalimantan, Indonesia.
• Best Time to Dive: March to November, with peak visibility during mid-year.
• Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers, with varying depths and currents.

Introduction to Maratua’s Turtle Traffic Dive Site

The Turtle Traffic dive site on Maratua Island is an iconic location for divers and marine enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant marine life, this site is particularly famous for the large number of sea turtles that frequent the area. The site is part of the Derawan Islands, a renowned diving destination in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, offering diverse underwater experiences.

Location and Accessibility

Maratua Island is easily accessible from Berau, East Kalimantan. You can reach the island via a short flight to Berau Airport followed by a speedboat transfer. The Turtle Traffic dive site is located approximately 20-30 minutes from the main diving resorts on the island, making it an easily reachable destination for divers.

Marine Life at Turtle Traffic

The Turtle Traffic site is celebrated for its rich biodiversity. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Sea Turtles: Green turtles and hawksbill turtles are commonly sighted, often swimming gracefully through the crystal-clear waters.
• Coral Reefs: The site is home to vibrant coral reefs that provide habitat for various marine species.
• Fish Species: Expect to see schools of colorful reef fish, including clownfish, angelfish, and parrotfish.
• Other Marine Life: Look out for rays, sharks, and even the occasional dolphin.

Diving Conditions

The diving conditions at Turtle Traffic are generally favorable, making it an ideal location for divers of all skill levels. Here’s what you need to know:

• Water Temperature: The water temperature ranges from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F) throughout the year, providing comfortable diving conditions.
• Visibility: Visibility can vary, but it typically ranges from 15 to 30 meters (49 to 98 feet), with optimal conditions from March to November.
• Depth: The dive site ranges from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 98 feet), allowing both beginner and advanced divers to enjoy the experience.
• Currents: Mild to moderate currents can be expected, which enhances the diving experience by attracting more marine life.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to visit Turtle Traffic is between March and November, coinciding with the dry season in Indonesia. During this period, divers can expect optimal visibility and a higher likelihood of encountering sea turtles and other marine species. The peak diving months are typically June to September, when marine life is particularly abundant.

Diving Equipment and Safety

When planning your dive at Turtle Traffic, make sure you have the right equipment. Most dive resorts on Maratua offer rental gear, including:

• Dive suit (3mm or 5mm recommended)
• Regulator and tank
• BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)
• Mask, fins, and snorkel

For safety, always dive with a buddy and ensure you are aware of your surroundings. It’s also advisable to have a dive computer or depth gauge to monitor your dive profile.

Liveaboard Options

For those looking to maximize their diving experience, consider a liveaboard trip. Several operators offer packages that include accommodations, meals, and multiple dives per day at various sites, including Turtle Traffic. Prices for liveaboard trips can start around $1,000 for a week, depending on the level of luxury and the services provided.

Environmental Considerations

As a diver at Turtle Traffic, it’s important to respect the marine environment. Ensure that you:

• Do not touch or disturb marine life, particularly coral reefs.
• Follow all guidelines provided by your dive instructor.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.

Legal regulations protect marine life in Indonesia, and it’s crucial to adhere to local laws during your visit.

Conclusion

Maratua’s Turtle Traffic dive site is an essential stop for divers seeking to explore the rich underwater world of Indonesia. With its abundant marine life, varied diving conditions, and accessibility, it caters to divers of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Turtle Traffic offers a memorable experience that showcases the beauty of the ocean.

For further information on diving in the area, including tailored dive trips and additional sites, visit our comprehensive guide at explore the options. Make your journey to Maratua Island singular and settle in in the vibrant marine life that awaits beneath the waves.