The Hidden Gems of Komodo and Derawan

With over 18,000 islands to choose from, which ones should you visit for the best diversity in marine life? Discover the beauty of Indonesia with Cat McCann as she takes you on an insider’s journey into the waters of Komodo Island and Pulau Derawan

- Lydia Daniels and Cat McCann

If you asked a muck-diving enthusiast for their “must-do” list of muck diving destinations, it’s highly likely that places such as the famed black sand sites of Lembeh, Indonesia, would be top of the list. Or they may recommend a visit to Pulau Mabul in Sabah, Malaysia, where the term “muck diving” was first coined. Or perhaps Anilao in the Philippines, which sees hundreds of tourists heading there each year in the hope of seeing a well-hidden frogfish in the sand.

But what about places such as Komodo Island or Pulau Derawan in Indonesia?

“Muck” is not the type of diving that springs to mind when you mention these islands to divers. Komodo, for example, is famed for mantas and currents. And currents are not a diver’s best friend when it comes to looking for small, well-hidden animals, much less when trying to get that perfect shot with a macro lens.

Pulau Derawan is more well-known for its proximity to Pulau Sangalaki, which itself is known for mantas and astounding coral reefs, or for the turtles and whale sharks that can be seen cruising past Derawan itself.

But both of these areas have hidden treasures – incredible muck diving sites that aren’t more widely known, with an incredible array of species that are high on any muck diver’s wish list.